A family camping holiday in the summer is a Kiwi tradition – waking up to the smell of sun on canvas and the rustle of sleeping bags is one of life's great joys. Camping used to be a very spartan affair, but with the advent of retailer chains selling camping equipment, it can now be a very comfortable way to get away from it all.
Packing for a camping trip can seem like a marathon, but as long as you have a few key items, then, to continue with fine kiwi tradition; 'she'll be right'.
Tent
Fairly obvious of course, but before you leave, take you tent out, air it and check that you have all the pegs, ropes etc and that they haven't deteriorated since the last time you used it. Pack a mallet or hammer to drive the pegs in well and make any necessary repairs before you leave.
Stove
If you are staying in a camping ground, you may be happy to use the facilities provided, but a gas stove is always handy. Fill the bottle before you leave and check that it is in good working order. Along with the stove, pack any pots, kettle or implements you will need. Sometimes it's just as easy to take a portable bbq instead. Gas ones are best, particularly if there is a fire ban.
First Aid Kit
This is an essential piece of camping equipment. Do a serious inventory of your first aid kit; instant ice packs (that you crack and they release cold) are brilliant and available at good pharmacies. You will need insect repellent, an antihistamine of some description, pain killers (including a liquid form for children), sunscreen, tweezers, strapping tape, sticking plaster, antiseptic cream and the like. If you are travelling with anyone who may require an epi-pen, ensure there is a spare on in your kit. A good anti inflammatory gel for sprains and strains is a good idea too.
Bedding
Summer nights can be chilly, especially if you are sleeping on or near the ground. Take bed rolls and good sleeping bags, and pillows to keep the peas away from the princesses!
Chilli Bin or Portable Fridge
If you are camping with power available, take a fridge – chilli bins are great short term solutions, but there is nothing like a fridge if you can manage it.
Solar Shower
If you are going off the beaten track, a solar shower is a wonderful piece of equipment – it's all very well swimming to keep clean, but sometimes there's just nothing like warm fresh water!
Utensils and Gadgets
Take a fire lighter if you need it to start a bbq or fire – have matches as a backup, but it is great to have a flame you can rely upon in a breeze.
If you are going to be fishing or trapping, take all the equipment you will need.
Similarly, ensure you have chargers (or car adaptors) for cellphones, tablets, cameras or anything else that runs on battery power.
Booking Confirmations
If you need to book your campsites, take hard copies of the reservations just in case. Check if you have not received booking confirmations before you depart.
Games and Books and Non-electronic Entertainment
Rain happens. Power cuts happen. Family time happens (thankfully!). Make sure you take some activities that everyone can join in with (beach cricket, bat down, petanque, Frisbee), or board games, books and colouring in.
Don't always rely on DVDs, ipads or game consoles – you are supposed to be in nature, remember?
A Sense of Adventure and Humour
Some of the greatest family stories and urban myths happen when things don't go according to plan. So long as you have some practical items that may help in case of emergency (basic tools, rope, water tights bins to protect items that need to stay dry), then be prepared to get creative if things go awry – and then tell the tale!
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