10 Camping Essentials You Must Pack in Your Backpack

Here are ten essentials to not forget while preparing for a camping trip.

Sometimes life can get so stressful that you forget to carry a sleeping bag on a camping trip. It’s happened, we admit it. However, it is crucial to stay away from such mishaps. We’re saying this because it is very easy to forget some items while being engrossed in hectic packing. Which is why we’re here to help you out through the process! Do not mistake these essentials to be just for newbie campers though, as it is equally important for experienced campers to double check their list. Without further ado, here are ten super amazing essentials to not forget while preparing for a camping trip.

1. Survival Knife 

Unless you want to be Bear Grylls and eat a spider out of starvation, you’d probably want to carry a pocket knife. This knife could be useful in rope cutting, chopping and other things that you might end up having to do. One thing to do is that make sure you purchase a high-quality pocket knife that isn't flimsy and that can actually be of some use. You never know when you might need it so it’s always better to take precautions while you can. The wilderness is an unpredictable place and you never know how important some things can turn out to be.

2. First Aid & Other Supplies 

If we tried, we probably would not be able to emphasize enough on how crucial first aid is. It is the perfect preliminary medical aid and not to mention how useful it can be in emergency situations. Painkillers, bandages and gauze can be carried. Also, if you are more on the queasy side, make sure to carry loose motion tablets and similar tablets. This way, if you happen to feel a bit uneasy you can use your usual medications to avoid ruining the camping trip for yourself as well as everyone else.

3. Emergency Light Source

Apart from carrying a lantern or any other medium sized light source, an emergency flashlight is important too. You can keep this in your backpack as an extra light source in case of emergencies. This is because you can never really be sure of what could happen and in the case of your lantern dying out, at least you’d have your handy torch to keep things illuminated. Speaking of packing, make sure to focus on Ultralight Backpacking. Don’t end up carrying things you won’t really need.

4. Maps or Any Directives

Sure, with the world of GPS and Siri, one wouldn’t even think about using physical maps or compasses to get one somewhere. However, when it comes to camping, you probably won’t get to use your phone all the time. Not to mention your phone won’t be able to guide through a forest or wherever your campsite is located. Because of the lack of range found in such areas, make sure to carry a map with you just in case.

5. Get That Raincoat 

Most of the time, weather is inevitable. This is because no matter how well you research about the weather predictions of the day of your trip, there is a huge chance the vibe will change. So, in order to avoid any mishaps due to mother mature, you must ensure to carry some extra clothing. For example, if it rains, you will be protected if you carry a handy raincoat.

6. Bug Spray or Insect Repellent

Everyone needs repellent in their lives. However, if you’re into creams or if you might be allergic you can opt for any bug spray. You might want to avoid forgetting this essential as you might come back home with some nasty insect bites. No one wants that! So, carry it without fail, or face the wrath of the mosquito and its friends.

7. Sun Protection

You can carry some shade in the form of umbrellas, but it is always crucial to use sun cream. This is because you will be spending most of your time outdoors, which means more sun exposure. No one wants to get back from a camping trip with a harsh sun burn. Any kind of SPF is fine but having a water resistant one is recommended.

8. Fire Starters 

Now, don’t get is wrong, we love some old school camping techniques. Attempting to light fire with sticks and other mediums was a great way of roughing it. However, there is a way you can easily light a campfire without any frustration. This way is through fire starters. Purchase them and be free from any time wastage the entire tip along. You can also just opt for regular matches in case you don’t want to go the extra mile.

9. Water

Unless you already have a plan for the water supply, it is crucial to carry your own. Some campsites provide water supply but the quality of the said water isn’t really guaranteed good. Make sure to confirm with the site on their water status beforehand so as to avoid any last-minute disappointments. You wouldn't want to go back home just to get water, now would you?

10. Tarpaulin Sheets 

No matter what you will end up using it for, tarp sheets can be extremely handy. They aren’t really a complicated source and can easily be stuffed into your backpack. You can use it to go under your tent or even to provide some extra shelter in emergency scenarios. ​