10 Camping Essentials You Should Consider
Camping can be a great way to unplug from everyday life and get away from it all. One of the many joys of camping is that you don’t have to pack a lot to have an enjoyable journey, but it’s important to make sure you have everything you need. Below are the top 10 camping essentials you should consider:
Knife
Useful for cutting food, firemaking and for use as part of your gear repair (and first aid) kit. Assisted opening knives are especially useful, since they can be operated single-handed and often include safety locks to prevent accidental deployment.
First aid kit:
A basic first aid kit should include:
- Adhesives: Band-aids and bandages, duct-tape, medical tape
- Disinfectants: Antiseptic wipes, hand sanitizers, sterile saline solution
- Ointments: Hydrocortisone cream, antibacterial ointment, burn gel
- Heat and cold sources: heating pack, instant cold pack, emergency blanket
- Additional items: A tourniquet, scissors, thermometer, tweezers, CPR masks, and disposable gloves
A first aid manual is also a good item to include, and enrolling in a first aid course before you go can also help you feel more prepared for medical emergencies whether you’re home or away.
A Headlamp
When it comes to camping, convenience is key. A headlamp offers hands-free illumination, whether you’re setting up camp, finding your way around, or finishing the latest chapter of Woodcraft and Camping before you turn in for the night.
Sun Protection
An SPF is a must-have no matter where you are, but sunburn can turn an otherwise pleasant camping trip into an uncomfortable one. Be sure to pack UV-protective clothing, sunglasses, and a broad spectrum sunscreen.
Clothes
As a general rule, bring more than you need. If you’re somewhere that’s chilly, you’ll need layers, starting with a thin thermal base and working up to a thicker jacket. As always, don’t forget your boots, and be sure to break them in before you go.
Food
Stock up on non-perishable canned foods (or pouches, if you need to pack light), as well as snacks like dried fruit bars and trail mix. Don’t forget tea, coffee and hot chocolate (with marshmallows, of course).
Water
Bring more water than you anticipate needing for hydration and hygiene, as well as for cooking and cleaning. A water filtration system can also come in useful for longer trips; always follow manufacturer instructions carefully to avoid waterborne illnesses.
Firemaking Materials
There’s nothing quite like cozying up by a campfire, but with wildfires on the rise, fire safety has never been more important. Make note of local regulations before you go (some areas may not permit fires), and follow all safety precautions.
Shelter
Depending on the duration of your trip (and the conditions where you’re going), there’s a variety of shelters available, from light taps for basic shelter to full tents for added protection from the elements.
Navigation
In addition to traditional devices like maps, compasses and altimeters, there’s also satellite devices, PLB and GPS to help you get your bearings and alert others to your whereabouts. Finally, don’t forget a power bank and extra batteries so you don’t run out of charge.
also read: A Day-by-Day Itinerary for the Short Everest Base Camp Trek
