CAMPING:
The Top 10 Things You Need to Pack For Your Next Trip
By: Meredith Miller
Published July 31, 2018
Today I have put the Top 10 Necessary items together that will ensure you will survive your next camping trip….
“There is no Wi-Fi in the forest, but I promise you will find a better connection.”
Just kidding. Well, we will talk about equipment that you’ll need, but the majority of you – like me – usually camp in campgrounds rather than backcountry camping. So for all you crazy outdoor-camping people, this’ll be like a very basic, beginners course. You’ll probably laugh at how basic it is.
So let’s begin! To start, let’s talk about the kind of equipment you’ll need for your next unforgettable camping trip.
Equipment.
Such a daunting word for people who are just getting started at anything new. I don’t know if it’s just me, but when I’m starting a new hobby or trying something new, and I hear “equipment,” I get nervous that this new hobby may be way out of my reach.
But fear not! Camping equipment, for all you “campground” campers, is super easy and fun to get! Below is a list I’ve put together to ensure you’ll not only survive your next trip, but that it will be fun, too.
“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.”
-John Muir
1. Shelter. A boring word for “pick out the tent you want!” Going by yourself? They sell single-person tents. Going with your family of 5 and need a little privacy? They got those too!
2. Bedding. I wasn’t too sure what to name this category, but basically it’s your sleeping bags, extra blankets, air mattress (that’s really a comfort of home while camping), etc. I recommend sleeping bags that are rated for 20-40º.
3. Navigation. This includes: compass, map, GPS device, etc. While this is important especially for backcountry camping, if you’re just planning on staying in a campground then the only navigation you’ll need is the route to the bathrooms.
4. Fire! Even if it’s just for starting a bonfire to roast s’mores on or cook some burgers, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got matches, a lighter, and kindling/fire starter wood.
5. First Aid Kit. Especially important for when your kid falls off their bike and gets a scraped knee, a basic first aid kit is a necessity for any camping trip. Band-aids, Insect Repellant (Deet free sold here on Amazon), cold pack, tourniquet, antibacterial ointment, Benadryl (antihistamine) and aspirin.
6. Sun Protection. Don’t forget the sunscreen! Make sure to pack some hats for everyone, enough sunscreen (SPF 15 and up), aloe vera gel (in case you forget to apply the sunscreen one day), SPF rated lip balm, and sunglasses. Eyes are sensitive to sun also, and shouldn’t be forgotten.
7. Light. As most places get dark at night, you’ll need a few light sources. I recommend flashlights (1 for each person), headlamp(s), a lantern, and maybe a few Tiki torches if you’re trying to spice up your campsite.
*Tiki torches NOT necessary for camping. Make sure to check with Smoky the Bear to learn about the Fire Danger in your area!*
8. Water. Number Eight on the list, but Number One for survival. Water, as you all [should] know, is essential for survival, whether you’re in a campground or camping somewhere east of the sun and west of the moon. Make sure to pack enough, or to see if your campground offers potable water.
9. Extra Clothes. You’re living in the elements, people! Plan for being chilly (yes, even in the summertime), and bring at least a pair of pants and an extra sweater or two. The weather doesn’t pay attention to if you’ve packed correctly, so a raincoat/wind jacket, insulated hats/gloves, and maybe long underwear should be included, too.
10. Enough Food. Especially important if you’re traveling with your family; “Hanger” is the #1 Cause of Divorce on camping trips. Kidding, kidding. I mean, it may not be number one, but still. Pack enough food and snacks for the whole family. We don’t want to hear any more Donner party stories just because you forgot to pack granola bars on your day hike, okay?
As always, thanks for reading. I hope that you feel more confident in planning your next camping trip! Please feel free to share your experiences or advice for camping in the comment section below. Happy Travels!
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