Packing Tips for Trips

Smart packing helps you to enjoy every adventure. Here are some packing tips to ensure less stress and more fun during your experience.

Know Your Environment

Make sure to check the weather before you embark on your journey! Consider the weather when packing clothing. It is better to prepare correctly the first time than to learn this lesson the hard way. I took part in leading a camping trip in Island Park outside of Yellowstone National Park. We all decided to sleep in Hammocks and packed minimal gear for outdoor sleeping. We went on a day trip into Yellowstone, and it started pouring rain. We returned to soaking wet backpacks and a freezing cold and damp night. Adequately planning for the weather is crucial for having an enjoyable and safer trip.

• Cold Weather

Layering is key when it comes to staying warm. Pack base thermal layers, layered athletic wear, lightweight jackets, coats, hats and gloves. Pack extra pairs of socks for layering. Wool blend socks keep feet the warmest and are recommended for colder trips. Use a sleeping bag with the correct temperature protection for the weather to stay warm overnight. Also consider bringing a lightweight reflective blanket or sleeping bag liner for added protection from elements.

• Warm Weather

  
  

Consider athletic sports material clothing when packing for a warm weather trip to keep yourself cool and free from sweat and moisture. These fabrics are also very lightweight and do not take up much room to pack. Sunglasses and sunscreen should be included when packing for a sunny trip to avoid sunburn and discomfort.

Consider The Activities That Are Taking Place

Be adequately prepared with the correct clothing and gear for the activities. Swimming or water activities require you to pack a towel and proper swimming attire and shoes that can get wet. Ropes course activities require closed-toed shoes and comfortable athletic wear to be able to move freely and safely. Hiking activities require sturdy comfortable shoes that you can walk long distances in and you might want to include a day pack to bring water or lunch.

Pack Smart

When it comes to camping, function comes over fashion. Be mindful of the amount of space you have and limit what you bring to fit that space. Shoes take up a large amount of space. Be strategic about which shoes to bring and limit to the amount that are necessary. Bring items that you will wear for multiple days, such as a shirt that you can also wear to bed. Packing cubes are also a method that one can use to consolidate items and cut down on space used. See if there are any items that you can fit inside of one another to save space. Look at how you are folding your clothes, and experiment with rolling them or folding differently to save space.

Some Fun Extras to Make Camp Better

When you are packing, think about bringing a journal to write down your experiences or a sketchbook or camera to remember and capture the memory. Consider bringing a craft or string to make bracelets in your free time.

Packing with purpose will set the tone for a fun, safe adventure. When you prepare ahead for the proper weather and activities, you free yourself to focus on what really matters, building new relationships and enjoying new experiences.