18 March 2014

Packing for Camping Lite

A list of what I packed for my first trip(three days). Followed by my thoughts on what I needed, didn't need, etc.

Shelter:
  -6'x10' tarp
  -Eno Hammock
  -sleeping bag to 40 below
  -sleeping pad
  -50' of paracord
  -two lightweight tent stakes
  -various bungees

Food/Water:
  -6 protein bars
  -three cans of tuna
  -a dove dark chocolate bar
  -a bag of baby carrots
  -two ears of corn, seasoned and wrapped in tin foil
  -two oranges and an apple
  -a container of ground coffee and single serving filters
  -four bottles of Ensure
  -one collapsible 1L water container
  -one camelbak water bottle

Tools and Other:
  -biodegradable wet wipes
  -first aid kit with medicines
  -pocket knife
  -multiple fire creating mechanisms
  -items for personal protection*
  -tiny camp stove and fuel
  -a metal cup
  -a fork, spoon, knife, bottle opener tool
  -a screwdriver, plier, etc tool
  -a small brick of fire starter
  -clean underwear, bathing suit top, tank top and shorts.
  -a small rag, about the size of a washcloth



A few things I want to add to my gear before my next trip:
  -A 3'x2' -ish square of treated canvas that I can fold or roll to store away and will repel dirt and water. Mostly can give me a clean surface for preparing and eating food.  But I found think it will serve a variety of uses.
  -A tripod camp stool. I know its a luxury, but its a burden I am willing to carry.
  -Stronger rope and rope system with which to hang my hammock and tent. The two stakes worked well. But I need four or five lengths of stronger/better rope and a good way to store them to prevent tangling.

I was surprised how much I used that little rag. I used it to dry sh.. stuff, and to wipe shi...stuff off my hands, cleaning pocket knives, etc. It was very easy to clean; Just a little soap and rinse in the camp bathroom, and it dried overnight. It was so useful that I just kept it tucked into my back pocket.

Also clutch was the tiny stove. It saved a lot of time in the morning, not having to build/stoke a fire to have fresh coffee. A coffee, an orange, and breakfast bar will go a long way when you need to pack in a hurry. 

Looking back, I think I packed pretty well. I have some experience backpacking and camping, so I'm sure that helped me know what to leave at home and what I would actually need. I guess in the end its all about the experience anyways.

As always, let me know your thoughts and experiences in the comments!
~Amanda Terranova

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