Summer is the perfect time to head out on the road, pitch a tent and camp for the weekend. If you haven’t been camping before, there’s no better time to start than now. Australia is a wonderland for amazing camping spots, but before you pick your dream spot, you need to make sure you’ve got the right gear to get started. We’ve put together a list of gear you need to make your next camping trip a great one!
The Ideal Tent
For a first-timer, buying a tent can be intimidating since there are so many different 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.
Camping Mats
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 torches are a necessity–you’ll need light to not only stay safe but find your way around tent and campsite.
- Batteries are a must-have. Triple-A, double-A and any other batteries you may need should be with you at all times–you never know when you might need them! Additionally, a portable charger for your phone is 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
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’ll need to bring cooking equipment with you to ensure that you’re not stuck eating packaged foods for days.
Camp Stoves
Fire is crucial to camping. However, you may not always be able to cook something on an open fire. A great alternative is a camp stove. There are many you can choose from, such as stoves with multiple burners, cast iron stoves or BBQ stoves. For beginners, we would recommend a BBQ stove as they are easy to operate.
On the other hand, you can always get a portable BBQ and grill.
Pots & Pans
Make sure to bring along camping cookware, like a small pan and pot.
Cooking Utensils & Cutlery
It is best to carry a set of cooking utensils along with cutlery with you on your camping trip. Another great tip is to carry a small chopping board and knife with you. If you plan to bring along canned foods, make sure to bring a can opener!
Esky & Cooler
Easkies, iceboxes or coolers are also essential to any camping trip. Eskies are the best way to keep your food cool and safe to eat for your camping trip.
Coffee Makers
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. You can also opt for a stovetop coffee maker if you’re bringing a camping stove with you.
Cleaning Essentials
Make sure to bring along trash bags, paper towels, wet wipes, soap, a dish cleaning sponge and drying cloth to keep you and your camping site clean.
Must-Have Camping Gear
Along with all the things mentioned above carry a fair amount of toiletries, a first aid kit and warm clothing. Even if you have checked the weather for your camping trip, it is better to be prepared for all kinds of weather conditions.
These are bare necessities–consider what your specific trip will involve to find the right camping gear for you. There’s different types of camping trips–for instance, are you going fishing or hiking? Once you know what activities you’ll be carrying out in the wild, take the necessary equipment with you as well.
