10 Camping Essentials for Newbies

Packing for a regular trip can be complicated enough, but a camping adventure? That’s a whole different ballgame. Everything you stuff in that giant bag must have a purpose, or else, it’s just dead weight. If it’s your first time, know that certain non-negotiable camping essentials can make your trip stress-free. Here are some things to bring so you can sit back and enjoy life off the grid.

Tents come in different sizes, so choose one based on how many of your buddies are tagging along. Find something durable and easy to set up. You don’t want your tent flying off in the wind. More importantly, figure out how you’re transporting the tent (and everything else) to your campsite. If you’re driving, you can probably afford to bring a sturdier shelter. However, if you have to carry it up a mountain, consider something more lightweight.

Compared to air beds, sleeping pads are a better option because they’re lighter and easier to assemble. Find one with enough support in case you’re sleeping on rough terrain. The bed you bring will determine your sleep quality, so if your body isn’t quick to acclimatize to new environments, invest in a sleeping pad that makes you as comfortable as possible.

If you’re not hiking to your campsite, bring a wheeled cooler! This cold storage camping essential can make your evening ten times more fun. The built-in wheels and retractable handle also make it easy to drag along anywhere. Think of it as your carry-on luggage, but with brats and cold beers. Broke your back pitching your tent? Take a break and crack open a cold one.

The main event of any camping trip is when you fire up the grill, so this item should be at the top of your camping essentials list. You can even get one of those dual-purpose grills that can make hot pots or steam rice. Choose one based on heat source, size, and portability. Plan your menu and keep it simple. Pro tip: prepare a frozen dish at home like galbi jjim for your first meal so you can just throw it on the grill with your samgyeopsal.

There’s nothing manlier than being able to start a fire without matches or a lighter, but it’s always handy to have one or the other (or both). It can also be used for cutting ropes, poking holes through plastic materials, or gluing certain fabrics together. Who knows what you might encounter in the wild?

Don’t forget to add these to your list of camping essentials and make sure all your gadgets, including your phone, tablet, or laptop are at 100%. Pack a couple of power banks while you’re at it. Try getting solar-powered lamps with USB slots, so you don’t have to worry about charging – and you can use them to charge. Pack a battery-operated portable fan to stay cool (and carry extra AAs just in case).

Your camping essentials won’t be complete without a first aid kit. It should contain essential meds like antacids and paracetamol, as well as bandages and treatments for potential cuts or burns from roughing it out. Before packing, check the expiration dates. Remember, Band-aids can expire too.

It’s a good idea to have all your personal effects in one place. Choose a lightweight and waterproof toiletry bag to store all your essentials. Don’t leave home without LIFEBUOY Antibacterial Soap Total 10. Formulated with germ-fighting Activ Silver+, this soap can protect you from bacteria that can cause illnesses, which can be inconvenient when there are no beds or toilets!

Meanwhile, pack Dove Men+Care Clean Comfort Body + Face Bar to keep your skin clean and smelling fresh. It delivers a deep, refreshing wash that leaves skin feeling hydrated (complete with citrusy and woody notes) and strong enough to weather harsh environments.

Add a soundtrack to the great big show under the stars or make a playlist for bonfire conversation. However, make sure it’s not disruptive, especially if you’re blasting it on speaker. Noise pollution is a thing, and your fellow campers might mind. An alternative? Bring your guitar and jam to your barkada’s favorite tunes. Music makes everything better. Keep that in mind when packing your camping essentials.

Just in case, you know, a wild boar attacks in the middle of the night. Oh yeah, they open canned food, too.

You don’t need to throw your entire house in your duffel bag! Travel light but pack smart by carrying these camping essentials.