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There are few things as enjoyable as time spent marveling at the majestic beauty and serenity of nature. Camping can be an excellent way to experience this and can foster a sense of oneness with your natural surroundings. The outdoors can be matronly at her best, but she can be hostile and unforgiving for those unprepared to deal with her at her worst.
Any camping trip, whether it is with vehicles or trekking on foot with backpacks should be well thought out and prepared for. For the sake of the limited space available for this article, we will assume the more challenging of the scenarios and describe the considerations needed for a camping trip on foot. The first, initial step is determining the scope of your trip. How long do you plan on staying at your campsite? Will your site be remote or will it be in an area close to the conveniences and safety of civilization? What time of year are you planning to go and what sort of weather conditions might be encountered?
First, you should have access to maps of the area you plan to do your camping in. Familiarizing yourself with the prominent features of the terrain in the area can be invaluable if you or one of the other members of your camping party becomes lost. Locating sources of water within walking distance of your campsite can also prove important for a host of reasons, from sanitation to emergency drinking water sources (warning: you should always bring your own drinking water in sufficient supply to last beyond your expected stay. Drinking water from any other source brings the threat of severe health risks and careful precautions should be taken before ingesting from any unproven supply.).
Next, what size tent will you need and can you comfortably transport it to your site? The tent should be easily portable, yet be sturdy and large enough to house your camping party, clothing, and weather sensitive supplies in any of the severest potential weather conditions for the area you will be in. Food stores should be kept within the confines of the tent as wild animals can become attracted to the scent and visit at inconvenient times and with little regard to your nutritional needs.
Emergency equipment should include flashlights for each member of the camping party with spare batteries, a well thought out and fully stocked first aid kit, clothing and spares to keep you warm and dry in the severest of conditions, and a good knife. Food supplies should be sufficient for the planned duration of your trip with a little extra for dealing with the unforeseen. Critical to any survival equipment package is the means to communicate with the outside world in case of emergencies. With the advent of cell phones, this can be easily handled, provided there is sufficient battery power to last till you return from the trip.
Whether you plan an ambitious journey to the mountains or a comfortable overnight hike into a popular park, preparation and a well thought out survival kit will lead to an enjoyable, safe experience in the outdoors.
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