A brief history of the beloved VW campervan The origin of the VW Type II bus began just after World War II in the VW factory in Wolfsburg, Germany. In 1947, a Dutch importer called Ben Pon, noticed that the motorised trolleys used to transport parts around the factory were made from stripped down VW Beetle chassis and running gear, called Plattenwagen. He was inspired by these rather strange looking vehicles to sketch a design of a beetle-based van, which looked not unlike a box on wheels!

Plattenwagen

A year later, the new chief executive of Volkswagen saw potential in this idea and the first VW van was officially launched at the Geneva Motor Show in November 1949.

The early VW van, Type 2 T1

By March 1950, ten vehicles a day were being produced. For the next four decades, the basic design remained the same and around five million buses were produced over that time. The Type II with its rear engine and ‘box on wheels’ body, filled a much needed gap in the market providing a simple but sturdy vehicle, that was flexible when it came to transportation but without a high degree of cost.

The cutaway of a Split bus showing the basic simple layout.

The unique design of the VW transporter meant that the rear seats could be removed in order to transport greater loads. As the design was so uncomplicated, VW was able to turn out 90 different body combinations over the first five years. These variations included buses, pick-ups, fire engines, ambulances, beer wagons, refrigerated ice-cream vans, milk floats, mobile butchers’ shops, bread vans, mobile grocers, ordinary delivery vans and the well known and loved camper.

VW Transporter evolution

The Split From 1949 until 1967, Volkswagen produced the first generation of VW buses in the form of split screens. These ‘splitties’ earned their name due to the split windscreen and also sported a sweeping v-line front. They had a rear air-cooled engine that was simple and reliable. In Indonesia, this type is called as VW Dakota (referring to DC-3 Dakota aircraft which has similar split windscreen) or VW Cancut (referring to the underwear shaped of the V-line front).

The split bus

During the 18-year production period, there were a great many developments. The original buses were designed to be workhorses and came in Kombi and Panel van models. The microbus was introduced in 1950, and had the famous two-tone paint; nicer upholstery and the big cast aluminium ‘VW’ logo. With 1951 came the introduction of the Westfalia. The name Westfalia came from Westfalia-Werke, the contractor that built the vans, located in the Westphalia region of Germany. The VW camper van proved immensely popular with many features added about this time, including a longer dashboard with radio and clock, and chrome trim on the body. When the VW Camper was released in the USA in the mid 1950’s it was remarkably successful, with over 150,000 sold by 1963! In 1952 the single cab pick-up appeared and in 1954 the engine size increased. About 30 more versions of transporter were available, including the delivery van and ambulance. Four years later saw the introduction of the double cab pick-up. In the meantime, production of the VW bus had moved from Wolfsburg to Hannover. By 1960 the wide-bed pick-up trucks became available on special order and the high roof delivery van was also produced. Flashing indicators also replaced the semaphore. During 1963 the engine size increased to 1500cc from the original 1200cc, and the sliding side door became available as an option. 1967 marked the end of an era with the conclusion of split screen production, with 1,477,330 buses in the marketplace.

The variety of split bus

The Bay The split-screen was replaced in 1968 by the ‘early bay’ window version. The style of the bay was a radical rethink, with major suspension changes and engines now being fitted with a stabilising ‘back bar’. A one piece windscreen and wind down windows also added to the changes – in fact just about every mechanical part and body panel was changed!

The Early Bay camper; notice the indicator lights are located below the headlights.

1973 then saw the introduction the ‘late bay’. This saw changes in the ‘wrap around’ style bumpers being replaced with the square style, front indicators being moved up to the new grille, and with the option of larger engine sizes (1600cc, 1700cc, 1800cc and 2000cc) the buses became far more reliable.

Late Bay campervans with pop-top roof.

It was really the bay that made the ‘camper’ such a triumph. The Bay as a van was larger than the previous ‘Splitty’, and these were converted by various firms such as Devon, Viking, Danbury, Dormobile and Westfalia. These firms offered different interior configurations for sleeping, storage and cooking as well as various types of roof. These ranged from straight up vertical pop tops, to front, side and rear hinging. The last bay was produced in 1979. This also marked the end of the famous VW air-cooled engine as the next generations of campers would have engines that were water cooled. Between August 1967 and July 1979, the production line had rolled out 3,292,272 bay window vans.

