Outdoor camping involves quite a bit of physical work. It could be cooking, fixing a tent, or other related tasks. So, there is always a possibility of getting burned, scratched, or cut during the trip; not to mention the looming threat of insect bites is ever-present.
Isn’t it exciting to go outdoor camping? But, by any means, don’t allow this excitement to distract you from preparing for the trip. Otherwise, a thrilling adventure could turn into a nightmare. Unfortunately, first-time campers often make this rookie mistake.
Now, it’s okay to be excited for your first-ever experience in the great outdoors, but make sure you don’t forget these five outdoor camping essentials:
First aid kit
Outdoor camping involves quite a bit of physical work. It could be cooking, fixing a tent, or other related tasks. So, there is always a possibility of getting burned, scratched, or cut during the trip; not to mention the looming threat of insect bites is ever-present.
Having a first aid kit by your side is very handy when you are caught in such an ugly situation. Oftentimes, an unaddressed minor injury becomes a significant wound. There are many first aid tools available but how do you know which ones are most appropriate for camping trips?
The toolkit largely depends on the activities you will undertake. However, the following tools are critical in all conditions:
● Cotton balls
● Pain relief spray
● Bandages
● Scissors
● Anti-bacterial cream
● Antiseptic wipes
● Aspirin
High-quality rucksack
Never buy a low-quality backpack. Since it will carry all your essential camping items, including sharp Aitor knives, you can’t take the risk of settling for a cheaper bag. What if the bag does not prove to be durable enough and tears apart in the middle of your camping excursion?
By all means, don’t rush to buy a rucksack. Pay attention to the smallest of details before finally settling on one. First, you should take the duration of your trip into account. For example, if you don’t plan to stay overnight, a rucksack with a capacity of 30 to 40 liters will do just fine.
However, if the camping lasts for more than one day, your rucksack must be able to bear about 70 to 80 liters of weight, because you will have more items to store.
Secondly, your rucksack should not put all the burden on your shoulders. That way, you won’t become quickly exhausted. It is the trademark of a top-notch rucksack to divide the weight equally into other parts of your body like the hips, waist, and shoulders.
Water purification mechanism
You can somewhat compromise on food for a few days. But it is not possible to overlook the importance of water. Water becomes even more vital if one is camping in a hot climate.
Though you might be able to find the water from the nearby water reserve, it is less likely to be drinkable. The only way you can consume that water is by filtering it, and that’s where a water purification system comes into play.
Due to the limited space, water purifying tablets can serve as an effective alternative. One tablet is capable of cleaning as much as 25 liters of water at a lightning-fast speed.
Apart from that, a water purifying bottle is also a popular method for clean water. The bottle does not take a lot to process the water. Fill the bottle, squeeze it and that’s about it.
Pack for changing weather conditions
It is good to take the weather into account when packing for your trip. The weather forecast really helps you anticipate the conditions and allows you to pack accordingly.
But weather forecasts are not always 100% accurate. In some areas, the weather is so unpredictable that you can’t rely on the forecast report. Despite all our advanced tools, apparently, nature still has the upper hand.
That’s why to be on the safe side; you should take extra clothes. Pack anything from short-sleeve items and waterproof jackets to long-sleeve pants in case the temperature fluctuates. That way, your picnic will not be spoiled if the weather decides to change.
Sleeping pad
Of course, you don’t go to a picnic to sleep. But some sleep is necessary if you want to enjoy the trip. You may not have much time to rest, but whatever tiny bit of sleep you do get, make sure it is worth it. Lack of sleep leads to a headache, which could potentially force you to lose interest in your planned activities.
A sleeping pad can make life easier for you. Sure, tents do provide us a layer of privacy, but sometimes that’s not going to make any significant difference given the rocky ground and chilly nights.
When you wake up refreshed, you can take on the wilderness with full energy.
The last verdict
In no small measure, a successful outdoor camping trip depends upon the essentials you carry, and we have just explained why it is so. Take note of all the things we have mentioned above and turn your outdoor camping holiday into a cherished experience.
A great addition (but not essential) is a portable camping toilet that you can bring with yourself.
