Tents and Tactics

Camping is arguably one the most invigorating and enjoyable holiday experiences you can have. Whether you are going rustic and setting up a swag by the river, or going for a group excursion into a national park.

Camping provides so many great memories and stories to tell for a long time to come. Being prepared however, is very important. Camping without being ready is a recipe for disaster and could scar your experience for good. Before you embark on your next camping trip, make sure to tick off all the items on this pre-camping checklist.

Equipment

A fundamental and very obvious place to start is making sure you have the necessary and correct equipment. Probably the most important piece of equipment are the tents. Be sure to do a thorough check of your existing tent if you have one. Check that all of the poles and ties are accounted for, and that there aren’t any faulty zippers or holes.

If you do need a new tent, the last place you want to realise that is several kilometres into the wilderness with no shop in sight. Make sure you check whether the tent you currently have still meets your needs. If it doesn’t, then look to move up to the newer model for comforts sake.

Safety

If you are planning on camping in a particularly remote part of the world, then safety is paramount. Before leaving for your trip, populate a list of all the camping first aid equipment you may need. A quick and easy way to make this task faster is to grab a pre-packed first aid kit.

Then you can purchase any additional items on top. A staple of any first aid kit, make sure you have enough compression bandages and cold packs. If you happen to take a spill and roll an ankle, you will need proper supplies to treat it quickly. Another safety must-have on your check list is a treatment for any potential burns. Whether it’s a topical cream or gel, be sure to purchase something for any bonfire mishaps.

Food

It might seem like a no-brainer, but preparing food and drinks for your trip is absolutely critical and should be put together with great planning. Otherwise you are certain to forget something, and the last thing you want to forget is food. Be sure to include a method to store your food securely as well on your checklist. Animals and insects may be attracted to your site if you don’t secure your food properly. Include options that don’t need refrigeration so you have a mix of items and don’t have to haul eskies everywhere you go.

Maps, Directions and Fuel

In today’s digital age where everyone has a map in their pocket, this may seem unnecessary. In the event that you are out of reception however, you will be glad you added this to the checklist. Print a full list of directions to and from the location of your site. A compass is always a good way to navigate if you note whether you’re heading or started in the North, South, East or West.

By having a printed copy of directions, if your phone battery dies or is out of reception you always have a means of navigating. If you are driving to your campsite, then make sure you add extra fuel to the list. There are only a few things worse than jumping in the car to leave and seeing the fuel light on. Avoid the enormous walk to find a fuel station and pack a jerry can with fuel. Your legs and travel companions will thank you for it.

Camping is a great way to see more of the country and explore some beautiful, remote places. Before you go camping though, be sure to use these simple tips to preparing a pre-camping checklist so that you aren’t left without when you need comfort the most.