There is lots of gear to bring with you and most campers have a tried-and-true list of their own. The list varies from camper to camper and with geography, season, and type of camping facility.
There are a few things, however, that never hurt to have around no matter what type of camping you do or where you do it. These are things you may use once in awhile but they tend to be just the thing you need when you need them so they are worth the space to bring them with you.
Folding military type shovel. These are compact and useful as can be. Not just for digging, you’ll find yourself using them to move wood or hot coals around more often than not. They are useful for putting the fire out by smothering it with dirt and they fold away to a small footprint in your trunk or toolbox.
Fire resistant gloves are another great to have object. We sometimes get carried away while fueling a campfire and can build one that’s almost too big to approach. Wearing gloves will see to it you aren’t injured by the heat being emitted and can literally pick up anything cooking over the hot coals. They are inexpensive and will last for a long time.
A headlamp can come in handy in unexpected ways. It is perfect for hands free operation such as when you are walking two small kids to the bathroom at night. It always shines in the direction your head is pointing so it frees you up to hold the little ones’ hands as you navigate your way at night.
Extra batteries. You’ll need a variety of them. Plan to bring a sampling of all the most often used battery sizes. You will be glad you did once the baby’s stuffed animal ceases to sing and your little one can’t sleep without it.
A box for your medications, your pets’ medications and shot records, your emergency contact numbers, and phone numbers for your bank accounts. You never know when you will have to leave the rig in a hurry. If you only have to reach for the basket and head out the door you have a much better chance of making it out with your documents and making it out alive.
