by Ann Hinds

Created on: June 16, 2009   Last Updated: June 16, 2010

Can Opener, repeat, can opener. If you pack nothing else, pack a can opener. Walking into another campsite to borrow one is acceptable but you will get knowing smiles. All campers started as beginners.

The Tent

The tent should be one that meets the needs of the campers. Families may prefer a two-room tent, one room for sleeping and one with space for luggage and dressing. A small chair is helpful. Base the tent size on the comfort level of the occupants.

There is one very important thing to remember. If it is cold outside, open a window flap to allow moisture to leave the tent. You might think that newer tents would allow the warm air created by breathing to escape. That is not the case and it can actually rain in the tent. You do not need a large open window but ventilation is important.

Sleeping Bags

Cute sleeping bags for children are not intended for cold weather. Even children need a quality bag. A good quality sleeping bag will be temperature rated and clearly marked. Summer bags are good but invest in a good quality bag for cold weather. When it is 28 degrees, a good bag will keep you warm.

Ground cover

Never setup a tent without a ground cover. If you are sleeping on the tent floor, a vapor barrier between the tent and the ground surface is necessary. The ground pulls body heat through the tent floor. A tarp the size of the tent can make all the difference.

Mattress

Many people use air mattresses or foam pads. They can make the difference between a good night's sleep and a sleepless night. Depending on space, purchase a cot or two at a surplus store. For a comfortable bed, put two cots side by side and cover them with an air mattress. It is as comfortable as a five star hotel.

Stove

Most campers use propane stoves. They do not need bells and whistles, they cook the same. There are stoves that use gasoline or white gas but propane is easier. The bottles screw onto the coupler and are easy to change. Cooking with a propane stove is the same as cooking on a gas range. If it is windy, turn the stove so that the wind is hitting the back. The sides will also help deflect the wind and keep from blowing out the flames.

Clean up

Cleaning dishes is always a dilemma. Some campgrounds have a sink in the restroom area that is setup for cleaning dishes. If not, boil water on the stove. One or two plastic washtubs are all you need. Dishwater is grey water and can be poured into the drains provided.

Porta-potty

There are bathroom tents on the market. These are great for dry camping (no water sources or restrooms). The structures are nice but not necessary. Storing it in the tent is just as easy and comes in handy for emergencies.

Lighting

When the sun goes down, it is dark. When used to turning on the lights, this can be a surprise. A propane lantern is a good investment. Battery powered lanterns are good too but the cost is higher. Lanterns with mantles are brighter than those that are battery powered. Flashlights are a necessity. Even if you think you know where you are going, take a flashlight.

Heater

A propane heater can be a nice addition to basic camping supplies. Even in a tent, ventilation is necessary. Read the box carefully for specific information on tent usage.

Practice, practice, practice

Practice is the best advice for beginning tent campers. Setup the camp before leaving home. Try out the sleeping bags and the other equipment. Practice setting up the camp when it is dark. If you can setup when it is dark, you are ready.

Now where did I put that can opener?

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