Packing For a Memorable Camping Trip by Conroy Keight

When's the last time you went camping? Last week? Last summer? Maybe you haven't gone since you were a kid. No matter how much experience you have, camping is the ultimate outdoor adventure. The key to the perfect outdoor getaway, however, is having the right camping gear.

Treat every camping trip like it's your first, even if you've camped many times before. Your wilderness adventure can quickly turn to disastrous or even dangerous if you're not prepared for anything. To make your trip as safe and fun as possible, make a checklist of everything you need before you hit the trail. There are no corner stores in the forest, and no neighbors to provide those forgotten items.

Plan Before You Pack

Rather than throwing together the necessities at the last minute, allow time to plan and pack. List all of the items you'll want and need, and don't forget to include those "just in case" items. Check each item on your list as you pack, and don't overlook anything. You have so many items to include; this is sometimes the only way to be sure that you've got all of your must-have camping necessities.

Gimme Shelter

"Roughing It" doesn't mean giving up your creature comforts. With too little bedding and improper shelter, you're exposing yourself to an uncomfortable sleep and even possible danger. Be sure that the bedding will keep you dry and comfortable regardless of the weather, and don't forget to pack your pillow. Your tent must be secure, waterproof, and able to protect you from insects and forest creatures. Sharing your tent with a mosquito, raccoon or even a snake is just no fun.

Personal Care

You can safely leave your hair dryer and cosmetics at home, but don't forget to pack your insect repellant, sunscreen and toilet paper. Those are the absolute necessities of life in the great outdoors. You may also want to pack other personal care items like your soap, shampoo, hairbrush, and toothbrush. Pack everything in a waterproof bag, especially your towels and toilet paper.

Don't Under-Dress

Decide how long you'll be staying at your camp, and pack a change of clothes for each day. Then, pack a little extra. You'll get dirty while camping, and wet if Mother Nature throws a little rain your way, so be prepared. Unless you have a river and a length of rope handy, washing and drying your clothes in the woods is not an option. Even if it's the middle of July, bring long pants, warm shirts and extra socks for cool evenings around the campfire.

Pack Your First Aid First

The Golden Rule of Scouting is "Always Be Prepared". Follow this rule and make it your priority to pack any and all medications and first aid supplies that you may need at camp. Your daily medications, vitamins and pain relief pills are essentials. If you suffer from allergies, bring allergy relief medication or an epi-pen. Don't forget the bandages, ointment, scissors and a sharp outdoor knife. Pack everything into a waterproof bag and keep it handy at all times.

Campfire Cooking

There is nothing as delicious as a meal cooked over an open flame, and nothing more frustrating than forgetting your matches. Be sure that you have everything you need to prepare and cook your outdoor feast. Pack a clean grill, tongs, spoon and a metal spatula. You'll need a bowl for mixing food, a cutting board, paper plates (not plastic), cups, silverware, aluminum foil, biodegradable dish soap and linens. If you'll be fishing, remember to bring a sharp filet knife and an iron frying pan. Remember to bring garbage bags to clean up camp at the end of your stay and for heaven's sake, don't forget to bring lots of matches in a waterproof container.

Camping can be a fun and relaxing way to spend time. Plan ahead, pack what you need, and it will be the time of your life.

Contributor Conroy Keight loves writing for several well-known web magazines, on sports recreation and sports instruction issues.
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