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It’s time to gear up for your trip and there’s nothing more important than being prepared when you’re going camping. You need to plan ahead and consider the different environment and conditions you could run into while you’re out there. Whether it’s your first time packing a bag or you’re an experienced veteran of the land looking to upgrade your gear, here’s a list of dispersed camping essentials.
What is Dispersed Camping?
If you randomly stumbled across this page, you might be wondering what dispersed camping is. In the simplest terms, dispersed camping is when someone decides to camp in a spot inside a National Forest but outside of the designated campground areas. This method of camping is for those more experienced, as many amenities most take for granted, such as fire pits, toilets, and even tables are markedly absent. It is important to note that dispersed camping isn’t allowed in the immediate vicinity of assigned recreational areas.
So, What Qualifies as Dispersed Camping Essentials?
While much of your kit will remain the same as traditional camping, some missing conveniences must be made up for. Will you need to make your own fire pit or perhaps use a camping stove? Do you plan to roll out a blanket and have a picnic or set up a table? What happens when mother nature comes calling? These are all things to consider when putting together your personalized list of dispersed camping essentials.
Start with the Basics
Before any of the essentials can be talked about, we need to start with the backpack itself. You’re looking for lightweight, lots of space, places where you can hook your carabineers, and of course – durable. You’re backpack is going to get the most wear and tear than anything else you’re going to be using. Having a broken strap or a hole in the bottom of it will really hinder your trip. Make sure the one you chose is going to hold its own against the environment you’re putting it in. Alternatively, if you’re looking to take some sweet shots during your camping adventures, check out our article “Best Camera Backpack Bag Under 100 Dollars“.
Bring a Knife and Keep It Sharp
Next up in the list of gear that gets the most use, is your knife. Again, you’re looking for something strong and durable. It’s going to be dropped and abused. It should have a clip to keep on your belt or in your pocket. You will find that your knife becomes your third hand out there so you will need to keep it close. There are endless options for different pocket and folding knives, but when there’s no time to toy with poor quality blades.
Off-Grid Knives thought of us during every step of designing their Rapid Fire Camping & Hunting Folding EDC Knife. Here’s a knife that’s been put to the test already by your fellow backpackers and campers. This model is a favorite due to its rugged design and strong blade.
No matter the knife you choose, make sure to keep it sharp. You need a compact sharpener to use in case your knife dulls. A nice multi tool is great to have around too.
Gotta Get That Fire Going
It doesn’t always need to be a lighter – some people just prefer matches. Both face many of the same challenges – they need to stay dry and work under extreme conditions. Therefore you’re looking for something that’s waterproof. It needs to be able to be soaking wet and still create a flame. Wind is also to be considered. There are some full proof options out there that won’t let you down, even in some of the worst conditions. Here’s awaterproof electric lighter that can be recharged for continued use. It produces an electric current that ignites into a flame during wind and rain. A terrific option for anyone that’s trying to fill out their dispersed camping essentials checklist.
If cobbling together a fire pit isn’t your idea of a good time and you aren’t in need of the warmth, then a small, portable butane/propane stove will probably fit the bill just fine. This Ultralight Portable Backpacking/Camping Stove from Etekcity is an ultralight solution to your cooking needs!
Dispersed Camping Essentials - Lighting
Hopefully you’re not just relying on your campfire and the moonlight as your only light sources. You need to bring a nice flashlight and maybe an electric lantern. Following the tune of the rest of the gear, this too needs to be lightweight and durable. Sure, we love those bulky black flashlights that take 4 D batteries, but we’ve come a long way when it comes to more lightweight lighting that is just as bright, if not brighter. Bring along a nice LED light that’s bright enough to see what’s ahead and cut through some minor fog. Find one that has a long lifespan between charges or battery replacements. For example, the J5 Tactical V1-Pro is an excellent and affordable model with extremely high ratings. Definitely recommended!
First Aid
There’s nothing better to remember your trip than a nice story or maybe a photo you took while you were out there. However, sometimes nature gives you something else to remember it by in the form of a sprained ankle or a cut on your shin. No matter how careful you are, you should always be ready in case you or someone in your group gets hurt.
A first aid kit should be readily available and stocked at all times. You should have alcohol wipes and Neosporin for open wounds as well as many different sizes of bandages and wraps. Your kit should contain cold compress packs and tape. A lot of backpackers prefer soft case kits because they are a little lighter and less cumbersome. No matter the kit you bring, make sure it offers enough protection to the contents. You don’t want to find out that your band aids are ruined from water or that your compresses have already been popped when you need them. For more information, check out our article “DIY Mini First Aid Kit Guide for Safety“.
Addendum: Please visitRedCross.orgif you need to learn or brush up on the basics of administering first aid.
