You’re in a hurry to put the city in your rearview and get into the great outdoors – but forgetting just a few camping essentials can derail the whole trip. Use our list of what to bring camping to help you enjoy your best trip yet.
You have the basics down – the tent, sleeping bags and recreational items you always use when you camp – but the little stuff is just as important. You need a tactical backpack loaded with gear that’ll help you set up camp, cook and enjoy your trip.
It’s easy to forget basics – you wouldn’t be the first person to trek 5 miles into the middle of nowhere and realize you left the sleeping bags in the garage – so use this checklist of camping basics when you’re gearing up to go:
Tactical tools that get you through the trip are essential, and so are emergency items that you’ll be glad you brought if things go south. Here’s a list of tactical tools you can’t afford to forget when you’re camping:
Stash emergency supplies in an extra pack – or in the bottom of your ruck or backpack if you’re hiking out and back – so you’re prepared if something goes wrong. Here’s a list of emergency supplies to bring camping:
You can’t predict the weather, so it’s always better to be prepared for a downpour, a sudden dip in temperature or a little more heat than you expected. Here’s a list of comfort items and snivel gear you might want to toss in with your tactical camping essentials:
If you’re hiking out and back, it’s hard to strike the right balance of essentials, emergency gear and comfort items – but it’s easier with a high-capacity pack that’s designed for camping. Pack what you know you’ll need for the duration of your trip, plus an additional two-day supply of food and clean socks in case something unexpected pops up. Use these lists as a springboard to customize your pack and you’ll have your best trip yet.