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Congratulations – you've declared to the world that you're going on your first camping trip. Now what?
While a camping trip can – and should – be an exciting and rejuvenating experience, it's important to come prepared. Two words: toilet paper. Here are some other essential items to pack for the perfect camping trip:
Tent: A good tent is essential for any camping trip. Make sure to choose the best tent you can – one that is appropriate for the number of people you'll be camping with, as well as the type of weather you'll be facing.
Sleeping bag: A warm and comfortable sleeping bag is key to a good night's sleep while camping. Consider the temperature rating of the sleeping bag and choose one that is a good fit for the expected weather conditions.
Sleeping pad: A sleeping pad provides extra insulation and cushioning, making it more comfortable to sleep on the ground. It can also help to keep you warm by preventing heat loss to the ground.
Camp stove: A camp stove is a convenient way to cook meals while camping – if you think you'll be starting a fire rubbing bits of wood together. It's harder than you can imagine, and also illegal in some parts. There are many different types of camping stove available, ranging from simple one-burner stoves to more complex multi-burner systems. Choose one that meets your cooking needs and fuel preferences.
Cooler: A cooler is essential for keeping food and drinks cold, especially on a piping-hot day. Choose one with enough capacity to hold all of your perishable items (and a nice bottle of fizz/couple of beers/can or twelve of Coke for the kids), and be sure to pack plenty of ice to keep everything chilled.
First aid kit: Accidents can happen while camping, so take all that emergency medical stuff from your drawer with you. Pack at least a basic first aid kit with items such as band-aids, gauze, and over-the-counter pain medications.
Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp or flashlight is essential for navigating in the dark – and boy, it can get dark. Pro-tip: make sure to pack a backup light source in case your primary one fails.
Water bottles: Staying hydrated is important while camping, especially in hot weather. Pack enough water bottles (and water, if you're not sure of access to a faucet) to last the duration of your trip.
Sun protection: Pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays. Sunburn in a tent a long way from home is hell.
Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be a real nuisance while camping. Pack insect repellent to keep them at bay. Your Zzzzzzzs will thank you.
Multi-purpose tool: A multi-purpose tool, such as a Swiss Army knife, can come in handy for a variety of tasks while camping. Also looks good when talking to other campers.
Personal hygiene items: Don't forget to pack personal hygiene items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, and soap. We mentioned toilet paper, right?
Warm layers: Even if the weather is warm during the day, temperatures can drop significantly at night. Pack a few warm layers, such as a fleece jacket or a down vest, to stay comfortable in the evening. If you're going to be near your car, throw an extra bunch of blankets in, too. Just in case.
Cooking utensils: Pack a few basic cooking utensils such as pots, pans, and utensils to prepare meals on your camp stove. Stirring beans with your fingers sucks.
Trash bags: Pack a few trash bags to keep your campsite clean and to properly dispose of any waste. It's the least you can do.
Finally, don't forget to also bring along any personal items and any additional gear you might need for activities such as hiking or fishing.
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