Outdoor Camping Checklist and Must Have Products
Nothing beats camping when it comes to outdoor activities. Imagine yourself being with nature and breathing only fresh air. The beautiful view of trees in front of you, the soft grass under your feet, the soft blow of wind touching your skin, and the sweet sound of birds humming in your background. Indeed, outdoor camping is one great way to unwind and rest for a moment. It’s a way to connect with nature and to yourself again. It replenishes your mind and relieves you from all the stress and worries of the overwhelming city that you have to live in just to make a living. You can do hiking, fishing, scavenger hunting, swimming, bird watching, etc. The things to do outside are endless. The best part about outside camping is star gazing, especially when you pick a day when a meteor shower is expected to happen. But all of these perks will only be available if you have all camping essentials. These products are must-haves and they hold the key to a successful and fun camping experience. If you don’t know what to bring to your outdoor camping trip, we bring you the outdoor camping checklist and must have products.
Camping Essentials
You don’t need to bring that many items when you go camping. The main essence of this outdoor activity is to be able to survive in the forest with minimal help. This will help you develop your survival skills. But if you want to be comfortable and worry-free when you go camping you must have at least the essential items. These products will help you survive in the forest even without the help or companionship of another human being.
1. Tent
No one goes camping without a tent. This item distinguishes camping from other outdoor activities. If you plan to do camping regularly invest in a quality tent. You can go with the two-person tent if you plan on going camping solo. If you want to go camping with your family or friends, consider getting the 4-person tent or the 6-person tent. There are ground tents and rooftop tents. The rooftop tents are installed on the roof of your car. This is installed before you go camping. Rooftop tents will allow you to sleep anywhere you like. It offers a place to get closer to the stars. But if you want an inexpensive tent go with the typical ground tent. A rain fly is needed when it suddenly rains in the forest. This will keep your tent and belongings inside it dry.
2. Sleeping Bag
It is a real struggle to sleep far from the comfort of your soft and cozy bed mattress. But you can replicate it with a quality sleeping bag. This sleeping bag will let you sleep soundly even in a dark and scary place. It will protect you from insects also like mosquitoes. The sleeping bag doesn’t need to be big and bulky. As long as you can fit inside it and it can wrap you around, then it’s good to go.
3. Fire Starter
Knowing how to start a fire is a basic survival skill. Fire can protect you in times when there is a threat of animal attack. But this is a rare occasion. Fire also marks your territory so other people know that you are there camping. Fire can also provide heat at night when the temperature gets cold. If you want to have some hot coffee or hot soup, then the fire can help you cook your food. Your fire starter must be safe from getting wet. It must be waterproof.
4. Flashlight
You also need light especially if you’re in the forest. Go with flashlights that last longer on a single charge. You might need to bring extra ones just in case. Bring also batteries just in case the flashlight suddenly acts up. If you want to explore or need to go in the dark, the flashlight will help you see things.
5. Toilet Paper
Be a responsible camper when you go outdoor camping in the forest. This is especially the case when you set up camp in national or state parks. There is wildlife that must be protected from your intervention. Bring toilet paper for when you have to do your business. This is sanitary and very convenient. Just don’t leave them scattering around. Bury them in under the ground.
6. Water Bottle
You know the saying that a man can live without food but not with water. You need a water bottle when you go camping. This way, even if you run out of water you have a container to use when asking for it from nearby campers or facilities. You can also use it to collect rainwater to clean your kitchen utensils.
7. Weather-appropriate clothing
Weather is unpredictable. If you camp in the forest, chances are it will suddenly rain. When it does, the weather becomes cold. Make sure to prepare clothes both for cold and warm temperatures. A jacket will do. You will also need rain gear like umbrellas and raincoats just in case the rain continues for hours.
8. First-aid Kit
It’s easy to get yourself bruises and injuries when you’re in the forest. A first aid kit can treat your small cuts and bruises. It can also save lives in times of emergency. Make sure to pack one. You can find first aid kits online that are only small but have all the necessary items.
9. Pocket Knife
A knife can save you in times when you have to protect yourself from any attacks. It will also help you cut or chop vegetables and fruits. If you plan on having a barbecue, a pocket knife can help you cut that juicy meat. You can also use the pocket knife in chopping wood for your campfire.
Outdoor Camping Checklist
The items that we have mentioned are the essential ones. You can bring other items like chairs and hammocks if you plan to have a relaxing day along with the trees. You can also bring other items if you still have space for it in your car. The more your companions are the more items that you might have to bring. This is because you have to make sure that they get the best experience and that they are always comfortable. It’s best if you camp solo because you only need the essentials. The basic rule of camping is to pack as minimal. Here are other items that you might want to bring:
* Map or compass
* Camping table and chairs
* Hammock
* Games
* Firewood and ax
* Flip-flops
* Camp shower
* Portable stove
* Cooking utensils
* Eating paraphernalia
* Portable coffee maker
* Water jugs
* Cooler
* A trash can and trash bags
* Grill
* Bottle opener
* Food (chips, fruits, drinks, meals, snacks, etc.)
Camping is fun and you should try to do it once in your lifetime. You can even do it weekly, like on weekend to relieve yourself from the stress of work or school. It greatly benefits your mental health. If you want your outdoor camping to be convenient and comfortable, always keep in mind the essential items that you must bring on your trip. If you have extra space, bring other items that can make your camping trip more fun. Have fun camping!