So you have decided to take the plunge and go for that solo camping trip. We are as excited as you are. But before you leave for the adventure, check out the article for the things you should pack and take along with you.
Tent: This is a given. You can’t camp without a tent. There are a lot of options available to choose from and you can select a tent depending on the weather, weight and your campsite. Click here to know more about how to select your tent.
Sleeping bag: Another must item to carry is that snug and cozy sleeping bag. While choosing one, make sure it is lightweight and compact so that it can be carried easily. Also check the temperature ratings of the sleeping bag and compare it with the lowest nighttime temperature you expect where you plan to camp.
First Aid kit: Outdoors excite us but the adventurous activities can result in cuts, wounds or burns. And therefore you should carry a small first-aid kit. It should include:
- Bandages
- Antiseptic cream
- Gauze pads
- Sterile wipes and rinse solution
- Sprays for sprain
- Pain and anti-inflammatory medicine
- Antihistamine for allergic reactions
- Scissors
- Hand sanitizer
- Mosquito repellant
- Any prescribed medicine
Map and Compass: Yes, you can always use gps from your mobile phone but you wouldn’t want to get lost in case the battery dies. Let’s go the old school way and carry a paper map and a compass with you. It will be so cool to travel this way, reading a map and walking on path on which countless of people have travelled before you or maybe discovering new trails altogether. Make sure you know how to read the map and use the compass otherwise you’ll have to spend the night with Bagheira maybe (hoping he is a nice to you as he was to Mowgli!)
Flash Light: As you know, there won’t be any electricity in the outdoors and flashlights or headlamps are a savior in the pitch dark nights. Lumus!
Rucksack: Of course, you will need a good rucksack to carry all these essentials. Make sure that you travel light and not overstuff the rucksack. We know travelling solo can be overwhelming but you should not carry everything you own. You can also use packing cubes as you won’t have to unpack the entire bag just to search for a pair of scissors. Do carry a rain cover for your bag. It will be of immense help in keeping everything dry and safe.
Clothes/Shoes: Clothes depend on the season when you are planning to go. Remember to carry rain poncho in case rainfall is expected. For cold winters, definitely carry a good down jacket, a fleece, a cap and scarf to keep you warm. You can carry thermals and warm socks depending on how cold it will get. But just because it’s cold, don’t carry your entire winter wardrobe. Similarly think before putting that pair of shorts in the bag if you are going to camp in summer. There are high chances of you finding insects and bugs around the campsite. Makes sense to wear something which covers your arms and legs.
A pair of good hiking shoes is very important if you are trekking in the mountains. Check that the shoes must be water resistant. Carry few pair of socks as well.
Stove and Ration: A lightweight solo stove will help you preparing some hot meals. Carry a lightweight pot, and some dehydrated food or boil in the bag type meals which can be easily prepared and don’t need an elaborate setup.
Carry a snack bag containing dry fruits, nuts and trail mix.
Or you can go like Bear Grylls and catch your food before roasting it on the fire you created. 😉
Water Bottle: It’s important to carry a water bottle while travelling in general. Don’t use plastic. Make sure that you have a water source near your campsite. Otherwise you will have to carry a lot of water with you. It will just be an additional luggage.
Other important things:
- Fire starter and extra matches
- Walking pole – for a hiking trip
- Battery backup
- Multi tool knife
- Toilet paper
- Some music and a book
