The new normal has forced the majority of us to take up new and different hobbies due to the restrictions placed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to avoid the spread of Covid-19. So the usual taking flights from one point to another has been put on hold, at least for most countries. As a new camper, there are some camping gear essentials you need to pack with you at all times because a successful camping trip starts with packing right. As you pack, don’t forget to factor in safety measures that will help protect you and others from spreading or contracting the virus. Having your masks, plenty of sanitizer or hand soap, gloves on hand incase and maintaining safe social distancing is important.
Essential Camping Equipment in COVID-19 Restrictions
1. Good Quality Tent
Ensure your tent is waterproof and the size of your tent fits the amount of people you want it to fit. Also take note of the ease of set up and pack up. Backpacking tents are small, lightweight and meant to travel in your pack, while heavier car-camping tents which are designed for drive-in camp spots (or backyards) have more features and interior space. If you can get a tent you can stand up in, the better as you can easily change your clothes and move around comfortably. Murphy’s Creek Escape gives you the option of hiring our tents if you don’t own one or in case something happens to yours.
2. A Comfortable Sleeping Bag or Swag
Buy a sleeping bag that has enough room for you to toss and turn in and one appropriate for the season you are camping in. You could also opt for a stretcher if you prefer being higher up from the ground. Keep note of the material used as well and it should have ample padding. Also consider an Aussie swag if you are thinking about extended camping stays around Australia. These will ensure you have a place to sleep no matter the place or conditions.
3. Proper Lighting
It can get really dark in the wilderness hence why it is crucial to have a proper lighting system and consider how it will be powered up. Solar powered lanterns are a go to for many as well as LED lights cause they last longer. You will need some kind of lighting when hiking early in the morning or going to the washroom in the middle of the night. Do not rely on campfires as it is risky to leave these fires unattended to. Invest in headlamps as well. Before purchasing any form of lighting, ensure you do extensive research as they are a number to choose from.
4. First Aid Kit
While outdoors one can easily get injured so it is important to have a first aid kit. Inside, you will find everything you need for cuts, scrapes, and blisters, alongside a first aid book with information on how to handle certain injuries. Your first aid kit should also include medicines such as aspirin, paracetamol, antacid, antidiarrheal, antihistamine and antiseptic as well as bandage, adhesive tape, sterile gauze dressings, sterile eye dressings, skin rash cream, cotton balls, thermometer, alcohol, scissors, and safety pins.
5. A kitchen Utensil Kit
An already assembled kitchen kit is a convenient way to ensure you don’t leave any cutlery behind. These sets may come with folding tools, like a spatula and serving spoon, prepware like a cutting board and cheese grater, two condiment containers, salt and pepper shakers, and four full cutlery sets. You will need to carry cooking pots or pans on the side plus cooking devices such as a stove.
6. Camping Chairs
These are essential whether you use them to sit around the fire or when unwinding from a long day. Eventually one may tire from sitting on the rough ground or a log. Ensure you get one that is comfortable, durable and also one that has cup holder pockets.
7. Camping Generator
Many may not agree with the idea of bringing a generator to a campsite but it is a reliable way ensuring there is stable power supply. It is not wrong to have power supply in the middle of your campsite. It may actually come in handy especially during an emergency. All in all, it depends with one’s personal preference at the end of the day.
8. A Portable Cooler
On a hot day, the first thing you think about is getting a cold refreshing drink. A cooler helps you keep your drinks cold and also keeps foodstuffs fresh. You can find a number of coolers in the market just ensure you get one that has excellent insulation.
9. Solar Heated Portable Shower
Even when camping it’s important to shower. A good shower can be a good relief from the heat as it reduces stress, boosts alertness, speeds up muscle soreness, and keeps you clean which may help you sleep better at night. These solar heated showers are able to carry over 20 litres of water and are easy to use and carry around.
10. Multi Tools
Multi tools have a number of built in instruments such as can openers, scissors, pliers, wire cutters and more. This will save you the stress of carrying a bunch of tools. The multi tools come in handy when an emergency arises. Note that children should not handle this tool unsupervised.
These are just some of the essential equipment you should have with you. You can get most if not all from camping gear outlets or online. Lastly, don’t forget to have a good time.
For all your camping gear and accessories when camping in South East Queensland, you can check out these top camping stores in Queensland.