The best magazine
- 1
tent in woods image by alice rawson from Fotolia.com
Assemble your camping gear and clothing. Basic outdoor camping gear consists of a tent, sleeping bags, blankets, a cook stove and utensils, flashlights, batteries, food, water, a multi-purpose knife and a first-aid kit. Clothing is determined by activity and climate, and will vary depending upon where you camp. If this is a backpacking trip, use a sturdy backpack specifically designed for camping and hiking. Choose one that is large enough to hold your gear yet comfortable to carry on long hikes. - 2
backpackers image by Joanna Stewart from Fotolia.com
Set aside an area in your back yard, basement, garage or any place large enough to hold your gear. Place items in this staging area and organize them by type. - 3
camping kitchenware image by Galyna Andrushko from Fotolia.com
Inventory the assembled gear using a camping checklist to insure accuracy. Doing this will also enable you to quickly identify gaps in your packing lists. Make certain you have gathered enough of each item for the length of your stay. Consider packing extra essentials (clothing, food, water, medication) in the event your trip is extended. Do not overlook common items such as cell phones and chargers and a map of the area you are visiting. - 4
rope image by Kaarel from Fotolia.com
Inspect the assembled gear for items that are worn, degraded or unusable. A frayed rope or a tent with a hole in it will be of little use once you are at the campsite. If you are camping with another person, it is a good idea for each of you to inspect the other's gear. Your companion may notice something you overlooked and vice versa. Replace any gear too worn to safely use prior to your trip. - 5
pickup 4x4 car from above image by alma_sacra from Fotolia.com
Pack your vehicle using the LIFO method. LIFO stands for Last In, First Out and means that the last thing you pack is the first thing you will need when you reach your destination. For example, when setting up a base camp the first item you will need upon arriving is your tent so it should be the last thing you place in the vehicle. - 6). Secure all items inside the vehicle once packing is complete. This is especially important if you are driving an open vehicle such as a pick-up truck. Bungee-type cords come in a variety of sizes and strengths, and are useful for securing gear. Rope or sturdy twine will work, too. Walk around the vehicle perimeter looking for items that my come loose during travel and secure them. Make certain that nothing is blocking the driver's vision.
Source: ...