Here’s a list of my casual camping items, subject to revision:

• Eureka Apex 2XT Tent
• Thermarest ProLite 4 Fast & Light Mattress (Regular)
• 5′ x 7′ Tarp
• Thermarest stuff Sack
• Wenzel Omega II/Great Falls Mummy 0-Degree Sleeping Bag

~$275

Large Duffle Bag

• Toilet Paper
• Paper Towels
• Garbage Sacks
• Towel
• Cold Steel Kukri Machete
• Gerber Gator Combo Axe II
• Dry Goods
• Canned Goods
• Improvised Pillow
• Cups
• Snow Peak 450 Titanium Mug
• Lighter
• Tongs
• Cabela’s 10″ Cast Iron Skillet

~$120, not including provisions

Medium Duffle Bag/Pack

• Various clothes
• 1 pair Patagonia Hiking Socks
• 1 pair Ex-Officio Travel Underwear
• 1 set light weight Patagonia Capilene base layer
• 1 set mid weight Patagonia Capilene base layer
• 1 pair trunks
• 1 pair sandals
• Freeplay Indigo Lantern with Mini USB Port
• Water/Windproof Matches
• Columbia Thunderstorm Waterproof Jacket
• Coleman F1 Compact Camp Stove
• Camp Stove Fuel Cannister

~$300, not including random clothes

Small Bandolier Bag

• 2 Emergency Radiant Blankets
• Coarse/Fine Blade Sharpener
• Magnesium Fire Starter
• Maya Fire Sticks
• Nylon Paracord
• Mess Kit
• Duct Tape
• Multi-Tool/Pliers
• Cutlery Set
• Cap Light
• Corkscrew
• Herb/Spice shaker
• Snow Peak Titanium Plate
• Snow Peak Titanium Bowl
• Tent Patch Kit
• Forceps
• Compact First Aid Kit

~$170

Miscellaneous

• 6 Gallon Water Jugs
• Folding Chair(s)
• Folding Table
• Cooler
• Perishable Goods
• Firewood
• Ice

~$65, not including perishables or consumables

Worn

• North Face GoreTex Lightweight Hikers
• Cap
• Ex-Officio Travel Underwear
• 1 pair Patagonia Hiking Socks
• Rapellers Canvas Belt
• Cold Steel Kobun Tanto

~$220

Revised 4/30/08! – Added Camp Stove, Backpack Axe, Rainproof Jacket, Cast Iron Skillet. Moved a few items around a bit.

I’ve found a camping addage to be very true. Research your gear, and save for what you want. But the cool thing is that I’ll be able to have a few essential duplicates for camping with a friend.

I gave up on the sketchy camp pillow. Instead I pack a lightweight pillowcase. I stuff that with a compressible dry sack filled with clothes that I have stored inside my pack. Same level of comfort and a quite a bit more efficient.

I also have some gear that’s not really on my short list, like a camp shower. Other items like the machete, just aren’t needed and won’t make most trips. The axe can’t be used on many campgrounds, in which case I may bring the machete more for the utility than any serious chopping.