Save this article
Use this article for free on your own website
Republish this article for free on your own website or blog. Or search or browse for more articles that your audience will appreciate. Huge choice available. Ideal for finding quality, free content. Read our publishers guide.
Camping Like A Pro
When's the last time you went camping? Last week? Last summer? Maybe you haven't gone since you were a kid. No matter how much experience you have, camping is the ultimate outdoor adventure. The key to the perfect outdoor getaway, however, is having the right camping gear.
When’s the last time you went camping? Last week? Last summer? Maybe you haven’t gone since you were a kid. No matter how much experience you have, camping is the ultimate outdoor adventure. The key to the perfect outdoor getaway, however, is having the right camping gear.
Even if you’ve camped a million times before, you still need to prepare every trip like it’s your first. If you don’t have the right gear, your wilderness adventure might not be as satisfying, or as safe, as it should be. Make a checklist of all essential items before you head for the hills. Once you’re in the middle of the forest, it’s just too late to realize that you’ve forgotten the necessities.
Plan and Pack
Rather than throwing together the necessities at the last minute, allow time to plan and pack. List all of the items you’ll want and need, and don’t forget to include those “just in case” items. Check each item on your list as you pack, and don’t overlook anything. You have so many items to include; this is sometimes the only way to be sure that you’ve got all of your must-have camping necessities.
Gimme Shelter
One surefire way to turn a camping trip from paradise to purgatory is to pack shoddy bedding and poor shelter. You need to be warm, dry and comfortable when camping. Sleeping under the stars might seem romantic, until you find yourself exposed to rain, frost, insects or curious four-legged creatures that may visit during the night. Bring along proper shelter that will keep you safe and secure. Bring enough blankets to stay warm and for heavens sake, don’t forget your pillow.
Bring Your Bare Necessities
Certain personal items are just as important at camp as they are at home. While you won’t need things like mousse and makeup, you will most definitely need sun protection, insect repellant towels and, of course, toilet paper. Items like soap, toothbrush, shampoo and a hairbrush are also good to pack along. Keep toilet paper, towels and other personal care items in a waterproof bag.
Don’t Under-Dress
If you’re going camping for five days, bring enough clothes for six. Unless you are camping beside a river and have a length of rope on hand, it won’t be very easy to wash and dry your laundry. Packing extra is a lot easier. The very beauty of the outdoors is what makes it so messy, so be prepared to get wet, dusty and muddy. Also, the nights can get quite cool in the forest, even during the hottest months, and you’ll want to be comfy and cozy. Pack warm socks, long pants and a few extra warm shirts, just in case.
Campsite Medicine Cabinet
Smart campers assume that if anything can go wrong, it will. So, they pack accordingly. Follow this rule and pack up any medications and all first aid supplies that you may need at camp. Prescription medications, pain relief and vitamins are essentials. Those with allergies must bring an epi-pen or allergy relief medication. Remember to pack bandages, medicated ointment, a sharp outdoor knife and scissors. Everything should be packed into a waterproof bag and kept handy.
Gourmet Grilling
There is nothing as delicious as a meal cooked over an open flame, and nothing more frustrating than forgetting your matches. Be sure that you have everything you need to prepare and cook your outdoor feast. Pack a clean grill, tongs, spoon and a metal spatula. You’ll need a bowl for mixing food, a cutting board, paper plates (not plastic), cups, silverware, aluminum foil, biodegradable dish soap and linens. If you’ll be fishing, remember to bring a sharp filet knife and an iron frying pan. Remember to bring garbage bags to clean up camp at the end of your stay and for heaven’s sake, don’t forget to bring lots of matches in a waterproof container.
Camping can be a fun and relaxing way to spend time. Plan ahead, pack what you need, and it will be the time of your life.