Camping trips can come in all shapes and sizes as can the people that you will be taking with you.

Before deciding what you need to pack for your camping trip, you need to decide who is coming with you, where you are going and what you will be doing on your trip.

All Shapes and Sizes

If you are taking children then the equipment that you need will vary from that used for adults or an adult’s only camping trip. When adults are camping there are certain things that you can take as given, such as they can assist in the setting up of camp or that they can swim. If you are camping with children never take anything for granted. You need to select your location and your equipment to suit the ages of the children you are taking.

Location Location Location

Are you camping in a camping ground or are you more of a bush and hiking kind of camper? The location that you camp at will also help dictate the equipment that you need. When hiking you will need to consider your ability to carry everything you need, you can’t risk overpacking. Camping in a natural setting will require you to carry your own toilet or toilet digging equipment as well as fuel and perhaps water. Camping in a facility or camp ground means that toilet and shower facilities are provided and you may have access to power but there are still many, many items that you need to consider.

Roughin’ It

• Sleep on it – you will need a tent, poles, pegs, ropes and sleeping gear. Speak to your local camping equipment store to make sure you get a lightweight tent that is easy to carry.
• Master Chef – if you are hiking and camping you will usually have to carry your food and fuel with you. You can purchase cooking and eating equipment suited for hiking, it is lightweight and compact.
• Protect yourself – pack things that will keep you safe from natural dangers. Thermal underwear, bug repellent and a hat to begin, plus you’ll probably want to invest in a mosquito net to sleep under.
• Which way? – if you are hiking don’t forget a compass and GPS. In many areas a mobile phone also works.

Family Holiday

• Your Castle – tents come in all shapes and sizes. Shop around to make sure you get one that suits your family holiday and location. Many tents have multiple rooms as well as a covered outdoor area.
• Master Chef – If you have access to power your cooking options will be easier. If you don’t have access to power don’t forget the good old fashioned spanner to hook up the gas bottle.
• Bedding – because you don’t have to carry it long distances, you may want to consider investing in folding camping beds. They keep you off the ground and don’t need blowing up.
• Modern comforts – if you are camping in a facility then there is no reason you can’t bring along a few comforts from home. Many campers will bring along a TV, a heater and perhaps even a fridge.

Whether you are intending to rough it or do it a bit easier, don’t forget to speak to your local camping equipment store for advice. Most states have Caravan and Camping Associations and their websites will give you a breadth of information. State Auto Clubs such as the RACV can also have information available. Spend a bit of time doing some research into what is available, camping certainly isn’t what many of us remember it as.