Like with any other important trip, it is key to put together a list of things you will need to remember to prepare and take with you when you go camping in the wilderness. After all, the last thing that you want to happen is to go on a camping trip far, far away from your home, and realize that you forgot something gravely important - like food or your tent for shelter! If you want to be a smart camper, then be an organized camper. Make lists of what you need, and prepare these items accordingly.



Section your list off to areas. Start with shelter and sleeping needs. You will need a tent, tarp for under the tent, stakes, poles, guy lines and a hammer. For sleeping, you will need a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, air mattresses or cots. An extra comforter would be a good idea for cool nights.

Next on the checklist would be cooking. Depending on how you plan to cook, you would need a grill, camp stove or Dutch oven. Don't forget the charcoal, matches and coolers. You will also need plenty of water, food, pots, pans, cooking and eating utensils, hot pads, knives and a can opener.

First aid kit and supplies are necessary in case of accident or injury. This should contain band-aids, gauze, and antibiotic ointment, antiseptic cream; burn ointment, peroxide and aspirin. In addition, include any personal medications you may be on.

Now, you will need to focus on personal items, such as, clothes and hygiene. Bring t-shirts, jeans, sweaters, underwear, good walking shoes and boots, as well as, your rain gear. Personal items would include toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, hairbrush, towels, razor and toilet paper.

You will also need cleaning items. On this list would be a broom, dustpan, dishpan, detergent, towels and scrubbing items. Don't forget trash bags to hold all your garbage, as you want to keep your area clean.

Miscellaneous items would include bug spray, sun lotion, a compass and weather radio. Also include a lantern, flashlight with extra batteries and any tools you may need.

In addition to the items you will need to bring with you, there are other to-do things before you launch your outside adventure. First, you must select a campground. It is always helpful if you can visit it ahead of time. Check out the showers, bathrooms and recreational facilities. Look for cleanliness, the type of clientele, the noise level and the staff's behavior. Once you have decided on a site, make your reservations.

Tell a friend or relative where you are going, when you are leaving and when you will be returning. Map out your traveling routes and provide the numbers of the local county authorities of the area you will be in. Leave your cell phone number, vehicle description and license number and the hand held radio channel you will be using.

Arrange to have your mail collected, pets fed and cared for and house looked after. Also, have your vehicle checked before you leave and have any needed repairs made. Continue to check your vehicle as you travel and pay attention to the air in your tires.

Pack the items you will need first last. The items you will not need right away should be packed last. Precook any meat dishes, freeze casseroles, precut vegetables and grate cheeses in advance. Follow your checklist when packing. By following this checklist before you leave, you'll be better prepared for your camping trip and now all you should have on your mind is how much you will enjoy it.