The best way to prevent your camping trip from being like a National Lampoon sequel is to prepare for your trip. Creating a checklist a few weeks before you leave will help ensure nothing vital to your group’s survival in the woods is forgotten at home. Calling to reserve a campsite if you’re planning a trip over a holiday weekend should be done when you start making your checklist. If possible, reserve a site on level ground not prone to flooding in case it rains on your camping parade.
When scripting your checklist, consider the needs of yourself and those who will be accompanying you on your trip. If you plan to bring children, plan to pack things that will keep them entertained and comfortable in the event of inclement weather. Items such as board games, extra sets of clothes and rain gear should be added to your list and including weather-proof matches, dry kindling or a camping stove on your packing list will ensure that your group will be able to eat no matter what kind of weather blows over or through your campsite.
Deciding what you and your group will eat during your shared adventure will also really affect your checklist. Plan to bring food items that require as little preparation as possible while still providing the maximum nutritional benefit. Make sure your menu items’ ingredients can be easily transported as well, especially if your group will have to hike a long distance to the campsite. Bringing pouches of tuna rather than cans of the fish will cut down on the weight in your backpack, for instance.
You also need to consider the differing levels of camping experience the members of your group have and factor them into your list. Plan to bring complimentary toiletries such as toilet paper for those unaccustomed to the art of squatting in the woods. Bringing items normally taken for granted in civilization will not only demonstrate your thoughtfulness, it will decrease the possibility of having to end your trip early because an inexperienced camper used the wrong type of leaf…
Finally, round out your preparation checklist with items that you won’t miss unless you don’t have them during your trip. A first aid kit is a must for a camping trip, for example. Having a fully stocked kit will ensure your group will be prepared in case an emergency arises. When reviewing the contents of your first aid kit prior to your departure, make sure alcohol is among its contents so cuts and scrapes can be sterilized on the spot. You might want to make sure the alcohol supply is sufficient for you to drown out any complaints that are voiced during your trip as well!