It is big to let down when you get to your campsite only to realize that you forgot something important that you need to survive or enjoy your camp. And so it is always a good idea to prepare a checklist of the important things that you will need, and this is regardless of whether it is your first time to go camping or not. As you prepare your checklist, it is important to remember that there are some must-have items for camping which include the following six.
1. Fire and Light
Most survival experts will always tell you that fire is one of the first things that you should make when you find yourself lost in the jungle or anywhere else. The same also applies for camping, and so something that can help you make fire such as matches, or a flint (fire steel) should be on top of your list. Also, ensure that the matches are waterproof because they will not help you if they get wet. Light is also necessary, and you should not rely only on the fire that you make, but you should instead carry something like a waterproof solar torch
2. First Aid Kit
There are a lot of hazards around you when camping out in the woods, and the emergency services are not a phone call away as they are when you are at home. It is due to this reason that you should always make sure that you have a first aid kit. In some instances, it might be the difference between life and death while you might not even need to use it in some cases. Also, make sure that the kit that you have contains essentials such as bandages, cotton swabs, antibiotics and other personal medication that you need. There are some small camping first aid kits with all the necessary things available in most retail stores, and so you will not have any problem finding one.
3. Hammock/Tent/Sleeping Bag
A shelter is necessary, and it is a must-have when camping, but the good thing is that it is hard to forget about shelter when you are going camping. But, the issue is what you carry because there are quite many options available. You can pick to bring a sleeping bag, a tent or a camping hammock. It is important to know that each has merits and demerits which you should be aware of so that as to determine what is suitable for the environment that you will be staying. A sleeping bag is portable and warm, but it leaves you exposed when you sleep on the ground. Tents are safe and comfortable, and this is more so if it is also waterproof, but they might be cumbersome. The camping hammock, on the other hand, is portable, comfortable and easy to hang and it almost has no disadvantage at all.
4. Compass and Map
Getting lost is way much easier than you think and this is regardless of whether you are familiar with the place or not. And so it is always important to carry a map of the site as it will not only help you find the campsite fast but it comes in handy when you want to explore the place. A compass is also a must-have for navigation because your GPS might not always get a signal when you are deep in the forest.
5. Pocket Knife
A camping knife takes up little space in your bag or pocket, and it is an essential tool that you should never leave behind. The knife is one of those things that you can be sure that you will use several times when camping and it is also useful for security purposes. However, make sure that you store it somewhere that you will not end up cutting yourself accidentally.
6. Right Clothes
Just because the weather forecast says that it is going to be sunny for the next couple of weeks, it does not mean that you are okay if you go camping with a light material t-shirt and a pair of shorts. Weather can change anytime, and this is regardless of what the weatherman says, and so you should always carry warm and rainproof clothes when going for any camp.
There are still many other things that you will need to go camping such as enough food, clean water, and a water filter but these are obvious things that most people will not forget. Also, what you need will depend on the season and the environment or location of the campsite.