Camping Essentials: Six Items You Need

Are you planning to go camping? Some of the benefits of camping are being away from the bustle of city life and getting access to beautiful nature. But, you must have the following camping essentials to turn camping into a comfortable stay.

Shelter

First, it's important that you have an adequate shelter. The shelter offers you privacy and protection from the rain, wind, and insects when you are sleeping. Most of us would probably opt to pack a tent. There are numerous tents to choose from, so make sure that you get one that will fit you and your camping crew.

Bedding

Proper bedding can make the difference between being uncomfortable and getting a good night's sleep. Make sure you have sleeping bags for everyone, rated to the appropriate temperature. You can also bring along a quality air mattress. It helps protect your back from the hard ground and insulates your body from the cold ground. Waking up with a sore back can quickly dampen your fun, so don't let it happen to you.

Proper Clothing

Proper clothing will see you through different weather conditions. Bring some rain gear to keep you dry in case of rain; a jacket will keep you warm during those chilly evenings; a hat will provide more warmth without adding much weight. For your feet, bring an extra pair of heavy socks, for your hands, an extra pair of mittens, and bring one or two extra changes of clothing plus a few more for young kids just in case they get dirty.

Campsite Tools.

Having some basic campsite tools will help you take care of any issues that might arise. A hammer will be useful in setting and pulling stakes. An axe and saw will make fetching firewood easier. And, a good knife comes in handy in many different situations. A small bottle of super glue can be used to temporary or permanently fix tears in your tent or on your clothes.

Flashlights and Lantern

Bumping around in the night trying to find the restroom is much more difficult by moonlight. So, you'll want to bring a lantern or flashlight. It's also a good idea to check the lantern's fuel and the flashlight's batteries to ensure they are fresh and ready to go. While lanterns are an excellent choice, solar lights are also a good option. You only require solar energy to charge the solar lights.

First Aid Kit

On any camping trip, you should carry a well-stocked camping first aid kit. With this you can deal with any cuts, scrapes, or burns if they arise. Also, make sure you know how to use the first aid kit. The first aid kit should be compact and sturdy, with the contents wrapped in waterproof packaging. A basic first-aid kit should include

• a wound cleanser
• bandages
• topical antibiotic cream
• gloves
• scissors/tweezers
• pain killers
• sunscreen

These are some of the things you must check before you throw everything into your van and head for the outdoors. Ensure you have matches or lighters to light the stove. Remember to bring a cooler with plenty of ice packs to ensure your food stays fresh. These items plus the six essentials can make or break your camping spirit.