It's wise to keep a checklist handy when packing things up and heading out for camp. With so many items, large and small, using a list to keep track of things is a reliable way to make base camp as comfortable and safe as home. You can also modify your list to fit every trip.
Tent
Since your tent will act as your temporary home, think about it as a house. Keep it clean, organized and dry and you'll sleep well despite the weather outside.
Sleeping Bag
Invest in a good sleeping bag. Consider the climate you'll be camping in , and use that as a guide when selecting a temperature rating. An inflatable or foam pad and a pillow will also keep you warm, dry and cozy.
Back to Basics
Headlamps and flashlights are important when camping, along with spare batteries and duct tape. Instead of a tool box for tools, consider a small camp tool kit or a multitool that has a selection of useful tools on it.
Personal Hygiene
Product samples fit nicely in a travel kit, according to TheCampingSource.com. Smaller sizes of hygiene products such as shampoo, deodorant, sun screen and toothpaste take up less room and are inexpensive. Plus, the containers can be refilled and reused for next time.
Clothing
Remember to check the weather and pack accordingly. Throw in some extra warm and cold weather clothing just in case. Think 20 degrees variation of either side of the forecast, and you won't be left out in the cold.
First Aid
Always remember a well-stocked first-aid kit, with plenty of bandages, prep pads, antiseptic wipes and tweezers. Be sure to check the condition of the contents, as many first-aid products expire. Bug bite cream and pain relievers are also good to have.
Cooking
For backpacking, a light weight and easy to use single burner stove is the best choice. For car camping or large base camps, nothing beats a double or triple burner flat stove that can cook multiple items at once. Remember to bring enough pots and pans, and dishes for the cooking and eating. Use kits that are compact and fit together for easy packing. Car campers can bring bigger wares. One cup, bowl, plate, spoon and fork per camper will help keep dirty dishes down.
Food and Water Storage
Experienced campers often use plastic totes or storage bins, great for storing food at camp. They can be stacked, are relatively tamper-proof and can resist weather. For perishables, coolers should be packed well but with room to spare, so the internal air can circulate and cool the food. A 5 to 10 gallon jug for water is ideal.
Eat Well
Camping burns more calories than normal daily activity, so bump up your caloric intake. Bring easy-to-prepare meals like pastas, sandwiches, snack foods and energy drinks. Weight conscience backpackers can carry dried fruits and nuts, and prepare dehydrated meals. Backpackers should always have some kind of water filter/purification system as well. According to REI.com, today's filter/purifiers are light, effective for travel in remote areas.
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