Camping is great fun – but it’s not to be taken lightly. Remember, you’re going to be away from all the things you’re used to having, from accommodation right through to changes of clothing, plus all the gear you’ll need for cooking, washing and lighting up the dark.
So before you even set off for your next camping trip, sit down and make a list of all the things you’re likely to need.
Further on in this feature we’ve included a checklist of essential items (this does not include normal 4WD recovery equipment, which would be extra if you’re going off-road).
We recommend you use the list – it’s amazing the sort of things you forget, and once you’re “out there” it’s a long way to go and fetch them.
However this list if by no means definitive, since different areas offer different challenges.
What weather is possible? Does the weather vary much? Do you need rain gear? Does the temperature fluctuate between extremes or are biting insects a problem?
If it’s a trip you haven’t taken before ask someone who has.
What do you want to do? Are you taking a camping trip to relax or are you looking for full physical involvement? Do you want to camp only, or would you like to throw some hiking, fishing, kayaking, rafting, or mountain biking into the mix?
Do you like rustic camping or do you think flush toilets and warm running water are a good thing?
There are lots of good books around which give advice on where to go and what’s available, or you can log onto the Internet and see what the DoC camps have to offer.
Although these are usually often on the basic side, you DO get to some wonderful places.
Consider your level of fitness. This will determine how much you enjoy your trip. If you’re going to be doing demanding activities be honest with yourself and make sure you’re up to the challenge, because pushing yourself too far will only make you miserable.
Do you need topographic maps because you’re wanting to get away into the back country? 
Land Information New Zealand has just launched its new Topo050 maps with a new range of coordinates, increased terrain information and updated DoC site locations. 
For the casual weekend outdoor enthusiast or “weekend warrior” these new maps can immensely enhance the outdoor experience as they are designed to help New Zealanders find their way through remote areas with greater ease.
With complete terrain information you can easily assess whether an area is suitable for your fitness level. 
You can choose tracks that include rivers or watering holes should you wish, or if you have small children select routes based on water, terrain and cliff variables.
The new Topo50 map series has been developed to be compatible with international mapping systems and modern navigational technologies such as GPS, and will be the maps that emergency services will be using.
The 1:50,000 scale maps use different coordinates (latitudes/longitudes) of points in New Zealand to previous maps, the difference equivalent to an approximate 200m change in position.

The coordinates on the new maps will a match the international settings on GPS units, which will make navigation easier for people visiting from overseas.
 The Topo50 map series has been designed for ease of use, with a new portrait format A1 sheet size that allows the best geographic fit.
Relief shading helps users visualise topography, while the back cover displays a locality indicator so map users can see where the map sheet fits within the geographic region.
A new website, www.topo50.govt.nz has been launched to help map users understand the changes and view the new maps.
The maps are available from map retailers and Department of Conservation visitor centres.
If you’re going on any remote camping trips make sure you plan for water. Will there be water available the entire time or will you need to treat or purify your own with a water filter or water purifier? Or will you have to carry it all?
Next up, if you’ve never been camping before, you’ll want to look at the gear you need.
The checklist will pretty much take care of that, but if you  are looking for cheap camping gear or equipment to save money, or because you’re not sure whether you’re going to like camping or not, well you have to consider if it’s a real saving.
Equipment can make the difference between feeling like you’ve wasted your holiday time especially if you’re constantly being frustrated by mediocre gear that leaks, breaks, tears, jams, snaps, fails, and plain doesn’t work.
Compare that to something that’s so dependable that you can’t imagine leaving for a trip without it, because you know your trip is going to be better just by taking it with you.
Camping is about getting away and relaxing, not getting all wound up because stuff keeps going wrong.

So get the best you can afford.
Another good thing about using great gear is that you’ll keep your significant other happier.
Poor quality tents can even turn someone who previously loved camping totally off it.
And buying cheap could probably will cost you MORE, not less, because you’ll have to throw the poor quality tent away and replace it with a better one, so you’ll have forked out for two tents.
Buying a good one in the beginning would have cost less.
Best thing if you’re new to camping is to borrow a friend’s or relative’s gear instead of wasting your money on cheap camping gear.
Then if you really like the experience, go out and buy your own good stuff when you get back.