No matter who you are or how you grew up, many people want to get rid of all the noise of life for a short time. Disconnecting from your daily life and going out in nature can be a very relaxing and rewarding experience.
However, without a lot of outdoor experience, it can be scary to take your first steps into the camping world. There are lots of equipment, lots of campsites and lots of different ideas. What is the first step?
What Camping Equipment to Go Camping?
There are many important things that need to be done while camping, some are obvious and some aren’t. I have a list of the camping equipment you need, no matter where you go.
More developed campsites will have nearby running water and a community bath. Many campsites are equipped with picnic tables, tents and a nearby parking place. None of this is guaranteed and it is important to do some research to find out what the site looks like.
If this is your first camping experience, you may not have the equipment to adventure. But it does not matter. It may be better for you to try it before investing any money. Try to find a friend who has a bit of this device and borrow a weekend where he can’t use it. If you do not have an outdoor friend, or if your outdoor friend is very interested in business, you can rent the necessary equipment at some outdoor retailers.
Camping Tent
Tents are a basic element of any camping trip. Unless you go with some experienced, properly camping people without one (for example, a hammock), you will need one of these. Almost all tents have “limited people”. There are tents for 2 people, 3 people and can reach a height of 15 or more. In general, going with one more person will be sleeping in a tent. So a couple would want a tent for 3 people, a family of four might want a large camping tent for 5 or 6 people. They tend to rate them as if people are sleeping like sardines. If you are going camping with your family and you have a squirrel group, then you should go 2 people taller than the manufacturer’s recommendations (ie. 4 people will want a tent for 6 people).
Camping Stove
It’s fun to cook on a fire while camping, but it’s often inconvenient and can be very frustrating. Sometimes it is illegal to light a fire depending on your location. I recommend that everyone try at least once per trip (if allowed), but for a more practical kitchen, a camping stove will be needed. Do not forget the fuel too! Usually camping stoves run on propane and if you forget it, you will have very cold or embarrassing meals at the nearest retailer.
Camping Flashlight
Campsites do not have public light or their own light. You will need to bring your own. Flashlights, lanterns and headlights will all be useful depending on the task at hand. You will need at least one lantern and a few flashlights (I tend to wear one each, though some will call it excessive).
First aid Kit
The worst time to realize that you need a first aid kit is when you need it. Always be prepared and make sure you have a first aid kit in your camping gear. You will find many first aid kits online or at the store. Check your kit to see if it contains helpful emergency instructions to help you handle situations you might not know about. It can save your life!
Sleeping bags and pillows
A good starting point when looking at sleeping bags is the temperature index. If you plan on leaving in the summer, a camping bag in good weather is all you need. If you plan on camping in the fall or spring, you may want to choose a warmer side. A sleeping pillow is not only there for comfort, but also helps you avoid losing body heat through the floor. Big Air mattresses are a way many beginners want to borrow, but because they are not insulated, they tend to lose more heat than you expect. If you prefer off the ground, consider a crib instead.
A lot of equipment can vary greatly depending on where you are going and the time of year you will go. You may need to revise the recommendations given in this list to take into account all circumstances you know about terrain, wildlife, weather and regulations.
