Perhaps you have been camping in the past, or perhaps you have never been. Maybe you have had great experiences camping or maybe you haven’t. You could have fond memories of camping, or terrible ones. Whatever your case may be, it’s essential to know what equipment you are going to need. This 10 point checklist is going to help you out on your next camping trip; and make your camping experience one that you can remember with enjoyment rather than despise.
1. Tent – Sleeping under the stars may sound like fun but giving yourself as a feast to the mosquitoes, spiders and bugs isn’t. A tent is going to give you a little warmth, a little privacy, and protection from the bugs.
2. Sleeping Bag – Don’t leave home without it. A sleeping bag that is the right size for you and is in the correct temperature range for your next camping excursion is essential. Look for something that zips up, has a reinforced foot, and that is lightweight and comes in a compression stuff sack.
3. Knife – A top brand knife is irreplaceable when you are camping. It is useful for cooking as well as cutting up kindle and small pieces of wood for your fire. You can do so many things with a good, quality knife while you are camping.
4. Boots – When you’re out camping, you are on terrain that your body is not accustomed to. Good boots are essential whether you are hiking or not. Look for something that is waterproof and supportive.
5. Compass – Even if you’re familiar with where you are camping, a reliable compass, with or without liquid can prove very useful should anything unexpected occur.
6. Zippo Lighter – Starting a fire in the wild is hard enough. You don’t want to mess with rubbing sticks or stones together to get sparks going. Having a lighter on hand will make things easier and more convenient.
7. First Aid Kit – Whether you are going for a few days or weeks on end, always have a first aid kit on hand. You never know what could happen and it’s better to be prepared than to be surprised.
8. Clothing – Appropriate apparel is also important for campers to have. From the thermal underwear, to the shorts, to the hats, it’s important to be prepared for everything from hot to cold and anything in between. It’s sure to make your camping experience more enjoyable.
9. Lighting – You can go with area lights, headlamps or something handheld. Good camping requires good lighting.
10. Gloves – Although they may be easily overlooked, a good pair of gloves can come in hands whether you need them for warmth or some rough bark or wood. Bring some good gloves along on your next camping trip.
If you follow this list and be sure to have the things you’ll need while camping, your next excursion can be fun, enjoyable and worth doing again!