If you love spending time in the great outdoors, camping trips are a great idea. Alone or with people, camping is a gratifying activity. It presents you with the opportunity to head outdoors and spend some time in the lap of nature.
However, it is important to be well-equipped before you embark on this adventure. Without the right supplies in your bag, it could turn into an exhausting expedition instead of a charming camping trip.
While your camping checklist will vary depending on the climate and region you plan on, there are a few essentials suited for all situations.
Camping Essentials
Let us have a look at some of these must-have items.
Shelter
It goes without saying that shelter is of utmost importance in a camping trip. Even if you enjoy being under the stars, you should pack a tent or some form of cover just in case the weather changes, or you need protection against wildlife.
You could choose to carry a canvas tent, a survival tent, or a cold-weather tent. It is essential to invest in a high-quality tent to ensure safety. Along with a tent, you should also carry the tools required to set it up, such as:
- Rope
- Tent poles
- Stakes
- Rainfly
- Ax or hammer
Bedding
Sleeping on the ground is NOT a good idea. It may sound like a fun option, but without the sun, you may end up freezing. It is common for temperatures to drop during the night.
You need proper bedding not just to shield yourself from the weather but also to keep insects away. A sleeping bag is therefore of utmost importance if you plan on spending a night outdoors. It will help you sleep comfortably.
Other bedding accessories to carry:
- Sheets
- Blankets
- Pillows
- Air mattress
- Air pump
Water
You already know how important water is for survival. It is helpful to know the water situation at your camping site beforehand and be prepared accordingly. Being stuck without water is one of the worst things that could happen to anyone outdoors.
While you may find ponds or other natural bodies near your camping site, they might not have clean water. It is best to carry your own supply of water in a large container or carry water bricks.
Carry a few water purification tablets. These tablets will come in handy if you run out of water and are forced to use the natural water bodies around you.
High-Quality Survival Knife
Why would you need a knife while camping? Well, you may have to cut a rope, fillet a fish, or sharpen a stick. There can be many possible uses for a knife. It is recommended that you carry a high-quality survival knife whenever you camp outdoors.
The knife should be efficient in slicing, piercing, or even chopping. If you wish to carry something lightweight, a neck knife will serve the purpose.
Medical Supplies
Carrying a first aid kit with basic medical supplies is crucial for a camping trip. Be it tiny blisters or injuries; you must treat them in time to avoid serious consequences. Bandages, antiseptic, sunscreen, and insect repellant are just a few first-aid essentials. Other important items are:
- Gauze
- Painkillers
- Cotton swabs
- Tweezers
- Tissues
- Personal medication
- Antacids
- Antibiotics
- Menstrual care products
- Aspirin/ Ibuprofen
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Heat/cold packs
- Latex gloves
- Thermometer
Apart from these supplies, you should remember a few things. Take a first aid class and make sure you can handle emergencies. Store your supplies in a durable, waterproof container and keep everything organized.
Here is a good reference for the ideal first-aid kit.
Navigation
No matter how adventurous you feel, do not venture outdoors without a map and a compass or a fully charged GPS. You should not be solely dependent on your judgment when it comes to directions. You might even consider choosing a lockpicking tools set for your kit.
The position of the sun keeps changing constantly, and you may lose track of landmarks. Getting stranded in the woods can lead to disastrous experiences. It is better to be prepared and make sure you are comfortable with the navigation system.
Campsite Lantern
A campfire does not provide enough light. Additional lanterns will be required. It is recommended to carry an LED lantern to ensure enough light. They are portable as well as affordable.
These lights can be extremely handy if you want to look for something within your tent or if you wish to visit the washroom at night. Make sure you carry extra batteries for your LED lantern in case of emergencies.
Fire Starters
Camping is incomplete without a campfire. While it can be exciting to start a warm fire with sticks, it can also be frustrating at times. It is better to be prepared and have the right tools ready to start a fire.
Campers often use flint and steel, a cigarette lighter, match sticks, or magnesium fire starters. It is always better to carry a couple of fire starters as a fail-safe. It is also a good idea to take dry bark and newspapers to kindle the fire.
Camping Stove & Utensils
Camping meals can be fun if you are well prepared for them. You may not always be able to use the campfire to heat your food, so it is best to carry a portable camping stove.
You should also carry enough utensils. These cannot be improvised outdoors. Remember to pack all essential utensils to enjoy your meals.
Final Thoughts
These are just a few outdoor essentials. Additionally, you should also be carrying camping chairs, coolers, firewood, air-tight containers, etc.
If you’d like to have a memorable camping experience, it is vital to make all necessary preparations and arrange these must-have items beforehand.
Going for a camping trip short-handed can have disastrous results. You can check out good reviews to get the best-suited camping gear for you at Sherling Lake.
Follow this checklist to make your camping packing easier and ensure that nothing important is left out. You don’t want to be stuck in the great outdoors without a sleeping bed or enough water to get you through the night!