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Camping is something that everyone should experience at one time or another, but it can be involved, so a camping checklist can help you get started. While some campers may opt to rent an RV and others want to rough it with a tent, there are quite a few things that you can’t leave home without.
We wanted to ensure that you have the best camping experience possible and return home with great memories—which is why we’ve created a list of all the items you’ll need on your camping trip. From clothes to kitchen supplies and gear to help you sleep, we’ve got you covered. Check it out below.
Camping checklist by category
There are a lot of things to consider when going on a camping trip, and it can be hard to keep them all in order. It can help to break down your camping checklist into different categories like sleep, tools, food, clothes, and hygiene so you don’t miss anything.
Campsite setup essentials
Below each category, you’ll find our list of camping essentials, or the basic things you’ll need during a camping trip. While it may not be clear why certain items are listed, you’ll understand exactly why these items need to be brought along when you’re in the wilderness sleeping under the stars.
Sleep
Sleep warmer and cozier with a camping cot that keeps you off the cold ground and replaces the need for a sleeping pad. We like the sturdy steel frame and 300-pound weight capacity on this Mountain Summit Gear Horizon Cot. Check the price at REI.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY REI
Ground tarpSleep pad or cotSleeping bag or beddingPillowEar plugsEye mask
Tools
You can use a camping lantern to read a book under the stars, light your camping kitchen for a late-night dinner, or accompany you on a dark walk to the bathroom. We like that this Duracell lantern works via solar or rechargeable batteries, and has a handle to hang it. Check the price on Amazon.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY AMAZON
LanternsFlashlight or headlampMulti-toolFire starterParacordPortable phone power bankPortable power station (optional)Satellite communications device (optional)
Kitchen
A camping mug with a lid is perfect for morning coffee hikes or a walk with your wine to a stellar sunset view. We love the vacuum insulation and non-slip silicone base on this CamelBak mug. Check the price at Backcountry.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY BACKCOUNTRY
Cooking equipment (grill, griddle, etc.)Cooking fuelCooking pans (skillet, cast iron skillet, saucepan)SpatulasUtensilsTrash bagsIce chest/coolerWater bottlePaper towelsPlatesCutting boardKnifeCooking oilResealable bagsCups/mug
(Read more: Ideas and tips for planning the ultimate camping adventure)
Clothing & footwear
A comfy pair of hiking socks is a must for multiple days on the trail. Plus, wool hiking socks do the trick when you want to keep your feet warm at night while tent camping. We love the light cushioning and secure arch fit on these Hike Classic Edition crew socks. Check the price at Smartwool.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY SMARTWOOL
Waterproof or resistant shoes or bootsSlide-on shoesMoisture-wicking shirtsHiking bottomsHatMerino wool socksLight jacket, sweater, or sweatshirtMoisture-wicking undergarments (bra and underwear)Sunglasses
Health & hygiene
It’s always a good idea to have a first-aid kit while camping. Between chopping wood and making fires to hiking blisters and bug bites, you never know when you’ll need it. We like that this Surviveware Premium First-Aid Kit has all of the essentials, while being portable and water-resistant. Check the price on Amazon.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY AMAZON
Toilet paperBiodegradable body wash and shampoo and/or body wipesSunscreenBug repellantMedical kitHand sanitizerLip balmDeodorantHair products (dry shampoo, hair bands, head bands, etc.)Small shovel (optional)Shower shoes (optional)Camping shower (optional)
Camping checklist to-do’s
Before you hit the road on your camping adventure, there are quite a few things you need to do to keep you safe and secure for the entirety of your trip.
• Book a campsite that fits the type of camping you want to do. Is the campsite suitable for tent camping or RVs? Does it have water and/or electricity? Do you need a restroom with showers nearby? Is there a grill on the site? Can you build a fire at the campsite, and is it outfitted with a built-in grill or fire pit?
• Plan your meals and buy groceries, ice, and all camping essentials.
• Fill up on gas and check the tire pressure and oil levels of your car.
• Pack an emergency kit in your car (for example, jumper cables or portable battery jumper, first aid kit, water/snacks, flashlight, basic set of tools, etc.)
• Bring your cell phone and a charging bank, especially if there is no electricity at the campsite. You may also want to invest in a satellite communications device if you don’t expect cell phone service.
• Download off-line maps to your destination and/or hiking maps.
• Inform someone where you’ll be and provide them with the phone number and address of the campsite in case you need to be contacted.
• Have a friend or neighbor watch your home, take care of your pets or plants, get your mail, etc.
Camping checklist by season
Depending on when you want to camp, you may need some additional or different gear and tools that will make your camping experience more comfortable. Below we’ve listed camping essentials that can help you survive the varying environmental elements of a particular season.
Summer camping essentials
Hanging out at camp during the summer just doesn’t have the same appeal when the sun’s beating down on you. This Offroading Gear Camping Sun Shade can be set up off the back of your car, and is roomy enough for a couple of camping chairs and a cooler. Check the price on Amazon.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY AMAZON
SwimsuitFlip flops or slidesHiking shortsMosquito repellant products like candles, torches, spray, or techSunshade (umbrella shades, pop-up shade)
Winter camping essentials
Insulated, waterproof boots like the Danner Arctic 600 are a must for winter camping. Whether you’re hiking in the snow or hanging around the campground, you’ll want to keep your feet warm and dry for ultimate, winter-camping comfort. Check the price at Backcountry.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY BACKCOUNTRY
Rain- and wind-proof tent (if tent camping)Winter sleeping bagWinter coatWinterproof bootsGlovesWool socksBeanie and/or ear warmersIce scraperFirewood (and starter log)
Spring camping essentials
A dry bag can keep your essentials, like toilet paper and clothing, out of the rain. They’re also handy when heading to the lake for kayaking or fishing. You’ll get two durable dry bags in this ALPS Mountaineering Torrent Multi-Pack, which is a great value. Check the price at REI.
Waterproof tent (if camp tenting)Towels and rags (to clean off mud)Cold weather and rainproof clothesFirewood (and starter log)Dry bagsTarp
Fall camping essentials
Waterproof tent (if camp tenting)Firewood (and starter log)Cold weather and rainproof clothesTarp
Alex Temblador is an award-winning journalist and author based in Dallas. Her work has appeared in National Geographic, Travel + Leisure, and Fodor’s Travel, among many others.
*Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
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