Insect Repellent
Before you go stocking up on the anti itch cream, get a little proactive and make sure you have plenty of insect and mosquito repellent. They will annoy you and leave you an itchy red bump as a lasting impression. Make sure you bring enough spray and apply it generously so you can avoid the frustration of bug bites. This is especially important if you are camping with children. Hose them down with spray and keep their ankles and legs covered to prevent bites to the lower extremities. One of our favorite brands is Sawyer Products.
More About Safety
Being that it is literally the most important aspect of preparing for your trip, really take the extra time to make sure you’ve planned for worst case scenario situations and emergencies. If you’re truly off the grid, your smartphone isn’t going to be giving you weather updates or notifications of hazards.
Get yourself a nice little emergency radio that you can use to find out about hazards coming your way or potential bad weather. The RunningSnail Emergency radio is a perfect option for backpackers and campers as it requires little power and can even be cranked by hand. It has an antenna to aid in reception and a small flashlight. The radio can even be solar powered meaning it should always be charged and available for use.
Don't Worry, It's Not Going to Rain...Right?
How many times have we taken that as gospel from the local weatherman? Well here’s an important bulletin from your local backpacking news network no matter where you’re at – THERE’S ALWAYS A CHANCE IT’S GOING TO RAIN! Maybe a light sprinkle, maybe a torrential downpour. Either way, make sure you’re ready for it. This means waterproof clothing – raincoat and boots. The less rain that gets through to your clothes underneath, the better. You still need to bring plenty of extra clothes and socks. Keep your hands and feet dry as much as possible.
Stay Hydrated
Aside from the water that’s pouring down on you from the heavens, you need to have another source of water for you to hydrate yourself with. That means containers to keep water in for your camp and a way to bring water with you while you are hiking or straying from your campsite. If you are very active or are in a warm environment, you will need to consume a larger amount of water. In most cases, the typical water bottle isn’t going to cut it. Capacity is very important. You may find yourself in a situation where you won’t be refilling your water for hours.
A favorite among backpackers is the Diaz Sport Tactical Hydration Pack. It’s convenient; you wear it like your backpack rather than carry it or strap it to something. It holds 3 liters of water which means you can drink comfortably without budgeting the amount of water you drink to make sure it lasts your entire hike. Even in the heat it keeps your water cool for 4 hours. That’s like having an all in one tool for your water bottle. For more hydration information, see our article “Backpacking Water – How Much to Bring?“.
Do You Plan on Cooking?
If you’re planning on eating something that needs to be heated or cooked, you’re going to need something to cook in. You aren’t going to be bringing a lot of heavy pots or pans with you so you need to bring something that can be used to cook a variety of things. Choose a kit that is lightweight and space conscious. Cookware can be bulky so make sure you get something that is fairly sized and easy to carry. Non stick cookware will save you some time scraping it out after using.
Bisgear has a set that includes 16 pieces including utensils that’s ideal for backpackers that are bringing minimal gear. It’s a one size fits all set that will enable you to prepare and eat your meals during your travels. Remember to bring some foil as well to prepare your food. For a more detailed look at meal supplies, check out our article ““.
Food and Storage
Bring food that is doesn’t require much maintenance as far as storage goes. Dry food are best, they can easily be sealed in bags and don’t need to be kept cold. Make sure all food is airtight and not subject to the environment. The easiest way to attract pests is to leave them the scent of midnight snacks. We go more in depth with food storage methods in our article “How to Bear Proof Your Campsite for Camping Safety“.
When Nature Calls
If your dispersed camping location of choice is missing amenities such as a toilet, then there will come a point when you need to decide how to handle that situation. I’m sure at one time or another we’ve all had to urinate outside, so that’s no big deal, but what about when the inevitable number 2 decides it’s ready? Not planning ahead for this scenario could lead to disastrous consequences!
While you could go about digging a hole and doing things the old fashioned way, there exist an alternative. Have you ever heard of a toilet bucket? Well if not, now you have! Luckily, Camco offers an affordable option with its Portable Toilet Bucket with Seat and Lid Attachment. It holds up to 5 gallons (try not to think about it..), and is easy to clean. Highly recommended if the nearest toilet is out of reach!
Dispersed Camping Essentials - Conclusion
Hopefully this list of dispersed camping essentials arms you with the knowledge and know how to tackle any challenges that cross your path. Gather your supplies and pack up your extra clothes, lighters, waterproof gear, and safety equipment. Remember, there are no stores you will be stopping at for things you may have forgotten – don’t leave without your essentials! Also, if you’re looking for more camping related gear, check out our article “What to Pack for an Overnight Backpacking Trip“. Happy travels!
