What do you need on a camping trip?

Going camping is a wonderful experience. And whether it is your first time or you have been before, there are some essentials that you will need to make sure your camping trip is a success.

The essentials

Tent

Choosing a tent is probably one of the most important purchases that you will make. You will need to make sure that it is suitable for those that will be staying in it and also for the weather that you will be camping in.

Sleeping Bag

If you choose the right sleeping bag, you will have it for years. You’ll want to make sure that you have an appropriate weight for the season and weather that you are camping. Also, think about your own sleeping preferences as for some, zipping into a bag can be a lot warmer than a duvet at home. Before buying them for all the family, check to see if any friends or family have some that you can borrow. Might even be worth trying one out before going into the great outdoors.

Pillows

When it comes to taking pillows, this is pretty much down to individual preference. Whilst you can take the pillows from home, there is a danger that they will get damp if you are camping out in cold weather. But you can also buy specially designed camping pillows if you feel that you will use them again.

An air bed / Sleeping Mat

Much like sleeping bags, this is going to come down to preference. Some will find it easier to sleep on air bed and other will be happy on a sleeping mat or camp bed.

Torches

A good torch is always essential when camping. You never know when you might need to get up in the night to take children to the toilet or find something inside the tent. Our recommendation is to have one light that you are able to use in the tent and one for outside. If your budget stretches to a rechargeable torch, you can top up the battery with a battery pack whilst you are camping.

Toiletries

You won’t want to forget these! Don’t forget your; toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, baby wipes

Waste Bags

Waste bags are very helpful when going camping. Either some heavy duty black bags from home or supermarket bags will do the trick. Try to ensure you use bags without holes as you will end up with a mess in the tent.

For eating and drinking

Water container

Depending on where you are camping and the facilities around, make sure that you have plenty of water. You could buy a large water container and fill it up before you go (20L) or buy a multipack of water – value water is fine. Ensure that you have at least 2 litres of water per person per day and also remember that you are going to need some for cooking and washing up.

Camp stove (with gas or charcoal)

Unless you are going glamping, cooking is one of the highlights of any camping trip. There are so many different types of cookers that you can buy

Cooking utensils

You won’t need to take the whole kitchen to cook your food but some simple utensils will certainly make like easier.

Staying safe

First aid kit

Hopefully, the item that you will never have to use, but packing a decent fist aid kit is very important when out on a camping trip. For a small cost, it’s worth keeping in the car even after the event for future outdoor adventures

Sun cream

Always one to take even if you think that the weather is going to be overcast – when you are out in the sun for the entire day, protection is necessary.

Handwash

If you are unable to get access running water easily, having some alcohol hand gel is going to be mighty handy to maintain a level of hygiene.

Toilet Rolls

No introduction needed! Always handy to have a couple of rolls with you.

Bug Spray

When staying outdoors, especially near where there is open water, insect repellant will be extremely useful. These are available in two different strengths, one for adults and one for children.

Essential tools and equipment

Hammer /Mallet

Don’t forget the hammer for those tent pegs – saves hunting around for other hard item to use.

Tent pegs

Whilst every tent comes with pegs always best to have a packet spare – especially if it is windy

Washing Up Bowl

After cooking those delicious meals, a helpful bowl to wash them up ready for your next culinary delight!!