A bay camper

The T25 and T4 were produced over the following years, and the subsequent T5 is continuing the massive success the of the VW camper. The Splitty and the Bay were truly iconic vans that represented an era of freedom and fun. That is why we restore them and cherish them – they are history on wheels and memories of childhood days gone by.

VW Transporter family. Left to right: T1 (1950-1967), T2 (1967-1979), T3 (1979-1992), T4 (1990-2003) & T5 (2003-present).

It’s Not All About Volkswagen Conversions.
Tidak selalu campervan adalah Volkswagen.

Westfalia campervans build on the Volkswagen van pioneered the camper van world as we know it today back in the 1950’s. The combination of a compact van equipped with all the basics of your home was and still is the most practical combination to explore the world far beyond the imaginary fence of your home.
Campervan Westfalia yang dibuat dari kendaraan Volskwagen adalah pelopor dunia campervan seperti yang kita kenal sekarang semenjak tahun 1950-an. Kendaraan yang kompak dikombinasikan dengan peralatan dasar rumah tangga telah & tetap menjadi sangat populer untuk melakukan penjelajahan di luar rumah. 

The words freedom and adventure are written all over these compact campervan conversions since the first Westy’s came around. It’s the ultimate adventure vehicle.
Dua kata, yaitu kebebasan & penjelajahan telah ditulis untuk menggambarkan campervan kompak ini sejak pertama kali Westy (nama panggilan untuk unit-unit buatan Westfalia) muncul. Westy telah menjadi kendaraan penjelajahan yang paling utama.

The German based Westfalia-Werke was a coach building company back then and the word is that an American or British officer serving in Germany at the time, asked the Westfalia crew to convert the Volkswagen T1 panel van into a cozy home on wheels. And so they did, the first camper van conversion on earth was introduced to the public and the rest of their success is all history.
Westfalia-Werke yang berkedudukan di Jerman pada mulanya adalah perusahaan karoseri bus. Konon setelah Perang Dunia II usai & Jerman diduduki Sekutu, seorang perwira Inggris atau Amerika meminta Westfalia untuk mengkonversi kendaraan minibus tipe panel model T1 buatan Volkswagen menjadi semacam rumah berjalan yang nyaman. Lalu dibuatlah & sebuah campervan pertama-tama di bumi ini diperlihatkan ke publik & lalu cerita sukses selanjutnya telah mengisi sejarah.

Westfalia and Volkswagen were launched to the stars with their iconic pop-top roof design a few years later on and Westfalia converted thousands of genuine camper vans on four different Volkswagen models, known around the world for their quality and simplicity.
Westfalia bersama Volkswagen menjadi sangat terkenal berkat desain atap yang dapat dinaik-turunkan (disebut ‘pop-top’) yang ikonik beberapa tahun kemudian. Westfalia lalu mengkonversi ribuan unit minibus Volkswagen dari empat model & menjadi terkenal di berbagai belahan dunia karena kualitasnya & kemudahan penggunaannya.

However, along with the legendary Volkswagen camper van conversions, Westaflia also build many other vans from different European manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz (Sprinter van) and Ford using either their innovative pop top or the later added plastic high top roof designs.
Walaupun campervan buatan Westfalia yang berbasis Volkswagen telah melegenda, Westfalia juga membuat campervan lainnya dari berbagai merek kendaraan di Eropa seperti Mercedes-Benz & Ford memanfaatkan atap pop-top yang inovatif atau juga atap tinggi (high roof) berbahan plastik.

After more than 60 years, the same basic philosophy is kept in this legendary company. Converting panel or box vans with their top of the line quality and knowledge in the business. Keeping the legend alive, the Westfalia camper vans.
Setelah lebih dari 60 tahun, filosofi dasar yang masih sama tetap digunakan di perusahaan legendaris ini. Mengkonversi minibus dengan kualitas tertinggi mereka & pengetahuan bisnis. Hal ini memelihara legenda untuk tetap hidup sampai sekarang; campervan buatan Westfalia.

Most of their basic innovative solutions have evolved over the years to higher standards as the Westfalia design crew is constantly pushing the limits of the cutting edge design and long lasting quality used in all of their camper van conversions.
Banyak dari solusi inovatif dasar mereka telah berkembang selama bertahun-tahun menuju standard yang lebih tinggi karena para perancang Westfalia selalu secara konstan mendorong batas dari desain tercanggih & kualitas yang tahan lama diterapkan di semua campervan buatan mereka.

