by Pauline Abreu

Created on: February 17, 2010

There are many essential camping tools you will have to take along with you on your trip.  These tools come in handy and serve a purpose for the budding camper.  The best idea when you have decided to go camping is to make a list.  It should include everything you will need while you are camping, including all the necessary tools you'll want to take along.  When deciding on tools think logically, you don't want too many heavy items that are not needed.  You want to choose your tools carefully and bring the most essential tools with you, and  remember you may need to carry them around with you too.

A knife - This tool would be at the top of the list as it comes in useful for so many different things.  You will need it for slicing foods, such as, fruit, vegetables, and any meat you will want to cook.  A sharpening stone would also be suggested to take along with the knife.  A sharp, flat bladed, folding knife would be an ideal type to take camping.

A Hand-Held Axe - When making a campfire you will need to split some wood, a large axe is not practical to take along with you.  A small, but sharp, hand-held axe is a good tool to have while camping. 

Folding Saw - A good quality folding saw would be easy to carry, and you can also cut wood easier with a tool like this.  Make sure you bring an extra blade or two just in case you need it.

Multi-tool - You might want to invest in a multi purpose tool, these have all sorts of tool attachments that you may need.  Most of them are equipped with a knife, pliers, corkscrew, wire cutters, screwdrivers, and a can opener. 

Flashlight - For obvious reasons you'll want a flashlight for when it gets dark.  They come in handy when you want to move around after dark.

A lighter - You need something to light the fire and a lighter is far better than matches, which can become damp. 

Small Folding Shovel - It may come in useful if you need to clear an area for your campfire, of sleeping area. 

Cooking Utensils - Cast iron is probably the best material for your pots and pans, and you will have to take a certain amount of cutlery with you too.  An aluminum kettle would be good for those hot drinks on cold nights, of course you will need to bring a supply of water, tea, cocoa, or any other hot drink you prefer. 

Small Sewing Kit - You might have to do repairs of some kind while on your camping trip.

Rope - Rope can come in useful for a wide variety of things, so take some with you just in case you find a use for it. 

These are the basic essential tools you will need for camping.  Besides the other necessary sleeping items, and making sure you are dressed appropriately for the occasion.  Having the correct tools goes a long way to making sure your camping trip is a good one.  Always practice safety while camping and be sure to put the campfire out when you are done. 

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