Did you know that 77 million households in the U.S. include someone who goes camping regularly?
Camping is an exciting and rewarding pastime that lets you experience our country’s natural beauty first hand. Good preparation is the lynchpin of any successful camping trip.
If you’re planning on going camping soon, it’s with refreshing yourself with a few crucial camping trip essentials. Fortunately, we’ve packed this guide full of helpful preparation information.
Read on for our top camping trip packing guide.
Preparing Your Campsite
When setting up a campsite, you’ll need shelter, a sleeping bag, and a sleeping mat to keep you warm. Other things, such as chairs and cushions, add a layer of comfort to your camping experience. Check out these camping trip essentials:
- Tent
- Tarpaulin
- Stakes or Pegs
- An ax or hammer
- Sleeping bag
- Bottom sheet
- Air bed and pump
- Lighter
- Flashlight
Before you pack, double-check your campground’s amenities. Most campgrounds will provide a dining area with a firepit and other basic utilities.
Quality camp lighting is one of the most essential camping tools. If you need camp lighting, see the guide for more information.
Packing Toiletries and First Aid
Pack light when choosing camping toiletries. If you’re only camping for a couple of nights, you might forego showering entirely—but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on cleanliness and comfort. Check out these essential toiletries and first aid:
- Dry shampoo
- Stick antiperspirant
- Soap
- Face and body wipes
- Sunblock
- Hand sanitizer
- Insect repellant
- Quick-dry towel
- Full first aid kit
After a night in a tent, some dry shampoo and a stick of antiperspirant can work wonders. Pack light, but be sure to bring all the hygiene essentials.
Choosing Appropriate Clothing
In the great outdoors, expect the unexpected. Be sure to pack warm clothes for the night and cool clothes for the daytime. Before you leave, make sure to check the local weather forecast. Your basic kit ought to include:
- Long and short-sleeved shirts
- Thick pants and shorts
- Warm coat
- Hiking boots
- Spare socks
- Comfortable shoes
- Sleepwear
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat or cap
Being unprepared for the weather can lead to a miserable trip. Check the forecast and pack for every eventuality.
Camp Kitchen Essentials
A solid breakfast is an ideal way to start the second day of your camping experience. You’ll need a few camp kitchen necessities for cooking and washing up:
- Camping Stove
- Cooking utensils
- A good knife
- Mess kit
- Portable coffee maker
- Biodegradable soap
- Sponge
- Cooler
Many campgrounds provide potable water. If not, bring your own or be prepared to use a filter. Before packing, always call ahead to fine-tune your checklist.
Your Essential Camping Trip Checklist
We hope this rundown makes your next camping trip easier to plan. These camping tips will ensure your next trip is both practical and comfortable.
Tailor your camping equipment checklist to each new location. Once you know the fundamentals, you can pack a specialized kit every time.
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