So,let’s take a look through a short tour of Westfalia campervans and their features, other than the famous Volkswagen pop top conversion.
Maka mari kita lihat berbagai campervan buatan Westfalia & fitur-fiturnya. selain dari atap pop-top Volkswagen yang terkenal.

James Cook

Westfalia James Cook camper

Based on the much larger Mercedes van, the “James Cook” was introduced in 1977. Named after the famous explorer, this camper van conversion is clearly aimed at a more demanding public. This is a comfortable motorhome like camper van conversion, with a specially designed high top roof, a bathroom, four beds and a lot roomier than the Volkswagen transporter.
Memakai minibus Mercedes yang jauh lebih besar, James Cook diperkenalkan di tahun 1977. Mengambil nama seorang penjelajah yang terkenal, campervan ini kelihatan jelas ditujukan kepada khalayak yang semakin banyak kemauannya. Campervan ini nyaman, dengan atap tinggi yang didesain khusus, sebuah kamar mandi, empat buah tempat tidur & ruangan yang lebih luas daripada minibus Volkswagen.   

The innovative double room interior found in James Cook and Sven Hedin models.

One of the unique features of this camper van is what people call, a double room concept. The front part of the van is equipped with a dinette and the Westfalia Vario seat that extracts to a double bed. The other double bed is located just above, comfortably located in the high roof.
Salah satu fitur unik di campervan ini adalah yang dinamakan konsep kamar ganda. Bagian depan dilengkapi dengan ruang makan & kursi Vario buatan Westfalia yang dapat diubah menjadi tempat tidur ganda. Sementara tempat tidur ganda lainnya ditempatkan di bagian atas di dalam atap tinggi. 

The rear part of the van carries the kitchen, toilet and storage compartment with various storage locations throughout the van. The “James Cook” became a bestseller and soon a symbol for comfortable travel.
Bagian belakang berisi dapur, toilet & kompartemen penyimpanan di berbagai sudut ruangan. James Cook menjadi produk yang  paling laku & lalu menjadi simbol kenyamanan perjalanan.

After the first three generations of Volkswagen campers, this was the only Westfalia conversion that was exported to the North American market in 2004 and distributed by Airstream. Only 250 campers were imported though.
Setelah tiga generasi pertama campervan Volkswagen, tipe ini adalah satu-satunya buatan Westfalia yang diekspor ke Amerika Utara pada tahun 2004 & dipasarkan oleh Airstream. Hanya 250 unit yang diimpor.

Sven Hedin

Introduced in 1978 using the larger Volkswagen LT body for the conversion, the “Sven Hedin” is another high top roof comfortable camper, similar to the “James Cook”.
Diluncurkan pada tahun 1978 dengan memakai kendaraan Volkswagen LT yang berukuran lebih besar, Sven Hedin adalah campervan beratap tinggi yang nyaman, sama seperti James Cook.

Westfalia Sven Hedin.

Both of these models pioneered the use of specially designed plastic high top roofs for greater comfort and to say the truth, there are still many of the early models on the road today. Comfort and quality just speak for themselves here, with using a similar interior layout design.
Kedua model ini memelopori penggunaan material plastik pada atap tinggi yang didesain khusus untuk meningkatkan kenyamanan. Jujur saja, model yang lebih awal masih banyak ditemukan di jalanan sampai saat ini. Kenyamanan & kualitas terbukti di sini dengan desain interior yang sama. 

Nugget

Another long standing relationship was born in the 1980’s and therefore the Ford Nugget was introduced. Using the short wheel-base Transit and now the brand new and slightly smaller Transit Custom vans with a new high top roof design, this vehicle features the now familiar double room concept layout with a unique L-shaped kitchen block in the back. There is no toilet room here, but a storage compartment is cut out for the portable camping toilet.
Hubungan jangka lama lainnya lahir di tahun 1980-an & sebab itu Ford Nugget diluncurkan. Menggunakan minibus Transit yang jarak rodanya pendek & sekarang menggunakan Transit Custom yang agak lebih kecil dengan desain baru atap tinggi, campervan ini memakai fitur konsep ruang ganda yang sudah lazim dengan dapur berbentuk hurul L yang unik di bagian belakang. Tidak ada toilet walaupun kompartemen penyimpanan dapat digunakan sebagai toilet camping portabel. 

Westfalia Nugget

The Nugget interior.

