When you are knee-deep in camping gear, it is easy for even the most experienced camping enthusiasts to forget some of the most important items they are supposed to take with them. If you are gearing up for your next trip, we think that it is a good idea to revisit all your camping gear, reassess it, and make sure that you have all the essentials in there so that you are never without that one annoying thing that you forgot to bring.
We have put together a list of the camping essentials you must have with you beyond a great tent when you go camping to make the most of your experience enjoying the great outdoors.
1. First Aid Kit
Whether it is burns, scratches, cuts, or bumps, it is always possible for some kind of mishap to happen when you are out camping. Having a complete first-aid kit has to be one of the essential aspects you need to consider bringing to your next trip. Make sure you prepare a first-aid kit that has more than enough supplies for yourself and the people you are traveling with. The best first-aid kid should include everything for blisters, cuts, scrapes, and a first-aid book that has information on how to tend to outdoor-related injuries. While we hope you don’t need to use a first-aid kit, it is always better to have one and not need it rather than needing it and not having one. Safety always comes first.
2. Pocket Knife
Never underestimate the importance of a good pocket knife. A pocket knife that also serves as a multi-tool with several attachments is the perfect companion for any camping trip. The camping essential takes up very little space in your pocket, but it packs a punch. You should get a multi-tool that features several tools, like a knife, screwdriver, pliers, scissors, can opener, cork opener, small saw. You never know what might come in handy.
3. Maps And Compas
All phones have GPS systems now, so navigating might not be an issue. Unfortunately, it is always possible that you might not get a signal in remote camping areas or as you hike into a dense forest. Your smartphone might also run out of charge while you are hiking. Having your navigation essentials like a map of the area and a compass at all times can be a lifesaver for your camping trip.
4. Tarps
Whether you are using one to add another layer below your tent or as an additional shelter at your campsite, tarps are a crucial piece of camping gear that you must take with you. The best thing about this versatile camping essential is that you can easily fold it and pack it away without worrying about it taking too much space in your camping bags.
5. Rope
A good rope has to be the most versatile camping essential that you could take with you on your next trip. A rope has several possible uses at a campsite, especially if you know how to tie a variety of knots. You can use it to make a clothesline for wet clothes. You can use it to help you create a shelter; it can help you get people out of a tight situation. Things can get quite tough out there in the wild, and a good rope can be invaluable. Never go camping without one.
6. Headlamp and Flashlight
Proper lighting is absolutely critical when you go camping. Whether you want to go for a late-night stroll or go to the bathroom after dark, you should always have a lantern or flashlight in your camping gear. Sure, you might get plenty of light from the warm and flickering flames of a campfire, but you cannot carry that light with you everywhere. Ideally, you should have a lamp, a flashlight, and a headlamp with you. Headlamps are particularly good for people who love going for early morning hikes to catch the sunrise.
7. Bluetooth Speakers
You can make your next camping trip a party by taking a set of portable speakers with you. When you think about it, a Bluetooth speaker might not seem like an essential item, but it could very well be an important addition to your camping gear if you are in the mood to make it a party. Besides playing music, you can use a speaker while hiking with your buddies to play sounds that can help them find their way to you.
8. A Portable Power Station
While this item is last on the list, this has to be one of the most important additions to your camping gear for the next trip. A reliable portable power station like the Vatid PB001 can be a crucial element to your camping gear. A solar-powered camping power station that features several charging ports to charge multiple devices simultaneously can make your camping experience much better. You might no longer need to worry about keeping your phone and other devices charged throughout the trip, and your camping expedition can span much longer when you have a reliable power source to keep all your electronics charged.
Consider these essentials when you are making your camping gear checklist to ensure that you can enjoy your time in the great outdoors without any problems.