Terri Ramsey Beavers For outdoor enthusiasts, few things are better than a camping trip. You spend a few days soaking up some extra vitamin D while enjoying the mountains, water, and woods. You break away from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life and unplug while hiking during the day and roasting marshmallows over a fire at night.
Because you’re away from the “real” world, however, it’s important to have all the necessities with you. Now, your packing list will differ depending on the location of your campsite and the type of experience you plan to have.
That said, there are certain items that are campsite must-haves, regardless of the trip you have planned. Read on to learn how to pack for a camping trip.
Campsite Essentials
Let’s talk about the campsite first. This might not be where you spend most of your time overall, but it’s likely where you’ll spend your time after dark. Because of this, you need the campsite essentials that are going to keep you safe, dry, and warm. You can purchase the below at Aussie Outback Store.
For your campsite, you need to bring:
- Weather-appropriate tent and stakes
- Tarp
- Flashlights or headlight (1 per person)
- Cooler and ice
- Matches or lighter
- Campfire kindling
- Citronella candles
- Firewood
- Camping chairs (1 per person)
- Weather-appropriate sleeping bags (1 per person)
Tools and Recreational Gear
When going on an adventure like camping, you shouldn’t need many tools, but there are a few that will come in handy. These are a wood ax, pocket knife, duct tape, paracord, and a bag or container for trash.
As for recreational and camping gear, your packing essentials will depend on the type of camping activities you’re going to participate in. A few examples include trekking poles, fishing rods, swim towels, and binoculars. Put everything you need for your camping activities together in advance and add to the list as you think of things.
Toiletries and First Aid
Even for the most experienced camper, having a small first aid kit at the very least is a must. You might want to pack lightly, but you’ll thank yourself for bringing your first aid kit when someone scrapes their knee or cuts their finger.
Be sure to have these items on hand either at your campsite or in your hiking bag:
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellant
- Bandaids
- Alcohol
- Anti-itch cream
- Gloves
- Aloe
- Tweezers
- Gauze
- BuzzPatch (plant based) Mosquito Patches
Your toiletries list should be kept to a minimum, as you’ll have a public restroom to use at most, and use the woods as a restroom otherwise. The following are good personal hygiene items to keep in your adventure bag:
- Soap and washcloths
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Hairbrush
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Toilet paper
- Deodorant
- Menstrual products
Use This Packing List to Get the Most Out of Your Camping Trip
When you’re preparing to embark on an outdoor adventure, a packing list is key. The last thing you want is to arrive at your camping spot only to realize that you’ve forgotten your flashlight or sleeping bag.
By creating a checklist on paper or on your phone, you’ll ensure that you have everything you need to enjoy your camping trip to the fullest.
Looking for more tips and tricks for getting the most out of the great outdoors? Be sure to check out our blog!