by Michael Kimball

Created on: July 21, 2009

There are several ways to go camping. How you chose to do this depends upon your budget and how much you wish to get away from it all. Camping can be anything from buying a recreational vehicle to sleeping under the stars. You will need to know what activities you will be doing while you are camping. You will also need to know where the weather conditions.

This article will cover camping in a tent. This is the most popular and affordable method of camping for most people. You can still be fairly comfortable and still enjoy nature. There are many campgrounds available. You will need to check on the amenities available as they vary. These Amenities can vary from have a store and showers on the camp ground to only having out houses on the campground.

You will need to decide on the tent you need. This will mostly depend upon your size requirements. They vary in size from a one man tent to a family tent that can sleep six to eight people. Before going on any trip always find a place to erect a tent to make sure you have everything you need. This also ensures that you know how to erect the tent so that when you get to your camp site you can get the tent up in a minimal time.

You can keep food fairly simple. With an ice chest you can get by for a day or two as long as you can keep ice in it. Most campgrounds have a grill or a place for a fire. This is sufficient if you simply want to roast hot dogs and marshmallows. If you wish to cook other things a small gas stove such as a Coleman will be more than sufficient to cook almost anything you would want. Boiled water can be used for instant meals like grits or oatmeal.

A first aid kit is an absolute must have item on a camping kit. You location can be a factor for dome of items in a first aid kit such as a snake bite kite. Some regions of the country have venomous snakes even in the urban areas. Other standard items would be band aids of various sizes, antibiotics such as neosporin, and something to clean cuts and scrapes. These are just some of the minimal items you will need.

Other general purpose items will depend upon your needs. Keep a dry change of clothes and rain gear handy. If you are camping in a cold environment bring plenty of warm clothes and gear. Bring a radio in case of emergencies and be aware of weather projections. If you are camping in a place that has a lot of insects bring some bug repellent. If you plan on hiking bring a compass and make sure you know how to use it.

These are just a few recommendations and can cover the basics of having an enjoyable camping trip. As you get some camping trips under your belt you will also be able to tailor what to bring based own your own needs.

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