Camping Essentials – 7 Things You Can’t Afford to Forget

Camping Essentials

So, you’re ready to grab the family and spend some time in the great outdoors? While many people find it thrilling to be “at one” with nature, there are still plenty of items that you need to take with you on your trip.

Before you head off to your campsite, you need to make sure that you have these 7 camping essentials. Even if you want to “live off the land”, you’ll need these basics:

1. A tent

Sure, sleeping under the stars might seem like a great idea – until starts to rain, or until the mosquitoes come out of hiding, or until the temperature suddenly plummets. Then, your sleeping plans will go from peaceful to downright miserable. Even if you ultimately decide not to use, you still need to bring a tent with you. That way, you’ll be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws at you.

2. Plenty of sleeping equipment

If you are camping in the summer, a lightweight sleeping bag might be all you need. However, if there’s any chance that it’s going to get chilly at your campsite, you will need extra blankets. And remember, being out in the woods can be much colder than being out in the city. After all, the woods don’t offer any skyscrapers that can block the wind!

And, of course, don’t forget plenty of pillows. After a day of fun in the outdoors, the last thing you will want is to rest your head on the hard ground.

When it comes to sleeping equipment, you can never have too much of it. You’d rather have too much – and sleep comfortably – then be longing for your down comforter or your fluffy pillow in the middle of the night.

3. Trash bags

Of course, you don’t want to leave a mess behind when you leave your campsite. But, sturdy trash bags will be a necessity for your entire trip. If you leave trash sitting out, you will be much more likely to get a visit from some kind of critter – big or small!

4. Rope

When you’re out in the elements, rope can be used for all sorts of things – even things you may not be able to envision when you pack it! Rope doesn’t take up much room, so add it to your camping supplies.

5. Charcoal

Many campgrounds have grills you can use; however, they don’t come with charcoal. With plenty of charcoal, you can cook just about anything – from hamburgers and hot dogs, to steak, to even your morning coffee with a special barbecue coffee pot!

6. Paper towels

You never know when you’re going to have a mess to clean up. And, as an added benefit, they can double as napkins.

7. A big cooler

You’re much better off with a cooler that’s too big, instead of too small. That way, you’ll never be hungry or thirsty!