Introduction to Camping by a Boy Scout

Summer, when the green forests chirp with birds, is perfect for camping. The sound of calm is relaxing if you feel stressed. Here’s what to bring, where to camp, and what to do.

Tent: Tents come in a variety of sizes, and if this is your first time camping, it can be overwhelming to choose the right tent. Some tips: Your luggage counts as one person, too. That means that if you want to put your luggage into a “one-person” tent, it won’t fit. Some tents allow you to put your luggage outside the tent underneath a tarp rainfly instead. Your tent rainfly needs to be waterproof, not water-resistant, which allows water to enter the tent. On the same note, ensure that your tent allows moisture to escape, as some tents don’t, and on cold nights, this can cause condensation.

Sleeping Bag/Pad: Sleeping bags need to be rated at least 10 degrees cooler than the expected lowest temperature for a men’s bag. The rating on a men’s bag is a survival rating, indicating the absolute lowest temperature where someone can survive with the bag, which is roughly 10 degrees cooler than the comfort rating. Women’s bags are typically rated by their comfort rating already, but make sure to check first. You need to have a good sleeping pad because it insulates you from the cold ground. I prefer an inflatable pad, but if you’re scared of popping, opt for a foam one instead.

Cooking: You will need a Camp Stove, not a lightweight stove (those are only good for water). You need some good pots, pans, spatulas, knives, and other cookware, along with plates, forks, and spoons. If you want to cook over a fire, get some good firewood, at least two packs, matches, and a Dutch oven/grill.

You will also need flashlights/batteries, toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, soap, toilet paper), water (if not provided), and plenty of clothes (wear polyester as it dries faster).

Extra items include sunblock (if you plan to be in the sun), bags (for trash, excrement, dirty clothes, and other things you want to store), hand sanitizer (instead of washing hands every time), carabiners (for connecting things such as your lamp to the top of your tent), and first aid kit (for injuries). For relaxing at camp, bring the following: camp chairs, a book/ereader, binoculars, and a game.

Most national and state parks have campgrounds where you can camp, but reservations must be made in advance. If the park allows camping outside of campgrounds, pick a high, dry, and flat spot to pitch your tent. Point the slimmer side of your tent upwind, and stake it down with tent stakes and a big rock. Put all your food in either a bear box or in a tree (your car isn’t safe from bears). Bears can climb trees, but bears are lazy and usually leave your food alone. Cook away from your tents, and do not leave food out. If you encounter a bear, act big and scary, and it will probably leave. There is easier food somewhere else.

When you are well established at camp, you are ready to enjoy yourself. Try taking a hike. Along the way, look for animals or maybe find a geocache. At the camp, relax and take in nature, play a game, or enjoy a campfire. Make sure to look at the stars!