7 Items One Should Carry Before Going to An Outdoor Camp
Camping is a fun and affordable way to get outdoors and enjoy nature. It also helps to unplug from technology and reconnect with family and friends. Spending time together outdoors gives you a healthy and memorable experience. Your kids will love the new activities, such as hiking and swimming.
For a complete, safe, and exceptional experience, your packing list must include some items specific to the sport. This list contains seven things you must carry for your next outdoor camp adventure.
1. Emergency Survival Box
You cannot plan where and when you want to have emergencies. They come out of the blue and can be concrete or life-threatening. For instance, floods can lead to hypothermia, or a wrong path can lead you too far away from your camp. Emergency gear is a must to protect yourself from outdoor catastrophes. Items to carry are a first aid kit, emergency food, fire starters, and a whistle.
The list can be long, depending on the type of adventure you want to undertake. For example, hikers may experience hypothermia and need additional clothing, while fishermen may require a life jacket. Identify your needs before you embark on any trip.
You can reduce your trouble by getting a survival box subscription to reduce your shopping headache. You will receive tactical and survival gear every month to prepare you for your next undertaking. Stocking up for adventure is easier with a survival box.
2. Tent and Sleeping Bag
What type of camping do you prefer? Are you taking a camper, or do you intend to sleep in a tent? The answer to this question dictates the kind of supplies you will need. Also, do you want to camp in on a campsite? Or do you prefer the woods, by the roadside, or on a beach? Remember, some places can be dangerous. But for a comfortable sleep, a tent and a sleeping bag are essential for camping.
A camping RV is ideal when camping with kids because it provides the stability that a tent cannot offer. But where necessary, a tent will do the job. Tents come in various sizes, and you can choose one according to your needs. A rooftop tent will protect you from insects, ground dampness, and other common camping nuisances. But it might be too small if you have a family. A sleeping bag, preferably made of down, will keep you warm and comfortable while sleeping outdoors.
3. Cooking Gear and Packed Food
Eating is essential for survival, and outdoor camping requires basic cooking equipment. Pots, pans, and utensils are necessary for a successful camping trip. Determine the type of food you plan to prepare to pack adequately. Carry a portable stove or an open fire pit for cooking your meals.
Sealed and precooked foods will help when you intend to camp for several days far away from major cities. You do not want to start hunting for food without plans. Canned foods and condiments should be part of your packing list. Dry nuts, fruits, and granola bars will give you the much-needed energy for your trips.
4. Maps and GPS
You cannot afford to get lost in the woods. Maps are essential for your camping trips. Print the local maps to help you find directions and locate various amenities, features, and landmarks. Use free services like Google Maps, OpenStreetMaps, and Yandex to print out a map of the region you intend to camp in. You do not want to rely on digital services because you could lose signal in the woods.
For hikers, a GPS device or app will help track and map your hiking route. It also helps to determine your location to trace your way back on the maps. Ensure you have enough battery life to last through your entire trip.
5. Clothing and Personal Effects
You cannot wear any clothing when camping outdoors. Beaches, mountains, and deserts will require you to dress appropriately. Carry items like woolen socks, sweaters, pants, and shirts that protect you from weather-related dangers. Protective gear like gloves, helmets, chest guards, and knee guards are necessary, especially if you plan to engage in an extreme sport.
Toiletries like a toothbrush and toothpaste are essential for personal hygiene. Also, carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and deodorant. Ensure you have sufficient cream and lotion to protect your skin.
6. Power Banks and Solar Chargers
Running out of power is one dread for smartphone and tablet owners – which is everyone. You understand that access to mains electricity is not available everywhere. A portable battery is crucial for any camping trip if you want to stay connected and take some pictures with your mobile device.
But power banks also run out of charge. A solar charger can keep your phone running and charge other items like speakers, cameras, lamps, and laptops. If you plan your trip well, you can locate areas of the camp with direct sunlight to charge these devices. Also, purchase a device that can charge multiple devices at once.
Remember, some devices require more power than others; check the wattage before purchasing a solar charger. For instance, a smartphone requires 5V at 2.0 Amps, while a laptop requires 19V at 4.7 Amps. That difference requires a more powerful solar charger.
7. Lamps, Headlights, and Flashlights
Lighting is an essential item when camping outdoors. For instance, a flashlight or headlamp will help you find your way at night. Some adventures also require you to move around with your lighting. Caving, night fishing, and night hikes require powerful lighting.
Carry rechargeable lamps and flashlights to avoid spending too much on batteries. Also, purchase items with adjustable brightness settings. They will help you control the lights in various environments and help you manage power usage. For instance, you can use low beams when fishing or high beams when exploring a cave.
Summing Up
Camping involves various outdoor adventures, and packing essential items will make your trip more fulfilling, safer, and less stressful. Choose gear that suits your camping plans, like waterproof tents, can openers, maps and GPS devices, clothing, and solar chargers. Also, carry lamps, headlights, and flashlights to help you find your way at night. Ensure all these items are in your backpack to have an enjoyable and safe camping experience.