Camping is a great way to connect with nature, get some fresh air, and bond with family and friends. People camp with their friends about 70% of the time, and the same number of campers stay at public camping grounds. Even if you live in a big city, finding suitable camping grounds is easy enough. Once you have found the right campgrounds, it is time to gather up your friends and pack your things for a great weekend of outdoor fun. Before you head out, double-check to make sure you have all the essentials with you.

• Shelter – If you are camping in cabins, you don’t have to worry about bringing shelter with you. If you have elected not to rent a cabin, you will need to bring a tent, a tarp for the ground, extra stakes, and a mallet. Investing in a large duffel bag will help you keep all your tent supplies tidy as you transport them from place to place. Almost 70% of tent campers only stay out for one to two nights at a time, but if you wish to camp longer, it is certainly doable. While a sleeping bag and pillow are all you really need for bedding, an air mattress and portable pump can go a long way toward increasing your comfort at night.

• Clothing – When packing clothing, it is important to bring extras in case of inclement weather or other unexpected problems. You will need one outfit for each day you will be camping, plus several spare pairs of socks, shoes, underwear, and other essentials. Be sure to bring a variety of clothes, as you will need to layer for warmth or remove layers as the days heat up. Pajamas, towels, sturdy walking shoes, and sunglasses will complete your stash of attire.

• Food – While you may think you have packed everything you need to eat, man cannot live on s’mores alone. Grilling meat over a campfire is a lot of fun, but if you will be camping for a long time, make sure you bring enough ice to keep any perishables you bring nice and cold. Canned food is your best bet for dinners, and don’t forget to bring plenty of bottles of water. Put travel safe cookware, utensils, and plates in your bag as well.

While this list covers most of the essentials, you will also need flashlights and batteries, matches or lighters, sunscreen, and bug spray. If your camping grounds have shower facilities, you will want to bring bathing supplies as well. With the appropriate supplies, you are ready to hit the trails for the camping trip of your dreams.