Isn't it true that spending a week in the vast outdoors may be an incredible adventure? Alternatively, it could be a living nightmare. A good or disastrous camping vacation is usually determined by one factor: what you packed (or didn't pack) for the trip. Having the necessary camping gear in your bag can be the difference between a relaxing vacation in the woods and a trip to the nearby hospital. Whether you're a first-time camper or a seasoned survivalist, don't leave the house without these must-haves for a wilderness adventure.
1. TENTS
Even if you like to sleep beneath the stars, you should have a tent or other emergency shelter on available in case of an emergency. On the other side, a late-night rain, a rare blizzard, or a heavy dew may leave you soggy, unpleasant, and prone to hypothermia. A tent will also keep you and your things safe from strong winds. Make sure you have all of the essential equipment, such as rope, tent poles, pegs, and a rain fly, whether you select the finest two-person tent or a bigger cabin-style tent.
2. A SLEEPING BAG
Although sleeping on a bed of moss and leaves seems tempting, it will not keep you warm until the sun sets. As night falls, temperatures can drop by up to 20 degrees. Keep in mind that many insects are more active at night and may come into contact with your uncovered body. You risk a restless night's sleep at best, and exposure at worst, if you don't bring a sleeping bag with you. If you've ever attempted to go camping with your kids without a kid's sleeping bag, you know they'll be tossing and turning all night.
3. WATER BOTTLE
Water is necessary for life in the vast outdoors, and the further you travel off the established route, the faster it appears to run out. The last thing any camper wants is to run out of water, especially because drinking from a pond or lake can lead to serious disease from germs. Carry a day's supply of the wet stuff in a camelbak or other big container, even if the wilderness you're traveling into is only a few steps from your car.
4. A RESPONSE KIT IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY
Even if you don't suffer a life-threatening accident while camping, a hard day of walking can leave you with blisters that need to be bandaged. If left untreated, small cuts and scratches can quickly get infections, so be equipped with bandages and disinfectant. Additional things to include in your first aid box include scissors, glue, gauze, soap, a CPR face barrier, and an emergency alert whistle. Don't forget to bring insect spray and sunscreen with you.
5. MAP AND COMPASS (OR A CHARGED GPS)
Definitely bring a map, compass, or GPS with you if your camping plans entail hiking in remote areas. Hikers can also become disoriented if the sun's position changes frequently, making familiar woodland features appear unfamiliar. Unprepared campers have been known to spend days wandering through the woods before being rescued or coming back to camp. It's no laughing matter if you get lost or stranded in the woods, especially if you don't have enough water. Even if your kids only want to go down to the next creek from your campground, be sure they can get back safely.