PACKING TIPS
Packing for a camping trip is a significant part of the planning stage. Given that towing weight for campers is becoming a huge regulatory and safety issue, it’s important to consider everything that you take on an adventure very carefully.
PURGE, PURGE, PURGE
We’re all guilty of carrying unnecessary things in our camper. No matter the season, some items seem to remain in the camper year-round. Consider when you’re travelling and the potential environment and weed out any ‘permanent’ items that are not required. If travelling in the winter, you’re unlikely to need your blow-up pool toys or sun umbrella. If you’re travelling inland away from rivers, put away the fishing gear and life jackets. In summer, consider your bedding needs carefully. Does everyone really need a sleeping bag and two blankets?
KNOW YOUR DESTINATION
To decide what to take on a trip, you must first understand your destination and all that it offers. If you’re staying in a holiday park, find out what amenities they offer. Many tourist parks have activities and equipment for children, which means there’s no need to pack so heavily with outdoor toys.
Also, what do you plan to do on your holiday? Visiting the beach? Great, don’t forget sun protection, swim gear, a surfboard, and beach towels. Going hiking? You’ll need a backpack, water containers, and potentially some maps.
TRAVELLING WITH KIDS
So much space is taken up by children’s equipment and entertainment devices. If your child is an infant, you’ll need to think of the usual things … portacots, highchair seats and so on. If your kids are a little older, technology may be the answer to your prayers. While no one likes to see a child on an electronic device 24/7, they can prove very useful in long trips and inclement weather. Compact board games are also a great idea.
With kids comes dirt and adventure! Pack some extra changes of clothes to account for messy outdoor activities, such as catching bugs, collecting firewood, or walks on the beach or around the lake. If you’re free camping without ready access to clean water, take along some wet wipes for quick clean ups, but remember to take your rubbish with you.
SAFETY
One item that should remain in your camper year-round is a good first aid kit. Your kit should contain items that are good for smaller incidents (think bug bites, sunburn, small burns, cuts, and grazes) and up-to-date equipment for bigger incidents (pressure bandages for snake bites and bandages for slings). It’s also a good idea to carry extra batteries, a torch, scissors, sunscreen, and insect repellent. If you’re handy and can attend to your own repairs, a toolbox is also an excellent inclusion.
FOOD AND DRINKS
Depending on where you’re travelling, you may prefer to stock up when you get there, though sourcing groceries in small towns can be more expensive. If camping remotely, ensure you take enough drinking water for yourself and your camping companions. If you’re taking a family, it’s a good idea to pre-cook some easy meals that can be easily reheated in the camper oven. This makes the first night so much easier!
Take plenty of snacks in the car for the kids. Boredom sometimes manifests as hunger, so healthy snacks are a must for a long trip.
HAVE FUN
Packing correctly means you don’t have to waste precious holiday time worrying about missing items or having to buy new ones. However, no matter how confident you are that you’ve packed efficiently, it’s wise to put some spending money aside for emergencies.
Happy camping!
THE NEXT STEPS
A Hybrid Caravan or camper trailer could be what you need to add more adventure to your weekends, contact the Swag Camper Trailers team today. We’d be happy to help and answer any enquiries you have about our Campers, Hybrids and Caravans.
