Someone asked me the other day what my advice would be for novice campers. Everyone knows a tent and sleeping bag go on the list, but what is something that those without much experience might overlook, yet is vital to a safe and fun camping trip? Three ideas immediately came to mind:

1)    Sleeping Pad – Unless you enjoy the feel of the hard, cold and wet ground against your body, enhanced by rocks and twigs sticking into your back…you’re going to need one of these. Not only does a sleeping pad provide as-close-to-a-bed-as-you’re-gonna-get comfort, but it can actually keep you up to 10 degrees warmer while you sleep since it separates you from the cold earth. I fancy this one from REI since it’s 3.5 inches thick (read: as-close-to-a-bed-as-you’re-gonna-get).

2)    Head Lamp – The woods get dark much quicker than you think. One minute you’re setting up camp in broad daylight, and 5 minutes later it’s pitch black out there. A good light is absolutely necessary for camping, and while some might think a flashlight is sufficient, it actually makes pitching a tent or setting up a campfire pretty painful, as you only have one free hand. Hence, a hands-free head lamp is your best bet. Check out the wide selection offered at REI.

3)    Bug Repellent – You will curse yourself for forgetting to pack bug spray as soon as night falls. Mosquitoes will (and have) ruin a perfectly tranquil night at camp. This recommendation I truly take to heart, as I myself forgot the bug spray one fateful camping trip, and was punished on Monday morning by waking up to approximately 70 mosquito bites on each of my legs. I recommend steering clear of both mosquitoes and harmful chemicals with an organic or natural repellent, such as Herbal Armor’s Insect Repellent.

…happy camping season!