Camping is a great way to get away from it all and enjoy the great outdoors. But even if you're an experienced camper, it's important to make sure you have the right equipment for your trip. From tents and sleeping bags to flashlights and multi-tools, here are the five essential pieces of camping equipment you need for a successful trip.
Tent or Emergency Shelter
- Even if you prefer to sleep under the stars, you should always have a tent or other emergency shelter handy just in case. Choose a three-season shelter for camping in the spring, summer, and fall (as well as for winter in Alabama).If you're camping with young children, you can go big with a cabin-style tent designed to accommodate a specific number of people. For backpacking, choose a tent that is relatively light, with a compact weight of two pounds or less per person. Before buying, crawl inside the store to check floor length and ceiling height. Can you sit up straight? Can the tallest person in your group stretch completely?Map and Compass (or GPS) - A map and compass (or a loaded GPS) are essential for navigating your way around unfamiliar terrain.
Make sure you know how to use them before heading out on your trip.
Jackery Explorer 1000 Solar Generator
- Our pick for the best camping equipment is the Jackery Explorer 1000 solar generator. Even though it comes at a hefty price tag, it's a camping essential that provides power for everything you need off the grid.Sleeping Bag or Camping Blanket
- A sleeping bag or camping blanket will keep you warm while you sleep in the elements, and they will also cushion your body a little. Most campers also choose to bring a sleeping mat, but this isn't absolutely necessary, especially if you're the type who can sleep anywhere.Flashlight
- Every camper should have a flashlight on his person. Flashlights are not only essential for safety reasons, but they are also good for sanity: sharing a flashlight is no fun at all.Try to select a small, lightweight flashlight that has an easy-to-activate switch, fits comfortably in your hand, and pumps lots of lumens. Some campers like to carry a headlight, but it would be wise to carry a flashlight as well, as they excel in a variety of ways that headlights don't.These five pieces of camping equipment are essential for any successful trip. Make sure you have them all packed before heading out into the wilderness!.
