The weather’s warm and conditions are perfect for planning a summer camping trip. Whether a first-time adventure with your kiddos or a relaxing weekend with friends, camping is a great way to disconnect from technology and spend quality time with each other in the great outdoors.

These 10 essentials will make this next trip the best it can be:

1. A Reliable Bag Suited for Outdoor Activity: Finding the most efficient and comfortable way to carry your gear is a must. Gear bags can range in size and operation based on your trip. For example, a short trip where you might drive and park at a campsite might only require a Day Pack or Duffle. We love NorthFace’s line of lightweight Day Packs. For a more serious trip where you might be hiking to a campsite, you may need a Technical Pack to comfortably hold all of your gear. Osprey’s Protective Technical Packs have tons of room and sit comfortably on your back.
2. Comfortable and Supportive Shoes: Reliable and protective shoes are an essential accessory. Shoes protect our feet from rough terrain and nasty plants like poison ivy. Plus, comfortable shoes make any trip more enjoyable. We love Saloman’s Hiking Shoe line because they’re lightweight and breathable.
3. Sleeping Bag: While the days are warm, the nights can get chilly. Talk to an expert about what kind of sleeping bag or blankets would be best for your upcoming trip.
   
4. A Reusable Water Bottle: No matter what you’re doing, if you want to enjoy the outdoors in the summer, you’ve got to stay hydrated. Be sure to take a reliable, easy-to-carry water bottle. We love Que’s new collapsible water bottles. Not only do they save valuable space in your pack, they’re BPA-free and plastic-free, keeping our planet clean.
5. Sunscreen and Bug Spray: Always apply sunscreen outdoors, even on cloudy days. Bug Spray is another necessity. We suggest finding a spray that contains DEET or pre-treating your clothes with Permethrin. That helps to protect you from mosquitoes and ticks.
6. Flashlight: Never hike or camp without a bright flashlight. Don’t forget extra batteries!
7. A Tent: Finding an easy-to-assemble tent is key to a happy camping trip. Tents provide protection from weather and bugs. The best ones, like the Nemo Tent line, are easy to carry and have a waterproof layer.
8. Layered Clothing: Temperatures can change dramatically once the sun sets. Make sure to pack a lightweight yet warm jacket. A weatherproof layer, like a rain jacket or windbreaker, is also a good idea.
9. First Aid Kit: Just in case of scratches or nasty bug bites, always pack a first aid kit with bandages, itch cream, ibuprofen, etc.
10. A Positive Attitude: Like many things in life, your camping experience will only be as good as  you make it. The outdoors are amazing but unreliable, and you can only control how you engage with them. Make the best of every situation and enjoy time with nature and loved ones.

Text by Amy Haupt