According to the American Recreation Coalition, as of 2006 almost 50 million Americans have hit the road and headed for the hills to participate in camping. Camping gets you outdoors, communing with nature and breaking you away from the everyday electronic stress of TVs, computers, MP3s and cell phones. Allow yourself to feel exhilarated by the opportunity to break away, but if you don't pack appropriately for your trip, you may end up uncomfortable or unsafe.
Clothing
Before you leave for your camping trip, check the weather--noting both the highs and the lows, as well as the precipitation--before you head out the door. Dressing right can make the difference between a fun trip and a miserable one. Plan on packing lightweight layers, and always include at least one long-sleeve shirt and a pair of long pants. Even if the forecast predicts hot weather, you may want the pants for hiking, and the temperature may dip at night, making you want to throw on layers. Also, plan for everything, so pack a rain jacket and boots so that you don't have to slog to the restroom through a downpour at midnight in flip-flops and your nightshirt.
Protect yourself from the sun by including sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, and if you're camping near a lake or river, don't forget your bathing suit and life jacket.
Equipment
Necessary equipment will vary widely depending on the type of camper you are and the type of camping you participate in. If you're camping at a traditional campsite without a shelter or cabin, you most likely will want to pack a tent and a ground cover to place under the tent, preventing precipitation from seeping up from below. Also, know what amenities your camp site offers. If there's a fire pit or grill at every site, be sure to pack appropriate cooking gear. If there's no grill, bring your own.
Regardless of the style of camping you plan on doing, make sure you pack a sleeping bag and any other desired bedding, like pillows or air mattresses. Pack plenty of food in an air-tight cooler, packed tight with ice. The more healthy, nonperishable foods you can pack, like granola, dried fruit and single-serve apple sauce, the better. Plan your meals in advance so that you know you have everything you need.
Personal Protection
Being exposed to the elements means that you'll need lots of little things to keep you safe and protected. Pack bug repellent, sun screen, hand sanitizer and a first aid kit. Pack matches in a waterproof container, as well as a compass and map. Have several flashlights and extra batteries for those late-night bathroom trips. And because it's important to always be prepared, make sure you have your pertinent medical insurance information.
Finally, have your campsite's rules and regulations with you at all times, and make sure you're well aware of what they are. You don't want to find out the hard way that you are camping in an area with bears and were supposed to store all your food in cars or suspended from trees.
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