After-Camp Checklist

Tips for unpacking after the camp trip:

The ride home after a camping trip can be long, particularly when you have a hot shower and e-mail and your favorite video game bed waiting for you. Before relaxing, some final chores need to be done:

• unload gear
  First things first, unload the car or truck, separate everything used on the camping trip.

• take inventory gear
  Identify items that are broken or lost; make a list of what needs repair or replacement.

• empty the cooler
  Remove food from the cooler and put it in the refrigerator; wash the cooler and dry it.

• store food items
  Return all remaining foods to the pantry or cupboard.
• wash the dishes
  Even if you did it at camp, it's good practice to wash them again.  Return items where they belong; store all camping items together. Keep these organized & consider using a chuck box.
• wash the clothes
  At least separate clothes that need laundering. Don't wait; start the laundry as soon as you can.  Watch our for Poison Oak, and warn anyone else who may touch the laundry!
• dispose of trash
  Gather up and dispose of any remaining trash.
• set up the tent
  Air it out, especially if it got wet; sweep before stowing.  Air other gear to avoid mold and mildew.
• store it right.   
  Many campers don’t know they should store self-inflating pads and sleeping bags, not in their stuff bags, but loose, so they loft and inflate naturally.

Take good care of your camping gear, and it will reward you for many years to come! Use this after-camping checklist when you return from each trip, and you'll always be ready for the next.

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