Camping Gear Essentials 

Camping could very well be the best time you can possibly have outdoors. With fresh air, nature hikes, fishing, or whatever activities you want, camping is fun for anyone. Having the right gear is a big part of the fun--without proper camping gear, your great outdoors adventure could turn into a nightmare.

Luckily, the list of essentials is easily found at any outdoor or army surplus store, and some may already be in your house. This list is fairly comprehensive, but you may need fewer supplies depending on the length of your trip. A shorter trip would mean less to take; whereas, a longer trip or a specialized one may mean specific equipment not listed here. However, these are the essentials for a safe and fun camping trip.

The Camp Site

A waterproof tent with a ground cover is essential. The tent should be large enough for the number of people going on the trip, or you may be in for some uncomfortable sleeping arrangements. The ground cover should be thick to ensure that morning dew does not waterlog the bottom of the tent.

A sleeping bag appropriate for the weather conditions is a must. Even if it is very warm during the day, most camping sites get very cool at night. A mattress pad is optional, but many people find them essential for added comfort.

A small cooking kit that contains essentials such as a pot and pan, a few utensils, and dishes is a must. Though some make do with snack bars, dried fruits, and breads, most people like to cook, so you need something to cook with.

A light source like a lantern, waterproof matches, and a lighter are essential. You will likely stay up for a few hours after dark and being able to see prevents injuries.

Foldable chairs are very nice because they allow you to stretch out and relax after a long day outdoors. Another great thing after a long day is a shower. You can actually purchase an item called a camp shower, which you fill with water and elevate above you.

Clothes

Clothes are the most important personal item you will take with you, because your personal comfort is going to best determine how much fun you have. This is why a comfortable pair of weatherproof hiking boots and thick, sweat-wicking socks are important. Light, cotton clothing that breathes is also essential for making sure you are comfortable.

For hiking, a backpack that does not strain your back is needed. In it, you will carry such items as filled water bottles, rain gear, a hat, cold weather gear, sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellant, a flashlight with extra batteries, sunglasses, a pocket/utility knife, a compass, and a map. These are all essential for not only making sure you don’t get lost on your hike, but for protection from the elements.

The Other Stuff

A first-aid kit is something you should keep in your car, so if you already have one, great. But if you don’t, make sure to purchase one before you go camping. Cuts and scrapes happen often in the great outdoors and need to be attended to in order to prevent infection.

No matter what the weatherman says, pack for any type of weather. The weather can change so quickly that you are better off safe than sorry. You also want to pack at least one extra change of clothes.

You should have enough food for three meals a day, plus one gallon of water per person, per day. Pack a few water purification tablets just in case you need to purify water for emergency purposes.

Extra blankets never hurt anyone on a camping trip, and neither has a folding table for eating or cooking purposes. These are not absolute essentials, but it never hurts to be prepared.

The last thing you should do is to keep your charged cell phone in the car. Even though you are going back to nature while camping, it never hurts to have a backup plan in case of emergency.