What to Know for Your First Campout
If you're new to camping and planning your first campout, it's normal to feel a bit overwhelmed by the gear and preparations. But don't worry, we're here to help you get started. Here are some essential tips to make your first camping experience a success.
Seek guidance: Consider finding an experienced outdoorsy person to guide you, such as taking classes. If you have a friend with camping gear, they can also provide valuable assistance. Additionally, we have provided a printable checklist of camping essentials at the end of this article.
Start with car camping: For your first campout, choose a location that allows car camping and keep it simple. Opt for an overnight trip to familiarize yourself with the basics.
Borrow or rent gear: To save money, consider borrowing or renting the more expensive items like tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads. This approach is better than purchasing low-quality gear that may not last.
Clothing for comfort: Always bring appropriate clothes for cold and rainy weather to maximize your comfort. Layering is key, so you can adjust your clothing based on temperature changes.
Bring plenty of food: To satisfy your hunger and enjoy the fresh air, pack enough food for your trip. Plan your meals and snacks in advance and consider easy-to-prep options.
Camp close to home: For flexibility, choose a campground that is close to your home. This allows you to easily address any problems that may arise and gives you the option to return home if needed.
Check the weather forecast: To ensure a good first impression, postpone your campout if the weather forecast is awful. Camping in heavy rain or storms can make the experience less enjoyable for beginners.
Follow Leave No Trace principles: Make sure to leave a positive impact on the environment by adhering to Leave No Trace principles. Respect nature, pack out your trash, and minimize your impact on the campsite.
Essential Camping Gear:
Tent: If you're ready to invest in your own gear, choose a tent that suits your needs. Consider the size (3-person or 6-person) and peak height for comfort and convenience. Practice setting up your tent at home before your trip.
Sleeping bag: Select a sleeping bag based on temperature ratings. For fair-weather camping, a summer bag may be sufficient, but a 3-season bag provides more versatility. Choose a bag that offers enough room for your body to move comfortably.
Sleeping pad: A good sleeping pad provides insulation from the cold ground. Look for pads with higher insulation values (R-value) for better comfort and warmth. Consider the thickness, length, and width when comparing options.
Lighting: Since campsites lack illumination, bring your own lighting. A headlamp is essential for hands-free tasks, and a lantern provides ambient light. Be mindful of fire restrictions when using lanterns or campfires.
Stove: A classic two-burner propane camp stove is recommended for cooking. Familiarize yourself with its operation before your trip, and bring enough fuel canisters and a lighter.
Cooler: Ensure you have a cooler with enough capacity for perishable food and drinks. Consider the duration of your trip and bring sufficient ice to maintain proper temperature.
Cooking and dining essentials: Pack pots, plates, cups, and utensils for food preparation and consumption. Use durable items from your home kitchen, and don't forget a scrubber, biodegradable soap, towel, and washtub for cleaning.
Camp chairs: Optional but recommended for added comfort during downtime. Mesh camp chairs allow water to drain easily and dry quickly.
Remember to pack your camping gear in a large aluminum storage box with a lid for easy storage and accessibility.
With these tips and essential gear, you'll be well-prepared for your first camping adventure. Enjoy the outdoors and have a fantastic time on your campout!
If you’re just getting geared up to go camping for the first time, or want a reminder of the most essential items to have at the ready, here’s a handy reference guide. If you’re looking for a more complete list of everything you might want to have at your campsite, including clothing and food, see our complete Camping Checklist.
