Camping has always been popular but has seen a resurgence of interest over recent years. More and more people now love getting outdoors at the weekend to spend some time with nature. In addition, many people will enjoy longer camping trips and spend days or weeks bedding down outside. When you think of the fresh air, beautiful scenery and the change from fast-paced modern life it offers, this is easy to understand.
In this article, we will discuss the 10 most essential camping items to pack for your trip, ensuring you are well-equipped for the great outdoors.
10 – Camping Stove
BUY HERE: Camping Stove
As we will look at below, bringing along food to eat and drink to enjoy (plus things to eat with and drink from) are essential. But you also have to think how you will make hot food or drinks. This is very important when camping, especially in cold or wet weather. A good tip is packing a portable camping stove and a small bottle of gas to power it. This saves you having to spend hours making a fire manually and potentially not being able to warm up if you fail.
09 – Mobile Phone and Charger
BUY HERE: Solar Charger
Camping should be done with proper planning and a good idea of your route in mind. Sometimes though, you might find yourself lost or even separated from your group by mistake. In addition, you might have an emergency situation which requires urgent outside help. It is therefore always wise to take along a fully charged mobile phone and a charging bank/solar powered phone charger. This ensures you can always get outside help or contact your group if the need arises. Of course, mobile phones are also great for staying entertained when relaxing in your tent at night.
08 – Toiletries
BUY HERE: Travel Toiletry Bag
Although camping is about getting back to nature, most of us like to keep as fresh as possible when outdoors. While you do not want to weigh yourself down with masses of heavy shampoo or bodywash bottles, packing a few toiletries is sensible. Body wipes are a great idea to freshen up, as are travel size versions of deodorant and shower gel. If you also pack hand sanitizer plus your toothbrush and toothpaste, you should have all you need until you return.
07 – Knife
BUY HERE: Folding Knife
Some people can feel uncomfortable taking a knife away camping and it is true that you must use it very carefully to avoid injury. In addition, you must be sure that it is securely stowed away when not in use so children cannot get near it. However, a sharp knife is a good piece of kit to have with you. It is a very versatile tool and can come in handy in a number of situations. From prepping food to carving wood into useful shapes and cutting twine, it is always useful to have with you.
06 – First Aid Kit
BUY HERE: First Aid Kit
Camping trips are all about having fun, having a blast and building some great memories. This does not always mean they go without any hitches or accidents though. The physical nature of camping trips plus sharp tools and being out in nature can sometimes spell misfortune. From wood splinters to sprained ankles, insect bites and more, a lot can happen when in the great outdoors. For this reason, you must take a first aid kit stocked with basics like plasters, bandages, antiseptic wipes and painkillers.
05 – Correct clothes
BUY HERE: Heating Vest
Many people heading out on a camping trip can get caught up in the gadgets and tools you need. This can see them forget about the clothes they have on and pack to bring. It really is key to have the right clothes for where you are headed. It is also wise to bring clothes which are suitable for a variety of weather conditions. You do not want to be caught with only shorts and t-shirts to wear if a storm comes in! Take time to make sure you have things for hot weather but also things like jackets, trousers and boots for wetter weather. Gloves, hats and sunglasses are all worth putting on your packing list too.
04 – Food and Drink
BUY HERE: Mountain House Breakfast
It goes without saying that you need to eat and drink when away camping. Even if going for a short day trip, this is true! For those who do not plan sourcing clean water naturally and foraging for their own food (which is anyone who does not have the expertise to do this safely), taking your own supplies is key. Water in particular is a must and you should take enough to keep you going for the trip. In terms of food, try to take meals which can be easily reheated and do not take up too much space in your backpack. Pouches of dried food which you can rehydrate with hot water are a good bet. It is also wise to pack a mug, water bottle, plate and spork when camping.
03 – Sleeping Bag
BUY HERE: Sleeping Bag
When it comes to truly essential camping gear, everyone needs to buy a sleeping bag. Even in Spring or Summer, you will need one to sleep well at nights and stay warm. Of course, this gets even more important during the colder Winer months! Look for a sleeping bag that you can fit in easily, keeps you cosy and has easy to operate zips. It is also worth investing in a sleeping mat to put under your bag. This will insulate you from the cold ground and make it less bumpy to sleep on.
02 – Tent
BUY HERE: Pop Up Tent
Sleeping bags are great – but not much good if you have nothing to put them in. While you could faff about for hours making a shelter, most people are better off bringing along their own tent. This is the quickest and simplest way to find shelter when evening draws in. To make it even easier, you can even buy pop-up tents now which basically put themselves up. Whatever type you go for, make sure there is enough room to fit everyone in and that it is made from robust material. You should also check how compact it is when folded up and how easy it is to put up/take down.
01 – Rucksack
BUY HERE: Rucksack
Although it can be hard to list just one item as THE most essential piece of kit for a camping trip, backpacks are hard to ignore. After all, it is no good having all the other equipment on our list if you have nowhere to carry it easily! This makes it key to buy a rucksack which is big enough to fit all your stuff in and comfortable to wear for long periods. When camping, you might be hiking long distances to your preferred site or walking to new sites each day. With this in mind, investing in a rucksack which is lightweight yet sturdy with padded straps is wise. It can also be worth looking for one that is water-proof and able to keep your kit dry in bad weather.
Being prepared with the essential camping items listed above will ensure you have an enjoyable, safe, and memorable outdoor experience. From selecting the right camping gear and clothing to packing adequate food and navigation tools, taking the time to prepare will make all the difference. So gear up, head out, and savor the beauty of nature!