You may think the summer is flying by (and you would be completely right) but there are still plenty of weeks left to find time for a good old fashioned camping trip. Whether you are a seasoned camper and your family has their favorite yearly location or you want to give it a go for the first time, it is always nice to have a reliable list of packing essentials. Depending on the duration of your trip, the location, climate, weather, and if you will be packing in all of your supplies, your list may vary a bit from the one below. However, this list should get you off on the right foot and help make sure you have the bare necessities.
Clothing
Your camping might range from hot days to chilly nights, with sunny weather or a summer storm. Make sure the clothes you pack reflect the temperatures that you may face. It is always better to be prepared. Consider packing the following:
- hat
- sunglasses
- light jacket
- jeans
- shorts
- sweatshirt
- swimsuit if you will be by water
- t-shirts and tank tops
- underwear
- sweatpants and a hoodie
- pajamas
- socks (maybe a couple of extra pairs)
- boots
- sandals
- warm clothes such as warm hats and mittens in case it gets extra cold
Be sure to pack a plastic bag to contain all of your clothes as they get dirty. It might also be a good idea to pack some extra plastic shopping bags for clothes or shoes that might become muddy or otherwise soiled.
Personal Items and Toiletries
Just because you are out in nature does not mean you can totally throw hygiene to the wind. Bring items that will help you stay somewhat clean and others that will help you prevent and prepare for injuries or other results of interacting with nature:
- sunscreen
- aloe vera
- antihistamine (anti-itch cream)
- bug spray: if you are not a fan of commercially produced products, try making your own insect repellent with some of these suggestions.
- shampoo/conditioner
- soap
- brush/comb
- chapstick
- toothbrush/toothpaste
- first aid kit: be sure to include bandaids, bandage wrap, antibacterial cream, pain killers, and any personal medications at a minimum.
- toilet paper
- deodorant
- hand wipes
- towels
Camping Gear
Of course, as part of your trip to the woods, you will need to be prepared with amenities for staying the night outside. There are many options here that will depend on how much you will be roughing it or if you will be bringing some of the comforts of home with you:
- flashlight and spare batteries. You might also consider a headlamp for more ease.
- sleeping bags
- pillows
- air mattress/sleeping pad/cot
- tent
- tarp
- hammer or mallet for the tent spikes
- safety whistle: this is especially a good idea for younger children who may have a propensity to wander.
- camp chairs
- backpack or fanny pack if you plan on going for hikes away from your campsite
- hammock: one big trend in camping currently is hammock camping instead of staying in a tent. This might be a fun thing to try!
Cooking Materials
The items you bring for cooking might vary based on what you plan to eat and what your particular campsite will allow. Be aware of some drier areas that may have a fire ban, restricting your ability to cook food. Look ahead and plan accordingly.
- aluminum foil
- cooking and eating utensils
- dishes
- cookware
- cups
- food for all meals, snacks, and treats
- paper towels
- garbage bags
- resealable plastic bags
- cooler with ice
- water filter or purification tablets
- water
- reusable water bottles
- matches/lighter
- coal
- fuel
- firewood (unless you plan on cutting your own firewood, in which case replace this item on your list with an ax)
- s’mores ingredients of course (marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers)
The more you camp, the more you will figure out your own personal camping style and the things you need in order to have a good time. While some may prefer to leave the world behind completely, others may like to be as comfortable as possible while enjoying nature. Whichever is your preference, these items will help make sure you have the necessities to face nature and have a rejuvenating trip.
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