How to Pack Camping Gear For Moving
If you’re a camper, you know the joys and benefits of going to a remote location, setting up your tent, starting a fire, and sleeping under the stars.
Moreover, you’ve probably amassed a collection of camping gear that make life out in the wilderness much more bearable. They also take up significant space in your home, and can present a set of challenges unique to you when doing ordinary things, such as moving houses.
Moving is exciting and stressful at the same time. Packing up and preparing your belongings for transport can be time-consuming, especially when you own a lot of camping gear. Your gear is usually bulky and can suffer damage during transport if not well packed.
However, packing camping gear while moving doesn’t need to be complicated if you plan and organize properly.
But if the whole ordeal sounds daunting and exhausting – don’t worry. This article will explore how to pack camping gear while moving to help you out.
Create a Checklist
The best way to keep your camping gear, as well as your other belongings, safe from getting lost or damaged when moving is to create separate checklists. Have a checklist for your camping gear and one for your other stuff.
The checklists should include details like how fragile items are, what items can be packed with others, and which ones need special attention. This helps you figure out what packing solution is best for each item and account for all items at your destination.
Fortunately, most camping gear is durable and can withstand some abuse, but that’s not to say you can’t damage it.
Choose the Right Packing Containers
Picking the right packing containers for your household items and camping gear is essential. The right container can mean the difference between returning to the shop to buy new items or smoothly transitioning into your new life. So, don’t cheap out with your containers or overdo it and waste resources.
Plastic boxes with solid lids are perfect for fragile household items, such as ceramics or glass. You should also wrap each item with newspaper to provide a cushion that helps absorb bumps on the road.
Fortunately, most camping gear only needs a little attention, and cardboard boxes will suffice for most items. These can include sleeping bags, blankets, and cooking utensils.
However, you should pack items like camping stoves, flashlights, lanterns, and other small camping items in solid containers. Then, protect them by placing soft materials such as clothes around them.
Another thing to keep in mind when choosing your packing containers is their reusability. If you spend money on containers, they might as well be ones you can reuse when moving again or on camping trips.
Organize Stuff by Category
By organizing your belongings and camping gear in categories, you can pack more efficiently and find everything easily when unpacking.
Shelter, sleeping gear, cooking supplies, and toiletries are some of the most common categories. Furthermore, label each container with its contents and pack each category in separate containers.
Remember, packing involves more than just putting your camping gear into boxes. You also need to clean your camping gear by removing the dirt you may have missed during your last trip and vacuuming your tent and bedding.
Pack Strategically
Packing camping gear and personal belongings is a strategy game. Packing items in the wrong order or orientation in moving containers can lead to damage or create a mountain of stuff, which is not ideal.
Start by placing the heavier items at the bottom of the containers, and then put lighter items on top. Additionally, ensure items are tightly packed in their container to avoid shifting during transportation. This way, heavy items can’t crush the more delicate items during transportation.
Place frequently used items on top of the containers to make accessing them easier during and after your move. The last thing you want is to go fishing for items at the bottom of your containers after arriving to your new place.
Purge Unnecessary Items
If you’ve been camping for a significant time, you’ve probably amassed a sizable collection of camping gear, most of which you no longer use or need. Packing your camping gear for a move lets you declutter and eliminate equipment that is no longer useful to you.
However, you don’t have to throw it away if it’s still in good condition, as you can donate it to someone who can utilize it. This will reduce your packing burden and make your move that much easier.
Consider Hiring Movers
Moving is stressful and tiring; you might also not have the time or be comfortable doing it yourself, which is okay.
In that case, consider hiring professional movers to help you out. In addition to providing specialty packing materials, professional movers have experience packing and transporting fragile household items and camping equipment.
Research reputable moving companies within a price range you’re comfortable with around your area and procure their services.
Consider Packing in Your Vehicle
If you own a large truck or a sizable vehicle and have a lot of camping gear or large items, consider packing them in your car instead of using a moving truck. By doing so, you can keep a closer eye on your equipment and save costs. Accessing them will also be easier when you get to your new location.
However, ensure that you follow all the other packing etiquette we’ve discussed, such as placing heavy gear at the bottom of your truck. You should also wrap fragile items in bubble wrap and make sure they’re tightly packed to prevent shifting during transit.
Store Properly
After packing and making your move, unpack what you need and store the rest of your camping gear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You should also ensure the area is moisture-free and does not contain pests or mold.
Shelves or cabinets are an excellent way to store your camping gear safely, as well as keep you organized and allow for easy access.
FAQs
What’s the first step in packing camping gear for a move?
The first step is to create a checklist of all your camping gear. This will help you track what needs to be packed and ensure nothing gets left behind. It will also help you account for all your camping equipment and household items once you’ve moved, which is essential when contracting any help.
What kind of containers should I use to pack my camping gear?
You’ll want containers that are durable, secure and the right size for your gear. Consider using backpacks, duffle bags, or plastic totes. When choosing containers, think about the size and weight of your gear.
How should I organize my camping gear for packing?
Organize your camping gear by categories, such as shelter, sleeping gear, cooking supplies, and toiletries. Pack each category in separate containers, and label each container with its contents and how fragile they are.
How should I pack my camping gear to prevent damage during transport?
Pack heavy items at the bottom of containers, and then layer lighter items on top. You should also pack frequently used items at the top of your containers to make them easy to access during the move. Additionally, pack gear tightly to prevent shifting during transport.
How should I label my containers for easy identification during the move?
Label each container clearly by its category and with its contents. You can also use color-coded labels and include additional information for fragile items.
Conclusion
Moving is fun and stressful at the same time. You have to ensure everything is packed correctly and nothing gets left behind. If you don’t have a proper plan of attack, things can hit the fan, and a lot can go wrong. To add a curve ball to everything, if you’re a camper, you also have your camping gear to think about.
However, if you create a checklist, choose the right packing containers, and organize your gear and household items by category, moving can be a stress-free experience. Remember, it’s also an excellent idea to label your containers clearly, and place fragile items on top of heavier ones.
You should also consider hiring professional movers if you’re uncomfortable packing your camping gear and household items. They have the necessary skills and packing techniques to ensure even the frailest of your equipment gets to your new home safe and sound.
Using these tips, you can pack your camping gear confidently and efficiently for a move and be ready for your next outdoor adventure in no time.