Camping Equipment – The Basics

I have done a lot of camping over the past 40 or so years and it’s mostly for fishing, a few family camping trips.

If there is one activity where it’s hugely important to think about how much you pack and exactly what you pack, it’s camping. Taking too much stuff is a common error campers make, as it means more to carry, sometimes long distances to a camp site or on hiking trip. The main thing to remember when planning a camping trip is making sure that your equipment is lightweight; it will be easier to transport and if you plan it well you can readily bring all the gear you need.

To begin with, check that everything you need is in good condition. Before you start to pack, you need to lay out all your camping gear so you can see all items you are taking with you on your trip. Make sure everything is functional. next, determine that everything you have selected is absolutely necessary. Check every piece of equipment in your expedition pack. If you’re not sure you will use it, leave it behind.

Camping trips often involve prolonged hikes and this will be tough if you are weighed down with unnecessary items.  With some expeditions lasting for several weeks, you must be equipped for most things but also pack light enough to be calm and relaxed, which can be a challenge. The idea is not to just take light items, but also to pack the things you will most likely use in your camping gear.

Before replacing everything in your pack with lightweight items, go through your camping gear thoroughly another time and take out any other things you won’t use. If it’s your first camping trip, that can be difficult but if you have been camping and hiking before, you know the likelihood of needing a particular piece of equipment. If you didn’t use it last time, you do not need it adding to the weight of your load this time. For example, we all know that it’s necessary to take fresh water, but try packing only collapsible empty water containers and some water decontamination tablets so that you can find water along the way and be sure that it’s okay to drink. The weight of your load can be the difference between a tiresome experience and a pleasurable one, so only pack items essential for your comfort and survival.

Checklist

A carefully compiled checklist is a very important element of every camping trip to ensure that critical items are not forgotten and nonessential items are left behind. Apart from the obvious items like a tent, inflatable beds or sleeping mat and sleeping bags, list items that will be needed each day, such as eating utensils, wet weather gear and warm clothing (depending on the expected climate), cooking equipment, matches, flashlights, spare batteries, insect repellent, sunscreen, protective clothing, first aid kit, compass and personal hygiene items. A supply of non-perishable food is also wise to satisfy your needs if you are able to stock up.

Camping is a time honored family tradition that many families begin from the start of life with their children. Having the right baby camping stuff can make the trip more enjoyable and memorable for everyone.

And make sure to pack some items for amusement and entertainment for when the weather keeps your family inside. Careful planning leads to maximum enjoyment.

If you want to learn more about camping gear, check out Josh’s site.

Tagged with: camping • Camps • family camping

Filed under: fishing tips

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