Knowing what to take camping is an art that you will develop over many years of camping. Most campers will say that you can never be completely prepared for what Mother Nature can throw at you, but most will also say that there a few things you can do to ensure you remain comfortable and calm in the face of adversity.

The most important piece of advice available is to produce a camping equipment list. This is just a tick sheet of items that you need to pack but also doubles as a check list upon your return home. Thinking about what you might need can seem like an endless task, but if broken up into smaller sections an equipment can save you a lot of time and hassle.

The first section you might want to cover is your sleeping arrangements. You will need your tent, tent poles, tent fly sheet, ground sheet, tent pegs, spare rope, mallet, wind break and bedding. Typically bedding will include sleeping bags, extra blankets, pillows, rugs, baby cots, airbed and pump.

Then you will need to consider what food and drink items you wish to take. This may include any pre-made meals or drinks, coffee/tea/chocolate, snacks, ice box and ice blocks, cooking equipment, utensils, plates and bowls, cups and mugs, knives, forks, spoons, water container, can opener, matches and lighter. Generally speaking your cooking equipment should include pots and pans, stove and gas, disposable bbq, kettle, foil and Clingfilm. Your utensils will include a large cooking spoon, spatula, tongs, skewers and a sharp knife.

Then you should consider toiletries and pack soap, deodorant, toothbrush and paste, razor and gel, toilet paper, tissues, hair care items and other essentials. In this instance it is useful to imagine yourself getting up on a typical item and pack every item you would normally use.

Next up you will need to consider cleaning. Take with you wet-ones, rags and towels, washing up liquid and bowl, hand sanitizer and a small brush or broom.

Finally consider your personal items which may include medications, money and cards, keys, contact numbers, maps and guide books, sunglasses and cap, clothing and footwear. The latter two options should have sub-categories of their own and you should pack for all weather conditions. You can also add in a recreational category and include items like safety equipment, children's games, board games, cycling equipment, hiking equipment, swimming equipment, beach kit and first aid kit including sun tan lotion.

This guide covers the main sections but you will want to personalise your packing to ensure nothing is missed. You should type your list out or download one like that provided free at Gone Camping UK.

Learn more about this author, Dominic Clacy.
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