Checklist for a Successful Campout

Here in Hawaii, there are countless things to do and see. One activity that everyone should try to do at least once is camping. There’s nothing like gathering all of your friends, packing your bags, and hitting the coastline for some weekend camping. Here’s a few tips on how to make your camping trip successful and fun for everyone.

1. Don’t forget the tent.

After driving for over an hour and searching for the perfect campsite, realizing you forgot the tent is beyond disappointing. If you don’t already own a tent, you can rent a two, four, or eight person tent from UH’s outdoor education building. This building is located on lower campus on the Diamond Head side of T.C. Ching field.

2. Pack all of the necessities

Water

Food

Cooler

Sunscreen

Blankets/Sleeping Bags

Adult Beverages

Music/Speakers

Firewood

3. S’mores are a must.

You CANNOT have a campout without s’mores. That is just uncalled for. There’s nothing like the warm and gooey marshmallows squished between two melting pieces of chocolate and graham crackers. Your mouth will start to water before your mallow is even done roasting. You can bring your own sticks to help with roasting or you could find some twigs and branches to use near your campsite. Don’t forget to bring gear to make the fire! No fire=no s’mores.

4. Check the weather.

Even though the weather can change in the blink of an eye here, it’s always smart to check the weather before heading out of town. You don’t want to wake up to a hurricane or three! (Kilo, Ignacio, and Jimena)

5. Sit down and watch the sunset. You won’t regret it.

There’s something about letting your hair down, feeling the sand between your toes, and watching the sun sink below the horizon line.

6. Enjoy spending time with your friends and loved ones.

 As students, we don’t get a lot of time to just unwind and relax without thinking about school, work, or other things causing stress in life. Take this time off to enjoy being outdoors and don’t think about what Monday will bring,or the homework you’re procrastinating on. Live in the present, and enjoy your camping!

• camping
• Hawaii