In 2020 alone, the number of active households grew by 3.9 million families.
With such a focus placed on social distancing, families started taking to the outdoors to get out of the house. Now, in 2022, that activity has seemed to stick. If you’re new to the process, though, we can help you get started.
Besides clothes and your hygiene essentials, you’re going to need things to set up your campsite. Read on to learn what to pack for a camping trip.
Indoor
Indoor gear is going to vary depending on where you’re staying, but there are a few things you’ll always need:
- Blankets
- Pillows
- Cot or air mattress
- Sleeping bag
- Earplugs and sleeping mask
- Portable charger
- Tent-safe heater or fan
If you’re staying at a campground with partially furnished lodging, you can always call ahead to ask what they provide and what you should bring with you. You might also want to bring along cups, silverware, and even plates to eat on once you’re there. These Barebones enamel dishes are a great option!
Outdoor
Once you’re set up, you’re probably going to be spending a lot more time outdoors than indoors at your site. You want everything to function well, and the best way to make this happen is by bringing the right things. Here’s what you might need:
- Tent and stakes
- A canopy
- Weights for tent and canopy
- Tarp
- Mosquito netting
- A lantern and headlamp
- Refillable water dispenser
- Campsite decor
- Outdoor lighting
- Tablecloth clips
- Firewood
- Firestarter, matches, or a lighter
Make sure you check ahead to ensure the things you’d like to bring are approved by your campsite. You can also get clever and bring multi-use tools rather than one of everything.
Safety
Finally, you’re going to need first aid and safety items. Here are a few items you should include in your kit:
- Bandages
- Hydrogen peroxide or alcohol
- Gauze
- Over-the-counter pain reliever
- Antacid tablets
- Finger splints
- Eye drops
- Non-latex gloves
- Thermometer
- Antibiotic ointment
- An EpiPen
- Tweezers
- Safety pins
- Sterile wipes
That’s it for first aid, but safety items are still essential. Here are a few ideas:
- Portable fire extinguisher
- Hand sanitizer
- Masks
- Emergency blanket
- Spare cash
- Insect repellant
- Sunscreen
- A map and compass
- Water or water filtration system
- Batteries
- Whistle
- Disposable rain poncho
- Bear mace
These aren’t the only things you can bring, but they’re a great place to start. Depending on the area you’re staying in, you might want to pack extras of each item (like more than one blanket or several disposable ponchos). Not only can they help you stay comfortable, but you’ll have extras for your next trip.
Camping Trip Ideas for Beginners
Now that you know what to pack for a camping trip, it’s time to start planning where you want to go. If you’re a beginner, we recommend checking out some of these ideas:
NO 1: RV and Van Camping
RV camping is a wonderful option for those who are looking for the convenience of having their own bathroom and kitchen facilities. RVs come in a variety of sizes, so there is sure to be one that is perfect for your needs.
Van camping is another popular option, and it offers many of the same benefits as RV camping. Vans are typically smaller and more maneuverable than RVs, making them ideal for exploring tighter spaces like forest trails.
NO 2: Tent Camping
When most people think of camping, they picture a group of friends or family members huddled around a campfire, roasting marshmallows and telling stories. Tent camping is a great way of experiencing nature without having to invest in a lot of expensive gear. One of the best things about tent camping is that it’s relatively easy to set up and take down. You can also move your campsite if you find that you’re not comfortable where you are.
NO 3: Glamping Camping
This is a great option for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Glamping campsites are usually equipped with amenities like running water, electricity, and beds. This means that you can enjoy all the benefits of camping without having to rough it. Most glamping campsites have Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected even while you’re a bit away from home.
NO 4: Backpacking Camping
Camping on a backpack involves carrying all of your gear on your back, so it’s important to choose light, compact items that will not weigh you down. This type of camping can be challenging, but it is an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s the perfect way to see the stunning scenery and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You can also breathe in some fresh air and get some exercise.
NO 5: Lake or River Camping
Camping in this manner involves pitching a tent near a body of water, which provides ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. Plus, there’s something soothing about falling asleep to the sound of waves lapping against the shore. When planning a lake or river camping trip, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreens, insect repellent, and water shoes.
NO 6: Mountain Camping
There are many beautiful and pristine mountains all over the world that offer breathtaking views and endless opportunities for exploration. A benefit of mountain camping is that it provides a sense of isolation and tranquility that is hard to find in other types of camping.
Moreover, mountain camping can be a great workout, as hiking to your campsite can be quite strenuous. However, it is important to be prepared for all kinds of weather conditions when mountain camping, as the weather can change very quickly at high altitudes.
NO 7: Survivalist Camping
Camping like a survivor is a wonderful opportunity to test your mettle and see if you have what it takes to rough it in the wilderness. Camping of this kind focuses on learning survival skills, such as building a shelter, making a fire, and finding food and water. While you’re out camping and want to try something different, consider giving survivalist camping a try. You might just surprise yourself at how well you can do in the wild.
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Remember What to Pack for a Camping Trip
Your first camping trip can get overwhelming. Not only are you nervous about spending the weekend outside for the first time, but the stress of remembering everything you need to take can start to take a toll. Luckily, sticking to our guide can help you remember what to pack for a camping trip, and you won’t have anything to worry about except enjoying the great outdoors!
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