The Beginner’s Checklist to Outdoor Gear
Is it your first time camping? If so, you can use the checklist below to ensure you haven’t forgotten to take any essential outdoor gear with you.
Campground – Outdoor Maps
I’m assuming you know that you should never camp alone if it’s your first time. And yes, camping with other first-timers isn’t a better idea. If it’s your first time exploring the wilderness then you should have an experienced or, better yet, an expert, camper with you at all times.
Assuming that you do have others with you, it’s still possible for you to get lost. Protect yourself from such an eventuality by having your map with you at all times. And, if you are going to a state park, you can ask the park for a map of the area. Most have them…and will gladly give them free of charge.
Camping Lights
You’ll most likely need three types of camp lighting. First, you’ll need matches because you can use them to light up a torch or fire anywhere, anytime if necessary. Second, make sure you have flashlights and extra batteries. Third, bring a portable lantern to serve as your primary source of lighting when you’re at the camp site.
Sleeping Gear
You can bring a tent, cot, sleeping bag or all three. It’s your choice since you’ll be the one carrying the equipment. And if you’re going to share your sleeping gear with someone else, make sure that it’s spacious enough for two.
Further, when camping during the winter or anywhere it’s cool, make sure your gear is made of heat-insulating materials.
Finally, if you decide to go with a tent, practice assembling and disassembling it at home so that you’ll have an easy time using and packing it once you’re outdoors. Trust me on this…nothing is worse than fumbling with a tent when it’s dark and your tired from a long hike or drive to your site!
Food and Cooking Gear
You might imagine yourself as Robinson Crusoe or Daniel Boone and try to hunt for your food in the wild, but, honestly, that’s probably not the way to go 
.
Save yourself time and effort and just make sure your outdoor gear includes the necessary food supplies and equipment to prepare and cook your meal. Think portable camping stove as well as extra supplies of coal or gas, depending on the type of stove you own or buy. Containers to store left over food and keep it away from animals will also come in handy. And don’t forget to bring a knife and can opener as well.
Clothing
Last, but not least, remember to bring spare clothing with you even if you don’t plan to stay over night. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. For example, imagine if it rains…few things ruin a camping or hiking trip than finding yourself cold and wet!
Well, that’s it. Clearly there are many more items you can bring on your trip. These are just the basics. We will get into more elaborate equipment and gear choices in later posts.
Happy camping!
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