Your first tent camping trip can be a thrilling and enriching experience, but there are a few things to know before you go. You’ll want to be prepared for all the challenges of living on the ground, so this article will give you 11 things to know before your first tent camping trip!
1. Packing List
If you’re going camping, you’ll want to pack some of your favorite things. You’ll need to pack some extra clothes, especially if it’s cold outside or if you’re going in the middle of the night. If you’re going in the middle of winter, you’ll want to bring warm pajamas and blankets. If it’s hot, pack several outfits and bring some athletic shoes.
2. Camping Clothing
You’ll want to bring some water and bug repellant, regardless of what time of year it is. It’s always a good idea to shower before you go, as well as bring some perfume or deodorant. You never know if you’ll come across a beautiful lake or stream, so have your bathing suit packed. If you plan to do any hiking, ensure you wear your good walking shoes.
3. Lights
You don’t want to go out without a light source at night. Always make sure you bring a flashlight and a headlamp with you, as well as extra batteries. You’ll want to bring extra blankets or towels in case the weather is hot, and you might also want to bring along some sunscreen.
4. Campsite Prep
Before you go camping, you’ll want to pick a good campsite. Looking around before you leave and taking some photos are a good idea. Set up your tent in the same place every time, and then spread out the camping supplies you brought along. If you’re going to be there for several days, find a good place to store your food and make sure there’s a clean water source nearby.
5. Camping Food and Cooking Essentials
You’ll want to bring some snacks, like chips and candy, with you. There will be a lot of time in between meals because of the activities you’ll be doing, so having some treats to snack on will help make your time more bearable. If you have sensitive teeth, make sure you bring some toothpaste and a toothbrush. Teeth are always important, so be sure to brush them every night before bed.
6. Sleeping Gear
If you plan to sleep on your sleeping bag, you should put a waterproof cover over it so that the bottom doesn’t get wet. You can either buy a waterproof cover for your bag or make one yourself by cutting up a garbage bag and putting it over the bottom of your bag. You should also have plenty of time to set up your bed before you go to sleep. The last thing you want to do is set up a tent and try to fall asleep on the ground.
7. Tent
If you’re going to be staying in your tent for the next couple of days, make sure that it’s waterproofed. Coleman Camping tents are great for this because they’re made to withstand the elements. When you get there, you can set up the tent and then make sure that it’s waterproof by spraying water on the bottom of it.
8. Sanitation
Make sure you bring along some way to empty your waste. A composting toilet is an easy way to do this, or you can bring some extra bags with you. You’ll want to be careful about how much garbage you leave behind and make sure that you dispose of your trash properly. Don’t litter!
9. First Aid Kit
If you’re going to be camping for several days, you’ll want to make sure that you have all of your medical supplies. Bring along some band-aids and antibiotic ointment as well as hand sanitizer and wipes. In case you have allergies or are prone to getting bug bites, make sure that you have your allergy medications with you.
10. Fire
You’ll want to bring some firewood and a kindling starter with you, but you should also make sure that you have some kindling on hand. You can make a small fire using some sticks and a match before going to sleep.
11. Phone
Bringing your smartphone is always helpful when camping, as it’s hard to get cell service in the middle of nowhere. If you’re planning to go on a hike, it might be helpful to bring your phone as a backup. You can also use it to take photos of your trip and post them online.
Closing Thoughts
Camping is a wonderful way to spend time with your family or friends. It’s low-maintenance, inexpensive, and relaxing. Make sure you’re prepared before you go and bring all of your camping gear so that you have everything you need!
