Things to remember when making a list of camping supplies

When using a list of camping supplies to pack what you will need to take camping, there are a few things you should remember.

Firstly, you need to consider whether you have included one of the most easily overlooked items – storage. If you are camping somewhere with a parking lot nearby, or camping in an RV, this need not be a problem. However, if you are backpacking, or the campsite is a distance from the nearest parking lot, the first things to add to your list of camping supplies are storage items.

Clothing, matches, cameras and other such items are most easily carried in your backpack, but be sure your pack is waterproof, or you will need to enclose these in a waterproof bag prior to packing them.

Some items, such as perishable foods and fruit juices would be better stored in a cool bag, attached to one of your backpack's accessory loops, although you should try to take only food that will keep well, such as tinned goods and dried foods.

Although most sleeping bags come with a bag of some kind, they are not often waterproof, so a waterproof bag should be included to keep bedding dry. Roll-mats, if used, are usually waterproof, and so do not require their own storage, and can simply be tied to the back or top of your pack.

Another important thing to include on your list of camping supplies is a first aid kit. Even in the most peaceful camping environment, cuts and burns can easily happen, and first aid treatment is often difficult to find. Insects can also be a problem, so insect sprays and ointments are an essential addition to your list of camping supplies.

Depending on where you are camping, and how far away you will be from civilization, you may need to carry some specialist equipment with your first aid kit. Flares are useful if you get into trouble, as they are easily seen for miles around, and are recognized as a request for assistance. A cell phone should be carried at all times, and a spare, fully-charged battery is also a good idea; remember though, that signal strength will deteriorate the further away you go from civilization. If you know that you will be camping in an area that has no cell phone coverage, you may wish to consider adding a radio to your list of supplies. If you do pack a radio, be sure that it is only used when necessary, and that it's signal range is adequate.

If you are taking a gas stove, take a spare canister of fuel; if you plan to use an open fire instead, waterproof matches should be packed. A small supply of dry tinder is also useful to take with you, in case dry firewood is sparse.

Always pack spare tent pegs if you intend using a tent. They are easily lost, and your tent cannot be safely erected without them.

These are just some of the more commonly overlooked items, so you should carefully assess what you need, and then check and recheck your list of camping supplies before departing. No one likes to turn back to pick up forgotten items, and sometimes this could mean canceling your camping holiday, particularly if traveling a long distance.

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