Camping, whether for a night or for an extended stay, is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the natural beauty that surrounds us in this world.
Before embarking on your outdoor camping adventure, you must prepare. Pack carefully and choose only what is essential for your time outside. You can borrow or rent many items, including shelter and cooking supplies, but some items are best bought for your expedition.
Topographical maps show a variety of aspects about a region. They show elevation changes, bodies of water, land mass size and shape, and other details that can be very important when planning your outdoor adventure. Having a detailed map can make all the difference between getting lost and finding your way out if you get lost or have an unexpected accident outdoors.
It is always a good idea to have a first aid kit stored with your camping gear if you are planning on being outside for more than two or three days. You should put together your own first aid kit and make sure that it contains all the essentials you will need in case of an emergency. Check out the First Aid Kit page for examples of what should be included in your own first aid kit. You can also purchase pre-made first aid kits at most outdoor supply stores.
A personal locator beacon, or PLB, provides an easy way to call for help in case of an emergency while you are outdoors. PLBs are small devices that can be activated by a push of a button. They send out an emergency signal and will stay on until the battery is depleted. You can usually set the PLB to automatically activate when it loses GPS reception and cannot send out a signal. If you want to activate your PLB manually, you can do so through the PLB’s built-in remote control or by pushing two buttons under water.
In case of emergency, having the ability to start a fire can be very helpful. Being prepared will help you to keep warm and dry if necessary. You can use items that are commonly carried in your house, such as matches and a cigarette lighter. You can also purchase waterproof or disposable fire starters in various sizes that can be easily attached to a tree or other surface for a quick fire starter.
