The Camping Club: Camping Guide From A to Z

Are you a first-time camper? Or maybe you've camped plenty, but time and again find yourself lacking on the essentials.

This is your go-to resource for all things camping. Use it as an easy reference guide for the more important items on your camping list, or as a source for word choices on your next scrabble game. Regardless, here is one more tool at your disposal to help you prepare and make your next camping trip memorable for all the good reasons.

Adapter. These are for your car to charge electronics such as a cell phone, mp3 player or other mobile devices.

Batteries. To power your flashlight, camera and GPS. Consider the rechargeable kind and save money on extra batteries and time worrying whether you'll have enough juice.

Compass. Important for knowing which way is north and south. Though not difficult to use, be sure to have a basic understanding of orienteering before relying solely on this to get you around.

Digital camera. Not a life or death element to your camping experience, but it is a must for quick and easy sharing of those moments you'll want to capture.

Emergency first-aid kit. Not something you want to forget. Although rarely used beyond aspirin or insect sting ointment, it never hurts to be prepared.

Food, flashlight, firewood. Where would we be without food--not camping, that's for sure. Without a flashlight or firewood, how are you going to see at night?

Guide or trail maps—both are key. Whether you're car camping or backpacking, knowing where the restroom is located can be just as important as finding your tent site on the trail.

Hats. These are not only good to shelter you from the sun, but can also be useful in the rain and increase your visibility by others from a distance.

Ice. There is no substitute for a cooler at proper temperature. Pack plenty of ice and ice packs that will help keep your drinks and food from getting warm.

Jug or juice container. For what, you might ask? Freeze water in one and use as large ice blocks for your cooler. And when it thaws, use the water to clean the campsite or wash your hands.

Knife. Knives have long been the tool of choice among survivalists for decades. If you have to pick on thing, this is it.

Lantern. This can quickly make it to the top three things you never leave home without, particularly if you're car camping. Use to light up your tent for a read or dig through your car for that missing item.

Matches or lighter. These are key to starting a fire. Combined with a stove for cooking or kindling and firewood, and you'll be sure to stay warm and fed so long as these guys don't run out.

Notepad. Paper and pen for logging your trip or making notes. As in, "I left for the bathroom" or "do not disturb." You get the idea.

Organize. Make sure your cooler is organized before you leave home. Prepare each meal for the day and place them into a plastic bag, then label accordingly. Sound like too much detail? Try it, then see.

Phone, as in mobile phone. "That's not camping," some might say. Again, it depends on the type of camping. I've never heard a single complaint from a backpacker who had his phone handy when he needed it.

Quality snacks. Be sure to replenish with more than sodas, candy bars or sweets. Think nuts, dehydrated fruits and berries. Nutrition is important on the trails.

Repellent. Bug spray against mosquitoes can make the difference between going outside or not. Pack the brand of your choice, just be sure it comes recommended, as certain varieties simply don't work.

Sun protection. This means sunscreen and sunglasses. You could also pack long sleeve shirts and pants, depending on the temperature, but a good pair of sunglasses has no substitute.

Tent is a must if you're sleeping outside, though certain times of the year sleeping under the stars is possible.

Utensils. You can pack the traditional set, or improvise. Some backpackers swear by the spork, a combination spoon and fork.

Video camera. Used to capture those unforgettable moments you'll want to submit for a prize or YouTube views. Advice on bear sightings: make noise, they tend to dislike surprises.

Water. It is more critical than food in terms of survival. Bring your own and pack a filter for cleaning water once you arrive.

Xtra water. This cannot be overstated. Pack it with you on hikes and have plenty at the campsite for more hydrating and rinsing-off dishes... and hopefully your teeth, too.

Yourself. Yes, even this particular "item" can be forgotten. How? When was the last time you went camping? If your answer is "too long," then this is the most important item on the list.

Zip ties. These are those funky little plastic strips that can be cinched up and used for: repair, attaching items to your pack and creating a loop for attaching things. With this item, attachment is the key.

For more camping tips, see our Tips for Your Next Camping Trip.

Comments

I love your list!

Posted by: Sandra | 15 September 2010 at 03:55 PM

Great list of what you need to take. Thanks!

Posted by: Camping Equipment Tent | 16 September 2010 at 06:04 PM

Everyone should use a list when they go camping. It's so easy to forget something that could be a show stopper - like the spatual if you plan on making pancake mix. I'm glad you highlighted nutrition, which I also belive is very important.

Posted by: Camping and Hiking Gear | 04 October 2010 at 05:25 PM

Agree with your point of view

Posted by: supra shoes | 05 November 2010 at 05:29 PM