With the arrival of Summer it is time to load the trailer up, and head to a scenic location for an enjoyable week of camping with your beloved equine! Reconnecting with nature, unplug from technology, and enjoy the refreshing fresh air. Keep your trip stress free with this easy horse camping checklist!
Riding Equipment – It is important to be prepared and have the right equipment suitable for your terrain. On top of having your normal riding set up (saddle, bridle, girth, etc.) consider adding a few extra saddle pads and a breast collar and/or breeching to your set up. These extra saddle pads will help your horse feel comfortable after working up a sweat, and the breast collar/breeching will help ensure you and your saddle stay in place over particularly steep and uneven terrain.
Saddle Bags – Saddle bags are a great way to carry supplies during your travels, especially those that you may want to grab while riding. Remember to keep your horse’s center of gravity, and weight carrying capabilities in mind when loading and placing your saddle bags. If you are planning on bringing a lot of supplies and equipment, utilizing a pack saddle on another horse may be the best bet.
Halters, Leads, Rope, and Collars – Bring a couple spare halters, a few leads, and bring plenty of raw rope (and we mean plenty!). Rope is like gold dust when camping – whether you need it to create a highline, or to help drag a branch off of the trail – you will be happy you have it with you. In addition to the standard halter you may want to consider investing in a neck collar. Neck collars are a great way to handle, protect, and identify your horse should a halter be inappropriate for a situation, or worst case scenario break. If neck collars are new to your horse, be sure to introduce them to your horse well in advance of your trip, and ensure that they are fitted appropriately.
Grooming Supplies – Never leave the farm without a good hoof pick, curry comb, brushes, fly spray, and fly mask. Depending on your location, and the time of year, these supplies may very well make the difference between an enjoyable ride for you and your horse, and an accident waiting to happen.
Hoof Care – It is advised (even for those horses who are normally barefoot) to wear shoes in particularly rough trail terrain. With this in mind remember to always bring a spare pair of horseshoes, nails, a rasp, hammer, and nippers.
Feed and Water – Your horse will still expect to have their regular meals, salt, and water while out camping. You will need to bring hay (preferably weed free), grain, and a salt lick. You will want to bring at least 1 if not 2 collapsible buckets, haynet(s), and remember to bring 4 10 Gal jugs of fresh clean water as you cannot guarantee what water sources may be available to you once you leave your camp.
Equine First Aid Kit – You never know what will happen when you are out riding your horse. Being out in nature away from your veterinarian it is always advised to carry a comprehensive Equine First Aid Kit, and be well trained in how to apply basic bandages, and wound care. Click here to see our suggested kit.
We hope that this checklist comes in handy this summer for your next big trip! Don’t be afraid to add more supplies that suit your individual plans, and destination as it is always better to be over prepared and than without what you need! Happy camping everyone!