What kind of equipment should I bring when I go camping:

Maine offers a variety of hiking options and experiences that will make your visit to Maine an enjoyable one. It is very important to be prepared when you visit the Maine Woods for a day, overnight or a week hiking trip.

Maines favorite saying "If you don't like the weather wait a minute" can either make your hiking trip in Maine an enjoyable one or one you would rather forget.

Be prepared for your hiking trip to Maine by bringing the following. Of course, wilderness hiking or extended hiking trips may require different equipment than day hikes

• Sleeping bag - Be sure to bring a sleeping bag which is "Holofill" because it will dry faster when wet and retain heat if it gets wet.
• Tent with "no-see-um" netting with a rain fly (tarp) and tent stakes (make sure you have all the parts before leaving home. Having extras is a plus.)
• A ground cloth to protect you and your tent from the ground
• A tarp to set up to cover your cooking and eating area. The tarp is handy to set up if you are caught in the rain.
• Sleeping pads
• Some waterproof containers to keep your essentials dry like matches, film, camera's, food, medication, or a wallet. A suggestion though if you are on medication - be sure to split it up so that it is in two safe places.
• A flashlight or two
• Extra batteries for the flashlight
• The appropriate pot or pan depending on what your cooking
• Some quick meals and snacks are good to have even for a day hike
• Always good to have on hand high energy foods such chocolare bars, peanuts, or GORP
• Cooking and eating utensils
• A jug of drinking water - most water found along the trail will have to be purified by using a filter or tablets
• Biodegradable soap and scrubbies to clean your dishes
• Some type of cook stove - don't expect to have a fire all the time. Also a stove is easier to use when it is pouring down rain.
• Extra rope
• Extra Trash Bags
• Tent Repair Kit (usually comes with new tents)
• A deck of playing cards or a good book
• A camera with lots of film.
• A confortable backpack - choose a pack that can handle the gear you plan to carry. The larger the pack the longer the trip. Makes sure it fits properly especially around your waist and shoulders.
• A first aid kit
• A small hand shovel - in case you must build your own latrine

Everyone has a different hiking style and this list should change if you are day hiking, weekend hiking, or on an extended hiking trip.

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