Campr – Everything Camping

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If wilderness camping is in the cards for you this spring or summer, you might be surprised at what you can cut from your packing while still including everything you’ll need for a few days away from civilisation. Margaret Bethray supplies some tips for a four-day trip.

Part 1: Clothing

If you’re planning on camping in Scotland or anywhere with variable weather, you’ll need to take waterproof jacket and trousers, a jumper (or fleece) and walking trousers in case it turns nippy. But you’ll also have to prepare for dazzling moments of sun, which means a short-sleeve shirt and shorts. A hat with a brim is essential for keeping the sun and rain off your face, and no matter the forecast, three pairs of socks are a must.

Despite the warmth of the season, even in August it is unlikely you will sweat through a shirt every day. At the end of a particularly gruelling trek, hang your shirt up to air or rinse it in a stream and wring it out to dry overnight. This will allow you to take fewer shirts. You would be forgiven, however, for packing a fresh set of pants for each day – some things are worth their weight.

Given the changeability of the weather, how do you cut back on packing? The fashion-conscious won’t like it but you can easily limit yourself to two or three shirts and a single pair of trousers (in addition to waterproof trousers). As long as the expedition doesn’t take place in late autumn or winter, you’ll find that lugging a sizeable rucksack up and down hills will keep you warm enough for shorts – and if it doesn’t, there’s always the fleece and trousers.

Essential items

Some items may seem essential, but you should think carefully about bringing them along. Many hikers omit gaiters, padded jackets and towels and find they don’t miss them. A good rule is – if you packed it last time and didn’t use it, you probably won’t use it this time either.

Don’t forget the less obvious articles of clothing – pyjamas (keep your sleeping bag clean), knitted hat (stay warm while you sleep), bandana (myriad uses) and sandals (let your feet breathe while at camp). Once you’ve eliminated the unnecessary pieces from your packing list and lined up the essentials, you are ready to use the camper’s secret weapon: freezer bags.

To making space in your rucksack, pack your clothes into strong, extra-large freezer bags. You can fit a surprising amount into one bag with careful folding. When the bag is full, seal the top except for a small opening and then sit on it. This will expel the air and the bag can be completely sealed, effectively vacuum-packing your wardrobe. You will be amazed at how thin each bag becomes and how little space they take up. Don’t be tempted to bring more clothing, though – packing it this way will help with space but can’t improve overall weight!