How To Prepare For A Camping Trip

Are you planning a camping trip to the great outdoors and not exactly sure how to prepare for your trip? If so, do not worry, planning a camping trip is not as difficult as you may think. It also does not need to be very expensive as long as you know where and when to shop. There are several things you should consider when preparing for a camping trip, including where and how to camp, what to pack, and where to shop for all your camping goods.

Where and How to Camp

The first thing you need to decide is where and how you want to camp. A campground is typically the easiest place to camp because they have sites set up that provide access to all the features you would need, such as bathhouses, fire pits, water and electricity. There are literally thousands of campgrounds located across the country allowing you to choose to camp in the mountains, near the beach or at a local campground near your home.
You also need to determine what type of accommodations you want to camp in for your trip. The most common and least expensive way to camp is in a tent. You can, however, choose to camp in a pop-up camper, travel trailer, or a larger RV. You can also opt to camp in a rustic cabin that can be rented at many campgrounds.

What to Pack

No matter where you choose to camp or what accommodations you choose to camp in, you will need to pack various supplies for your trip. Here is a look at some of the main camping supplies categories and a list of what you should bring with you.

Food Supplies.

First, you will need to plan what meals you want to cook during your trip and make sure you pack all the necessary foods. Eggs and toast for breakfast and hotdogs or hamburgers for dinner are examples of great camping meals. Be sure to take a larger cooler with a block of ice to keep all of the perishable foods cold.

Cooking Supplies.

Most campsites will include a fire pit, but you may also want to take a propane camp stove along for cooking. You should bring along extra propane, firewood, matches and a lighter. You will also need various pots and pans, cooking utensils, a can opener, and aluminum foil, along with dinner or paper plates, and silverware. If you want to camp over the open fire, be sure to bring skewers, pie irons, and grill forks.

Sleeping Accommodations.

No matter what type of accommodations you choose, you probably want to bring along a sleeping bag. If you are sleeping in a tent, you may also want to purchase air mattresses to make it more comfortable. You should also pack an extra blanket for cold nights and a pillow.

Dress for the Weather.

Keep in mind that you will be spending most of your time outdoors on your camping trip, so you need to pack appropriate clothing. You should be prepared to dress in layers because it may be much colder in the evenings than during the daytime.

Personal Needs.

You will also need to pack personal supplies, including soap, shampoo, toothpaste and a toothbrush, towels and a washcloth. If you are tenting, you should bring a bucket to help carry all of your personal care items back and forth from the bathhouse. You should bring flip-flops or shower shoes to use when taking a shower.

All the Extras.

Do not forget the extra supplies, such as flashlights, lanterns, a first aid kit, insect repellent, and sunscreen.

Where to Shop

One of the most important aspects of preparing for your camping trip is where to shop for your supplies. To help save you money, you should look out for cheap camping supplies or special sales. If you take the time to plan ahead for your trip, you will be able to wait until the items you need are offered at a discounted rate. Since you may need many of the necessary camping supplies, waiting for these special discounts can save you a lot of money.