After 20 years of camping trips big and small, I have my essential packing list down to a science — here's what I always bring
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- Camping trips require extensive planning to ensure you'll have everything you need whether you plan to go off-the-grid or drive to a nearby campsite.
- If you're opting to head out on a serious backpacking trip and carrying all of your gear while hiking miles for days on end, you'll likely need to pack lighter than this list and bring a few more heavy-duty items.
- However, for car campers or those doing a short hike to a designated campsite, this list will help guide you through an easy checklist of necessary items so you're fully prepared, from campsite gear to cookware to clothes and toiletries.
- Read all Business Insider outdoors reviews.
There's nothing like the feeling of sitting around a campfire, roasting marshmallows with friends or family, and looking up at a blanket of stars before snuggling into a cozy sleeping bag and being serenaded to sleep by nature's symphony. Whether you're itching for some time away from a big city or just want to connect with nature, camping is the ultimate reminder that sometimes simple and rugged living can be the most enjoyable.
Growing up in New Mexico, I spent many weekends of my childhood pitching a tent with my family and making homemade breakfast burritos on a camp stove in the morning. My love affair with the outdoors has continued and as I've gotten older, I've gone on more ambitious trips, tackling long treks in Patagonia and rafting down the Grand Canyon. While every trip is different and requires its own specific items, I've gotten my go-to starter packing list down to a science.
What to considerWho's all camping?
This list is a great starting point for car campers and tent-pitching newbies but you'll want to make sure you create your own specific list based on several key factors.
First, think about how many people you're going with. If it's a family camping trip, you may want a four-person tent or two separate tents so adults and kids can still have separate spaces. If you're heading out on a solo experience, a smaller one-person tent works just fine.
Where will you camp?
What type of campsite you're going to and how long you plan to camp are both vital considerations. Will the campsite have running water or will you need to bring your own jugs of water? Is it off a main road or deeper into the backcountry where cell service may be nonexistent?
If it's the latter, you'll want to factor that in when making decisions like how extensive your first aid kit should be. It's also smart to plan out meals and snacks ahead of time to make sure your food needs are covered no matter how long you're gone.
What's the weather forecast?
The season and weather also make a world of difference when it comes to what you're packing. Most casual campers generally go during warmer months when lighter layers and less heavy-duty gear is preferable.
If you plan on camping in the winter, or somewhere that still has snow, you'll want to add items like snow pants, gaiters, and warm gloves to your list. Packing an extra pair of socks and spare blankets won't hurt either.
What do you plan on doing?
Finally, don't forget to think about the activities you might want to do. If you're headed to a river where fishing is permitted, throw in a fishing rod and a tackle box. If you're camping with friends, consider bringing a deck of cards or other easily portable games. If extensive hiking is on the agenda, be sure you've broken in your hiking boots beforehand and have trail maps on hand.
If this sounds overwhelming, don't sweat just yet. This extensive camping list will help you cover all the basics. From campsite gear and cookware to clothing and toiletries, check off the items on this packing list and you'll be plenty prepared to hit the great outdoors.
Here's everything you'll want to pack for a camping trip: Read the original article on Business InsiderMedications
Easy wipes
Heavy duty insect repellent
Toiletry bag to stay organized
Quality first aid kit
Freshening deodorant wipes
Flip-cap hand sanitizer
Sunscreen with plenty of SPF
Don't forget toiletries and health supplies
Quick-dry towel
Biodegradable soap
Wash bins for easy clean up
On-the-go cutlery
Cookware set that does it all
Reliable cooler
Portable camp grill
Insulated water bottles
How to prepare your meals
Lightweight daypack
Polarized sport sunglasses
Athletic sandals
Sweat-wicking baseball cap
Classic warm beanie
Wool socks
Breathable rain jacket
Athletic shorts with zippered pockets
Lightweight and ultra-soft fleece
Quick-dry trail pants
Sturdy hiking boots
Moisture-wicking t-shirt
Warm pair of long underwear
What to wear
Portable power station
Easy fire starter
Reliable tarp
Folding camp table
Comfy camp chairs
Compact flashlights
Inflatable pillows
Supportive sleeping pads
Cozy sleeping bags
Stake hammer that doubles as a bottle opener
Durable and lightweight tent
How to set up your campsite
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