Camping supplies – don’t leave home without these

Ever been on vacation with someone whose camping supplies seemed to include everything except the kitchen sink?  There’s a real art to figuring out what you really need to bring to stay dry, warm and nourished and what you can live without.  Whether you’re only going away for a long week-end or planning an extended stay, a bit of preparation and planning will soon sort out the essential camping supplies from what you can live without.

As a guide, essential camping supplies break down into a few simple categories:

·         shelter, safety and storage (backpack, tent and tarp, sleeping bag, flashlight & batteries, first aid kit)

·         clothing and footwear (full set of spares and  hat, gloves, coat, thermals, socks, towel)

·         drinking and eating (food, water, stove and fuel, utensils soap)

·         finding your way and other essentials (money, maps and compass/gps, radio, camera, binoculars, pocket knife, personal hygiene)

·         “family” camping (table, chairs, extra shelter, essential entertainment)

Once you’ve sorted these essential camping supplies, there are no hard and fast rules about what else you need to feel safe or be comfortable – other than considering weight and space.  Find out what’s available locally, for hire, for restocking, and taking part in local outdoor activities.  If you are carrying everything in your pack, learn quickly what you can live without – particularly if you are hiking from base to base.  If you have to take everything with you, invest in lightweight options – shaving 15 kilos of weight can make a real difference no matter how far the gear has to be carried.  Remember to save some space for a personal memento, even if it’s just a funny postcard to bring back the memories of your adventure.

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