Camping Gear -- What You Need for an Outdoor Adventure
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Are you planning an outdoor camping excursion with friends, family or by yourself? If so, then you're not alone. Camping is a popular activity that many people enjoy. It's a great way to bond with loved ones and experience the majesty of the natural world. An important part of safe camping is being prepared. Before you head out into the wilderness or to a local campground, you'll need to make sure you have the proper camping gear.
The first thing you should do is evaluate where you will be camping and the type of people you will be camping with. What is the climate at your campsite going to be like? How many people are in your group? What is their level of camping experience? Do any of the campers require special camping gear, like sleeping cots? These questions will need to be answered before you start your camping preparations.
First, you'll need a tent, unless you are lucky enough to be going somewhere that doesn't rain, have mosquitos, or get to chilly at night. The size of the tent you will need of course depends on how many people will be using it. Tents these days come in many different sizes and styles to accommodate every need. There are dome style tents, cabin style tents, family size tents, single size tents, and more.
The next thing you'll need is a sleeping bag. Whether or not you'll need a thick, insulated sleeping bag or one that's more thin will be determined by the climate. There are sleeping bags made for cold climates and ones made for more temperate weather. If you are going to be camping in colder weather make sure you dress appropriately as well in warm layers.
If you are going to be cooking over a campfire, you'll need wood for the fire, matches to light it and stones to keep it safely contained. Before you plan to cook using wood, make sure the camground allows fires. If you are camping during a high risk of forest fires, camp fires may not be allowed. The wood and stones can often be found in the camping area. At established campgrounds you will not be able to forage for firewood, but most campgrounds do sell firewood. When extinguishing a campfire, always pour water and/or dirt on it to make sure every last ember is out.
Some people prefer to cook with a camping stove or portable charcoal grill, which can be easier than fussing with a campfire although not nearly as traditional. Remember to have a full can of stove fuel or propane if that is what you plan on using. If you run out and need to buy it at a campground store you can expect to pay double to triple the price.
You'll want to bring a cooler or more than one filled with plenty of bottled water and food supplies. Blocks of ice work the best as they last longer. One trick is to fill milk cartons or jugs with water and freeze them prior to your trip.
One good organization tip is to use clear plastic bins with snap shut lids for your camping gear. Keep perishable food in coolers, cooking supplies in one plastic bin, non-perishable food in another bin, and camping gear odds and ends, like bug spray, flashlights, trach bags, etc. in another bin.
The rest of the camping gear you'll need include items for comfort and safety. Lanterns for light, a compass for directional assistance, a first aid kit in case of injury, and insect repellant to keep pesky bugs from biting. You'll also want to bring one of the comforts of home that many people take for granted -- toilet tissue. If your group includes small children, bring along some games or fun activities in case of boredom. Finally, pack a camera to photograph the beauty of the landscape and preserve the memories of your camping trip for years to come!
Oh, one more finally, pack out what you packed in and leave the place clean. Be a good steward of nature!
Copyright 2007 Mark Schwarz - All Rights Reserved
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