Camping is a great thing to do but you need to make sure you take all the right kit. Wh you have all the right items with you, it’s a lot easier and much more fun. Th type of camping will dictate some of your kit list. For example, if you are backpacking and camping you’ll want to choose lightweight equipment and pack only the basic essentials. If you are driving to a campsite with a family, you can afford to be more generous with the weight and size of the tent and all the kit you bring.
Clothing for camping
Check what the weather will be and make sure you have clothing items that will keep you warm and dry. Remember it will get chillier at night when the sun goes down.
Think about the activities you will be doing while camping, too. For example you might want t bring swimming kit or walking clothes and footwear.
Torch light
You’ll need a way to see in the dark and so a torch is a good idea. Choose a hed torch or a hand held torch. A quality rechargeable light torch is a good idea. A torch is an essential gadget to have for camping.
Packing your kit
If you are heading off for a backpacking trip, you’ll want to add all your items into a comfortable rucksack. Maybe you’ll be keen to go on a bike packing trip and so you’ll need the bags that fit into your bike. If you are cycling, always install bike lights when riding after dark.
If you are driving to a campsite, you will have the full space of the boot for all your kit.
Food for camping
When camping, you want to make sure you pack food that is easy to prepare. If wild camping you might well prefer to take ready prepared camp food that is dehydrated and therefore lightweight.
If you are camping with the family at a campsite. why not choose to barbecue each night? What food you pack will depend on how close you will be to shops during your trip.
Camping kit for cooking
You’ll probably want to pack a camping stove, a lighter, gas for the stove, cooking pots, plates, cups and cutlery. The size and weight of all this kit will again depend on the type of camping you plan to do. Think carefully about what you buy because if you have to carry it with you, you’ll want lightweight and compact.
If you are heading to a campsite for a week with the family you will likely be more generous with your cooking kit. Many people pack a large gas cooker, bbq, pots, plates, cups, glasses, cutlery, cool box and more for this sort of camping trip.
Sleeping gear
The key to a happy camping trip is staying warm at night. Choose a sleeping bag to suit the season and also your personal comfort rating. If you know you get cold at night, chose a warmer bag.
A mattress is a good idea, too, for example an inflatable camping mattress.
If you have space, add a pillow for comfort or stuff the bag that your sleeping bag was packed in with spare clothes for a makeshift pillow.
First aid kit
It is a good idea to have a basic first aid kit with you for emergencies. Bandages, sprays, ointments and simple medicines to treat scrapes, cuts, bites and stings is a good idea. If camping in Scotland remember a midge net and anti-midge spray.
Personal hygiene
When camping, you might be limited for places to wash and take care of personal hygiene. Perhaps you’ll be able to make use of a nearby river for a wahs, or you might be fortunate to be at a campsite where there are showers.
Even so, it’s a good idea to take some hand sanitiser and wet wipes along with you as well as a toiletries kit including toothpaste, toothbrush and soap.
Conclusion: Whether you are looking for a quick getaway or a longer camping trip, there is something on this list for you. Camping can be as simple or adventurous as you want it to be. It is a wonderful way to spend time with your family and friends.
