As you may have read elsewhere, the success of a camping trip will often depend on the amount of effort that is put in to the preparations. If you fail to carry out enough thinking in advance, you could be heading for trouble.
The problem with this theory is that many camping enthusiasts enjoy the activity because it offers a sense of adventure. Frankly, the idea of sitting down and writing a list doesn't sit particularly well with the spirit of adventure. It can seem too formal and rather too boring.
Fortunately, it's somewhat easier to get excited when thinking about camping gadgets, accessories and equipment. This is extremely lucky because making the right choices in this area is one of the key parts of ensuring that everything goes to plan.
So what are the essential pieces of camping equipment that you simply can't do without? Although it seems like an obvious starting point, it's hard to avoid mentioning a tent!
As you'll undoubtedly already know, tents come in all shapes and sizes. They also have varying price tags attached to them. Choosing the right tent is all about ensuring that you opt for something that's the right size, that will provide the right level of protection and that's easy enough to erect. If you get these basic concerns under control, then you won't go far wrong.
If you've just bought a new tent, then it's always wise to try it out in the garden before heading off. That may sound like a strange suggestion, but it gives you the opportunity to check that the tent is easy to put up and that it doesn't leak.
Having selected a tent, you'll have something to provide shelter. You'll also want to be comfortable when you sleep in it. There are a range of options in this area, but a simple camping airbed and sleeping bag should ensure that you have a good night's sleep. They will also ensure that you stay nice and warm.
When you do wake up in the morning, you'll probably want to have some breakfast. Ideally, you may want some hot food. A basic camping stove, as well as a few pots and pans, should do the job here. Don't forget to pack some plates and cutlery too.
After breakfast, you'll want to explore the area. You never know what the weather is going to throw at you, so make sure that you have a suitable collection of clothes available to you. Where possible, opt for layers. These will allow for the greatest degree of flexibility.
|