This is an agile camper, just a bit larger than a larger family car and the only camper van that I’m aware of, that has five seat-belts and can actually sleep the same amount of people. Well make that three kids, but this is still the best layout for a large family. You really get yourself a perfect daily driver with a kitchen in the back.
Campervan ini tangguh berukuran sedikit lebih besar daripada kendaraan keluarga & sepanjang pengetahuan kami, satu-satunya campervan yang mempunyai lima sabuk pengaman & lima orang dapat tidur di dalamnya, walaupun tiga di antaranya adalah anak-anak, tetapi tetap saja campervan ini mempunyai desain terbaik & cocok untuk sebuah keluarga besar. Anda dapat menggunakan kendaraan ini untuk keperluan sehari-hari dengan sebuah dapur di bagian belakang.

Nugget comes with both Westfalia roof designs. The pop top and the high top.
Nugget dilengkapi kedua desain atap dari Westfalia; pop-top & atap tinggi.

The Big Nugget with the toilet room and a different layout was added later on, with the difference of using two versions of standard Ford high top roofs. It’s made on the long wheel-base Ford Transit platform.
Big Nugget dengan ruangan toilet & layout yang berbeda diluncurkan kemudian, dengan menggunakan dua versi atap tinggi buatan Ford. Kendaraannya adalah Ford Transit bechassis panjang.

Marco Polo

Westfalia Marco Polo

The famous explorers name was used for a brand new line of Westfalia campers based on the smaller Mercedes Benz Vito/Viano vans.
Nama penjelajah terkenal ini dipakai unruk produk Westfalia terbaru yang menggunakan minibus Mercedes Benz Vito / Viano yang lebih kecil.

The van and the camper van conversion are very similar to the Volkswagen California and Eurovan conversions. It comes with a pop top roof and many unique features from the house. Today, this is actually the elite pop top camper van, proudly carrying the Mercedes star on the front grille.
Minibus & konversi campervannya sangat mirip dengan Volkswagen California & Eurovan. Hadir dengan atap pop-top & banyak fitur unik yang banyak terdapat di rumah. Dewasa ini, model ini telah menjadi campervan beratap pop-top yang elit & dengan bangga mengusung logo Mercedes Benz di depannya.

Michelangelo

Westfalia Michelangelo

Based on the Fiat Scudo, this camper van comes with a pop top roof and of course a similar layout design as the Volkswagen and Mercedes based Westfalia camper vans. The interior designs evolve from model to model, but the basic layout is the same as it was decades ago. It would be pure non-sense to change something that has worked so well throughout the decades.
Menggunakan minibus Fiat Scudo, campervan ini hadir dengan atap pop-top & tentu saja desain layout yang sama dengan campervan buatan Westfalia lainnya di Volkswagen & Mercedes. Desain interiornya terus berkembang dari satu model ke model lainnya, tetapi dasar layoutnya sebetulnya tetap sama dengan sepuluh tahun lalu. Tidak perlu mengubah sesuatu yang sudah terbukti berfungsi dengan baik selama puluhan tahun.

Both conversions use a very similar layout like the Westy, but using lighter and durable laminates, melamines and fabrics. And the Michelangelo has a cool looking and colorful interior with some innovative features such as two separate sliding seats in the back.
Kedua model menggunakan layout yang sangat mirip dengan Westy, tetapi menggunakan material laminasi, melamin & kain yang lebih ringan & lebih awet. Michelangelo juga mempunyai interior penuh warna yang terlihat nyaman dengan fitur-fitur inovatif seperti dua kursi geser terpisah di bagian belakang.

Amundsen And Columbus

Westfalia Amundsen

These are both quite new in the line of Westfalia camper vans and use the Fiat Ducato van for the base. While the high roof is standard, the interior strikes with a brand new design. The materials and colors give a really lively and fresh appearance that always makes Westfalia camper vans stand out from the crowd.
Kedua model campervan Westfalia ini termasuk baru & memakai minibus Fiat Ducato. Atap tinggi telah standard & interiornya hadir dengan desain baru. Pemilihan material & warna membuat suasana menjadi lebih hidup & segar yang membuat campervan Westfalia selalu menarik perhatian.

The two models have different interior layouts to choose from, including a highly comfortable double bed or two single beds. Equipped with many storage compartments all around, these campers are excellent for extended travel.
Kedua model menghadirkan pilihan layout interior yang berbeda, termasuk sebuah tempat tidur ganda atau dua tempat tidur single yang sangat nyaman. Punya banyak kompartemen penyimpanan, campervan sangat cocok untuk perjalanan jangka panjang.

