Must-Have Camping Items for Every First-Time Camper’s Needs in Australia

Planning your first ever camping trip? We understand that the process can be just as daunting as it is exciting. Just how many items are you supposed to bring? And what happens if you forget something essential?

Of course, your camping necessities will vary depending on when, where and what you’ll be doing on your camping trip. Nevertheless, we’ve composed a basic list of all the must-have camping items for every first-time camper’s needs:

1. Water Resistant Tent

The first item on your list should be a good-quality, water-resistant tent. However, if you’re going to be going camping during the winter, then we’d definitely recommend investing in a waterproof one. Try and find a tent that features windows with insect mesh coverings. These are ideal for improving ventilation and keeping annoying flies and mosquitoes out whilst you’re camping during the summer.

2. Bedding

Your sleeping bag is going to be acting as your bed for the entire trip. As such, it’s essential for you to invest in one that is comfortable, insulated, and most importantly, the right size. Also, don’t forget to buy a sleeping mat; there’s nothing more uncomfortable than laying directly on the cold, hard ground of a campsite. If you’ve got a bad back, you may even consider opting for an airbed instead.

Of course, getting a good night’s sleep throughout your trip is important if you want to be able to feel awake and energised enough to compete in all the outdoor activities you’ve got planned. This is why it’s crucial to put together a bedding setup that won’t leave you tossing and turning or waking up with a sore body.

3. Lighting

There’s no street lighting in the great outdoors, so packing flashlights, lanterns and matches for starting a campfire is a must. If you’re going to be going on night-time hikes or exploring dark places (e.g., caves), then be sure to pack a headlight as well.

4. Cookware

Cup noodles are a super effortless meal, but you can’t be eating them 3x a day for the entirety of your camping trip. Considering the amount of physical activity you’ll be doing, it’s important to make sure that your meals are nutritious enough to give you that much needed boost of energy. You’ll be needing to whip up some quick and healthy meals during your trip, and that requires the use of some decent camping cookware. If you’re going to be at a campground, you may find some cooking amenities already available to you. However, if you’re setting up camp elsewhere, then you should make sure to bring a portable stovetop, as well as some pots, pans, cooking utensils, plates and cutlery. Aluminium cookware is a great idea, as this is both durable and lightweight.

5. Tables and Chairs

Some campsites may have picnic tables and benches available for you to use. However, whether you’ll be camping at a campsite or not, it’s a good idea to bring your own tables and chairs just in case. You can find a variety of camping table products available in different sizes, for different purposes. Outdoor camping chairs are also essential- and they’re great for taking with you on a picnic, to outdoor movie screenings, or to the beach.

6. The Right Clothes

Forget about looking good for the entire camping trip- venturing into the great outdoors means getting down and dirty, so you’ll have to pack your duffel bag with clothing that enables you to move freely, whilst protecting you from the harsh elements and weather conditions. Be sure to pack t-shirts, long sleeves, cargo pants (having lots of pockets is a big plus), shorts and tights. If you’re camping in the winter, add some sweaters, beanies, scarves and most importantly, a waterproof jacket. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of good quality footwear. Enclosed shoes such as sneakers or boots are ideal.

7. First-Aid Kit

No injury is unheard of in the great outdoors, which is why it’s so important for you to be prepared for anything; be it minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes or insect bites to more serious injuries such as burns, sprains or fractured bones. A first-aid kit is a must-have for every camping trip, so make sure that yours is stocked up with all the essentials, including bandages, gauze pads, antiseptic, first-aid tape, as well as insect repellent.

Check Off All Your Camping Essentials with Supex Products

Heading off on your first camping trip? We’ve got your campsite accessories and camping needs covered at Supex Products, one of Australia’s most trusted and reliable camping equipment retailers. Offering everything from tents, shelters and bedding to hardware, cookware, furniture and more, Supex is the one-stop shop for everything you’ll need on your next outdoor adventure.

Don’t head off on your next camping trip unprepared. Find your nearest Supex Products retailer today!