This week's topic is ten things to bring on a camping trip. Having recently returned from a month-long camping trip, I feel exquisitely qualified for this one. We never camp in a tent, though, only in a camping trailer or (now) a mini-mini-motorhome, so my list may not be applicable for everyone.
1. If camping in the mountains, or anywhere during spring or autumn, bring sweats and heavy socks and hoodie for sleeping. Misery is being cold in your sleeping bag at 3 am; ask me how I know.
2. A jar of salycilic acid pads, aka acne pads. In the absence of showers, these can keep the camper from smelling like s/he has been camping without showers.
3. Lots of knitting and books. This is a gimme.
4. Other amusements, both solitary and communal. There is never enough time at home for these, so vacation is the perfect time to get really, really good at Scrabble.
5. A comfortable chair. I get crabby if I cannot sit comfortably, hot or cold beverage within reach, and knit/read/do crossword puzzles.
6. iPod loaded with music and audio books. This of course combines admirably with #5.
7. Screen house in which to place comfortable chair. Smokey bought one at a dollar store on the fifth day of our vacation. It was great and amazingly easy to set up and take down.
8. Generator. Preferably a small, quiet one with a 100-foot extension cord so you can put it far enough away -- assuming you get the campsite at the end of the row -- so as not to bother anyone. Having a generator makes it possible to enjoy one's iPod or laptop or electric waffle iron. Remember, I never claimed that we roughed it when we went camping.
9. Dogs. Dogs love to be outdoors, particularly if there is possibility of wildlife wandering by. They are also handy for those cold nights mentioned in #1.
10. Flashlights. Two words: flashlight fights.
