Exploring the great outdoors and getting in touch with nature on a camping trip can be one of the best holidays you choose. Yes, they are very different from relaxing in your swimwear next to the pool or on the beach, however, camping can also be relaxing and you often feel as though you have accomplished something after a trip.
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Although camping can be simple, one your first few trips you can probably ‘grab’ a forgotten item from a shop nearby but as you venture more into the wilderness it becomes imperative that you pack right and don’t leave important items behind. It’s a good idea to create a checklist of all the items you will need and tick it off as you pack.
Let’s have a look at some of the camping essentials you should be including in your backpack:
Clothing
On any camping trip, the is going to be an element of moving equipment and backpacks so when it comes to thinking about the clothing you should be thinking about packing lightweight, durable clothing, you can often get specialist clothing fit for purpose when it comes to a camping trip. You will often find that people wash and reuse items of clothing when exploring the outdoors especially if they are carrying their equipment and clothing in one backpack. Some of the important items you should be considering include:
- A waterproof and breathable jacket that folds down small.
- Wool socks
- A decent pair of hiking shoes
- Lightweight hat
- Aqua shoes and swimwear
- Sunglasses
- A few changes of clothing including long trousers and long sleeve tops, the evenings can drop cold.
Food
The level of equipment is going to depend on the type of camping you’re doing, obviously, if you are parking up at a campsite with the family you’re going to be able to pack far more and have more storage than if you were to be backpacking through the wilderness. Let’s have a look at a range of items you may need for a successful camping trip:
- Cooking Equipment- make sure you’re choosing the right type for your style of camping, you may be able to take a small kitchen style unit if you’re camping by the car.
- Utensils-If you’re camping by the car again you’re able to take far more than if you were backing packing if you’re backing packing it may be a good idea to invest in an all in one utensil piece.
- Water Bottles- Again if you are camping by the car you are able to store more water if you’re backpacking, however, you may want to take something that enables you to filter water while out and about.
- Fire- When camping, whether it’s ut in the wilderness or on a campsite you will often need to use items such as fatwood to ensure you have a source of fire for cooking and keeping warm. You may be wondering what is fatwood, it’s a type of wood used to start fires that lights every time so comes in handy especially if you’re out in the woods.
- Food- This will be very different depending on the type of camping you’re doing if your backpacking you will take minimal supplies that provide high energy whereas if you are camping on a site it’s even possible to have your morning cuppa and bacon sarnie.
Personal Items
Personal items, although some are essential should be kept to a minimum especially if you’re backpacking. Have a look at some of the necessities you may want to think about taking:
- Sunscreen- Even in the winter months sunscreen, is advisable.
- Toilet Paper
- Lip Balm With SPF- This is very important if you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors.
- Bug Protection- It’s a good idea to take some antihistamines with you too.
- Hand Sanitizer- It can be difficult to wash your hands out in the open.
- First Aid Kit- Including any prescriptions and pain relief such as paracetamol.
- Toiletry Essentials (with a toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, soap, portable shower etc.)
Equipment
There are various items of equipment that you need to think about when camping, the level of what you can take will and will need depends on the style of camping you’re doing. Some items to consider include:
- Tent- Suitable for a little bit of storage and to sleep the correct amount of people.
- Portable GPS, Compass and Map.
- Chargers- If you’re not going to be able to charge your equipment you’re still going to need it for when you reach an area where you are able to do this.
- Flashlights (And extra batteries)
- Mallet- Only for car camping
- Sleeping bags and Sleeping pads or a light air mattress
- Folding Chairs and Table (if car camping)
- Pocket knife for any quick cutting needs
Hopefully, this mini-guide of camping essentials will help you when you come to pack for your camping trip. Do you have any tips or hints that you can share in the comments section about camping equipment you need for every trip?
