Camping is food for the soul as well as the body.  You relax and unwind from the busy schedules far away from town hustles as you commune with nature.  The only thing that can spoil a perfect camping is the realization that you have left behind valuable items, just when you desperately need them.  To avoid this, you should keep a checklist of items you should consider taking when going camping.

Depending on your destination, planned activities and the people you intend to carry along, you should put into mind that all must fit into your car, remember chances of collecting more items along the way and as you come back are high. Also consider the duration you intend to stay. The guidelines below will help you depending on which camping you choose, be it a simple small tent or a large set up camp.

Campsite Equipment’s:  These are the main item since you cannot do without them. A tent, mattresses, pillows and sleeping bags are a must. Otherwise where will you sleep if you forget them? You might consider a tarpaulin to shield you from rain or hot sun. A first aid kit comes in handy as you or the children might encounter falls and injuries. Consider some few over the counter drugs for minor aches and pains.

Tools:  You might require a few tools like a hammer and a few nails. A complete tool box won’t take much of your place in the car boot.

Cooking: cooking equipments are as important as campsite equipments. Consider the type of food you intend to eat and duration it will take you to prepare.  Disposable plates and glasses are much preferred as they do not break easily, are easy to carry and you minimize your luggage as you come.

Food: you might prefer to eat out in a nearby restaurant or cook for yourself. No matter your choice of food, remember to carry enough snacks to last you throughout the camping. Children love bites that add to the camping thrill.  If your camping will last for 2-3 days, you might consider per-frozen foods such as sausages. Carry healthy smoothies and plenty of water.

Personal Items: This includes toiletries, towels, sunscreen and insect repellent.  A large plastic bag is important to carry for soiled and dirty clothes, Carry an extra one for garbage instead of littering.

Clothes: Depending on the weather, try to keep your clothing package simple. Do not carry the whole wardrobe, though and extra jacket or sweater may come in handy if the weather changes from warm to chilly. Try to balance wet weather gear and warm clothing if you are not able to predict the weather. Carry comfortable shoes and avoid high heeled one, boots will help you manoeuvre your way through wet thickets and are comfortable.

Fun Stuff: A camp without fun is not a complete camping.  Before you embark list down the activities and games you intend to do. If you consider fishing, carry fishing rods and a few baits. If you intend to hike, carry binoculars and a few ropes.  A ball can be used for various games such as football, volley and other creative fun game. Board games are good for evening entertainment, enjoy checkers, cards and marble with the children and watch their excitement.