Spring is right around the corner (actually it’s technically already here even if the temperatures don’t seem to agree) and that means it’s almost time for spring camping.
Naturally, you need the tent, the sleeping bag, some firewood and firemaking essentials, food and water, appropriate clothing, camp tools, and light.
But these are the obvious must-haves. What other things should experience teach you never to hit the woods without?
Well, start with this list.
Shemagh Scarf
It would be easier to make a list of things a shemagh scarf isn’t than to make a list of things it is useful for. This is the do-all garment/apparel accessory that has a billion and one uses.
Originally called a keffiyeh, the shemagh scarf was made from cotton (most modern examples still are) and was worn in arid, middle eastern regions to protect the wearer from sun, wind, and sand.
But for the modern camper, a shemagh scarf has many other uses. It is not only a headwrap, it is also a light blanket, a pillow, a sling, an impromptu basket for gathering berries and other vittles, a napkin, a blotter, a rag, and so much more.
A Single Cast Iron Pan
Yes, cast iron is heavy, but it is also so much better for camp cooking than ultralight gear – and if you’re car camping, there is not a single reason out there to bring along one of those thin aluminum nightmares. It’s cast iron all the way.
For one, cast iron is thick and durable enough to use when cooking right over (or on the coals of) a campfire. Cast iron is also consistent, you can use steel implements on it, and it’s easy to clean; in fact, you shouldn’t use soap on it, making it the ultimate piece of “junk it in the trunk and go” cookware.
A Solar Power Bank
Have you ever had a camping excursion in which your phone, flashlight, or speaker died? It’s not the end of the world but it can still be unsettling in the woods when your lifeline is stone dead, even if there are no other hiccups.
This is why a solar power bank is the ultimate solution. Unlike other conventional power banks (which can also die, especially in frigid temperatures) if a solar bank dies, you just need to put it out in the sun for a few hours to bring it back up to speed. It’s a failsafe against total loss of power while camping.
A Collapsible Trench Shovel
After a solid fixed blade, a collapsible trench shovel just might be the next best camp tool out there.
For one, you can use these to dig fire pits and latrines. But it doesn’t end there. Most trench shovels have sharpened edges that can be used in lieu of an ax, knife or hatchet for clearing wood, preparing firewood, and making camp furniture. Some even have serrated edges, too.
A collapsible trench shovel can also be used to excavate shelter, dig out of snow and clear ice, and to tend and work the coals of a fire. In fact, some folding models can even be upended and used as impromptu stools.
Where Can You Get These (and Other) Camping Essentials
Looking for camping essentials like a shemagh scarf or a collapsible trench shovel? Get them online at Fatigues Army Navy, alongside a huge catalog of other reasonably priced milsurp and camp gear.
