Young woman in outdoor gear setting up her tent in a clearing after a day hiking in the woods
One of the best things about going camping is the opportunity to be one with nature. However, in order to truly enjoy your camping trip, you need to be prepared with the right gear. Here are some of the must-have items that will help make your camping trip more enjoyable.
Shelter
A good tent is a must for any camping trip – unless of course sleeping directly under the stars is more your style. Your tent will need to shelter you from the typically colder nighttime temperatures as well as any adverse weather that comes unexpectedly your way. You’ll want to choose a tent that is a balance of durable and substantial, but also easy to set up and disassemble. If you’re camping in areas where the winds can get high, consider a round-ended tent, as they withstand higher winds than other shapes of tents. A bit of research will help you determine what tent is best suited for your style of camping.
Sleeping Gear
Again, being prepared for colder temperatures is key when planning your sleeping gear for camping. A warm sleeping bag is a must, as is an extra blanket or two. You might also want to consider investing in a camping cot or air mattress to make your sleeping experience more comfortable. That earth-lodged rock under the tent won’t do wonders for your back, and this is no time to risk waking up sore. If you plan on doing any hiking during your trip, be sure to pack an air pillow for resting breaks.
Cooking Gear
If you’re planning on doing any cooking while camping, you’ll want to make sure you have the right setup. A portable stove is a good option, but depending on your idea of camping, a mini-grill may be right up your alley. Be sure to pack all of the necessary pots and pans and a few basic spices – especially if you like to take this as an opportunity to cook better meals than the hurried work week usually allows for.
Transportation
Whenever you go camping, it’s important that you have access to a dependable vehicle to keep you and your equipment safe. If you need a way to easily transport your gear, you can buy a pickup truck. How else are you going to haul days’ worth of food, fun, and family to the spot where camping dreams come true? If camping is near and dear to your family, considering a truck would be a wise investment. This way, as your family or friends list grows, or their hobbies do, you’ll be prepared to haul everything you need to your getaway spot.
Camping is all about roughing it, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring a few home comforts along for the trip. With a little bit of planning, your camping trip will be one to remember for all the right reasons.
