The preparation for every camping trip can be hectic at times, but a wise camper will create a camping checklist to make the outing go more smoothly with a great reduction in the associated stress. There is bound to be some item of necessity left at home on nearly every camping trip, but to create a camping checklist ensures that these errors will be kept to a minimum in frequency and importance.
It is a good idea that each and every member of a camping party create their own individualized camping checklist for their personal items, as in this activity, each person is accountable for their own comfort. When this has been accomplished, the group as a whole can get together and create a camping checklist for items that will be utilized by the entire camping party.
The best way to create a camping checklist is, to begin with, items of personal clothing and hygiene, keeping in mind the necessity to pack efficiently. A very good way to accomplish this is to sit in a quiet place for about ten minutes with a notebook and pen and visualize what a typical day in camp will encompass from the moment you awake until the minute you go to sleep.
By doing this, you will most likely cover most of the important items that will be needed on your camping trip, and forgotten items will be kept to a minimum with little significance attached. The next step to create a camping checklist is to include items that may not be an absolute necessity for the trip but will supply comfort and make the trip a bit more joyful. A small, battery-powered radio, a deck of cards, or a small stash of candy or other goodies can be a blessing on a rainy day when you are stuck inside of a tent for hours.
When each individual in the camping party has finished their camping checklist, it is time to gather as a group and collectively address the common needs of the entire party. To create a camping checklist in this manner, it is best to discuss and explore each area of camping separately, such as food, shelter, recreation, emergencies, etc. (Don’t forget the snacks!) By doing this, everyone will be satisfied the preparations are adequate in each aspect before moving on to the next topic.
This is a great way to create a camping checklist because, in these discussions, there are usually some very good ideas presented that will be certain to make everyone’s trip more enjoyable.
