When you decide to take a break from your busy schedule and relax, going camping is one of the best options. But to suddenly cut yourself away from the conveniences of modern life can be a bit daunting.
This line of thought is one of the biggest reasons many people choose to skip going camping altogether. People often fear how they will manage around just trees and rocks, what if they urgently need something, and what if they forget to carry some basic things.
You can not carry everything while going camping, but you can anticipate the things you will need.
By the end of this article, you will have a clear idea of what you may require to bring to your camping trip to make it fun and comfortable.
For sake of simplicity, we have divided our list into four broad categories – sleeping gear, cooking equipment, essential items, and additional things.
Of course, you don’t have to carry all of them, but this list will help you choose camping necessities based on your requirements.
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1. Sleeping Gear
The most basic question to consider is where you shall sleep. So let’s start with your tent.
1.1 Tent
The size of the tent is totally up to you. However, there are a few things you would like to have in your tent.
It should be waterproof, durable, compact (when folded), and spacious. It should be easy to set up. Air vents are highly desirable, especially if it is a big tent with multiple occupants.
Nowadays, there are also tents with electric cord ports (Amazon link) available. If you are going to bring some electronics or electrical appliances, these types of tents will make things a bit easier.
1.2 Sleeping Mattress
One thing that differentiates an average camping trip from an excellent one is good sleep.
Sleeping on the rocky and bumpy ground can be uncomfortable, if not hurtful. Thus, you will need at least a basic sleeping mattress specifically designed for camping.
These are generally inflatable and compact. Thus, these mattresses are easy to carry, and they are decently comfortable.
1.3 Sleeping Bags
Sleeping bags (Amazon link) are another option you can go for instead of mattresses.
They serve a dual purpose. You get a mattress and a quilt in one.
You can always carry an extra blanket or a pillow to be more comfortable.
2. Cooking Equipment
Here are a few cooking-related things you would like to pack if the camp you are going to does not provide them:
2.1 Lighting Fire
Whether it is an open fire or a stove, you will require some way to light the fire. You may need a good lighter (Amazon link) or flint for this.
Additionally, if you are going for a campfire, you will also require a tinder or firestarter (Amazon link). It is especially true if you are trying to start a fire in a moist or humid environment.
2.2 Utensils And Pans
You will also need something to put the food in, like the pots and pans. Additionally, tongs and flippers will help you to hold the food without burning your hands.
2.3 Plates And Cutlery
Once your food is ready, you will need something to eat it in. Don’t forget to carry plates and cutlery.
2.4 Thermo-Insulated Bottles/Jars
A lot of people forget about carrying something to hold their drinks in. Carry insulated containers, jars, or bottles so that you can drink hot and cold beverages at optimal temperatures.
3. Essential Items
These are the things you would need for more comfortable camping.
3.1 Hammers
Hammers are multipurpose. From fixing your tent to nailing your gear on trees, the importance of a hammer is endless.
3.2 Sunscreen
Other essentials include your sunscreens. You will be outdoors, all exposed to the sun, and you don’t want to get sunburns.
3.3 Bug Spray
Bug spray is arguably one of the most important items on this list. Out in the wilderness, while camping, you will probably be near bugs. Thus, you might need some bug spray (Amazon link) to help get rid of mosquitoes. Other options to defend yourself from insects are mosquito coils, roll on, etc.
3.4 Sanitizers
Sanitizers are a common hygiene product these days. If you are going in a group, you can promote your hygiene. You can use it on door handles of any public washroom or in places with shared amenities.
3.5 Flashlights
Lanterns, flashlights, or headlights are of great help for walking around at night or when you want light inside your tent.
3.6 First-Aid
A First-aid kit is vital in case you get hurt during your trip. It is also helpful when medical help is not readily available near your camp.
3.7 Tarp
A tarp is another multipurpose item on this list. Whether you want to cover something, add a layer of protection to your tent, or make a makeshift tent itself, a tarp is useful in multiple ways.
3.8 Pocket Knife
If you plan to venture away from your campsite during the day, you should carry a pocket knife (Amazon link) with you. You will probably have a knife in your kitchen gear, but keeping a pocket knife is always a safe option.
3.9 Personal Items
This list includes the things such as clothes, towels, etc., as you don’t want to be in the same clothes or you may get a bit stinky. Now choosing clothes to carry is a personal choice but there are some categories you should consider, such as:
- Comfortable clothes to sleep in
- Sweatshirts
- Outerwears
- Towels
- Feminine hygiene products
- Something for the rainy day travels like a rain jacket or a raincoat
- Footwear
Think about the footwear you want to carry depending upon the activities you want to do. Like some
- Comfortable slippers or flip flops for a walk
- Running/hiking shoes and socks if you plan to go hiking
- A couple of additional pair of socks
4. Additional Things
4.1 Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a desirable item in case you are going to a sunny place.
Please also bring along spare vision glasses or contact lens if you use them. Because you never know when you will need extra glasses during the camping and in that condition you won’t be able to enjoy to the fullest.
4.2 Cap Or Hat
If you want to keep the sun away from your eyes while doing stuff, you can carry a cap or a hat.
4.3 Entertainment
A couple of other optional items you can carry include:
- Pack of cards
- Sports equipment and volleyballs
- Other games you may want to play
Conclusion
Now you have a good idea of what you might need during your camping.
These are the essential items. However, the list does not end here. Some things will depend on where you are going and who you are going with. If you are going to an organized camp, the organizers will take care of some of the things.
However, if you are planning the trip yourself, you may need to carefully consider and anticipate all the other items you may require during your trip.
The final golden rule is to check your travel checklist multiple times before leaving for your trip.
Happy camping!
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Hi, I’m Vineet. Creator of DivinioWorld. I am an outdoor enthusiast and absolutely love researching, learning, and applying skills and knowledge in the real world. I started DivinioWorld to share everything I know so that even a beginner can follow the ropes and master the subtle art of outdoors adventure and survival.
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