Essential Camping Gear For An Overnight Trip

An overnight camping trip can be the perfect remedy to an over-stressed, over-scheduled, multi-tasking life. To get the most from your outdoor adventure, it is important to bring essential gear without overpacking. The list of essentials will vary based on what you are planning to do, where and when you are camping and who is in your party. Here is a list of some key items you should consider bringing along on your trip:
1. Food and water � Fishing for meals is a nice ideal, but not always realistic. Even if you plan to catch your dinner, bring along food in case things don’t go as planned. Also, unless you know the water nearby is safe to drink, plan to either bring chemical tablets or enough drinking water to keep you hydrated.

2.Sleeping bag, tent or tarp � Plan on a tent that is large enough for your party. If claustrophobia is a concern, plan on a size that will accommodate your group plus two or three more people. Also, consider the height of your tallest camper when selecting your tent. If you prefer to �sleep under the stars,� bring a waterproof tarp to lay under your sleeping bags or use as an emergency shelter in case of rain.

3.Extra clothing; socks � Bring clothes that are easy to layer. Temperatures in wilderness areas can vary widely from daytime heat to nighttime chill. Layered clothing is easy to adjust as you need it. Extra socks are worth a space in your pack, too. Feel sensations are worse than wet, cold feet and a spare pair of socks can substitute as mittens or even emergency bandages if needed.

4.First aid kit, essential medications, sun block and insect repellant � Bring a small first-aid with bandages, disinfectants and other important supplies. Bring along (and use) sun block and insect repellant so that your camping experience doesn’t leave you with unpleasant after effects. If anyone takes medication, make sure you bring the necessary doses.

5.Flashlight or battery powered lantern � Bring a flashlight and/or a battery powered lantern to use after dark. Propane lanterns are not safe to use inside a tent and can spill. Also, remember to bring extra batteries.

6.Cooking gear -- Unless you bring a ready supply of ready-to-eat food when camping, cooking equipment will be important. This list can include: a multi-purpose knife, a camp stove, matches, dishes and cutlery and a small supply of dish soap.

Other essential wilderness equipment to consider include: toiletries, a map and rain gear.
By bringing enough comforts along on your overnight trip while balancing the need to pack light, you can make your outdoor getaway a wonderful break from the daily routine.