Camping

[TammyNC]

We have just finished our first camping trip with our DS in the Scouts. There are lots more in our future since we survived one night. For all of you experienced campers out there, can you share any of your ideas and things that you have learned over the years? I'm looking for any ideas on what to make sure not to ever forget, what can be left behind, etc.

Thanks!

 

[campinggal]

Congrats!! Your son will learn a lot about camping with the scouts.

What you bring often depends upon if you are needing to hike before you set up camp or if you are car camping. You wouldn't tote some of the below around if you had to hike first.

Here are some things to get you started ...

Camp Furniture- usually foldible metal/nylon- great for lounging by the fire or lake. Beats sitting on a rock or log!!

Big Tarp and lots of line- maybe even a collapsible pole or two- great for pitching over your picnic table as protection in case it rains.

Good rain gear- you can have great fun camping in the rain if you are prepared and can keep dry. Ponchos don't cut it as they are open on the side and you will get wet- great for Disney but not camping.

Bug Stuff- spray for yourself, maybe even a headnet depending on where you live. Citrinella candles for picnic table.

Headlamp- a flashlight you wear around your head- keeps both hands free

Good quality Tent- make sure it has a waterproof floor and fly (covering over the tent) and will offer good protection if it really pours. You might need to 'seam seal' the floor to prevent leakage. Best to shop at an a camping store for this one. Waking up totally soggy after a night of rain is no fun.

Therma-rest Camp Pads- like mini air matresses but not nearly as combersome and can also be used when backpacking too. Also another camping store item.

Swiss Army Knife, Bandana, First Aid Kit, Matches (or a lighter), Deck of Cards, Rope for a clothes line, stove and fuel and a few pots- usually a fry pan maybe two other pots depending on your menu, a roll of paper towels...

I could go on and on but this will get you started!

Have fun!

 

[TammyNC]

Thanks for the advice. We have ordered a Coleman tent and a few other things. We have purchased sleeping bags and tubs to carry our items in. For right now, we are able to pull up to our spot, unload and then pitch tent.

Some of our trips, our group will be planning our meals together and making them together. I will however make sure to have my stove and coffee pot . Thanks for the tip on the rain gear, I would have thought a poncho would have worked, I appreciate the heads up.

I'm open to any other ideas that anyone can think of. I know you learn as you go, but thought I might could learn from others mistakes and then I'll still have my own to handle as well.