hiker with pack full of must-have camping gear watching sunrise

When you’re braving the wilderness, there’s a lot of must-have camping gear you’ll want on hand. From tents and tarps to survival kits and sand bags, there are a lot of factors to consider when you’re shopping for must-have camping supplies. Combatting the elements can be tricky and at times, critical to staying safe. So, we’re here to help you get prepared and figure out what must-have camping gear you need to have on hand for your next trip!

 

The Basics

When it comes to camping, every location is different, but there are some staple items that everyone should have in their list of must-have camping supplies. 

  • Tent
  • Sleeping Bags / Sleeping Pads
  • Backpacks
  • Compass
  • Multi Tool
  • Fire Starter
  • First Aid Kit
  • Poncho / Tarp 
  • Water Bottle 
  • Light Source
  • Insect Repellent
  • Warm Clothing

The list could go on and on to include frying pans, hammocks, and more, but these are the must-have camping supplies that every camping trip should have packed. Of course, depending on the climate you venture to, there will need to be some adjustments to the specifics of your must-have camping gear. 

 

Consider Location 

Everywhere location and climate is different, and so your must-have camping supplies are too. The needs of a high-desert trek compared to a backwoods camping trip are far different. Temperature, precipitation, sun exposure, and more all contribute to what must-have camping gear you need on-hand. 

 

High Desert 

If your getaway takes you up into some dry desert mountains, water is a priority. Even if you have a natural resource close by, it may not be safe or reliable. Pack water purification tablets and scope out your water resources before hitting the trails.

You also need to consider the animals that will be surrounding you. In high desert camping, the chances of running across snakes and other venomous creatures is pretty high. Having an anti-venom kit on-hand should be a priority on your list of must-have camping supplies when you’re venturing out into the desert, among other essential items: 

Depending upon your list of activities in the desert, you may also need to consider insurance for ATVs and other sports, so be mindful of your itinerary and plan for a variety of situations. 

 

Backwoods Camping 

A fun and exciting adventure, backwoods camping offers a lot of activities to campers who take the time to plan this out. You get access to rivers, canoeing, wildlife, beautiful forest views, and so much more, but it does take a lot of planning and must-have camping gear to make it all happen. 

Perhaps the most important item to have in your must-have camping gear is a thoughtful itinerary. Camping anywhere requires planning, but backwoods camping poses a lot of risk, especially if you’re going alone. Be sure to create a well-planned schedule that includes descriptions of your vehicle and gear, then share it with your emergency contacts. 

 

Campground Camping 

A classic and much more relaxing style of camping, staying at a campground makes your must-have camping supplies list a bit different. Whether you’re soloing a trip or bringing the whole family, you don’t have to pack as light because you’ll be setting up in one location and will have more resources at the ready. 

  • Portable stovetop or grill 
  • Propane
  • Camping Chairs
  • Table (if there isn’t a picnic table onsite) 
  • Table cloth
  • Duct tape
  • Mattress pad
  • Eating utensils
  • Water jug

Whether you prefer glamping or want to stick with the classic style, camping on a campground typically provides you with access to showers, water spouts, and usually a convenience store. So, if you forget some items on your list of must-have camping gear, you won’t have to worry too much. 

 

What Not To Do 

Now that we’ve gone over all the right things to do and bring in your must-have camping supplies, it’s important to review what should not be done while camping. Camping is a fun and restoring activity, but when inexperienced campers make mistakes, it can become difficult and sometimes dangerous. 

  • Never hike or arrive in the dark. If you’re setting up a campsite in the pitch black, chances are you won’t be able to see your surroundings properly. This could result in many trip hazards and put you in dangerous proximity to water and wildlife. 
  • Don’t leave food out. It’s easy to leave food out or throw it away close to your campsite, but all this does is attract animals. Whether it’s a little squirrel or a big bear, animals getting into your food supply or must-have camping gear can cut your trip short and become dangerous. 
  • Don’t pack for one type of weather. All experienced hikers and campers will tell you that weather changes in an instant on the trail. If your list of must-have camping supplies doesn’t include a windbreaker, warm jacket, and long underwear, it needs to. 

The list of what to bring and not to do is extensive, but when it comes to your safety, preparation is key in the wilderness. At Army Surplus World, we offer a variety of must-have camping gear that is affordable and reliable. We pride ourselves on our years of service to law enforcement, military personnel, veterans, and civilians. Whether you’re updating your must-have camping supplies or need new military fatigues, we have what you need. Shop now!