Monday, August 9, 2010

Family Camping Trip Preparation - Use A Checklist

You do not go on a driving trip without a map, you should not go on a family camping trip without a camping checklist. Checking off the essential camping supplies and camping gear as you pack helps to ensure you bring everything you need so everyone will enjoy the experience.

Tent and bedding - For family camp excursions you will need a couple of proper sized tents, tent stakes a (carry extra stakes with you, too), hammer and a stake puller. You can use oilcloths or tarpaulins, a little larger than the floor of your tent to cover the floor of your tent. This inhibits the mud and dust to accumulate. Bring a broom and a small mat to help you to keep your tent clean and tidy.

A great number of choices are available when selecting your bedding and sleeping material. Choose the correct sized sleeping bag for each member of your family. This makes it more comfortable for sleeping. You can use air mattresses or camp pads to get you off the ground, avoiding the cool and wet. Remember pillows and extra blankets because you never know how cool the evenings will be.

Clothes - One of the most essential things on your camping list is the clothes that you need to pack. Obviously the garments you carry will be in accordance with the weather, location and things that you intend to do. Put in 3 sets of clothes, something to sleep in, a jacket, a sweatshirt, and a rain gear. What you bring should fit into a brown grocery bag. If it over flows you are bringing too much. Camping is not a fashion show so dress down and comfortable. Long pants, socks, and hiking shoes for hiking and carry your swimsuit, sandals that you can put on the beach, and head gear for water activities. Use the laundry conveniences that are offered by most campgrounds if your camping trip is long. This will allow you to carry only a couple of sets of garments with you.

Personal items - Even though camping is not a fashion show you need to maintain your hygiene. Your needs will vary depending on what the facilities are but there are basics. Put soap, deodorant, dental care products, hair care, and important medicines in a waterproof container. this keep the items dry and easy to carry. Bring change. Some facilities charge for hot water in the showers.

What to pack in - Use rubber totes or heavy duffel bags to pack in. Each person can pack their own tote. If the kids are small let them help pack because 'part of the fun of camping is getting there'. Rain materials, swimsuits, towels, camping games, and beach toys should be packed in a separate tote as they are not too frequently used.

Use the laundry bag, a large plastic garbage bag, or an old pillow case to keep the unclean clothes away from the good ones. For wet clothes bring a clothes line and clothes pins so, for example, beach towels can dry and be used several times.

Additional essential camping gear - Other important items to pack include an ax, camera, campfire utensils, coffee pot, compass, cooking utensils, cooler(s), eating utensils, first aid kit, flashlights, folding chairs, folding table, ice, insect repellent, knives, gas lantern, lighter or matches, paper and pencil/pen, saw, shovel, spare change for laundry or shower facilities, sunglasses, sunscreen, table cloth with hold-down fasteners, tool kit, trash bags, and water containers, and wood for the campfire.

Camping is a great way for families to vacation without the high price tag. It allows you to escape daily routines, and will give your family the opportunity to be with each other. Your camping trips may grow into a tradition that everyone looks forward to with excitement and will remember for a lifetime. Be prepared ahead of time by using a camping checklist. This will ensure you have the correct camping gear and items your family needs so the camping experience can be enjoyed by everyone.




Toni Grundstrom is a freelance writer. I have camped with my family for over 20 years and have experienced great family bonding time. Give your family memories that will last a lifetime. Find resources and further information about the great outdoors here.

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