Club Joker

After a decade of separation, Westfalia goes back to the roots with the “Club Joker” based on the  Volkswagen Transporter once again. This camper uses a high top bulk head roof and the long wheel-base VW van, very similar to the popular California Exclusive model based on the previous generation of the VW T4/Eurovan van platform.
Setelah 10 tahun sempat berpisah, Westfalia kembali ke asalnya ala Club Joker yang memakai minibus Volkswagen Transporter. Model ini menggunakan atap tinggi & minibus VW chassis panjang, mirip dengan model populer California Exclusive yang memakai platform VW T4 Eurovan.    

Westfalia Club Joker

Westfalia Club Joker interior

With the Club Joker, Westaflia continues the tradition of the early VW Westfalia models that made the world move around. This is another example of a sharp and unique interior design, using fresh colors and durable materials. The various storage room compartments of various sizes is always a speciality in these campers.
Model Club Joker memperlihatkan Westfalia terus melanjutkan tradisi campervan VW yang membuatnya terkenal di dunia. Ini adalah contoh desain interior yang tajam & unik, menggunakan warna segar & material yang awet. Bermacam kompartemen penyimpanan dengan ukuran berbeda-beda selalu menjadikan campervan ini spesial.

The double room interior design is used again, therefore four beds and the dinette in the first part of the van and the kitchen block with the toilet room with most of the storage compartments in rear part of the van.
Desain interior ruang ganda dipakai kembali, dimana keempat buah tempat tidur & tempat makan di satu bagian di campervan & dapur akan memisahkan ruangan toilet beserta kompartemen penyimpanan di bagian belakang. 

Each Westfalia model sets new standards and the new Club Joker is no exception to this rule.
Setiap model Westfalia menghadirkan standard baru begitu juga model Club Joker terbaru ini.

Westfalia also uses a couple of basic vans from Ford and Opel that somehow  represent the entry level of Westfalia camper vans. This are basic five seater vans with a folding rear bench and a few neat travel additions.
Westfalia juga menggunakan beberapa minibus buatan Ford & Opel yang lebih ditujukan untuk pemakai pemula campervan. Minibus ini berbasis lima tempat duduk dengan bangku lipat di belakang termasuk beberapa fitur yang membuat perjalanan menjadi lebih praktis. 

Westfalia camper vans clearly marked the revolutionary concept of one of the most multifunctional vehicles in the world more than 60 years ago. Even with the new models, these are very special camper van conversions of long lasting quality, road capability and safety above all.
Campervan buatan Westfalia telah jelas menorehkan konsep revolusioner tentang kendaraan yang sangat multi fungsi selama lebih dari 60 tahun. Bahkan dengan model-model terbaru, campervan ini menjadi sangat spesial dengan kualitas yang tahan lama, mudah dikendarai & tingkat keselamatan di atas segalanya.

Disadur dari Campervan & Bus.

The Ultimate Camping List

The best stress free & easy camping trick is to get yourself the most comprehensive camping list & gear check-list to use when packing for your road trip. But no one knows you, your family or your style of camping better than you do so we’ve pulled our knowledge together, & that of our readers, to come up with the following ultimate camping list that’s gonna blow your socks off. All you have to do is cross off those things that don’t apply to you & you’ll never forget another camping essential again.

This check-list has been made to cover everything you might need to camp in a tent, campervan or caravan. It even has a section specifically about glamping accessories, gear and tips. So if you’re not interested in taking just the basics or packing light, & you want to discover camping in a more luxurious & deluxe way then this is the list for you.

We’ve tried to include everything for every campsite situation, but if you feel we’ve missed something or have totally ignored what you find important on your own list then please get in touch either via the comments section at the end or simply say hello. We’d love to hear from you & share your knowledge & experience with our readers.

Tent, Campervan & Caravan

• Folding pick/shovel
• Set of jumper cables
• Tent pegs
• Heavy canvass or plastic ground tarpaulin
• 3 Lb short hammer
• Full can of fuel & funnel
• Tow chain or rope
• Road Hazard sign & high visibility jacket
• Tool box
• Spray oil such as WD40
• Spirit level or spirit level app on your iPhone & levelling chocks
• Gaffer tape & super-glue
• Copies of important documents including insurance, breakdown recovery, driving license, MOT, vehicle manual
• Maps & Sat Nav
• Toilet & environmentally gentle chemicals
• Give your vehicle the once over: check cables, tyre pressure, cooking gas levels, oil levels, water levels, brake fluid, washer levels, battery levels, etc.
• If you have a tent or awning make sure you check it before you leave to make sure the pegs, ropes, groundsheet, etc, are still packed and the damp, rust, or moths haven’t attacked it since you last used it.

