How to Pack for Tent Camping

Tent camping is entirely different from other forms of modern camping. No electricity, no heater, no fans, no TV, no microwaves. This is primitive camping--but it doesn't mean you have to suffer. Pack the right kind of gear to enjoy your time in the great outdoors.

Things You'll Need

• Tent Tarp Rain fly Clothes Sleeping bags Camp food Games

Instructions

1. Get a tent. Tents come in all sizes and shapes, and can be purchased from discount and sporting good stores. Always buy a bigger tent than you think you need. A "four-man tent" is more comfortable if only two are in it, and family may want to have a separate tent for the kids.

2. Pack a tarp and a rain fly. The tarp is to place under the tent to keep water from seeping through the floor. It will also keep the tent clean. Fold the tarp under the tent so none of it sticks out to catch rain. The rain fly will provide shelter from sun and rain while you cook, eat or just sit around enjoying nature.

3. Pack chairs. Light folding chairs will not only keep you off the ground, but make lounging around the campfire much more enjoyable. Chairs come in basic designs, and also with arm rests, cup holders or foot rests.

4. Pack for the weather--all of it. Always pack for any kind of weather: rain, sun, wind and cold. Even if your trip is in July, pack for cool nights. Bring extra shoes in case you get wet and muddy. Pack your clothes in large zip-top bags to keep them from getting damp and dirty. The bags can be used to pack away dirty, smoky clothes when you're done.

5. Pack tasty camp food. You can keep it simple with hot dogs roasted over the fire, sandwiches and chips. Or be more adventurous and pack a camp stove for a hot breakfast of eggs, bacon and pancakes. Pack your cooler with lots of ice to keep things cool, and keep your "dry goods" in sealed storage containers. Paper plates will make clean up simpler, but you'll also need a wash tub for cleaning cook gear. A storage tub that carried your buns and paper plates can be used as a temporary wash tub.

6. Pack for the animals. Well, not for the animals as much as preventing them from getting to your gear and food. Plastic storage totes are a good idea to keep your food safe from the weather and bugs, and a bungee cord wrapped around the tote will keep out raccoons. If you plan to camp in an area with bears, keep your food in your car.

7. Sleeping gear. The most basic sleeping item for tent camping is a sleeping bag. You'll also want a pillow and something to pad the floor. A simple mat will the do the trick for short trips and younger campers. A longer trip may call for an inflatable air mattress. If you're camping in the summer, pack a sheet in case the sleeping bag is too warm. In cooler seasons, pack an extra blanket.

8. Bring light. It gets dark out in the woods, so bring flash lights and extra batteries. A lantern is also a good idea for lighting larger areas or playing games after dark. If you're camping with kids, let them bring glow sticks or glow bracelet's. They'll have fun with them and it will make it easier for you to keep an eye on them in the dark.