Let's face it, not everyone is built for camping. But you've decided to make a go of it because someone invited you or it's a family outing and you can't say no. You've never camped before and you're feeling nervous. The best way to make the most out of these situations is to be prepared. There's no sense in making things more challenging than it has to be.



Preparing for a camping trip is just like preparing for any other trip. You will need to know the resources you have available. For instance, will you be driving to a camp site where you can use your vehicle for storage or will you be backpacking? Obviously, in one scenario you can pile on more luxuries, and in the other scenario you'll need to be more selective in your choices.

It is always a good idea to write out what you require but here are the must haves on any camping trip:

First aid kit

Cash, credit cards, checks

Water - either bottled water or a water purifier

Food - canned or dehydrated or meals ready to eat (civilian MRE)

Waterproof matches or a butane lighter

Multipurpose tool such as a Swiss army knife

Flashlight and batteries

Wind up radio

The above items describe what should be in an emergency survival kit and it's always a good idea to do dry runs and what better way to check the inventory than by going camping ' just make sure you replenish the items. Depending on the type of camping you're doing, you will work around the emergency kit as the foundation.

Instead of adding items haphazardly to what you will be bringing camping, make multiple lists depending on groupings. Groupings can include a list for toiletries, clothing, shelter, cooking tools, food and water supplies and other miscellaneous items. Here are examples for each list.

Toiletries

Toothbrush, toothpaste

Toilet paper

Shampoo, soap

Comb, brush

Mirror

Towels

Deodorant

Clothing

Rain gear

Extra clothing

Boots

Nightwear

Swimwear

Shelter

Tent, tent poles, stakes

Tarp

Ground cloth

Hammer, shovel

Sleeping bags

Lantern

Cooking Tools

Pots and pans

Camp stove

Fuel, lighter fluid, charcoal

Spatula

Plates, cups

Utensils

Coolers

Food and Water Supplies

Meats, fruits and vegetables

Canned food

Can opener

Meals Ready to Eat

Bottled jugs

Water purification tablets

Water pump system

Miscellaneous Items

Hunting, fishing licenses

GPS

Keys

Insect repellent

The above lists serve only as examples and should be customized according to your camp surroundings. Furthermore, always remember to leave notice of your whereabouts and when you'll be expected back to family members not accompanying you on the trip.

When a camping trip is well planned out, it makes for a more enjoyable experience for all involved!