Camping: The Great Outdoors and the Basics

If you are an avid camper, then you probably have everything set in stone as far as equipment goes. And better yet, you probably have a routine down pat. However, for those of you who are new to camping, here are some of the essentials and some things that you simply may not have thought of or remembered.

Shelter:

The most important thing to have for your camping adventure is shelter. Shelter from the possible extremes is essential. Even if you are not surrounded by inclement weather, things such as spiders and snakes do exist and the need to protect yourself from them is all-important.

Of course, a little research goes a long way when first purchasing your tent. Ask your friends and family who have camping experience which brand they use and prefer. Go to many of the different sporting goods stores and even shop around online a little bit before settling into any one choice.

Camping tents come in various shapes and sizes:

* 2-person tent
* Family tent
* Dome tents
* Stand up tents

A great idea is to look into food tents once you have made up your mind which sleeping tent you want. Food tents can protect and preserve food against weather and animals as well. Keeping your food safely tucked away and far away from your sleeping quarters is an excellent idea.

Bedding:

Once you have selected what size and style tent you desire, it is a good idea to purchase sleeping bags that are warm and waterproof. Also, think about buying a blow up single mattress for those in your party who do not like “roughing it” as much. Pillows are another thought for comfortable sleeping.

Make certain to take along extra thermal blankets and sleeping bags to cover up in. It can get extremely cold up in many campsites, especially those surrounded by mountains.

Cookware:

The location of your campsite will dictate how much and what to bring. If you are close to a food supply store, you can pack a little lighter. However, if you are really roughing it, you can always bring along canned and dehydrated food just in case.  Here are some ideas for camping cookware you may need:

* Camping stove with fuel and lighter or if you are bringing your barbeque, then charcoal, matches, and lighter fluid
* Frying pan with a lid
* Pot with a lid
* Cooking skewers
* Can opener
* Tongs for turning sausages and hot dogs
* Spatula for flipping burgers

Of course paper plates, napkins, and utensils and cooking foil are a must, along with plastic cups. Don’t forget to bring tons of water.

Camping Extras:

You will also need to bring some extra miscellaneous items with you that you may not have thought of originally:

* Lanterns
* Flashlights
* Batteries
* Bug spray
* Sunscreen
* Flyswatters
* Garbage bags
* Soap, sponges, and scrubbers for dishes and a basin to wash stuff in
* Camping chairs
* A sewing kit
* Toiletries including toilet paper
* A car battery charger for your cell phone

You may wish to take a peek here for some other items you feel you may require.  Every camper, and every camping trip is unique!  These are just the basics to get you started on your camping adventure.  Have fun, and happy trails!