Choosing what to pack can be challenging if you're a first-time camper or traveling during colder times of the year. In addition, a lot depends on your type of movement, because if you are planning backpacking, it is obvious that you will have to carry all your things on yourself. Therefore, the more knowledge you have, the better, because this way you will be able to bring what you really need.
After choosing an interesting spot that you would like to visit and getting a reliable shelter, like a 4 season tent for 2 person, the next step is packing your gear.
To make the process easier for you and reduce the likelihood that you may forget something, we have prepared a camping checklist. Using it you can check whether you have taken everything. The list contains both must-haves that camping cannot do without and additional options that will make your experience in nature more comfortable.
So what should you take on a camping trip?
Essentials
This is a list of things you should find a place for first. Sometimes when traveling in groups, you may want to split items among group members. However, it is best to have your own gear included in the essentials list.
So the main things you need to pack are:
- Tent: This is the base. Choose a tent that is made of high-quality materials, provides reliable protection from bad weather, and is spacious enough. It is best to buy shelters designed for 1-2 people more, as this will give you additional space where you can store things.
- Sleeping bag: For summer camping, you can use standard sleeping bags. In case you are traveling during colder seasons or in an area with sudden temperature changes, choose sleeping bags rated 5-10° Fahrenheit below the expected temperature.
- Sleeping mat or air mattress: If you can pack more items, you can pack an air mattress for better comfort. However, most mats from the middle and higher price segments also provide comfortable sleep.
- Pillows: This is a valuable item that can help you avoid discomfort due to poor sleeping posture.
- Stove: Portable stoves are a great investment. With their help, you can cook food, as well as keep your tent warm and dry wet clothes.
- Utensils & cutlery: If you have the opportunity to take more dishes, pots, and cutlery, that's good. However, the main thing is that you have your own mug, cutlery, and dishes.
- Large bottles or cans: This will save you time and effort because, with a larger supply of water, you will have to go to the source less often.
- Camping chairs: They are portable and do not take up much space, providing comfort.
- Garbage bags: Bring enough bags to keep the camp clean.
- Flashlights: Some campsites may not have artificial light sources, so be sure to bring several flashlights and batteries/chargers.
Extras
These items can improve your comfort while outdoors. If you have enough free space, it is recommended to take these things with you or distribute them between the group members:
- Footprint: Laying a footprint under your tent improves the insulation of your shelter, makes the floor softer and more even, and also reduces condensation.
- Gazebo or tarp: This provides extra space and protection from rain and puddles just outside the tent entrance.
- Portable generator: If you're camping in a primitive area, having a source of electricity is a huge benefit. However, you can also take several power banks if you don't have enough space.
- Windbreak: This is an especially useful item if you are traveling to areas exposed to strong winds or camping during the fall/winter/stormy season.
- Camping toilet/shower: Having a camping toilet or shower at your disposal will make your outdoor experience much better and easier.
- Camp table: Like chairs, camp tables are often lightweight and don't take up much space. Taking the table with you will make the processes of cooking and eating more convenient.
Tools
Since you will always be doing something around the camp during a hike, otherwise some of your things may break, it is recommended to take with you a few tools that will come in handy in the outdoors:
- Tent repair kit: If you plan to go camping often, then be sure to purchase such a kit. With its help, you can solve many tent issues that may arise while being in nature.
- Ax: This tool is essential on any outdoor trip to split wood or remove some branches that might be in the way.
- Hammer: Be sure to take a hammer with you if you are going to an area with hard ground to secure the tent stakes.
- Guyline or string: This is a useful item to provide extra protection for your tent in case of bad weather.
- Duct tape: There are many ways to use duct tape, so it is obviously something worth packing.
Kitchen
When camping in remote areas or campgrounds where there is no cafe nearby, you will most likely have to constantly cook something. Therefore, it is worth taking the necessary items to make the cooking process comfortable:
- Gas/charcoals: Before your trip, be sure to visit sporting goods stores and purchase some gas or coals, depending on the type of equipment you have and the length of your camping trip.
- Matches, lighters, fire supplies: All this is necessary so that you can quickly and easily start a fire. When choosing matches, give preference to hunting waterproof options.
- Openers: Since it often makes sense to take canned food when camping, don’t forget the openers so you don’t have to deal with various closed containers for a long time.
- Kettle/thermos: It's important to stay hydrated, so bring a kettle for making drinks and boiling water. Also, a thermos is a great idea to keep drinks warm, since temperatures tend to drop low at night.
- Wet wipes: This is a real must-have that will allow you to quickly clean surfaces or your body of dirt.
Personal Items
These items are among the main things you definitely need to take to make camping comfortable and safe:
- First aid kit: Your first aid kit must include the following medications - bandages, plasters, antiseptics, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drugs, medications for poisoning, diarrhea, and allergies, as well as your personal medications.
- Sunscreen: Sunburn not only causes discomfort but also harms the skin, so be sure to take sunscreen.
- Spray against mosquitoes and bugs: This will make your outdoor recreation much more comfortable.
- Toilet paper: Once you've packed everything, be sure to include a few rolls of toilet paper, depending on the length of your camping trip.
Find out more about camping and tents at RBM Outdoors.