Camping is a great way to get out and enjoy nature by spending time outdoors, but when it comes to camping, it is essential to take the right equipment with you. The basic camping equipment includes poly tarps, a tent, a sleeping bag, a first aid kit, and lamps. Read on to learn about the camping essentials and how you can prepare for a trip without wasting money on unnecessary gear. If you are a first-time camper, the following tips may help you plan your trip.
Poly Tarps
One of the best things you can do is invest in a poly tarp. But what kind of poly tarps are the best? You want something easy to set up. You also want something that will last through the years, so you don’t have to buy more than one every couple of years. You want something that won’t blow away in the wind while trying to sleep at night.
Poly tarps are durable, lightweight, and water-resistant. They come in various sizes and can be used for many different things.
While most tarps are advertised as waterproof, the type of waterproofing varies between brands and types of material. A tarp should be light enough to carry and allow good airflow.
They’re great for protection during the cold nights and from rain and snow (which isn’t always possible) or even for keeping your tent dry during heavy rainfall.
They’re also great for protecting yourself from the elements while camping—whether that means keeping warm or cool outdoors.
Poly tarps are versatile — but they don’t come cheap! And if you plan on doing any serious camping with them, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality model that will last long enough to get its fair share of wear and tear over time.
When buying a tarp, you should also consider how easy it will be to rig it. Remember that water weighs about eight pounds per gallon, so it is essential that the tarp has plenty of drainage.
Tents
Tents are essential for first-time campers; they provide shelter from the elements and protect you from the bugs that come with camping. If you’re new to camping, it’s essential to know what to expect when it comes to tents.
Tents come in different shapes and sizes and can be shaped like a dome or one resembling a cone. The most common type of tent is a dome-shaped tent with an open center, but there are also dome-shaped tents with walls on both sides. Some tents have curved walls at the top and bottom, while others curve inward at their ends (like an hourglass).
The size of your tent will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Some people like to have enough room inside their tent so they can move around comfortably while sleeping; others prefer standing up straight in their tent without bumping into anything or falling over backward.
The best thing to do is to go online to find lots of comparison information about different brands and types of tents. This will allow you to check the prices and determine the best tent type for your needs.
Some tents need a bit of assistance or training, so make sure you research your options before going camping. It’s also helpful to watch some video tutorials on tent assembly.
Sleeping Bag
While tents are the most critical camping essential, the sleeping bag is just as important. A sleeping bag’s temperature rating refers to how comfortable it is in a particular range of temperatures. If you tend to get cold quickly, you’ll want to buy a sleeping bag with a temperature rating of ten to fifteen degrees warmer than the lowest temperature. You should also purchase a sleeping bag liner if you’re going to be chilly at night.
Purchasing the right sleeping bag may be a bit pricey, so do a little research to buy the best price. You don’t want to get overly excited and spend much money on an expensive sleeping bag when you’re just starting, so stick with the basics.
You can choose between a synthetic and a down sleeping bag. Down bags are warmer than synthetic ones but are also more expensive. If you are eco-conscious, you can also purchase a down sleeping bag.
First Aid Kit
Whether you’re going on a backpacking trip or just camping in the backyard, you’ll want to have a first aid kit with you. A first aid kit for a camper should have the following items: bandages, gauze, and sterile gauze. Bandages are essential for minor wounds because they help cover gauze and apply pressure.
Bandages can also clean and drain a wound’s excess liquid or foreign objects. You should also include an elastic wrap bandage in the kit. The knife and scissors are also essential, ensuring they’re easy to use.
You can also take some medications for headaches and nausea, like aspirin. But if you’re going camping for the first time, don’t skip the tourniquet. This tool helps stop the blood flow to the wound and can be tricky to use but is an essential part of your camping kit.
Camping Lamps
Camping lanterns are a must-have for any camper. They provide light in the dark and can help you navigate your way through the woods.
Choose a headlamp that doesn’t give out too much light but is still bright enough for tent work. Also, look for lightweight models with long-lasting batteries. Here are a few other items to bring along:
A flashlight is acceptable during the daytime, but a headlamp is essential for nighttime activities. Headlamps are also a good idea if you camp in a tent with several people, and a lantern or campfire can also provide ambient lighting.
If you’re planning on camping in a remote area, a lantern is an essential item. Many lanterns feature multiple settings for light intensity, and some even let you choose the color or intensity.
This is an excellent option if you plan to spend long hours in the dark. If you plan to stay overnight, consider investing in a lantern with long-lasting batteries.
According to Men’s Health, a high-quality, portable camping lamp is essential. You’ll want to make sure to bring a backup battery, and a high-quality lantern will last for several nights. Choose a waterproof light. It will save your time and money while camping in a wet area.
Nowadays, many camp lights are designed to double as portable power banks. And don’t forget about the battery. If you have an emergency, you’ll want a rechargeable lamp.
Have Fun!
Hopefully, this has helped you become a little more familiar with camping and how to get started. This list of five essentials should make your initial trips easier. As you become more experienced in the field, you will likely have different needs and acquire special items that may not be covered here, but that’s part of the fun!
