It is the beginning of a new year and if you plan on picking up a new activity, then camping would be the perfect way to go. If you haven’t been camping before, this is the perfect time to start. There are multiple camping spots in Australia that you can choose from to get started on your camping journey. However, there are a lot of things you need to be equipped with before you go camping. We can help you make a list of things you need to go camping this new year!
The Ideal Tent
For a first-timer, buying a tent can be intimidating since there are so many types to choose from. The important things to keep in mind are that you need to consider the weather you will be camping in and how many people will be joining you. Additionally, keeping the moisture out of the tent is of utmost importance, so the weather of the area will determine whether you need a single or double-walled tent.
It is better to stick to a tent that is sturdy and easy to set up just like the dome tents. These are the most common types of tents that you can get for camping. Whether you are buying a camping tent just for yourself or for your family as well, dome tents will be ideal. Tunnel tents are great if you are buying a tent for a large group of people. Geodesic tents are also a great option, especially if you’re going to be facing bad weather. The design is similar to a dome tent except this has more poles which give it extra support.
Tip: As a precaution, always buy extra tent pegs, cords and tarp clips.
Camping Beds
Once you have a roof over your head (i.e. the tent), the next thing you need is a bed that keeps you comfortable and warm. The kind of camping bed you need to purchase depends entirely on the amount of space you have and the kind of weather you will be dealing with when camping.
Sleeping bags
When it comes to camping in bad weather conditions the one thing you cannot compromise on is keeping yourself warm especially when you sleep. This is why investing in a good sleeping bag is the best way to go.
You can select between different shapes depending on how snug you want to be. The rectangular is the most common shape and offers a lot of movement allowing you to stretch easily. The mummy shape is perfect for turning yourself into a human burrito. You get perfect comfort and warmth with this shape but hardly any room for moving your limbs. You can also opt for a double sleeping bag if you are with your partner and like to snuggle up for extra warmth.
Sleeping Mats
Use them on the floor or on top of a foldable bed, sleeping mats are a great option when it comes to camping beds. They are perfect as it is or as an added layer of comfort on a foldable bed. Whether you need to stay extra warm or sleep on your side and need extra support for your body, you can find a sleeping mat that fits your needs. You can opt for an inflatable mat, a foldable one or a foam mattress that can be rolled out easily.
Camp stretchers
Dealing with an uneven and rough terrain that is too uncomfortable to sleep on? Camping stretchers or foldable beds are the way to go. These beds will keep you off the ground and keep you comfortable no matter how uneven the surface below is. They may come with a mattress, if not, you can purchase a sleeping mat for it.
Inflatable mattress
If you want the feeling of sleeping on air, then inflatable mattresses are perfect for you. Invest in a good inflatable mattress and you will have a camping bed that will last you a long time. You can opt for one with an in-built pump for easy inflation. With an inflatable mattress, you don’t have to worry about spending much time setting up a bed.
Camping pillows
If you sleep with a pillow under your head at home, suffice it to say that you’ll need one when you’re camping as well. However, carrying the same pillow you use at home might not be practical especially if you are backpacking. Camping pillows are lightweight and compact which means they can easily be slipped into your backpack or sleeping bag. The inflatable pillows are the most common since they can be folded down to fit in a pocket.
Camping Tools
When you’re out and about with limited access to civilization, then you need to be prepared for anything. You will need a few camping tools and accessories to make sure your camping experience is smooth sailing.
- A multipurpose tool and mallet are absolutely essential. The mallet will exclusively be used for securing the tent pegs in the ground unless you choose a violent way to crack open nuts.
- Headlamps and flashlights are required since you will only have the moon guiding you through the woods and that may not be enough.
- Batteries are a must-have. Triple-A, double-A and any other battery you may need should be with you at all times. Additionally, a portable charger for your phone is very crucial as well.
- Among necessary equipment for camping, duct tape and trash bags should be on top of the list. Mishaps can happen such as your tent’s pole snapping apart. Duct tape will help you with these emergencies. As for the trash bags, it is self-explanatory.
Cooking Equipment
Camping means using up a lot of time and energy. Whether you are hiking up to the right spot, carrying out some physically straining activities or driving for hours to the campsite, your body needs fuel. You have to bring cooking equipment with you to ensure that you’re not stuck eating packaged foods for days.
Burn it up!
Fire is crucial to camping. However, you may not always be able to cook something on an open fire. Hence, you need a camp stove. There are multiple variations that you can choose from such as stoves with multiple burners, cast iron stoves (LPG) or bbq stoves (Butane). For beginners, we would recommend a bbq stove as they are easy to operate.
On the other hand, you can always get a portable barbecue and grill.
…Of Pots, Pans & Cauldrons
No, you will not need a cauldron unless you are feeding at least 7 or more people. The only camping cookware you will be needing is a skillet and a medium or small pot. Just these two utensils will do as you need to be carrying things that aren’t too heavy and don’t take up too much space.
Utensils and more
It is best to carry a set of cooking utensils along with disposable cutlery with you on your camping trip. Get yourself a cooking utensil set that has a spatula, tongs and a ladle at the least. Additionally, always carry a small cutting board and knife with you. Camping in the wild also means that you will be carrying a lot of canned foods with you. However, it will be useless to have all that canned food and no way to open it. Hence, always carry can openers.
Keep It Cool, Boy!
Iceboxes and coolers are also essential to any camping trip. The best way to keep your food intact for the few days you will be out being one with nature, you’ll need to store your food.
Can’t Forget About Your Morning Brew
No matter where you are, you can always start your day with a fresh brew. Portable coffee makers have made life so much easier. All you need is coffee and water and this little coffee maker will prepare the perfect espresso shot in a matter of minutes.
Spic & Span All The Time
It is vital that you keep a healthy amount of cleaning supplies with you on your camping trip. Hygiene is essential and when you’re on a mountain or in the middle of the forest, dirt and germs latch on to you. Along with trash bags, wet wipes, biodegradable soap and paper towels are your cleaning basics. Additionally, carry a dish cleaning sponge and drying cloth as well.
Must-Have Camping Gear
Along with all the things mentioned above carry a fair amount of toiletries and warm clothing. Even if you have checked the weather for your camping trip, it is better to be prepared for the worse.
In addition to these camping necessities, you can carry other things depending on the activities you will be participating in. Many people like to go fishing, so fishing gear will be needed. People also like star gazing or going on hikes. Once you know what activities you’ll be carrying out in the wild, take the necessary equipment with you as well.