For The Kitchen

• Large flexible plastic tubs with handles make great storage & carrying containers when travelling and setting up camp
• Picnic hamper & blanket with waterproof backing
• Cooking stove, barbecue or way of cooking on an open fire
• Washing up liquid, bowl, cloths & small scrubbing brush
• Dustpan & brush
• Bin bags
• Tea towels & hand towels
• Drinking water container
• Coffee pot
• Dutch Oven, tripod and chain
• Large pan with lid
• Kettle with a whistle
• Cups, cutlery & plates
• Vegetable peeler, tin opener, sharp knife, wooden spoon & bottle opener (cork & lid)
• Chopping board
• Tin foil
• Cool Box & Ice Packs
• Favourite drinks (including tea, coffee, dried milk or long-life milk & sugar)
• Chocolate & other energy food
• Basil & coriander plants in pots to nurture & eat while on your trip
• Store cupboard contents to include: Bottle of wine, cooking oil, cereal of choice (muesli & porridge are great energy foods), eggs, tomato puree, chorizo, already mixed herbs & spices of choice, bay leaves, salt & pepper, sugar, golden & maple syrup, sauces of choice, vinegar, garlic, onions, stock cubes, parmesan (stores well when on the road) red & green pesto, pickle, sweetcorn, baked beans, tinned tuna, snacks, sweet biscuits, crackers, peanut butter & jam, nuts & dried fruit, pasta & rice
• Tortilla wraps, flatbread pittas & fajitas are a great substitute for bread which last longer if they’re kept in a container
• Enough ingredients for your first meal when you’ve set up camp if they’re not already included above
• Folding table & chairs

Sleeping

• Roll Mat, roll mattress, self-inflating mattress or airbed & pump
• Pillow
• Hot water bottles
• Duvet or sleeping bag
• Silk sleeping bag liner
• Blankets
• CO2 & Fire Alarm Monitor

Male & Female Clothing

• Pyjamas or nightdress
• Long trousers
• Shorts
• Skirts
• Dresses
• T-shirts
• Shirts
• Long sleeve T-shirts
• Undies & socks
• Swimming Costume & sarong
• Waterproof and windproof jacket & trousers
• Long sleeved fleece

Clothing For Cold Climates

• Thermal leggings & long sleeved shirt
• Down jacket
• Fleece hat
• Pair of gloves

Foot Wear

• Light weight walking boots
• Wellington boots
• Walking sandals
• Lightweight trainers
• Flip flops

Bathroom

• Toilet roll
• Wash bag with pockets and hanger
• Glasses & contact lenses
• Quick drying towel
• Small mirror
• Hand sanitiser
• Wet wipes or flannels
• Contraceptives
• Nail clippers & Scissors
• Tweezers
• Razor
• Toothbrush, paste, floss & mouthwash
• Comb & travel hair brush
• Sun cream
• Lip balm with SPF
• Creams, shampoo, conditioner & body soap

Gadgets

• Torch
• Charging wires & adapters
• Solar Power charger
• Mobile phone
• laptop computer
• Digital camera
• Portable DVD player & DVDs
• Digital Camcorder
• iPod & head phones
• Small travel speakers to plug into your iPod
• Small external hard drive
• Additional SD cards for cameras
• iPad, iPhone & camping Apps (see our 20+ recommendations)

First Aid

• It’s useful to make a large and small kit for both your everyday bag and your base camp
• Assorted sized waterproof plasters
• Re-hydration sachets: helping you recover from food poisoning or hangover
• Paracetamol tablets
• Imodium tablets
• Hand sanitising gel
• Alcohol wipes
• Surgical tape
• Bandage
• Mosquito repellent
• After bite cream for mosquito bites
• Antihistamine cream and tablets for bad reactions to bites
• Antiseptic cream
• Arnica cream
• Burn spray
• Tiger balm or muscle rub
• Personal vitamins & medicine

