Equipment Shopping for outdoor gear should be a family event. The kids will help pick out everything from clothes to tents to cook kits. This involvement will make them anxious to go on the real camp-out. One of the best pieces of gear is a small knapsack or daypack. They come in all sizes, including small ones for children and even special packs the family dog.
Fanny packs are comfortable and convenient too.
You can take along lunch, water, a small first aid kit, and a guidebook in the pack. Come midday when it's warm, just stuff that extra sweater inside. When it comes to larger, more expensive pieces of necessary equipment like tents, backpacks, and skis, a good way to find out what you prefer is to rent them for several outings. In the long run, you'll save money by purchasing the equipment that you want and will use. Keep in mind the end of the season is often the best time to buy all kinds of gear at economical prices.