Avoid any nasty surprises!
It’s tough to realize that you’ve forgotten some essentials once you reach your campsite. Finding that you didn’t pack a can opener when you’re on a rustic site kilometres away from civilization can be a real pain! That’s why Camping Québec would like to help you get ready with this list of basic equipment. Feel free to customize and add to it as you gain experience.
Campsite
Tent
Sleeping bags
Mattresses and compressed-air pump
Flashlight and spare batteries
Hatchet or axe Hache
Clothes line
First-aid kit
Cooking
Water carrier
Cooler
Small cookware set with oven mitts
Stove and fuel
Dishes, preferably unbreakable
Kitchen utensils, including a can opener, a bottle opener or a corkscrew
Cutlery
Aluminum foil
Garbage bags
Dish soap and dishtowels
Swiss Army knife
Before driving away
It’s easier for RV owners to draw up a list of things to take along. Since an RV is designed like a little house, the dishes, bedding and various accessories are generally already packed. That doesn’t mean that you don’t have to prepare, though. Here is a checklist of inspections to be done before you head out every time. Keep it handy and add to it as you gain experience.
Fill the drinking water tank and the water heater.
Fill the gas tank.
Check fluid levels: propane, oil and windshield washer.
Bring along spare bottles and tanks for all these fluids.
Check that the tires are properly inflated.
Make sure all batteries are charged.
Make sure the contents of cupboards and the fridge are secure and won’t slide around on the trip.
Keep the owner’s guide for your RV with you at all times.
Bring along a basic toolkit (hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)
Having fun
If you want to make the most of your camping experiences, plan a variety of fun activities. Make sure you have all the equipment you need. Hiking in sandals can turn into a disaster, and a rainy day can be a real drag if you haven’t prepared for it!
Map of the region you are visiting and tourist guides
Sunscreen and bathing suits
Rainwear and warm clothing
Insect repellent
Camera
Books, magazines
Toys, sports gear