Be Prepared! - Your Camping Checklist

A camping trip is a great way for many families to participate in, especially those families that prefer to pursue an activity without those distractions of everyday life such as traffic, crowds, noise, and the hustle and bustle of living in the city. Camping is a wonderful way for a family to spend quality time together and enjoy nature. Beware! If you venture on a camping trip without adequate preparation you could be in for a surprise.
Whether you are a novice or a veteran camper, you should prepare yourself and your family for your trip. Review this camping checklist and be as prepared as you possibly can before venturing out into the wilderness. There are many things that you should make sure that you pack when you go on a camping trip. Here, you will find many essentials in a camping checklist that should be included in your packing preparations for the trip.

In addition to clothes, it is important that you pack other items that you may need on your camping trip. Many people choose to bring along tents and proper sleeping gear. Matches and lighters are important to include on your camping checklist to be packed also. If you will be using flashlights, be sure to bring along plenty of spare batteries. Many people bring oil lanterns. If you decide to do this, be sure to bring plenty of oil and extra lanterns too.

The next essential item on your camping checklist that you should bring along is food of course. It is important to bring plenty of food for everyone for your entire camping trip. It is crucial that you bring plenty of water that is bottled for people that will be going on the camping trip to prevent dehydration. It is also important to bring several jugs of water to ensure that you have enough to prepare food with and for people to wash their hands. You should consider packing food that you can open and eat out of the can, prepackaged foods, and similar items as it reduces the amount of dish washing required and lightens your load somewhat, especially if you are hiking, as these disposable cans and packages can be thrown in the garbage.

Some items that are often overlooked when on a camping trip include sunscreen - for those devious UV rays, a sharp pocket knife - you will be surprised how useful this can be, and don't forget to bring a compass - you always want to know in which direction you are headed. Bug repellent and candles are useful for those warm summer evenings, bring a few plastic grocery bags to keep garbage in, rope - this can be used as a clothes line, if you have a pair, bring binoculars - you never know when you may need them, and a whistle can be a lifesaver - don't forget this one!

When you go on a camping trip, it is most important that you bring along supplies that you can use to cook and prepare your meals with. For example, you should ensure that you pack sufficient pots and pans. On our camping checklist you should also include plates, bowls, and cups. You should also purchase plastic forks, spoons, and knives. Many people also choose to pack paper items such as paper towels, and toilet paper.

Last but not least, you should ensure that you pack a first aid kit for your camping trip. Many injuries and accidents can occur while on a camping trip. It is very important that you fully prepare for any type of accident that may occur, as accidents do happen - so be prepared! You should ensure that you have the essentials for cleaning wounds and burns. You should also ensure that you have an assortment of bandages and wraps. You may also bring along pain pills and ointments. Many people purchase bite kits to provide first aid when a person experiences an assortment of bites ranging from a simple bee sting to a snake bite. First aid kits are just one of the many essentials that should be on your camping checklist.

Keith Valentine has spent many nights camping in provincial parks and conservation areas, for years. Learn more, get free advice on planning your next camping trip, books, camping supplies and more at:
http://camping.easyarticles4u.com
   By Keith Valentine
Published: 8/27/2007
 
Use the feedback form below to submit your comments.
Your Comments:
Your Name:
Use the form below to email this article to your friends.
Recipient Email Address:
 Separate multiple email addresses by ;
Your Name:
Your Email Address: