| Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and | | | | Supplies |
| bring the family together. There are many places you | | | | Backpacks will help carry food and water during trips |
| can go to hike, canoe or sightsee. Having the correct | | | | outside the camping areas. Do not pack them too |
| camping gear will help make your experience more | | | | heavily as you may be wearing them for long periods |
| fun and ensure you are not caught in situations | | | | of time. Pack a compass so you can gauge where |
| without the proper equipment. Before embarking on | | | | you are in case you get lost. A flashlight is helpful in |
| your trip, make a list of all supplies you need to | | | | case of an emergency or to see at night. Make sure |
| ensure everything is packed and ready to go. | | | | to pack any cookware needed for campfire meals. A |
| Sleeping Arrangements | | | | tripod that goes over your campfire is a great |
| Decide whether you want to rent an RV, pop-up | | | | cooking tool, and the best pans for cooking over a |
| camper, or use a tent. Using a tent is a fun and | | | | campfire are cast iron. Cast iron is heavy though. If |
| inexpensive way to get back to nature. Tents are | | | | you are going to be doing a lot of hiking and are |
| available at most sporting good stores and can also | | | | going to be carrying all your gear, purchase a |
| be found at discount stores. They are easy to set | | | | lightweight cooking vessel. A Swiss Army knife can |
| up and are a great way to spend a bit of time | | | | be handy for many tasks including cutting twigs for a |
| bonding when you first get to the camp area. | | | | fire or roasting marshmallows. Waterproof matches |
| Choose tents that are water resistant, but also bring | | | | will help light fires and can be used even if it is rainy. |
| along a large waterproof tarp to hang over the tent | | | | A walking stick can be useful on hikes to help ascend |
| in case there is a lot of rain. Get sleeping bags that | | | | steep slopes and combat fatigue. |
| are warm and the right size to comfortably fit the | | | | Safety |
| individual. Sleeping mats, air mattresses, or folding | | | | Bring sunscreen and insect repellant to protect you |
| cots that go under the bag are ways to make | | | | from sun and pests. Apply often for maximum |
| sleeping more comfortable. If you opt for an RV or | | | | protection. Depending on where you will be camping, |
| camper, these can be a bit pricier but will better | | | | you may want to invest in bear spray. This is similar |
| protect you from the elements and will also provide | | | | to pepper spray for people but is more powerful. A |
| other amenities such as beds, a stove and a | | | | first aid kit is essential and should never be forgotten. |
| refrigerator. | | | | Make sure it is fully supplied. These are available |
| Attire and Food | | | | pre-made at many sporting good stores and can also |
| Do not pack a lot of clothing as space is limited. | | | | be found in pharmacies. You should also carry plenty |
| Choose warm, water resistant clothing and good | | | | of rope. A cellular phone may not always get |
| shoes or hiking boots. Pack several pairs of socks | | | | reception but it is advisable to have one just in case. |
| and bring both cool and warm weather clothing even | | | | Camping is a fun way to spend quality family time. |
| if you are camping in summer. It often gets chilly in | | | | Always make sure you are prepared for emergencies |
| the evening. Make sure you have hats and sunglasses | | | | and changes in climate. Keep the bulk of supplies at |
| to protect you from the sun. Bring coolers to store | | | | your campsite and take only what is needed, including |
| food and beverages. Pack plenty of water and | | | | emergency supplies, on short treks. Use backpacks |
| snacks such as trail mix that will give you energy and | | | | to carry food, water and first aid items. |
| are easy to eat. | | | | |