The Basics

• Before you head out on your camping adventure, pack up the basic camping equipment. Start by having a tent, sleeping bag, camping stove, and food and water. Select a sleeping bag based on the type of camping you are doing. A basic sleeping bag is all you need if camping in warm weather. If you camp in mild conditions, select a less expensive nylon sleeping bag. If you are camping in colder weather, purchase a bag that will keep you warm and is made of a high thread count. Bags made of polyester fabric repel water well.
  
  

Building A Fire

• When you go camping, you need a fire to keep warm. Some campers also prefer to cook over an open fire rather than use a camping stove. Take with you a small ax to split wood. If it rains and the wood you bring or collect gets wet, use the ax to split the wood and expose the dry section to use to start the fire. Carry a butaine lighter and matches as a back up. Keep them in a dry location.
  
  

Cooking

• The supplies you bring along for food while camping depend on whether you want to do some home cooking or make it simple. Purchase dried bags of food for camping at your local sporting good store. If you plan on doing some home cooking, pack a cooler with the food you will eat while you are away on your trip. Include cookware, charcoal or propane grill, and fuel for the grill. Bring along cooking utensils and plastic cutlery for eating the food that is prepared. Also pack napkins and tablecloths, and, to round it out, include trash bags to clean up after meals.
  
  

Toiletries

• Don't leave home without the basic toiletries. Pack your bags with toothpaste, toothbrushes and mouthwash. Also include shampoo and conditioner for showers after hiking or a fun day in the lake. Quarters will be needed for pay showers, if you are in a location that provides them. Also pack toilet paper. Protect yourself from the sun, even during seasons other than the summer, with sunscreen, and bring along bug spray to keep those pests away.