Is the warmer weather making you want to hit the trails and set up camp? Before you do, make sure you have all the camping essentials with you to maximise your trip.

Must-Have Camping Checklist

Shelter

First, you’ll need a tent. Make sure you get the right size for the number of people sleeping in it and make sure you bring any tools you might need to assemble it. It’s always a good idea to practice assembling your tent at home before you go so that you aren’t stuck in a bad situation if there is a missing piece or you need a tool you didn’t expect.

Comfort

Now, it’s time to pack for comfort. At the very top of the list are a sleeping bag, pillow, and mat so that you can get some shut-eye on your trip. Other comfort essentials are camp chairs and a table to make meals easier. 

Health and Safety

Next, it’s time to think about health and safety. Make sure you always camp with a fully stocked first aid kit. This should include everything from band-aids to antiseptic cream. When out in the bush it’s easy for a cut or scrape to get infected, and if anything worse happens you will be grateful you came prepared. Bringing a cooler full of ice will also help to soothe any ailments that might crop up, which can make a big difference when it comes to a rolled ankle far from any mode of transport.

Another thing that is important to maintain your safety is a light source with backup batteries. Bring a lantern so that you can see around camp, and ensure that there is a charged torch in every tent. This will avoid any nasty midnight falls on the way to the bathroom.

Another thing every camper needs is mosquito spray and sunscreen. Without these, you could spend your trip bright red and itchy all over. 

Kitchen

The last essentials you need to keep in mind are food and water. Make sure you have enough clean water for the entire trip and pack enough food to keep you and your camp mates going. 

One thing to note is that the camp menu doesn’t just have to consist of tinned foods and potato chips. By bringing a cooler packed with ice you can transport anything from fresh produce to icy cold beers. 

Make sure you also pack anything you need to cook and serve your food with, from a portable stove to a cast-iron skillet for classic campfire cooking.

For more useful information, read our blog.