Deciding what to bring on a camping trip can be overwhelming, especially if you haven’t ever gone camping before.These are 6 camping essentials that you should bring with you.
But no need to worry! We’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re planning a basic car camping trip or an extended backpacking trip, the following list of 10 must-have items will keep you safe, comfortable, and confident that you’re bringing everything you need.
The equipment you bring with you to your next camping trip is endless.
In this case, you’ll want to think about the type of camping you’re going to be doing—is it going to be car camping, or are you going to be lugging a lot of gear in and out of your vehicle as you explore the area?
Is it a weekend getaway or a more extended camping trip?
While the list of items you bring will vary depending on the type of camping you’re doing, there are some items you should always have on hand, like matches, a compass, a first aid kit, and a tent.
So let’s get into a bit more detail about the top things you should bring when deciding on camping.
Please note, these are general items that will be useful for any camping you do. As mentioned earlier, you might need to consider more specific things if you will be doing some speciality camping!
Tent/ Hammock
This is perhaps the most obvious thing and the most vital if you want to enjoy your camping experience.
We have made it into two different options because it depends on where you will be traveling to camp and the temperature.
For example, if you will be in a temperate location and trekking to your campsite, you may want to consider a hammock with a built-in mosquito net.
This will save you enormous amounts of space and effort in setting up, which will ultimately make your trip far more enjoyable.
However, if you are going somewhere a little cooler and are driving, a tent could be a more sensible option.
If you opt for a tent, make sure to bring a decent sleeping mat, preferably one that blows up.
There is nothing worse than sleeping on a hard, rocky surface!
Sleeping Bag
No matter where you go, odds are high that even in a warmer location, the nights will cool down.
You don’t want to be caught short at 2 in the morning when the temperature drops resulting in a lousy sleep.
You can get very high-tech sleeping bags these days that are incredibly thin and roll up into a small bag.
As with before, it depends on where you will be going to camp, but as long as the temperature doesn’t dip below 50 F (10 C), then most bags should be fine.
If it is extremely hot, then you can always use the bag as an extra mat on the floor or cushioning for your hammock.
Camping Knife
This one depends on where you are located, but wherever you go, please make sure that you understand the legalities of carrying a knife around.
A high-quality blade is a handy tool and can be used for many camping-related things.
When thinking about what to look for in a camping knife, there are several different things you need to be aware of.
Understand What You Need
In contrast to a multi-tool, an outdoor or survival knife is different.
In line with their name, multi-tool knives are very versatile.
Camping knives have their own unique characteristics but are typically designed with one primary function and have a sturdy, smooth blade made to last.
A camp knife is similar to a pocket knife, except a camp knife typically has a more durable blade, and it is made to last.
Camp knives are available in two main categories, both of which have their benefits. A fixed blade knife offers better durability but has the disadvantage of providing only partial protection on a camping trip.
A standard blade is ideal both for a camping trip and for everyday use.
Should you decide to go with a fixed blade, ensure that the knife uses a complete tang construction, meaning, the blade and the handle are made from the same metal piece.
As a result, the overall knife is more durable and more robust.
Knife Size
A knife that is too big may hinder your ability to work small and detailed tasks, while one that is too small will possibly prevent you from chopping or hammering.
Aim for a knife that is between 9 and 11 inches in length when open.
Handle
Don’t discount the handle because the blade is incredible. A proper handle will stop you from getting blisters and hurting your hands.
Ensure the handle is solid and sturdy and crafted from hardwood, plastic, or bone. Additionally, make sure the pommel is sturdy, as you can use it for hammering in stakes and other things.
Material Of The Blades
Another aspect that influences the quality of a blade is its durability.
You can use carbon steel blades for a very long time but should take care of them so they don’t rust.
Although stainless steel blades are not at risk of rusting, they come in varying degrees of quality, of which 440 is the ideal grade.
Instead of a rounded point, opt for a sharp, strong point that you can use to pry or spear.
High-Quality Flashlight
When choosing a good flashlight, you should consider several factors.
Brightness
One of the most critical factors in flashlight selection might be finding a flashlight with enough light for your needs.
How Long It Stays On
A flashlight cannot remain on indefinitely as either the batteries or the charger must be changed. Therefore it is vital to choose a very efficient one.
Durability
Choose a flashlight that can survive a decent amount of abuse before it breaks.
Water Resistance
Wherever you go camping and think the rain will fall, will you be okay if your flashlight gets wet? Can you submerge it in water, or do you have to keep it dry?
Unit Size
It is imperative to consider the size of your flashlight when choosing one. You might prefer something compact or something that has a comfortable grip.
Portable Chair
If you are preparing to go camping, you might have thought about bringing some chairs to make yourself comfortable.
All those extra hours of sitting around the campfire could make for some stiff and sore muscles, not to mention the lack of legroom.
This one seems like you could leave it at home, but that would be a mistake.
If you are hanging around a campfire or eating some food, a comfortable, portable, and lightweight seat will make a world of difference.
First Aid Kit
The final item on our list is the all-important first aid kit.
You can either make one up yourself or buy a ready-made one in any good camping store.
The main thing is that you have some basics such as:
- Diarrhea medicine
- Bandages
- Antiseptic cream
- Gauze roll or various sized gauze pads
- Sterile wipes
- Medicine to treat pain and inflammation
- Eye drops
- Multiple sizes of adhesive bandages
- Hand sanitizer
- Tweezers, scissors, safety pins, etc
You can add in more as you see fit, but those items should get you started.
Camping Essentials Summary
Camping is fun, but there are many things to think about before you head out on your adventure.
There are different places to go camping, types of camping, and the proper gear, so it’s best to understand what is involved.
The trick is to make sure only to bring the essentials when camping or travelling light.
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