What To Bring Camping

Warm months bring forth endless options for outdoor adventure. Bonfires, days on the lake, and time spent sunbathing are just some of the things to look forward to when the temperatures turn hot. And if you really like the outdoors, camping is probably on your summer itinerary. Whether you like roughing it with the clothes on your back or prefer a “glamping” experience, camping is a fun (and affordable!) way to get in touch with nature and unplug from the humdrum of everyday life. 

Not sure what to bring? We’ve got you covered no matter what camping experience you’re seeking. For starters, there are ten must-have items for any camping adventure, big or small. 

Ten Camping Essentials

• Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS device, or satellite messenger

• Headlamp: plus extra batteries

• Sun protection: sunglasses, sun-protective clothes and sunscreen

• First aid including foot care and insect repellent (as needed)

• Knife plus a gear repair kit

• Fire matches, lighter, tinder and/or stove

• Shelter carried at all times

• Extra food beyond the minimum expectation

• Extra water beyond the minimum expectation

• Extra clothes beyond the minimum expectation

For Backpackers

If you like traveling light, you know that making the most of the space you do have is essential. When you’re camping with just your shelter and a backpack of must-haves, making sure you bring the correct amount of necessities can be the difference between a great experience and an uncomfortable one. Here are the items you’ll need for backpacking beyond the top ten camping essentials:

• Hiking boots or shoes (don’t forget your SUAVS!)

• Backpack

• Tent

• Sleeping bag and sleeping pad

• Stove and fuel

• Kitchen supplies

• Plenty of food

• Water bottles and water-treatment supplies

• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, layers, layers!)

• Emergency and hygiene supplies

• Small repair kit

For Glampers

Glamping is a combination of the words “glamorous” and “camping.” This describes styles of camping that have additional amenities that aren’t usually a part of regular camping. In some cases, it might even involve resort-style services. If you’re camping in a trailer or have bathroom facilities at your disposal, camping becomes a lot more straightforward.

If you have your vehicle onsite and can drive to a nearby store, you’re less likely to be in a bind if you forget something you need. Even still, arriving with everything you can think of is a sure way to improve the quality of your outdoor experience. 

Here are the must-bring items for Glampers:

• A solar-powered or regular phone charger 

• Packing cubes

• Wind-proof umbrella 

• Hiking boots and extra shoes (don’t forget your SUAVS!)

• Parachute hammock 

• Deodorant wipes

• Hand warmers 

• A quality cooler 

• Plenty of food

• Kitchen supplies 

• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, layers, layers!)

• Emergency and hygiene supplies

Did these tips help you determine what you need for your next adventure? Let us know your best-kept camping secrets below.