Hi all! My hubby and I are planning our first trip with the horses. We've both been riding for years, but never taken the camping plunge. We will be staying on a ranch, and only day riding. What would y'all take? Here is what I have so far, please add to if you think I need something not listed. We are taking 2 geldings.
If you don't already have them, you may want to consider getting a couple of those Fly Armor bands. There are some that fit on your tack, and also bands that can be attached directly into the mane or tail. They work great - actually, the hotter it gets, the better they work - and it doesn't "sweat off" like most fly sprays. I just bought a couple over the summer and have been very pleasantly surprised by just how well they work.
What are the housing arrangements for the horses while you camp? Will they be tied/picketed? Will there be stalls or a paddock for them?
They will be in paddocks. We had considered going into the back country and high lining, but decided we didn't feel like roughing it this time. Maybe next year. Lol. I will definitely look into those fly bands... Wonder if I can find them in my local feed store?
I always pack a slicker, no matter what the forecast says, and normally carry it on my saddle. I always carry matches or a lighter in my pocket (not in the saddle bag) in case I get caught out overnight for some reason. Carry good canteens. I prefer the plastic with metal rims. I've had several canteens broken from the horse rubbing them on trees. Also, pack a long-sleeved shirt and a light jacket for summer and a coat for all other seasons. Better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.
Always take a hoof pick with you on the saddle.
I like to leave the halter on the horse under the bridle while I ride and I keep a long (20-25 foot) stout lead rope with a strong snap on the halter with the lead coiled around the horn. I use a flat nylon halter for riding. The rope halters get uncomfortable for a horse with a bridle over top of it. The purpose of the long lead is manifold. When you take a break, remove the bridle and tie the horse to a tree, or just let the lead drag on the ground. As the horse walks around grazing, he will step on the lead, which sort of slows his movements. If he decides to walk away, you will be able to reach the end of the lead before he realizes he's caught. Many horses will not let you catch a short lead if they want to leave you, but you can catch the end of a long lead. Be sure you have at least one of the horses tied, or hold the end of the lead at all times. One horse will not normally walk away, but two together will be gone before you know it.
Extra parts for tack. If your bridles have Chicago screws, take some extra, plus a screwdriver. If they have leather ties, get a bag of them and keep it in your trailer. (You can always pack a couple in a saddle bag.)
An extra latigo will work as a latigo or off side billet. Some people prefer them in place of an offside billet anyway. An extra breast collar, especially if the terrain will be rough.
Liniment, in case your horse has to work harder than he's used to.
Duct tape and baling wire.
Pliers. Every rider should carry a knife. I'm getting an ankle safe for the things I don't want to be separated from in case of an accident. Posted via Mobile Device
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