Keeping everything organized at the campsite can be a challenge. You never know what kind of conditions you may face in the great outdoors. This means you have to be prepared for whatever may come your way. Packing well is a way to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip. For that, you require different types of bags and packing supplies.
If you’re new to camping, you may have difficulty picking the right bag. From waterproof duffel bags to camping rucksacks, you have a variety of options. Each bag serves a particular purpose on a camping trip. It can be useful to take a step back and evaluate your needs before you finally settle on one.
We have compiled a comprehensive camping luggage guide to streamline the process! Read on to find out which bags are perfect for your next camping adventure.
How To Choose The Right Camping Bags
When it comes to camping bags, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Here are some factors to determine which bag is perfect for you:
Camping Conditions
The first thing to consider is the condition of your campsite. This includes the climate, weather conditions, and the amenities available on-site. If your chosen site is in a rainy region, a waterproof bag will serve you well.
Material
One of the most important considerations is the material of the bag. Everyone prefers a more lightweight material but you also need it to be durable. Durability is determined by the denier ratings provided by manufacturers. If you’re going on a rugged trip, choose the toughest, weather-resistant material.
Size And Weight
The other important factor is the size and weight of the bag. This is determined by how much you need to pack. Consider the length of your trip, the level of activity, and the size of the group. A 40 to the 50-liter lightweight bag would do well for a small trip. However, if you need more storage space, larger options like 70 liters are available too. Also, consider the type of activities you will engage in. If your camping involves a lot of trekking and hiking, you’ll probably need a more lightweight option.
Style
Apart from being functional, your bag also needs to match your style. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of stylish camping bags available. You can choose your favorite colors, aesthetics, and more from a wide range of options. This means you can reuse that bag after your camping trip as well.
Carrying Style
Another highly important factor that many overlook is the carrying style. Bags have different types of handles and straps. For example, a duffel bag is great for a small road trip. However, it can be impossible to carry while hiking or trekking. Meanwhile, a camping rucksack is perfect on the go. Also, consider which carrying style is comfortable for you. Check if the handles and straps sit comfortably on your shoulders.
Best Bags For A Camping Adventure
Sleeping Bag
Before you get to the camping storage bags, you need to focus on your sleeping arrangements. Camping is all about sleeping outdoors under the stars. To make this experience worthwhile, you need a comfortable sleeping bag. There are many variations of sleeping bags available on the market. Here are some factors that will help you choose the best one:
Shape of Sleeping Bag
The basic function of a sleeping bag is to be comfortable enough to stretch and roll over for a good night’s sleep. That’s why the rectangular style bag is considered a standard. However, before you pick a bag, it’s recommended to try it on by zipping it up fully. Here are some shapes that sleeping bags are available in:
- Rectangular: Roomy enough for stretching out and can be used as comforters as well.
- Semi-Rectangular: These are warmer and less roomy.
- Mummy: Lightweight and super warm. These bags fit snugly without any room to move.
- Double Bag: These are made for two people are good if you have a camping partner.
Temperature Ratings
Whether you want to go for a cotton sleeping bag or a heavy-duty one depends on the weather conditions. You can determine how warm or cool the bag will be by its temperature ratings. If you’re going to a very cold area, you’ll need appropriate sleeping bags to keep you warm. Here are some temperature ratings:
- Summer: +30° and upwards
- Three Season: +15 to +30°
- Winter: +15° and lower
Insulation Type
The insulation of the bag has several effects on the whole experience. The two main types of insulations available are:
- Synthetic Insulation: It’s more affordable, quick dry, non-allergenic, and insulates after damp.
- Down Insulation: This is lightweight, good for cold weather, water-resistant, and compressible.
Waterproof Duffel Bag
Duffel bags are one of the most popular choices when it comes to outdoorsy activities and trips. It’s a highly versatile type of bag that simply has two straps. What makes duffel bags great is the huge single compartment that’s perfect for storage. Here are some other advantages of duffel bags:
- Easy to carry.
- Super lightweight.
- Soft designs without any wheels or hard elements. Doesn’t take up space when not in use.
- Waterproof duffel bags are also available.
- Provides many types of handles and straps for flexibility.
Camping Rucksack
The camping rucksack is much like a traditional backpack. The only difference is that it has a unique design. Much like a standard bag, it has a main compartment and various other pockets. The main recognizable feature of a rucksack is that it doesn’t use zippers. Instead of securing the main compartment with a zipper, it has a flap and buckles instead.
This might be counterproductive if you want to secure your belonging more firmly. A flap is definitely not as secure as a zipper. However, the looser fit does enable you to maximize storage inside the rucksack. Apart from that, the unique outdoorsy style is preferred by many people.
Camping Toiletry Bag
Even though you’re heading out into the wild, you still need your toiletries to stay hygienic. It’s common for people to forget small items like their toothbrushes and deodorant in a hurry. A dedicated toiletry bag will help you keep everything safe. If you’re someone who goes on camping trips frequently, it can be an easy grab-and-go solution. You can also include your first aid amenities in the bag.
Food Cooler Bag
One of the basic necessities you’ll need during the trip is food. A lot of people recommend taking pre-made meals to minimize the need for cooking. While most things you take should be non-perishable, you will need some fresh items. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food left in a brown paper bag for more than 2 hours is unsafe to eat.
So how do you keep all your food from going bad? The answer lies in getting a food cooler bag. These insulated bags are perfect for keeping perishable items fresh. It ensures that you can have healthy meals throughout your trip.
Drawstring Bag
Drawstring bags are a great lightweight option for camping and other outdoor activities. It’s ideal for carrying your bottle and other essentials during treks. Taking one on your camping trip can help you prepare for such situations. It’s also a plus that it takes up virtually no space when it’s not in use.
Hydration Bag
People who engage in hiking, cycling, running, and climbing need water bags for camping. The hydration pack is built to store all the essentials you’ll need throughout the day. The ergonomic design allows it to fit comfortably on your body. The hydration compartments ensure that you have enough water for the whole day.
Conclusion
Camping is an amazing way to reconnect with nature and spend some time with loved ones. However, things can go downhill if you don’t plan properly for trips. The most essential aspect of camping is handling the camping luggage.
Confused about what kind of camping storage bags to take on the trip? Our comprehensive guide will have you covered. Have fun exploring the beauty of nature and stay safe out there!
