For experienced campers, camping off the grid comes naturally. You get to fully connect with nature and explore all the wonderful things that it has to offer. However, you do need to remember to be prepared and safe, as you can be far away from civilisation. In this article, we’ll talk about seven different items you’ll definitely want to take with you on your next camping trip. Sound interesting? Then keep on reading!
A map
Without a doubt, the most incredibly important thing to take with you on any camping trip is a map of the area. These should be made waterproof, and every member of your team should carry one with them at all times. With thousands of people getting lost in the woods every year, it might just be your way back to safety. GPS devices are also great but can run out of charge, which is why maps are more popular.
There are many ways you can waterproof your map, but laminating, or keeping them in a plastic Ziplock bag is the easiest way. You can also keep a marker with you, so you can cross off destinations or routes if you do happen to get lost.
A weapon
While some people may be against it, it’s always a good idea to have some form of weapon with you to defend yourself while you are camping off-grid, especially in areas with abundant wildlife. Wolves, bears, and coyotes can roam the woods and come up on your campsite unexpectedly. A gun, knife, or even bear spray might make a huge difference, so keep something near you at all times. Check out these rifle swing hardware parts to make life a little bit easier.
A water purifier
If you’re camping off-grid for an extended period of time, you probably won’t be able to pack enough water for the entire journey. A camping water purifier ensures that you can drink clean filtered water so that you avoid getting sick or dehydrated. From small ones that are the size of a water bottle to large ones that can filter more copious amounts. The choice is yours. You can even get them included in your backpack if you plan on doing a lot of walking or hiking.
A first aid kit
Accidents can always happen, so a first aid kit is a must for anyone thinking of going camping. Cuts, broken bones, and snake bites can always occur, so you want to make sure you are as prepared as possible. The generic first aid kit should come with plenty of bandages, gloves, and safety pins, but if you’re camping off-grid, you might want something a little more advanced. Survival first aid kits have ice packs and space blankets to assist with shock and bruising.
Solar-powered lights
Since you won’t have electricity in many cases, it’s a wise idea to purchase some type of solar-powered lights for when it gets dark. These can charge easily during the day so that they last all night long. You can get lamps, headlights, and even torches with this capability. They certainly are a lifesaver, especially if nature calls during the night.
A fire starter
Another must-have for anyone going camping is some sort of fire starter that is waterproof and can be used multiple times. Skip the matches, and opt for something more secure like a flint or steel rod. If you do happen to lose your starter, check out these ways to start a fire without matches to get yourself prepared. With a little practice, you’ll be able to start a fire anywhere.
A weather-appropriate sleeping bag
Lastly, to make your trip away as comfortable as possible, you want to find a great weather-appropriate sleeping bag. The last thing you want is a bad back and a sleepless night! Try searching for something that is suitable for multiple temperatures, so you can stay cool during summer and warm during winter. You pay for quality, so it can definitely be worth saving up and investing in something better than your average sleeping bag.
And that’s it! With these items, you’ll be able to enjoy a great camping trip and be prepared in case of any emergencies. You should also make sure you speak to someone and tell them the location of where you are staying if there is no cell service. This way, they can always find you in case of an accident. Good luck, and most importantly, have fun!
Featured image: Patrick Hendry/Unsplash
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