Camping

There are many different things to do in the U.S. or overseas for a wide variety of budgets...or lack thereof.

For those traveling in the U.S. on a budget ~ or who want to experience the "great outdoors," camping is a great way to go.  There are campsites for every type of person - those who have to have electricity and those who want to completely "rough it."  

Camping in a National Park is a great experience, and price-wise, acceptable, particularly if a National Parks Pass is purchased.  Although there are many private-owned campgrounds, they greatly range in quality, whereas the government facilities are rather "uniform" in what to expect. 

A "step up" from camping in a tent would be to rent an RV.  Renting an RV is especially popular for travel to National Parks such as Yellowstone or Mesa Verde.  They come in various sizes, ranging from "manageable for the average man" to "insanely humongous for the determined traveler." 

For those souls brave enough to do without the luxuries of everyday life, here's a camping checklist.  These are suggestions, not laws!  It can be adapted to fit your needs or lifestyle.

      Camping Checklist*

Sleeping/Tent Necessities
Tent
Tarp (for setting tent up on)
Broom/dustpan (sweep dust/dirt out of tent)
Rain flap (if doesn't come with tent)
Flashlight (lantern or other style)
Dust mat (for wiping feet/removing shoes)
Hammer (or other tool for hammering tent stakes)
Sleeping bag(s)
Sheets/blankets 
Air mattress or pad
Pillow(s)
Air pump (if not included with air mattress)
Cooking Necessities
Pots/pans
Large water can/canister (3 or 5 gal for potable water)
Stove with propane gas (and gas canisters)
Can opener
Tablecloth
Utensils (forks, spoons, knives)
Serving / cooking utensils (i.e., tongs, spatula, etc.)
Plates/bowls
Napkins/paper towels
Cooking oil
Measuring cups (or "wing it!")
Portable table (make sure it's sturdy enough!)
Condiments / seasonings (salt, pepper, etc.)
Knife (sharp one for cutting/peeling)
Personal Necessities
Deodorant
Toothpaste / toothbrush
Shampoo
Soap
Toilet paper
Towel / washcloth
Comb / hairbrush
First aid kit (medications, bandages, etc.)
Sunscreen
Insect repellant
Other personal hygiene items
Clothing Necessities
Shirts
Shorts
Sweatshirts / sweaters (if needed)
Pants / jeans / sweatpants
Night clothes (for sleeping in)
Socks
Lace up shoes (tennis / hiking boots)
Slip on shoes (i.e., flip flops, for quick trips to restroom)
Rain coat / poncho or umbrella
Hat / cap
Other Miscellaneous Necessities
Sunglasses
Money (cash and/or credit cards)
Cell phone (with car charger)
Compass or GPS handheld system
Chairs (fold up, lightweight camp chairs)
Shovel
Lip balm (especially in dry climates)
Hand wipes
Binoculars
Identification
*This is by no means a comprehensive list.  Each person/group should adapt it to their needs.

 

   
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