Hi… Are you thinking of starting up camping, doing some bushcraft and want to enjoy the wilderness? You want to do it but you’re just not sure what you should pack up. How do I start?

Here is a list I created to help you out in knowing what to bring. Now these are ideas to consider; it’s not your usual… you need to bring exactly that kind of thing.Though they should in one way or another be a priority especially if you are just beginning this awesome adventure that you are about to take.

Here’s the list in no particular order but all important. I must note that this does not include your food, water, necessary clothing for the time and season.

Don’t forget to always tell someone where you are going and when you will be back.

It is also very important to know how to use this stuff in the list. Practice at home until you are confident with what you are bringing and knowing what each piece of gear is made for. Ask yourself this question: What is this going to do for me? And KNOW the answer before leaving.

My best suggestion to you is go with a friend who has the experience. I think it’s the best way to learn when you are starting and the company is always fun. It can get lonely out there at times when you are alone especially when it’s your first time.

Hey! Where’s the list? I know hold on its coming! 

–       A cover (tarp, tent)

–       More than one way of creating fire (lighter, matches, fire steel, firestarter)

–       Food and Water (cooking pots, cooking system and water containers; purifying tablets for water)

–       A good knife, saw/axe 

–       Sharpening stone (dull blades can become a nightmare in the bush)

–       Extra clothing (t-shirts, socks, underwear)

–       Sleeping system (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, hammock)

–       Cordage (extra paracord is always useful to have)

–       Soap, toothbrush, toothpaste (staying clean is a must)

–       Medical kit (first aid, diverse pills for pain, nausea, heartburn, diarrhea)

–       Dry bags (keep your clothes dry and food safe)

–       Compass, GPS and map (if needed)

–       Lights (headlights are most important as they keep your hands free, other flashlight, extra batteries)

–       Protective gear (if needed, bear spray, bug repellent)

–       Signaling gear for rescue (just in case, whistle, signaling mirror)

–       I always bring a warm hat and a pair of gloves.

In the northern woods a warm hat is necessary to keep you warm (even during summer nights); 40 % of your body heat comes out from your head, so it is important to keep this heat in the body. Not always necessary but important to have. The gloves will protect your hands from little things that can be very annoying. Will also protect you from cuts and will help you do tasks more easily and efficiently than if your were just using your bare hands.

As you gain experience your choice of things to bring will change. You may bring more or less, it may be different gear for multiple reasons. This is just a general list of things to bring.

Hopefully this will help you out. Always remember the more you know (whats in your head is the most important gear) the wiser you get when it comes to what you should bring and making important choices while you are out there. That will come with time and build confidence.

What! Your still here!! Get out there friend! 

 P.S. I know whenever we do something for the first time FEAR will set in. You are out of your comfort zone, going in unfamiliar territory. That will change and there is no shame in being scared!

Mike

 

Other blogs that may interest you : 

The Orange Flag

The Whistle