When most people think of camping, the first thing that comes to mind is pitching a tent in the middle of the woods and spending the night under the stars. While this is certainly one way to enjoy camping, it’s by no means the only option. You can also camp near lakes and rivers, in state parks and national forests, or even in your backyard.
No matter where you choose to camp, there are some essentials you’ll need to bring with you. Here are six of them to get you started.
Essentials to bring on a camping trip
Tent
Whether you’re backpacking or car camping, the first item on your list should be a tent. Look for one with plenty of room for all of your gear and people who will be joining you. Make sure it’s made from waterproof material and features a strong frame—you don’t want to be stuck in a soggy tent during a rainstorm!
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure the tent comes with stakes and guy lines, as well as poles and a rain fly. This will ensure that it stays secure and dry during your camping trip. It is also important to practise setting up your tent before you head out so that you can be sure it’s assembled correctly.
Water
Nothing is more essential than water—even when you’re camping. Many campsites will offer a nearby source of water, but it’s important to bring your own just in case. At ironflask.com, you can see how stainless steel water bottles can be essential for any kind of camping trip. Stainless steel is a great option because it’s lightweight and durable, not to mention it won’t impart any strange flavours to your water.
Make sure to bring enough water for everyone in your group, including extra for drinking and washing up during the trip. If you don’t have access to a tap or other source of clean water, you may want to consider bringing a filter or purification tablets so that any water you find can be made safe for drinking.
You can also bring sports drinks and other beverages to supplement your water intake, just be sure to dispose of any containers or cans responsibly.
Sleeping bags and pads
Next up are sleeping bags and pads. Even if you are car camping, it’s best to bring a sleeping bag rated for the temperature of your intended campsite. This way, you’ll be sure to stay warm and comfortable during the night. If you’re backpacking and trying to save space, consider investing in a compressible bag or a quilt. You’ll also want to bring along an inflatable camping pad or air mattress for added comfort and insulation from the ground.
There are many different types of sleeping bags and pads to choose from, so do a bit of research to determine which is best for you.
Cooking gear
No camping trip is complete without some delicious food, so you’ll need to make sure you have the right cooking gear. This will vary depending on your preferred method of cooking. If you plan on making meals over a campfire, you’ll need cooking utensils such as tongs and metal skewers, as well as fire-starting supplies.
However, if you’re bringing along a camping stove, make sure to bring the necessary fuel and any other components needed for it to function properly. A great way to save time and energy is to bring pre-made meals that can be easily heated up, such as canned chili or soups.
Lights
Whether you’re camping in the wilderness or in your backyard, you’ll need some sort of light source for both safety and convenience. If you are car camping, consider bringing a few lanterns or battery-powered lights. If you’re backpacking, a headlamp or flashlight is essential for navigating the darkness.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a little more fun, twinkling string lights or solar-powered fairy lights are great to add a touch of whimsy to your campsite.
First aid kit
Lastly, no matter where you choose to camp, always bring along a first aid kit. This should include all the basic items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, and any other medications you may need. It’s also a good idea to bring a first aid manual so that you know how to properly care for minor injuries.
Additionally, bug and wound spray are essential items to bring, especially if you’re camping in an area known for its insect population.
End note
Camping can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to come prepared. Make sure you pack the essentials, such as water, food, sleeping bags and pads, cooking gear, and lights. Additionally, don’t forget to bring along a first aid kit in case of emergencies.
Featured image: Peter Thomas/Unsplash
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