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When's the last time you went camping? Last week? Last summer? Maybe you haven't gone since you were a kid. No matter how much experience you have, camping is the ultimate outdoor adventure. The key to the perfect outdoor getaway, however, is having the right camping gear.

Treat every camping trip like it's your first, even if you've camped many times before. Your wilderness adventure can quickly turn to disastrous or even dangerous if you're not prepared for anything. To make your trip as safe and fun as possible, make a checklist of everything you need before you hit the trail. There are no corner stores in the forest, and no neighbors to provide those forgotten items.

Plan First, Pack Later

Rather than throwing together the necessities at the last minute, allow time to plan and pack. List all of the items you'll want and need, and don't forget to include those "just in case" items. Check each item on your list as you pack, and don't overlook anything. You have so many items to include; this is sometimes the only way to be sure that you've got all of your must-have camping necessities.

Gimme Shelter

One surefire way to turn a camping trip from paradise to purgatory is to pack shoddy bedding and poor shelter. You need to be warm, dry and comfortable when camping. Sleeping under the stars might seem romantic, until you find yourself exposed to rain, frost, insects or curious four-legged creatures that may visit during the night. Bring along proper shelter that will keep you safe and secure. Bring enough blankets to stay warm and for heavens sake, don't forget your pillow.

Bring Your Bare Necessities

Certain personal items are just as important at camp as they are at home. While you won't need things like mousse and makeup, you will most definitely need sun protection, insect repellant towels and, of course, toilet paper. Items like soap, toothbrush, shampoo and a hairbrush are also good to pack along. Keep toilet paper, towels and other personal care items in a waterproof bag.

Clothes

Pack a clean change of clothing for each day that you will be at camp, and then pack a few extra items. Camping can be dirty business, and those little surprises like rain and dust can mean an even bigger mess. If you have a supply of fresh water and a length of rope on hand, you can always wash and dry your laundry at camp. It's a lot easier, however, to just pack extra. The temperatures can drop dramatically at night, even during the hottest months, so bring along a couple of warm shirts, extra socks and long pants for those cool evenings by the campfire.

Medicine and First Aid

Smart campers assume that if anything can go wrong, it will. So, they pack accordingly. Follow this rule and pack up any medications and all first aid supplies that you may need at camp. Prescription medications, pain relief and vitamins are essentials. Those with allergies must bring an epi-pen or allergy relief medication. Remember to pack bandages, medicated ointment, a sharp outdoor knife and scissors. Everything should be packed into a waterproof bag and kept handy.

Cooking

Everything tastes better when cooked over a campfire. Just be sure that you have the essentials to prepare your outdoor gourmet feast. Pack a clean grill, metal spatula and tongs. Bring a bowl for mixing food, a cutting board, paper plates, cups, silverware, aluminum foil, dish soap and linens. If you have access to a good fishing spot where you're camping, make sure you pack a sharp filet knife and an iron frying pan. Most importantly, don't forget to bring garbage bags to clean up camp at the end of your stay.

You want to remember your outdoor adventure for all the right reasons, so plan ahead and pack carefully.