What you take with you on your camping trip will depend on where you're going and how long you plan to be away. We all think of the obvious gear we need to go camping, but remember to take these essentials to make your trip safer and more comfortable.

Backcountry camping

• plenty of water (and purification tablets or filters for the backcountry)
• small first aid kit (bandages for blisters)
• sunscreen
• insect repellant
• basic survival kit with matches, signal mirror, etc.
• high energy food
• a whistle
• rain gear and other seasonal weather clothing