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Of all the lists I make each year, my favorite one is 'What to Take Camping'. I think this list grows with each trip. My addition this year is a personal mister. They really help cool you down in the hot sun. I keep a permanent list on my computers desktop so I can add to it as nessesary or print it out and check off stuff as I pack. My list is divided into several sections. This helps to keep things organized as I pack. Making the whole trip easier.

I pack like things together in storage tubs of different colors. For example In my red container I put all my cooking supplies, utensils, pots, can openers, dishes etc. In a blue airtight locking container I store all the food. This should be racoon proof! In a yellow container I store all the linens. And so forth. I label each tub by writing whats inside on masking tape, and place it on the tub. It makes it so much easier to find things this way.

Now back to what to take with you, I like to be prepared. I usually take a large tent plus a canopy and chairs, portable toilet, solar shower, coolers, lanterns and flashlights, mantles and propane, rope to make clothes line, clothes pins, towels, clothes for every weather situation, shower shoes, a cooking stove, a fire pit, folding table, wood and starter sticks, lighter fluid and charcoal, one gallon of drinking water for each day plus case or two of personal size water bottles, gatorade, can opener, matches and stick lighter, and food that can be prepared quick and easy. We like to freeze most of our meats ahead of time so they stay longer in the cooler. We take one cooler for drinks another one for food.

My food list always contains the following camping staples. Frozen hamburger patties and chicken wings. Hot dogs and pb & j. Graham crackers, hershey bars and marshmallows. Pancake mix and syrup. Eggs and bacon or sausage and tortillas. Fresh fruits and some canned goods.

If your taking kids camping with you then take some glow sticks for each night. This will help you keep an eye on them better in the dark when they are off exploring or catching fireflies. Also remember plenty of sunscreen and bug repellent. Reapply often. I also take a bottle of bleach in a spray bottle and when bees or ants bother my campsite I spray this around the perimeter of the camp and our table. It seems to run them off, at least for a while.

Another important item to put on your list is a full first aid kit. This must contain bandages and first aid spray. A hot and cold compress. Antibiotic ointment and itch relief cream. Caladryl in case of poison ivy contact. Also include tylenol and or aleve and in case of emergency its a good idea to have a list of medications your family takes in the kit handy for emergencies or paramedics. You will most likely have to break this first aid kit out several times for bandaids if nothing else so stock it well!

It seems I take everything but the kitchen sink camping with me, but I like to be ready for any situation. I like to make my camp a home away from home. Whatever someone needs, I usually have brought it. Thats why I make lists, so I can be prepared! But dont worry, even if you forget something the most important thing to remember is just to have fun!

Learn more about this author, Chris Dixon.
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