A simple camping checklist

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

Whether you are a first-time camper or a seasoned outdoorsperson, writing a checklist for yourself before heading out into the bush is always a good idea. This ensures that you neither forget anything nor pack needless equipment that weighs you down. Often those new to camping will underestimate the weight of their gear and discover that many of the things they are carrying are unnecessary to their trip.

Use this list as a guideline for your own checklist, adding or removing as necessary:

Matches or a lighter: It is surprising how easy it is to forget these items, in particular if you are not used to carrying them on your person. They will be necessary if you intend to build a fire and particularly important if the food you are bringing relies on heat.

Cooking utensils: Cutlery is another basic necessity that is often overlooked. Bring at least one knife, spoon and fork for each camper and one larger knife and spoon, just in case. Even if you do not intend to cook, bring at least one lightweight pot for boiling water, and if you do intend to make dinner over the fire, bring two as well as a frying pan . Remember that you may need utensils (such as a spatula or ladle) specific to the foods you will be cooking.

Clothing: Bring a change of clothes for each day you will be in the bush. Often, you need not bother with pajamas - sleeping in your clothes is acceptable while camping and lightens your pack's weight. Bring clean undergarments, as since you will likely be unable to bathe, these are extra important to change every day for hygienic reasons.

Sleeping equipment and tent: Down-filled sleeping bags are excellent in winter, but you may require something lighter for a summer camping excursion. The tent can be bought or crafted from groundsheets or tarpaulin, as you wish, and a pillow can be brought or left as needed, but some people find one necessary. Resting your head on your pack or neatly folded clothing is acceptable as a substitute. If you are building a tent or a "hoochie" from tarps, you will need to remember to bring rope.

Lantern: For the practical and safety-conscious alike, a lantern should be lit at dusk to assist you in traveling back and forth from the tent to the firepit, latrine, water source, car, or anywhere else you may need to go. In an emergency a lantern will prove necessary - you may even want to bring more than one.

Book or other distraction: Of course, hiking, fishing and other activities are a staple of a camping trip. However, once night falls, or even in the resting time between hikes, you may want to have a book, hand-held game or personal music player with you. If there are children coming on your camping trip, this is especially important for them, as boredom will set in quickly.

Toiletries: Even if you don't intend to have a full shave and shower every day, a few toiletries will be essential. At least two facecloths, soap, toothbrush and toothpaste are the more important ones, and perhaps a small towel. If you think it necessary, bring a razor, but if you keep yourself well-washed you should be able to forego shaving for the duration of the trip.

Water bottle(s): These will be important, in particular for when hiking, or if your firepit is a considerable distance from your water source. Keep them with you while sleeping so that there is less chance of needing to leave the tent during the night. Particularly in the summertime, being well-hydrated is extremely important while spending so much time outdoors.

These are the essentials for a camping trip. You may also want to consider bringing pocket knives, toilet paper, a mallet (for setting up tent pegs), instant coffee or hot chocolate, nail clippers, a fly net or other small items which will aid you, if you are able to carry them. Add or subtract from this checklist as needed, and you will be well-prepared for your trip.