What to Take Camping!

So, you are going on your very first camping trip, The first thing to think about is what to take camping. Well this article will give you some considerations to take into account when planning your first camping or backpacking trip

One of the first things to consider is Length of trip

This is a very important factor because it will pre-determine, how much equipment you will take, from extra clothing down to rations. You will need to make sure that you pack enough camping gear without going overboard.

Another consideration is Weather conditions

Now I know it is very difficult to determine exactly what the weather is going to be like, but most forecasts give you a 10 day weather update for your area of interest. Bearing this in mind will help you decide how much wet weather gear you will need to take or indeed if you need sunscreen etc.

Finally, Location and terrain

This is a very important factor that a few people overlook.

If you are camping or backpacking along the trail, then the chances are that the campsites along that trail will be well used and probably well equipped. So if you did forget to pack something or run out of something, chances are that there would be an on-site shop that you could stock up with . Or possibly another kindly camper might be able to help you with. If however you were backpacking or hiking in the back country, then you won’t have that backup. So you really need to make sure that you have enough equipment to cover every eventuality.

Once you have decided upon these factors it will give you a good starting point when deciding what to take camping.

There are no hard and fast rules when deciding what to pack as it all depends upon the person.

For example, if you are a light or ultra-lightweight backpacker your main focus is on weight. So the lightweight backpacker will have this in the forefront of his/her mind and often opt for less weight over comfort when going on a camping trip. However other people might opt for comfort over weight, preferring to take more items to make their life easier and comfortable when camping. So as you can see it is entirely a matter of personal preference.

There are however some items that you should take regardless of whether you are a lightweight backpacker or in the latter category. These are known as your backpacking essentials.

Backpacking essentials are a items that could make a difference between an enjoyable safe camping trip and a perilous experience. Items such as compass, map, first aid kit, flashlight, pocket knife, pencil, matches, fire starter, notebook and string/cord will all make your life easier and indeed maybe save your life.

These should all be packed together (as a mini survival kit if you like) and put in a place whereby you can access them easily. A good place for these items would be on or near the top of your pack, or even better still a side pocket.

As you can see these are a few pointers when considering what to take camping. Some other helpful tips would be to…

A) Do some research

Start with the internet! There is a lot of good information out there. Look on camping forums, ask questions etc.

B) Speak to other veteran campers

These people are very knowledgeable and will tell you what works for them.

Camping and backpacking can be a wonderful experience. it is something that can be done by man and boy, woman and girl. So provided you do your homework, you will have no trouble in deciding what to take camping.

Tagged as: Camping, Take