Must-Have Camping Items
As I prepare for my annual summer camping trip, I take stock of my gear. If you’re a veteran camper, you’ve got a list of essentials honed and ready. I suggest that you add a few items that don’t always make it to the “necessary” column when it comes time to pack.
Hanging Cupboard
Really a storage option that opens into cubbyholes, so that you can store smaller items for easy accessibility. Make sure you can take it out on your first day to store your small food stuffs … and leave out without risking the interest of local wildlife.
Tarp
Tarps aren’t just for shelter from the rain, my friends. They make handy campsite dividers for when your neighbours decide it’s ok to have their table lamp on at full blast all night (true story). You can also use it under your tent as a little “tarp patio” for your shoes.
Camping Pots & Pans
If you don’t have an old set in your kitchen you’re willing to toss, invest in a camping pot set that stacks together for compact storage. For that matter, go all out and get a set of camping dishes that store easy and compact as well. Packing will be a cinch.
Propane Grill
Nothing fancy, just a little grill that screws into a small propane can so you can enjoy any type of fare while you camp, not just fire-roasted hot dogs and marshmallows.
Propane Coffee Maker
Without this, you’ll be enjoying instant coffee every morning. ‘Nuff said.
Glow in the dark… Anything
Sure the novelty of whatever item glows brightly all night will wear off after the first or second night, but just imagine going to the beach at night and tossing around a glow-in-the-dark Frisbee. Fun for all ages.