New to Camping? Here is What You Need to Know!

Camping is a great activity, and if you’re interested, we are here to assure you that you won’t regret it! Before you head out, though, there are a few things you need to know. Let’s take a look.

Camping requires a plan. If you aren’t plan oriented, pass this task to another member that will be going with you! You need to plan out the location, the travel situation, and everything you’ll need to take with you.

Speaking of what you’ll need, there are a few things you want to ensure you don’t forget. The obvious ones are a tent and sleeping bag or bed, but you’ll also need a first aid kit, food, sun protection, and flashlights. Before you dash out and buy everything, you can check online to see if you can rent some of these items. If you’re a college student, you can probably check most of the equipment you’ll need out of your college library!

Now it’s time to plan your day-to-day. If you want to hike, be sure the trails you want to go on will be open. You can also set up excursions at particular campsites around the country, such as horseback riding or river rafting. You’ll want to have reservations for these activities well in advance. Check the website or call the camp office to see what they have available! Even if they don’t run the excursions, they’ll be well versed in who to call to book one.

Once you know where you’re going and what you’ll need, you must plan your packing! That’s right, even knowing the items you need and getting them is not quite enough. Well-packed equipment will be easy to carry and water and bug-proof. You don’t want to waste time and money replacing food or an item you dropped along a trail. Food should be in sealed containers, and your hiking/camping equipment should be waterproof in case it rains. Be sure you’re only taking essentials, as these things quickly add up!

A week before you head out on your epic camping trip, you need to create a checklist. As you pack everything and get it in the car, you can check it off and verify that you have everything you need with you. Don’t forget the bug spray and sunscreen! You also want to be sure you don’t forget any medications you’re on, or you’ll be turning around to get them.

I know it sounds like a lot of work, but I promise if you do it in bite-sized bursts, you’ll get it all done. Even better, after your first time or two out in the wild, you’ll learn what works and what doesn’t. Be sure to keep a note on your phone if something didn’t work out as planned or you forgot something crucial. That way, it won’t be a problem the next time you go! Happy camping!