Camping Essentials: 10 Must Have Items for Your First Outdoor Adventure
Are you ready for your first camping trip and not really quite sure where to get started or what to bring? To make your experience a little easier for you, here is a list of 10 must have items that new campers should bring with them. Although most of these items are standard for experienced campers, new or inexperienced campers often overlook the importance of these items or forget to pack them for their trip. Let's just jump right in and help you to decide on what to bring!
A Reliable Tent, Awning, or Shelter System
Having some type of shelter is an absolute must for your trip. You never want to be caught outdoors or in an emergency situation without some sort of shelter to protect you from the elements. A good tent, awning, or shelter system is your sanctuary in the wilderness. Ensure that whatever you bring is spacious enough for your group, easy to set up, and durable enough to withstand the elements.
Comfy Sleeping Bag or Blanket
A cozy sleeping bag is your ticket to a good night's sleep. Choose a sleeping bag or blanket that suits the season and climate you'll be camping in. There's nothing quite like snuggling up in a warm sleeping bag under a starlit sky after a long day of camping or hiking. I prefer to use all-season sleeping bags or cold weather sleeping bags. During daylight hours the temperature may be hot or warm. At night, when the sun is down temperatures may significantly drop. It is important to ensure you have a warm sleeping bag or blanket to keep your body temperature warm overnight.
Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress
Don't sacrifice comfort for adventure. Especially, if you are carrying all of your camping gear in a vehicle. If you can fit it, bring it just in case. It is better to be over-prepared instead of under-prepared. A good quality sleeping pad or air mattress provides both insulation and cushioning. Getting a good night's sleep will ensure you wake up rejuvenated and ready to tackle the day's adventures. A bad night's sleep may ruin your experience or even prevent guests from wanting to return in the future. Turning them off to camping outdoors!
Portable Stove and Cookware
Adequate Lighting
As the sun sets, reliable lighting becomes your best friend. Make sure you pack a variety of headlamps, lanterns, or flashlights to help illuminate your campsite and make nighttime activities safe and enjoyable. I also find that chem-lights are great to use at night because they don't require batteries or need to be recharged. I like to pack a few spare chem-lights to use just in case my primary lights fail or run out of battery. A good tip for using nights at light is that white light tends to attract bugs and mosquitoes. Amber and red lights are less likely to attract them. If you are someone who can't tolerate bugs and mosquitoes then be sure to use nice amber lights around your camp at night or use lots of mosquito repellant!
First Aid Kit
Safety is paramount and extremely important to avoid accidents as much as possible. A well-stocked first aid kit is your insurance against minor injuries, insect stings, and unforeseen accidents. Accidents will always happen. When they happen it is best to be somewhat prepared if they occur. Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Always bring extra first aid items just in case a guest needs first aid or you encounter someone else while camping that may experience an emergency requiring first aid care.
Multi-tool or Camping Knife
A versatile multi-tool or a trusty camping knife serves as your outdoor toolbox. I always like to bring extra sets of tools or have them stashed around my vehicle. From cutting rope to preparing food, you will always have a need to cut something or make something. Having the right tool for a job will significantly make things easier during your trip. Remember to keep your knives or scissors sharp. Cutting with dull blades may also be dangerous.
Navigation Tools
Getting lost is never part of the plan. Equip yourself with some type of map, compass, or GPS device to ensure you always find your way back to camp. These days most smartphones have these tools built in to use. Just remember to be prepared with a backup in case your phone gets lost, broken, or runs out of battery.
Adequate Supply of Water
Staying hydrated is crucial. Remember you need to hydrate and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration before it happens. Bring plenty of water or a water purification system to quench your thirst safely while on the trail or at camp. One cool product that I am eager to try is the Lifesaver Jerry Can because its high quality filter and design allows you to filter and purify water from most types of water sources that you will encounter while camping or riding through some trails. If I ever ran out of water, I think it would be very cool and convenient to just refill at a river and not have to worry about getting sick from the drinking water.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Remember to dress in layers and choose weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable. Don't forget to pack a waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear, and a hat for sun protection. During the day you can always remove clothing items to stay cool. At night, the extra layers will help keep you warm.
Remember, camping is about embracing nature and enjoying the simple joys of being outdoors. These essential items will keep you comfortable, safe, and prepared as you venture outside. Don't feel the need to spend all of your money on the latest camping gear. Focus on good quality gear that is practical and comfortable for you and your camping experience. Sometimes the best camping experiences come from immersing yourself in the beauty of nature with the basics.
So, pack up your essentials, get outdoors, and remember to have fun. Your first camping trip is the beginning of creating lifelong memories in nature!