Get back to nature and close to the earth on a camping trip. As you prepare, you need to keep in mind that there will be no room service and typically no big-box stores nearby to purchase necessities. While most campgrounds might have a little shop for small items such as bug spray or soft drinks, you should prepare for a camping trip by packing everything you'll need for a comfortable stay outdoors.
Check your tent before stashing it in the car to make sure it doesn't have any gaping holes or rips and that all of the poles work. Bring extra batteries and kerosene for lamps and flashlights, which will become your most valuable tools once the sun sets.
Air out sleeping bags and blankets before packing them for the camping trip so you can slip into them after a busy day in the outdoors.
Plan your meals for the duration of the camping trip. Keep your food stores light by packing dry foods such as beans and powdered eggs.
Keep fresh food in a cooler that you can replenish with ice from the campground's store. If you'll be camping in the wilderness, limit the amount of food you bring that requires cooling.
Pack durable clothes that can be worn more than once. Jeans, cargo pants, canvas shorts and sweatshirts make good camping outfits.
Subtract at least 10 or 20 degrees from the lowest temperature of the day to prepare for nights in the tent. It's always colder sleeping outside.
Wear shoes that dry quickly and don't retain water, such as hiking boots or sandals. When sneakers get damp overnight or from a walk in a stream, you might be left with damp shoes for a day or two while they dry.
