Whether you are a seasoned or beginner outdoor lover, having the best camping essentials can make or break your trip.
It’s obvious you need a tent and a sleeping bag but some of the other items you might not think of or even know about…
…until it’s too late.
Listed below are the 8 camping must-haves…
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1. Tent
While you might prefer sleeping under the stars, it’s always advisable to have an emergency shelter, such as a tent, in place in case of extreme weather conditions.
Still, a tent will protect you against winds.
Some of the tent accessories you need to carry along include tent poles, rope, rainfly and stakes.
2. Fire Starter
It’s impossible to have the best camping experience without a crackling, warm campfire.
So, it would help if you had the necessary tools to start one fast.
You can start a fire with matches, flint and steel, a magnesium fire starter or a cigarette lighter.
If you decide to choose a match, ensure it is waterproof.
It’s a good idea to carry an extra fore starter in case one becomes faulty. Carry a little kindling, too, such as strips of newspaper or dry bark.
3. Water Bottle
When exploring outdoors, water is an essential item to have; it runs out fast the further you go into the woods.
The last thing you want to lack as you walk in the lands is a freshwater supply.
Remember that taking untreated water from the lakes or ponds can be hazardous due to mould and bacteria.
4. Sleeping Bag
Sleeping on a bed of leaves and moss may seem fantastic, but you will not feel the desired warmth throughout the night.
During the night, temperatures can drop to a great extent.
The other thing is that most insects are active at night, so they may try to have a part of you.
If you are going with children, you should always have a kid’s sleeping bag.
5. First Aid Kit
You may never face a life-threatening injury throughout your camping, but long hiking can make you develop blisters.
Minor scrapes and cuts, too, may become infected if left untreated.
Due to this, please ensure you have antiseptic and bandages on hand.
The first aid kit must have other essentials like adhesive, scissors, CPR mouth barrier, soap, emergency whistle and gauze.
Remember to include insect repellent and sunscreen, too, because bug bites and sunburn can end your trip prematurely.
6. Map and Compass
Always carry a map and compass or GPS if you plan to camp or hike in remote areas.
The sun’s continuously changing positions can make hiking landmarks appear unfamiliar.
Unprepared campers have regularly strolled the forests for days before finding their way back to the camping sites or getting rescued.
Getting lost in the woods, particularly with an insufficient water supply, is unimaginable.
7. Pocket Knife
A pocket knife is a multipurpose camping essential. You can use this tool to:
- Dice bait
- Trim a rope
- Slice sausage or cheese
- Cut fishing line
- Sharpen a stick
- Open a tightly sealed container
- Tighten a screw
- Deal with tangled vines
- Skin a small animal
Without a knife, it will be tricky to perform the tools mentioned above.
8. Head Lamp, Lantern or Flashlight
A campfire may be bright and lovely but cannot illuminate a long distance.
You, thus, need to have a battery-powered light because you might need to visit the restroom in the middle of the night.
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What Are Must Have Camping Items?
The 8 camping must have items are…
- Tent
- Fire Starter
- Water Bottle
- Sleeping Bag
- First Aid Kit
- Map and Compass
- Head Lamp
Be sure you have them all.
I am an independent safety and survival expert and consultant. I have over 15+ years of experience working with corporations and individuals to help identify, remediate and prepare for threats and and disasters. I help clients understand risks and blog about my thoughts and techniques at DisasterShelters.net
Last update on 2025-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API