Backpacking Gear for Two Nights

Since so many folks are taking off for camp this Labor Day weekend to close the summer, I thought I’d repost this guide from last May to refresh your memory!

What you bring to the wilderness really depends on where you go, for how long, and the number and age range of the individuals camping. The following is not a definitive list, but are some general guidelines to get you on your way:

ENTERTAINMENT

• Games (dominoes, cards)

• A lightweight novel or other reading you would not otherwise have time to read back in civilization!

• A note pad or journal for writing or sketching

• Frisbee, football, or soccer ball

FOOD

• A “one-pot” meal plan with as much prep as possible done at home; bring ingredients or marinades in containers (or Ziplock bags) for quick camp preparation

• Only the food you need, (i.e. 1 cup of grits rather than an entire box), and store in sealable containers to economize space and keep safe from critters

• A camp stove such as the classic Coleman Stove with extra bottles of propane to cook most meals; coals and extra wood for grilling.

• One large pot and two pans

• Cooking utensils

• Spices and condiments

• Re-usable plates, cups, towels and utensils for everyone – avoid using disposable products where possible

• Dish pan, cloths, and liquid soap for washing dishes

• Don’t forget marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolates for S’mores!

SLEEP/COMFORT

• Use a tent sized for one more person than your party and extra poles – I once arrived at camp only to learn we left the poles at home – having no poles is a non-starter!

• Tarp large enough to go under your tent to keep out moisture

• A sleeping bag for each person rated for the weather conditions for your location

• Sleep mat or cot

TOILETRIES

In addition to your personal preferences/needs, it’s a good idea to bring toilet paper, seat covers, wipes, and hand sanitizer

SAFETY

• Basic First Aid Kit

• Bug repellent

• Sunscreen

• Emergency cards in plastic bags

• Medication

LIGHT

• A flashlight for each person and extra batteries

• Lanterns for inside your tent and for dining

• Firewood and kindling (if not available for sale at the campground)

CLOTHING

• Prepare to dress in layers; days may be hot, but nights and early mornings can be chilly

• Even in summer, bring closed-toe shoes and socks

PRACTICE!

If you have a new tent or stove, test these items out at home without the pressure of hungry stomachs or anxious spectators!

Any other items you can’t camp without? Leave a comment!

Photo Courtesy of Mykl Roventine

1. Visit your local nature center. While several centers may be closed for the holiday, adjoining open spaces are usually available and tend to be very picnic friendly.

2. Potluck! Call up a few friends and make a backyard/balcony/rooftop party. Do an easy, fun theme, such as “Last Chance to Wear White” or create a soul food menu and play Al Green’s Greatest Hits the whole day. Don’t forget the cards and dominoes!

3. Take a scenic drive to someplace you’ve never been, such as a nature preserve, trail, or historic site, located within 50 miles of where you live. You might be delighted to discover a hidden gem in your own back yard.

4. Visit a train museum near you to learn some fascinating history and perhaps take a ride that’s fun for kids of all ages.

5. Do a “Day Camp”. Have all the fun for half the work. Pack a cooler,  blanket, awning or simple tent and head to the local park. Bring games, food, music, crafts, books, and beverages – then pack it all up by evening and head home!

What are you doing this Labor Day Weekend?

There is solace in simple activities done right outside your front door. While you may be limited by where you live, or what is accessible or safe, I’m certain there is at least one thing out of the following list of 5 Easy Outdoor Stress Relievers for everyone.

1. Go for a 10 minute stroll around your neighborhood and say hello to everyone you see

2. Stargaze while holding hands with someone you love

3. Add or care for a plant on your balcony, window box, or in your yard

4. Have a breakfast picnic at home; take the prepared meal outside and eat on a blanket; perhaps invite a neighbor or friend to join you

5. Get outside with the kids to play games like Duck/Duck/Goose, Red light/Green light or teach them games and songs from your childhood — for more fun, play these games with other adults!

What are some simple ways you relax in the outdoors?

Photo courtesy of Sandra Seckinger

When I mention to some people that I go camping, it’s not uncommon to hear in response why they won’t do it themselves. Here is a list of the most frequently heard excuses for not heading out to the woods, along with some real facts to consider:

1. Sleeping in a tent is an elaborate form of back torture

Fact: Just because you sleep in a tent doesn’t mean you have to sleep on the ground. Portable cots and mats are the way I go nowadays because comfort is important. Sure, a cot won’t feel like a Sealy Posturepedic, but it’s not the ground either. Tip: be sure to get a tent that is sized for one person more than your party to allow more space for comfy sleeping gear.

2. No showers

Fact: Family campgrounds DO have hot showers, and the availability of this amenity is no shocker if you do a little homework on your selected campsite in advance. In fact, the outdoor camp showers are some of the best I have had as some are opened on top for a terrific view of the sky or stars.

3. No music, tv, or video games

Fact: These days wireless is becoming more common for family camp sites, but the point of camp is to connect with the environment or with those in your group. Play a board game, tell funny family stories, go for a walk – it’s these activities that are the source of great memories to last a lifetime.

4. Animals and Bugs

Fact: Yes, wildlife is a reality in the outdoors, but critters don’t have to ruin your trip. Use bug repellent (or swallow a clove of raw garlic, I am told) for the worst flying offenders. Keep food and other smellables away from where you sleep. You actually have a much greater chance of being hurt by a domestic dog than by a bear!

5. It’s dirty

Ok, let’s make a distinction between dirt and filth. Campgrounds are not the place to wear new Air Force Ones. Dirt is inevitable, but filth you won’t find at a developed camp site nor at the more “primitive” areas. Developed camps are maintained to ensure sustainability and safety for all creatures who inhabit them — even the temporary ones!

Bottom line: abandon the scary or non-factual ideas about camping and give it a try!

Got more reasons why you don’t camp? Post them here!