The Camping Outfitter

Selecting the right camping equipment for outdoor adventures means truly understanding the land characteristics of where you going, as well as the time of year you are enjoying your trip. The gear you might need for a winter backpacking trip in the Colorado mountains is going to be vastly different from the things you’d need to pack for a summer foray in the wilds of Arizona desert. However, there are some solid guidelines that will help you get started packing for any trip.

The first thing to consider is the type of clothing you will need. Consider both the day and evening temperatures of your camping spot. Remember that, especially in mountainous and higher-elevated regions, the thermometer can drop by as much as 40 degrees after the sun goes down. Dressing in layers and ensuring that you have insulated but breathable jackets can help you stay comfortable in any weather.

The next thing to focus on when gathering your camping equipment is where you will sleep. For most campers, tents are the ideal choice because they offer protection from wind, rain and bugs. Make sure that your screen room is waterproof and of a size big enough to comfortably sleep your entire party of campers. It’s a good idea to bring along a tarp to set your tent upon for extra assurance that water from wet ground won’t leach into your sleeping materials.

For some, however, a more primitive approach is preferred and a hammock that can be hung from trees offers a comfortable night’s sleep. Be sure to bring along sufficient bedding to keep you warm at night. Many campers find that a small roll-up mat to pad the ground greatly enhances their comfort.

After ensuring that you are protected with the correct clothing and that you have both shelter and sleeping gear, it’s important to plan what you will eat. It’s always a good rule to bring more than you think you will need. While it may add extra bulk to your pack, it’s important to be prepared in the event that your trip lasts longer than anticipated. In addition, many people find that their appetites increase greatly after being the fresh air.

Your menus will change greatly depending on whether you are hiking using a pack or if you are setting up camp in a sedentary spot. If you are mobile and camping in different locations each evening, then freeze dried and dehydrated products are a great idea because they are light weight and can easily be reconstituted with hot water. Otherwise, a cooler packed with ice will keep perishable items fresh.

Trail mixes, granola bars, dried fruits and jerky meats are also favorites. Any outdoor supply store will have an ample array but you can easily make your own at home with a dehydrator. In addition, to be prepared for unpredictable weather, many people like to have a camp stove as part of their equipment to allow for cooking even if a fire can’t be started.