Considering going camping?  Don’t know what to take with you?  This is a common problem; here are some tips and suggestions on what to pack to take with you.  Of course everyone has different ideas about what camping truly is, but this is a good starter list, you can use to decide if the item is needed based upon your ideal camping situation. 

Keep in mind this list is not intended for those who take huge RV’s that include air conditioning, electricity and a running shower in the list of amenities.  This is for those whose idea of camping involves a tent and the outdoors.  With that in mind, let us get on with the list. 

A flashlight is always a useful device to take with you camping.  Making sure, you have plenty of batteries in case the batteries in the flashlight happen to kick the bucket midway through the trip.  A battery-powered lantern is also helpful to make sure you have plenty of light in the middle of the night. 

A small bottle of liquid dish soap and a towel will give you a great way to keep the dishes clean and able to be eaten from.  Hard food buildup?  Bring a scouring pad along as well and even those are a cinch. 

Eating and cooking utensils are also very necessary to have.  Unless you plan on finding someone who delivers to campsites.  Make sure you have a way of keeping them organized in a container so they do not get lost in the wilderness. 

Rope, matches or lighter are also good items to bring along that have many uses.  This should be in your never leave home without pile right along with the flashlight and batteries.  Other essentials include a first aid kit that is fully stocked. 

Of course, the true basics like a tent, sleeping bag and pillows and blankets are always necessary.  Trash bags, clothes, sturdy shoes and of course food are also necessities that you should never attempt camping without some planning.  Make sure you find out the weather patterns so that you can pack appropriate clothing for the camping trip.  If you are camping in a cooler time of year long, underwear is also likely to be a good clothing choice.  Many camping stores also sell very thick clothing and blankets to use when camping to make sure you stay nice and warm. 

A rain jacket and poncho is also a good idea to take to make sure you are prepared for all changes in the weather.  Along with the rain jacket, an umbrella is another good idea to take along to be prepared.  With spring and summer coming up, camping is just around the corner. 

Camping is a great activity to participate in with kids, so be sure to take them along and enjoy the peacefulness of nature.  Just make sure to take lots of pictures, and make sure you take a cell phone for emergencies.