Camping can be both an exciting and challenging experience. Most of a person’s daily comforts are stripped away and there’s the chance to get up ‘close and personal with nature. This forms part of its charm, and that’s why it continues to be such a popular pastime.

It may be that you are preparing for a similar venture sometime soon. Perhaps you are feeling a little uneasy about all the things you may need to bring with you. If that’s the case, this article has been written for you. We’ll now discuss four key things you need to think about to help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time.

1. A Backpack

Many products on the market are light, but not all are orthopedically designed. You’ll need to balance the tension between carrying sufficient things with you and not overloading your neck, back, and shoulders in the process. Some of the items you’ll require will depend on the weather, whilst others would be needed any time of the year.

Bring spare clothes as they can add extra warmth or replace wet or muddy garments during the day. You may need some spare shoes (flip-flops if the climate is hot) and rainproof clothing. The latter can be a simple kagoule that you can transport in its own pouch. Also consider such things as sunglasses, sunblock, and toilet paper. Microfiber towels are useful as they are both light and quick drying. Find some space for a pocket knife and some duct tape – you never know when you’ll need them.

Some internet sites provide a one-stop resource for all things camping-related. A visit to www.luxerover.com.au shows that people are looking for product reviews, be it for the best camping fridge or icebox, camping tent, or hiking gear. Folk also seek guidance on the best stretchers, showers, and cooking equipment.

2. An Emergency Kit

Imagine something went wrong and you lost all your other supplies. It should contain spare water (even though it may be heavy) and food snacks. Try and stock up on such medical items as bandages, sticking plasters, and disinfectant wipes. Have medication for headaches and tummy aches; bites, burns, and infections. You can also buy pre-packed emergency and survival kits online: click here.

You may also need a pest repellant, mosquito spray rehydration tablets. If anyone on the team uses prescription meds, be sure to include spares. They may relate to Diabetes, antihistamine, inhalers, or EpiPens. Eye masks and earplugs are not emergency items, but they may help you sleep better outdoors. Bring a waterproof light with you. If you can, purchase a head torch as this will free up your arms should there be a crisis? If you are carrying your paperwork and documents around with you, keep them in a waterproof bag.

3. Bespoke Food Supplies

By ‘bespoke’ we mean items that can cope with the heat. It’s great if you’ve pre-cooked pasta, bolognese, or chili con carne – but be sure to use it up first. As regards water you may need purification tablets and a plastic drinking bottle.

A lot of snacks don’t need refrigeration and can be carried around during the day. They include power bars, granola bars, trail mix, nut bars, and protein bars. Bring some dextrose tablets as well: they are pure sugar and will help anyone who feels faint or lacking in energy. Check out some instant meals as well, such as porridge or veggie pots.

4. A Sleeping Bag

Many of these have different heat ratings, like duvets. Be mindful that temperatures can significantly drop at night, even if it’s been hot all day. A bag lining will serve two purposes: it will provide an extra layer of warmth and also keep the sleeping bag clean. Bring a camping mat to put under it as well: the ground is rarely level, and you will want some distance between you and the potentially damp earth.

You can choose from rectangle-shaped bags to mummy or pod versions. Goose or duck linings are warm and more enduring than cheaper products, but they aren’t great at drying once they become damp. In contrast, synthetic linings that are cheaper will dry quicker. Should you decide to ditch this idea for a hammock, you’ll need to be certain there will be trees when you need them!

This has been a brief discussion of four things you need to consider. There are many helpful checklists online that you can read as well. The more camping you do, the more confident and proficient you will become. This will help you to enjoy your time more, and gain the maximum benefit from the experience.