Camping is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors, but for those who have never been camping, what may seem basic to an experienced outdoorsman can be intimidating. The fastest way to learn the basics is to go on an excursion or two with a seasoned camper, but if that’s not an option, the very least an outdoor newbie needs to know is which pieces of camp gear are going to be essential.
Shelter
Shelter is your first and most important concern in the outdoors, whether you actually plan a weekend in the woods or you end up there through less voluntary circumstances. The tent you choose for shelter doesn’t have to cost a fortune and come with all the bells and whistles, but it is important to choose a model that will provide adequate protection from the elements, particularly if you are camping in any season besides summer.
Sleeping
Recreating in the wilderness can be physically taxing, so getting a good night’s sleep will be crucial to your enjoyment of the experience. Sleeping bags are available in a wide variety of sizes, filling, and temperature ratings so you can achieve optimum comfort according to your specific preferences. Many people prefer an inflatable mattress to sleep on in their tent, but if the bulk is too much for you, there are just as many options for sleeping pads that compress neatly for lightweight storage in your camp gear.
Cooking and Eating
If your campsite includes a campfire, the need for carrying a full cooking system might not be as pressing, but you will still want to bring a plate, mug, and a few utensils so you can comfortably eat whatever you cook over the fire. Most people bring some kind of cooler to keep beverages and perishable foods cool throughout the trip, but you can certainly get through a weekend of camping without anything perishable. However, it is a good idea to bring your food in a sealable container, like a plastic bin or a zippered case, to keep it free from dirt and critters that will certainly come running when they smell it. Never keep food in your tent, as wild animals can be persistent and voracious when it comes to foraging for food.
Hygiene
Not every campground will have a shower, so you may have to square away the prospect of being a bit grubby for the camp trip. But you don’t have to forego hygiene altogether — bring your toothpaste, toothbrush, cleansing wipes, biodegradable soap, first aid kit, and any other hygienic products necessary for your basic comfort. There’s little need for makeup or cologne in the woods, but sunscreen, chapstick, moisturizer, and aloe are all perfectly acceptable toiletries to pack in your camp gear. Most importantly of all, don’t forget toilet paper, and plenty of it! You never know how stocked a campground will be, even if facilities are present.
With these few essential pieces of camp gear, any outdoor newbie can get on the road and have a great experience in nature, so what are you waiting for? Nature is out there!
