Planning a trip to the great outdoors? The first step is to think about the 5 most important things to bring when you go camping. The challenge is to pack light without leaving out any crucial items.
When you’re out in the middle of nowhere, being unprepared is not an option. Especially if your campsite is in remote wilderness, you need to plan ahead and cover all your bases.
There’s no doubt that camping is rising in popularity and continues to be an amazing activity for friends, families, and even solo adventurers. This is why if you’re excited to go on a camping trip of your own, then from navigation to hygiene, we’ve got a handy checklist for you.
Let’s dive straight into it!
The 5 Most Important Things to Bring When You Go Camping
Campsite Essentials
The first category to take care of is your camping gear. Here’s what you’ll need for a basic campsite setup:
- A tent that’s easy to set up.
- Some tools to get the tent up and running.
- Sleeping bags and mattresses.
- Camping hygiene essentials.
- Foldable chairs and tables.
- A tent fan or tent air conditioner. (Optional)
Survival Gear
Navigational items
For camping trips in remote areas which require a lot of hiking, it’s useful to keep some navigational tools. You can’t always rely on GPS to show you the way! Some navigational tools to pack are:
- Compass and a map.
- Extra chargers or power banks for the devices.
- Headlamps and flashlights.
- Extra batteries for lights.
First-Aid Kit
We can’t tell you about the 5 most important things to bring when you go camping without mentioning first-aid kits. Here’s what to need:
- Bandages and gauze
- Anti-bacterial ointments
- Over the counter painkillers
- Prescription medicines
- Alcohol swabs
- Inhalers and EpiPens
Multitools and Knives
Multitools and knives can be used in a variety of ways while camping. You don’t know when you’ll need the assistance of a particular tool. It’s always better to keep a handy multitool by your side.
Personal Items
Maintaining personal hygiene while camping is important for a healthy and comfortable experience. Here are some personal items that you can’t miss:
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent or bug spray
- Toiletry kit with toothpaste, soap, toothbrush, etc.
- Moisture-wicking clothing that stays dry longer.
- Heated socks, jackets, and more for colder climates.
- Toilet paper and wet wipes.
- Hiking boots and sandals.
Meals And Cookware
Packing the right cookware and meals can help you stay active while camping. Apart from dry snacks like granola, dry fruits, and jerky, you can also dehydrate your own food. If you wish to do some cooking on-site, make sure to take a stove along with you. You can also get a camp refrigerator to keep your food fresh for longer.
Entertainment
Camping is the perfect way to reconnect with friends, family, and even yourself. But if you’re used to the fast-paced city life, days can be a bit too long and uneventful in the wilderness. To maximize the fun, here are some activities you can bring along:
- Books
- Camera for nature photography
- Board games and cards
- Fishing gear
- Some good podcasts
- Biking gear and bikes
Final Thoughts
Veteran campers know how important it is to pack wisely but it can be intimidating for first-timers. However, these skills come with experience and practice. Till then, you can take some help from our comprehensive guide. With our suggestions on the 5 most important things to bring when you go camping, you’re all set to have the adventure of a lifetime.