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The Essentials for the Basic Camper
Water bottle or canteen (with water in it!)
Many people like the NALGENE bottles
because the wide mouth lets them use the
bottle for mixing or as a measuring cup.
They come in a hard or soft plastic and
are very durable for a low cost.
Another
option is a canteen, which many people do
not like because they are hard to clean.
Hikers like the bladder type of containers
that have a drinking tube, these usually
attach to your backpack in some fashion.
Extra food
Trail mix is very popular, and there
are many recipes for do it yourself trail
mixes. Remember sugar or salt can
make you thirsty, and caffene will can be
a factor in dehydration. Options of course
change if you are car camping and have a
cooler along.
Extra clothing
Wool is great. It keeps warming
even when wet. These extra clothes
may not necessarily just be a change of
clothes. They can be extra clothes
on a chilly night, or even bundled into
a pillow.
Rain Gear
Some make do with thin disposable ponchos or converted
garbage bags. These actually can be
pretty good. The disposable ponchos
often tend to be good for only one time,
as they are fairly thin. The heavier
ponchos, and some rain suits are made with
polyurethane-coated nylon or PVC. These
can get very hot with any physical activity.
Ponchos also may not keep the rain
out of you boots, and you need to be careful
with them near fires, as they fit loosely
around your body. Many people prefer breathable/water
proof rain gear. This is often
more expensive, but it is also much more
comfortable in a wider range of conditions.
First-aid kit
Don't skimp here! Make sure you
know basic first aid, and that you are able
to identify the symptoms of dehydration,
or hypothermia. Your basic first aid
kit should include a first aid book of some
sort. Bandages, antiseptic, and burn creams.
Be sure and add moleskin (great when blisters
arise). Be sure to add some of your
personal medicines if any, and some advil
or other pain reliever of choice.
Map and Compass
This is important, and of course the
best type of map you can have is a trail
map that shows contours, trails, roads,
and buildings. Having a compass is important
too! Many prefer the liquid filled type.
Matches (in waterproof case)
Matches, firestarter, a lighter, all
in a water proof case or pocket.
Pocketknife
Obviously this is an item of choice.
There seem to be as many type knives
as people. The knives with a locking blade
give an added safety feature, as a button
must be pushed before it can be closed. Many prefer carrying their
knives in a small pouch on their belt. The
velcro top makes for easy access when necessary,
but holds the knife securely in place. Although
many people also carry the multifunction
plier type tool as well.
Sun protection
Sunscreen is recommended, and a hat
is a good idea too. Several sunscreens
come with insect repellent, and do a double
duty.
Flashlight with good batteries.
Don't forget extra batteries and and
an extra Flashlight bulb. Simply put - you
don't need them till you need them, but
when you need them you need them.
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Camping
Basics - The Ten Essentials