Whether you plan to paddle or hike, camping is a great opportunity to take in the beauty of earth, water, sun, and forrest. 2017 is a great time to camp because Canadian National Parks are free in honour of Canada’s 150th Birthday. While most people choose to camp in the golden months of summer, it’s just as enjoyable in the spring, fall, and even winter with the right gear. If you want to plan an epic camping adventure, but want to keep your gear to a minimum, this post is for you. From stoves to coolers, tents to layers, the variety of conditions and constant threat of dampness makes packing a tricky prospect regardless of the season. To help you get started, Hazelview has compiled these minimalist packing tips.
Get Current Gear
It’s sometimes surprising to realize the extent to which technology is applied to camping. Materials, weights, tensile strengths and sizes: it’s all tech influenced, and can seriously aid the packing process. Buying modern gear can be pricey but guarantees a lighter load and maximum functionality.
Layers
Packing layers of the right clothing items can reduce your clothing needs. Moisture wicking, lightweight materials pack warmth and functionality into a small package. Leave jeans and cotton shirts at home. Wool is bulky but keeps you warm even when wet. A thin toque will keep your head warm at night. Goretex coats are thin, water resistant, and maintain warmth.
Stuff Sacks & Compression bags
Compression bags and stuff sacks literally force things to be smaller. An otherwise bulky sleeping bag, and even tents, can be reduced in size by half or more when crushed in a compression bag.
Inflatables
From thermarests to pillows, inflation is a must. Occupying almost zero space when they aren’t pumped full of air, inflatables are ideal for camping. You can find inflatable sleeping mats (and even full mattresses), pillows, chairs and/or cushions, swimming toys, and life preservers with ease - all of which lighten weight and provide creature comforts.
Wineskins And Small Plastic Containers
From water to wine, packing liquids is an age-old camping requirement and packing concern. Modern aluminum and lightweight steel water bottles are fairly common, and keep the weight to size ratio down. Putting bug spray, suntan lotion, liquid medicines, toothpaste, cooking oil, soap, and shampoo into flat plastic or even standard but smaller bottle containers also helps. But more importantly, when it comes to drinks, using modern plastic wineskins instead of bottles reduces size and weight by more than half. This allows for more refreshment in less space -- always a plus on long trips in the woods.
Hazelview hopes this article helps you minimize your packing for camping trips. For more information about Hazelview Properties in your city, please visit our website.