by Karen Nunn

Created on: September 21, 2009   Last Updated: September 22, 2009

After many years of trial and error, I have finally learned to plan out things for our camping trips. I used to always over pack which made it difficult to haul and the majority of stuff I would take would never get used the entire trip. Sure some of the things I brought were to entertain kids or extra games for the adults but the whole reason we go camping is to get away from it all and be a part of nature.

First rule of thumb I have already covered. Do not over pack. You don't need 10 puzzle books or coloring books. Plan your menu and figure out exactly what pots, pans and utensils you will need to cook those meals and leave the rest at home. If you are going to a campground or cabin that has electricity, an electric skillet or griddle will cook the majority of your meals therefore eliminating the need for most of the pans.

I have a couple plastic tubs that I keep supplies in for those last minute camping trips and after each camping trip the tubs are replenished before they are put back in the garage. Here are the most important items that are in the camping tubs:

Charcoal and lighter fluid. Don't depend on finding wood that you will be able to cook with. It wouldn't be much fun to try and cook your dinner without it.

Lantern and extra propane. This will light up your entire camp area and will last longer than a flashlight.

Flashlight and extra batteries. This will help for those late night trips to use the facilities or to find your sleeping bag after the lantern is turned off.

Lighter and waterproof matches. If you can't light your fire, you can't cook and if you can't light your lantern you have no light.

Camp tools. Keep rope, a hatchet, trash bags and a small shovel/rake combo in your tubs to clean up your camp area and fire ring.

Personal hygiene items. I keep a smaller tub stocked with toilet paper, a bar of soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo and a hairbrush. I also keep a supply of insect repellant and sun block.

First Aid Kit. You can buy a ready made kit or you can get a smaller tub to fit down in your larger tubs with bandages, antibiotic cream, tape, peroxide, alcohol and any medications like Tylenol or an antacid.

Kitchen items. I keep aluminum foil and Ziploc bags in the tubs. You will need dishwashing soap and a sponge or a dishcloth to do your dishes. I also have a pot holder and a couple of kitchen towels. It is very handy to also keep a supply of paper plates, napkins, paper towels and plastic silverware.

Food staples. This can be your choice but it is nice not to have to pack salt and pepper or cooking oil every trip. You can also include your meat seasoning supplies, flour and sugar that are kept in large Ziploc bags and purchased at the beginning of each camp season.

Other than this list you will need your clothes which can be kept in a backpack along with your camping tubs. Don't forget your sleeping bag and a tent if you aren't staying in a cabin or RV. You will need to buy meat and other perishables per trip. Planning ahead and having your supplies ready for the beginning of camping season will make those last minute trips more enjoyable and stress free as you are ready to go!

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