Useful Bits & Pieces

• Firewood or small axe
• Multi-tool, Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman
• Lighter, matches and firelighters
• String
• Sun Cap
• Bandanna
• Ear plugs
• Sunglasses
• Suncream
• Sun shade tent or umbrella
• Rain shelter or umbrella
• Wind break
• Small waterproof bag for swimming
• Day bag backpack
• Head lamps & torches for everyone to have as their own. This helps reassure kids at night.
• Lightweight thermos & water bottle
• Washing line in a rewind case, pegs & clothes wash
• Pen, journal or notebook
• Guide books & maps
• Novel, reading material, iPad or Kindle

Games & Activities

• Bikes
• Fishing gear
• Surfing kit
• Wet suits & snorkel gear
• Kite
• Musical instruments such as guitar & ukuleles
• Outdoor games like Frisbee, cricket, rounders, football, swingball, Boules, etc.
• Pack of cards
• Travel games such as scrabble, chess, checkers, dominoes, snakes & ladders, & backgammon
• Colouring books & pens
• Puzzle books
• Scrapbook & glue for collecting flowers, grass, feathers, sketches of what you find on your trip
• Small treasure hunt prizes & paper & pens to draw the map
• Buckets & spades

Extras:

• Binoculars
• Batteries
• GPS (geocaching materials)
• Baseball hats
• Lanterns
• Glow sticks
• Walking Sticks
• Bear mace
• Bells
• Sketch pad
• Trolley
• Bike trailer/wagon
• Fishing licence
• Darts
• Water toys
• Raft/life jackets
• Badminton
• Shoe rack
• Chainsaw
• Wood carrier
• Tent
• Canopy
• Extra tent poles
• Folding Table
• Folding chairs
• Side tables
• Water proof suitcase bags
• Bungees
• Interpretive field guides (flowers/insects)
• Star chart/night sky identifier
• Bed frame
• Eye shade
• Air pump
• Beach towel and blanket
• Snow pants
• Water sandals
• Slippers/booties
• Camp fire blanket
• Large full mirror
• Cosmetics
• Nail polish
• Shower water bag
• Shower curtain
• Travel alarm clock
• Radio
• Walky talkies

Source: Inspired Camping

5 Tips Camping Pertama Kali Bersama Anak-anak Anda 

Camping with children is a treasured childhood activity that promises fun for kids and adults alike, and if you are thinking of doing it for the first time then there are a few tips you can follow to help make it as easy as possible.
Camping with children can be complicated and frustrating when things go wrong, but getting outside with a young family doesn’t need to be stressful. Following a few easy rules can be all you need to guarantee a happy experience for everyone involved. These are the five most important tips to help ensure that your next trip into the wilderness goes smoothly.

Camping (berkemah) bersama anak-anak adalah aktivitas yang sangat berharga untuk dilakukan bersama sekeluarga. Jika anda belum pernah melakukannya, maka tips berikut ini dapat membantu agar acara camping tersebut dapat menyenangkan & berhasil. Memang benar, bagi sebagian orang camping bersama anak-anak sepertinya sangat sulit untuk dilakukan & bahkan dapat membuat frustasi terutama ketika banyak kesalahan terjadi. Beberapa tips berikut dapat membantu kita melaksanakan kegiatan ini dengan lebih mudah.

1. Plan Ahead – Rencanakan jauh hari

Most miserable camping scenarios can be avoided with the right preparation. Begin by choosing your camping site carefully and making reservations, if necessary. A good site is dry, sheltered from the wind and within easy walking distance of fun attractions. Consider also how primitively you wish to spend your vacation; some families prefer to live off of what they can carry, while others enjoy the convenience of a campervan holiday. Make a list of items you will need and check each entry off as you pack. Here is an ultimate camping checklist to help you. Even if it seems unlikely to rain or grow cold, bring warm, waterproof clothing just in case.

Hampir semua skenario camping yang buruk dapat dihindari hanya dengan persiapan yang benar. Mulailah dengan memilih tempat camping yang cocok & buatlah reservasi jika memang perlu. Tempat yang baik buat camping adalah tempat yang kering (tidak becek, tidak banjir), terlindung dari angin & tidak jauh letaknya dari lokasi-lokasi atraksi yang menarik. Pertimbangkan juga seberapa komplekskah anda mau camping; apakah cukup dengan beberapa buah ransel atau kah anda sekeluarga lebih menginginkan tinggal di sebuah campervan yang lebih nyaman? Susun lah daftar perlengkapan yang akan dibutuhkan & periksa satu persatu pada waktu paking. Walaupun cuaca di rumah anda kering & panas, biasakan tetap membawa perlengkapan hujan & baju hangat. Siapa tahu akan diperlukan di lokasi camping.

