Top 5 Camping Survival Essentials

I don’t often feature how-to articles here on Sophie’s World. However, we’re going to Wales this summer, and I’m considering giving camping a try. Now to persuade the girls…

Today’s guest post comes from freelance writer Tom Armenante. I’ve asked Tom to share his best five camping tips.

Getting back in touch with nature can be an eye-opening and rewarding experience.

The most experienced of campers will have their own list of must-haves, derived from years of experience in the field. The novice camper on the other hand, may not have as much insight. To that end, here is a list of the top 5 must-have items for the best camping experience.

Wind-up Head Torch

A torch in general is always crucial when camping for those late night saunters. The beauty of a wind-up torch means you don’t have to worry about the batteries running out. A head torch has even more of an advantage so your hands are free to make fires, set up tents and cook food.

Portable Gas Stove

Portable gas stoves are a god-send. If your camp fire isn’t going the way you hoped and your camping buddies are on the hungry side, a portable gas stove is the perfect cooking companion. They run for a long time on small cartridges from your local DIY store, costing only a couple of pounds. Lightweight stoves sell for under £20.

Knife

Invest in a good knife. Knives can be so helpful on camping trips, for cooking, cutting small twigs for fire kindling, clearing a space for camp, and much more. Always take either a pocket knife – whose other components may come in just as handy, or a knife with a sheath. Safety is paramount when camping and you don’t want to slash your fingers open when fumbling through your rucksack for your head torch!

First-Aid Kit

Just in case you do end up slicing your finger or hurting yourself in any other way, you must have a full first-aid kit available. Your basic kit should consist of plasters, gauze pads, scissors, bandage, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes and instant cold pack.

Insect Repellent

Depending on where in the world you are camping, insect repellent is of varying necessity. But even in most British camping sites, especially at the height of summer, you find little biters who would have a field day without some strong repellent to keep them at bay.

There you have it! Are you a happy camper? Do you have any other camping advice?

Photo credits: Wye Valley camping site: most uncool, head torch by tj. blackwell, gas stove by AA7JC, knife by CapCase, first-aid box by C_Knaus, and insect by Gravitywave.

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