There’s no better way to experience the beauty of the great outdoors than go on an immersive camping trip. But before heading off into the wilderness, it’s important that you know what to take with you. The following ten essential camping tools will help make your camping experience as safe and as fun as possible.

1. First aid kit

A first aid kit can be the difference between life and death when you’re far from civilization. Make to include in your kit plenty of band-aids, sterilized gauze, adhesive, scissors, antiseptic, pen or pencil and paper, elastic bandages, CPR mouth barrier device, and plenty of Band-Aids.

2. Non-perishable foods

Non-perishable foods like MREs and power bars are a must for long camping trips, especially if there’s a lot of traveling involved. They keep your load light and give you the calories you need.

3. Flashlight

When you’re in the city at night, it’s easy to forget just how dark it can actually get. When you’re out in the wild, you never want to get caught in the dark without a flashlight. Get a headlamp if you can. Bring an extra bulb and a few sets of extra batteries.

4. Water bottle

Always have a bottle of water or Camelbak Classic with you. You can last weeks without food, but only three days without. It might be helpful to invest in a water purification kit, for when you find yourself near a body of water and want to refill.

5. Fire Starters

Carry plenty of waterproof matches, so you can have fire no matter the weather. Fire starters are crucial for keeping you warm at night and in rescue scenarios.

6. Self-Rescue Aids

A rescue whistle and a rescue mirror are very, very important for when you go hiking or camping for prolonged periods. You never know when you might be stuck and in need of help. A whistle will be far louder than your voice and you can whistle far longer as well. Rescue mirrors you can use to signal overhead planes.

7. Rope

A rope might not seem as immediately important as, say, water or matches, but it is essential when you want to build a shelter out in the woods and in the worse cases, rescue scenarios. It’s a good idea to take the time to learn a few basic knots, like the bowline and the square knot.

8. Compass

A GPS device can break or be ruined by water. Always keep a compass handy, so you can find your way to civilization wherever you end up.

9. Pocketknife

One of the most basic camping tools, the pocketknife can be used for everything from cooking to building a fire. Cut away from yourself and keep your knife sharp.

10. Appropriate clothes

Dress for whatever climate you’re heading into and remember to wear layers.