There have been plenty of times where I have gone without gear, kind of a spur of the moment type thing. I feel more comfortable having my gear though.
My worst animal encounter was with a black panther! There was that had escaped from a circus (at least that's what I'm told) and was living in the wooded area near our home. I was paralyzed when I saw it, but fortunately it just kept going.
I always keep a compass with me. Usually I get pretty good cell phone reception in the areas I hike too, as long as I can find an opening in the trees.
I am pretty obsessive about everyone wearing their life vests. I fell out of a boat once when I was a kid and it saved my life and now I feel I have to make sure everyone wears them.
Do you bring any items with you that must be kept cool? If so, what do you use. I have a friend that is diabetic and needs to keep her insulin cold during our camping trip.
I don't think you have to buy the most expensive tent out there, but be careful buying the cheapest of all the options. That being said, Walmart has a great selection to choose from.
I think I must not be allergic. I grew up running in the woods, barefoot even, and never had a reaction. I know it was all threw the woods where we played, but none of my siblings ever had any reaction.
I didn't even know what it was, but now that I know, I don't think it would be something I would want to do. I don't think I would be very good anyway! =)