Everyone loves a good camping trip.

An excuse to get out of your daily routine to explore, breathe in the fresh air and road trip your way to a new adventure. Getting outdoors – whether it’s by yourself, with your partner, family or a group of friends, means you can unplug from reality for a bit and regroup. And we all need a good dose of that from time to time!

Camping comes with many health benefits. It’s a huge stress reliever (providing you’re somewhat prepared) and road tripping to the unknown, or a place you know and love to set up camp is something everyone can benefit from. Just don’t forget to add some epic albums to soundtrack your road trip to that camping spot! Here’s a few other essentials to take with you too:

1. Safety first

Camping is FUN, there’s no doubt about it. But if you’re not prepared and put safety first, then it can be a disaster. Especially if you’re heading into remote areas or avoiding camping grounds, a first aid kit, adequate supply of fresh water, flares, and a flashlight (with spare batteries) is important. Make sure you have usable spare tyres, a car battery replacement, heat source (matches, Firestarter or lighter) and extra clothing for insulation.

2. A reliable tent and an extra warm sleeping bag

Camping just isn’t possible without a good quality tent. Sure, there’s your caravans and campers but if you’re going old school style – invest in something decent. If you’re purchasing a new tent have a test run at home of putting it together so you don’t get stuck dealing with any dramas come camping day. You want a tent that’s easy to use and can comfortably fit the number of people sleeping in it (with a little extra room on either side).

Other considerations for a reliable tent include what features it includes, weight and if its materials can handle the weather conditions of where you’re going. Even if it’s warm camping weather, it always gets cold at night! Make sure you have an extra warm sleeping bag, a comfortable air mattress that fits inside the tent and ample amount of bedding and cushions to keep you snug.

3. Staple supplies and essentials

Camping can’t be complete without the obvious essentials. Have enough staple food supplies that are easy to eat as is or to be cooked up. Make sure you have a handful of cooking utensils, can openers and a camping fold out grill with a pan too – especially if you’re planning on fishing.

Paper products and reusable kits are viable options for preparing and consuming meals on your trip. Extra food and water is vital in case of an emergency. Pack as much water as you can to stay hydrated and staple food supplies, but don’t be afraid to get creative with cooking in the outdoors too.

4. Map, directions and compass

Personally, I love living on the edge a little when it comes to camping adventures and just seeing where you end up. But it doesn’t always work out! And having a map of the area and clear directions of the campsite you’re heading too is a smart move.

It doesn’t mean you can’t deviate from the original plan or explore some hidden gems along the way, but being as prepared as possible makes for a smoother journey – and it can still involve a little spontaneity too. For extra safety considerations, a compass is a good idea to bring.

5. Mosquito protection

With all the news on mosquito-borne infections overtaking Australia, it’s so vital you take protection. Camping spots – especially near water – are usually infested with mozzies. Even if you’re not to usually get targeted, protection and preparation before a camping trip is paramount. As a camp-lover myself (and someone who’s prone to be targeted by these pesky buggers), I’ve had both Ross River and Barmah Forest virus TWICE. All from mosquito bites.

To eliminate your risk of being bitten, make sure your tent or caravan is screened with mosquito nets. Recognise the key areas – swamps, salt marshes and river floodplains, and try and avoid these areas when camping. Cover up at night as much as possible and utilise mosquito repellents.

6. Small tool pack

It doesn’t matter whether you’re tool-savvy or not, having a tool pack on hand for a camping adventure is a must. You never know when you’re going to need one, so a good multi-tool on hand can be a lifesaver during those moments. For those big camping adventures, it’s not uncommon for screws to get loose, bolts to come undone and things to simply just go wrong – especially with your car or camper van. With a tool pack on hand, you can tighten, fix and pretty much solve any situation!

Camping trips are loaded with fun, fresh air, adventure and all round awesome times. With a little preparation and research into where you’re off too, you will have all the right tools to make it a good one.

What do you love most about camping? Share with us below.