Are you planning your first camping trip with friends or have you been invited to go on a camping trip in the near future? I am sure your friends and family have bombarded you with tons of information on what products to buy. If you are not sure if you will even like camping here are ten tips to help you get ready for your first camping trip.
1. Barrow or rent the big expensive pieces of gear.
Ask your family or friends and I am sure that they have the gear to loan you for the weekend. Also, ask around work as there might be someone there that is an avid camper that is willing to help out. You can also rent gear from places like REI, your local gear shop, or even the local universities (if you are currently enrolled). Renting equipment will allow you to save money and in the event, you do not like camping you can return it after the trip and never see it again.
2. Buy discounted or inexpensive gear.
Going camping does not mean you need the latest and greatest name-brand gear. You simply need a tent or hammock that will keep you dry during a storm, a sleeping bag to keep you warm, and a backpack if you are going backpacking. No one is going to judge you by what you have and if they do then those people are not people who truly understand the love of camping and the outdoors. Shopping at places like Walmart, REI Outlet, Backcountry, or even your local used sporting equipment store.
3. Research where you are going.
Knowing where you are going ahead of time will help you plan how you pack and what gear you need. Knowing the area will also help you understand what kind of area you will be camping in. The biggest issue you might have is showing up and not finding a campsite because they are all full. Make sure that you or your group makes reservations if they are available. If not have a backup plan if the campsite you wanted to stay at is full for the weekend.
4. Get to know the gear you have.
If you are renting or borrowing gear you will still need to know how to use it before you go on your trip. Set up the tent, pack the backpack, and put it on before going. You can even watch youtube videos about the products in advance. This will help you feel more comfortable with not only the products but also with using them for the first time.
5. Always take a little extra just in case.
It never hurts to take a little extra with you on your first camping trip. If you are backpacking this might cause a little bit more of a challenge than car camping. With car camping, you can take as much as you can fit into the vehicles. Spare socks, underwear, and other clothing can help keep you warm if the weather ends up being colder or wetter than you expected. Also having a few extra luxuries from home to help keep you comfortable can also be taken.
There are lots of other helpful tips and tricks that you can learn from your friends, and family, and online to help your first camping trip go smoothly. What tips or tricks did you learn on your first camping trip that could help?
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