Gear Checklist for Your First Tent Camping Trip

The biggest worry before your first tent camping trip is often the question: "Will I forget something?" In the outdoors, even one small missing item can spoil the fun. In this guide we have gathered tent camping gear category by category; you can go through the list from start to finish and adapt it to your own trip. Use the headings below like a checklist. Some items may change depending on the season, how long you stay and the facilities of the area you visit. Shelter Your first protection in nature is the tent and the layers beneath it. A solid setup keeps you safe from both rain and damp ground. • Tent (with stakes, guy lines and spare stakes) • Ground tarp or footprint (laid under the tent to block moisture) • Sleeping mat or inflatable pad (reduces the cold and hardness of the ground) • Spare cord and a few clothespins (handy for tensioning and drying) Sleep A good night's sleep sets the energy for the next day. Build a setup that keeps your body warm and lets you rest comfortably. • Sleeping bag (suited to the night temperatures of your season) • Small pillow or inflatable pillow (or a case stuffed with clothes) • Thin blanket or thermal liner (an extra layer on cool nights) Cooking A warm meal takes the camping experience to a whole new level. Find out in advance from the area's rules whether open fires are allowed. • Camping stove or small burner • Spare gas canister or fuel • Pot, pan and a heat-resistant container • Fork, spoon, knife and a cutting board • Lighter and spare matches (in a waterproof box) • Biodegradable dish soap and a sponge Lighting Being able to see the area after sunset is a matter of both comfort and safety. • Headlamp (keeps your hands free, the most practical option) • Flashlight or camping lantern • Spare batteries or a power bank Clothing layers Weather changes quickly outdoors. Dressing in layers is the easiest way to adapt to the temperature swings throughout the day. • Moisture-wicking base layer • Insulating layer (fleece or a light jacket) • Outer layer (wind- and waterproof jacket) • Spare socks and underwear • Hat, beanie and gloves (depending on the season) • Waterproof shoes with a sturdy sole Water and food Staying hydrated is the most basic rule in the outdoors. Find out beforehand whether the area has drinking water; if not, carry enough with you. • Refillable water bottle or canteen • Water purification tablets or a portable filter • Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare foods (nuts, dried fruit, canned goods) • Leak-proof storage containers and a trash bag (leave no trace) First aid and hygiene Even a small cut or blister can be unpleasant if you are not prepared. • Plasters, sterile gauze and antiseptic • Your personal medication and a pain reliever • Sunscreen and insect repellent • Wet wipes, toilet paper and biodegradable soap • A small towel and a toothbrush Final pre-departure check Before you set off, take a few minutes to review these items; the most commonly forgotten things are usually the simplest. • Have you checked the weather and the rules of the area you are visiting? • Is your phone and charger fully charged? • Are the tent stakes and guy lines complete? • Do you have backups for fuel, water and lighting? • Is your bag ready to carry your trash back out? In some areas an official per-person entry fee is charged, while others are free; for national and nature parks it is wise to find out in advance from the relevant authority whether prior registration or a permit is needed. Once your gear is ready, all that remains is choosing the place. On Obania you can filter areas suitable for tent camping that offer facilities such as a cooking spot, drinking water or toilets, and discover the place that fits you best.