Source: Google image.

2. Start Early – Mulai lebih awal

Setting out early in the morning gives kids a sense of purpose and guarantees they will still have plenty of energy when you arrive. Fumbling around in the dark with grumpy, hungry children who have yet to see any fun is the worst way to begin camping and can set a sour mood for the rest of your stay. Establishing camp in the daylight is easier, and once you are finished there should still be time to run down to the lake or hike in the woods before turning in for the holiday’s first campfire.

Memulai aktivitas di pagi hari akan membuat anak-anak merasa aktivitas hari itu akan berarti & memastikan mereka akan tetap memiliki energi yang cukup di tujuan. Berputar-putar di kegelapan mencari lokasi & anak-anak sudah kelaparan, kelelahan & penuh dengan gerutuan bukan lah cara yang baik untuk memulai aktivitas camping anda & dapat merusak suasana sekeluarga selama acara camping. Membangun camp pada waktu hari masih terang adalah lebih mudah & ketika selesai, masih banyak waktu untuk beraktivitas camping sesungguhnya, seperti bermain ke danau, hiking di hutan atau juga memulai persiapan menyalakan api unggun.

Source: Google image.

3. Build Experiences – Membangun pengalaman

Camping is all about taking kids away from their regular environment and letting them explore nature. Use this as a teaching opportunity by asking children to help with camp chores such as collecting firewood or by showing them how to identify native plants and animals. Try to limit their exposure to phones and other gadgets during this time and focus instead on creating as many new memories as possible.

Sesungguhnya camping adalah satu kegiatan untuk memisahkan anak-anak dari lingkungan & rutinitas mereka sehari-hari & lalu memposisikan mereka berhadapan dengan alam. Manfaatkan kesempatan ini untuk mengajarkan mereka sesuatu yang berhubungan dengan alam, misalnya yang sederhana adalah mengumpulkan ranting atau kayu bakar, atau juga mengidentifikasikan jenis tanaman atau hewan. Cobalah untuk membatasi mereka mengoperasikan telepon genggam atau gadget lainnya selama waktu ini & bangun lah ingatan camping yang berkesan sebanyak mungkin.

Source: Google image.

 4. Keep it Simple – Buatlah acara yang sederhana

Children get tired quickly and need frequent chances to stop and rest before moving on to another activity. Fatigue and hunger are the primary causes of tantrums while camping, so remember to pace yourselves and keep snacks to hand. Allowing for some unstructured time throughout the day also gives families a chance to unwind and pursue their own interests without feeling driven to see and do everything the camp site has to offer.

Anak-anak biasanya akan kelelahan lebih cepat & memerlukan waktu untuk istirahat sebelum memulai aktivitas berikutnya. Rasa lelah & rasa lapar adalah penyebab utama masalah anak-anak pada saat camping, jadi ingatlah selalu untuk menjaga kecepatan Anda & sediakan lah selalu makanan ringan. Memberikan waktu pribadi di tengah-tengah saat camping juga akan membuat mereka merasa rileks, tidak merasa harus mengikuti acara keluarga.

Source: Google image.

5. Prepare for Surprises – Siap menghadapi kejutan

Finally, every parent knows that you can only plan so much with small children on vacation. Be ready for scraped knees, sudden rain showers, sightseeing detours or any number of other surprises that can pop up while camping. If you and your children keep an open mind and are willing to change course, these unexpected diversions can lead to exciting new adventures and amusing stories that will be told around campfires for years to come.

Akhirnya, para orang tua sudah sadar bahwa mereka hanya dapat merencanakan segala sesuatunya dengan jumlah anak-anak yang terbatas. Siapkan mental & prosedur kalau ada anak yang terluka, hujan mendadak turun, jalan trekking ditutup, dsb. yang bisa saja terjadi di saat camping. Untuk itulah, sikap ‘pikiran terbuka’ & adaptasi untuk mengubah rencana diperlukan untuk menghadapai deviasi-deviasi ini agar acara camping tetap menyenangkan & penuh dengan pengalaman baru yang dapat terus diceritakan bertahun-tahun ke depan.

Source: Google image.

Happy Camping with your family.

Taken from Inspired Camping*