We know everyone is ready to get out and camp but do yourself a favor and check your gear first. Get everything out of storage and check your equipment before you head out on your first adventure.
TENTS
Set it up in your garage or backyard and give it a good inspection: poles, pegs, fabric, fly, floor, seams, and window screens. This is a great time to give the tent a good cleaning (mild soap and water) and re-seal the seams. If you have an issue with poles try to get a replacement from the munufacturer before the season is in full bloom.
SLEEPING GEAR
Inspect them thoroughly for tears, or zipper issues and repair accordingly. Run the sleeping gear through the laundry according to manufactrurers directions. Open your bags, turn them inside out, and dry them in the sun. Fluff the stuffing of your bag to increase comfort (if you have the option you should leave them open when not in use to allow the insulation material to breath and revtalize the stuffing).
Self inflating sleeping pads and air mattresses should be wiped down and inflated. Check your air valves and make sure you slightly overinflate the pads to check for leaks. Self inflated pads are best stored inflated to keep the foam expanded and not crushed. Keeping the valve closed will keep moisture out. Use the manufacturer’s recommended materials for repairing any leaks.
LANTERNS
Use new fuels and make sure your mantles are not falling apart. Replace cracked globes with new glass and old mantles with new ones.
STOVES
Disassemble your stove and clean it out thoroughly. A rease-cutting detergent will give the stove a nice shine and a thorough drying will extend the life of use.
If you have an electric igniter, check for a strong spark. With a new LPG canister attached or the fuel tank full and pumped up, start all the burners and make sure they are giving you equal fire all the way around. If not, you might need to clean the burner orifices with a nonflammable cleanser and an old toothbrush.
BOOTS
If the tread looks like they have another year in them shake out the boots and clean them inside and out, then dress the outside with the appropriate products — saddle soap to soften hard leather and something akin to Sno-Seal for restoring the waterproofing of the uppers. Make sure your laces are in tact and replace if needed. Also, make sure your footbeds are not crushed. New footbeds can increase your comfort from season to season.
In addition to your gear take the time to restock first aid kits, check any firestarters to make sure their still effective, and check your water purifyer if your heading out to the backwoods.
