Planning a camping trip can be both exciting and daunting. There are so many things to think about and prepare for! To make sure you have everything you need (and nothing you don’t), use this ultimate camping checklist as your guide.
The Camping Checklist
- Tent: Don’t forget the tent! Unless you’re planning on sleeping under the stars, you’ll need somewhere to sleep at night. Make sure to pick a tent that’s big enough for everyone in your group, and that’s appropriate for the weather conditions you’ll be facing. If you are looking for a fun tent that creates lifetime memories, look at Hanging Tree Tents. Or if you’re really into cold weather camping, take a look at some rugged Tipi Tents.
- Sleeping bags: Once you have your tent, it’s time to pick out some sleeping bags. If you get cold easily, make sure to bring a sleeping bag that will keep you warm throughout the night.
- Pillows: Don’t forget to pack some pillows! Not only will they make your sleeping experience more comfortable, but they’ll also double as backrests during the day.
- Camping chairs: Camping chairs are essential for sitting around the campfire at night or just taking a break during a hike. They’re also great for drying wet clothes or towels.
- Cooler: A cooler is key for keeping food and drinks cold. When packing your cooler, make sure to put ice or ice packs at the bottom and then stack your food on top, so it doesn’t get soggy.
- Camping stove: Unless you’re planning on eating nothing but granola bars and trail mix, you’ll need a camping stove to cook meals. Don’t forget to pack fuel canisters too!
- Camping Mess Kit: In addition to a stove, you’ll need some pots, pans, and utensils for cooking. If you don’t want to wash dishes while on vacation, consider packing disposable cookware.
- Lantern: A lantern is essential for providing light at night. Make sure to pack extra batteries too, just in case.
- Flashlight: A flashlight comes in handy for nighttime trips to the bathroom or if someone in your group gets lost. Just like with the lantern, make sure to pack extra batteries.
- Sunscreen and bug spray: Protect yourself from the sun and bugs by packing sunscreen and bug spray. reapply sunscreen often, especially if you’re sweating or swimming, and reapply bug spray when necessary.
- First Aid kit: Accidents happen, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry by packing a first aid kit. You can buy one pre-made or assemble one yourself using bandages, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, etc.
- NOAA Weather Radio: this is a must-have for anyone who wants to be prepared for any nasty weather that could come their way. It’s a great way to stay informed and be prepared for anything that may come your way.
- Walkie Talkies: also known as two-way radios. If you’ve ever been on a hike or camping trip, then you know how important it is to have a way to communicate with your friends. Whether you’re trying to find each other in the woods or just want to stay in touch, two-way radios are essential.
- Clothing: What clothing you pack will depend on the season and location of your trip. In general, though, it’s always good to have a mix of short sleeves shirts, long sleeves shirts, pants, shorts, socks, and underwear, as well as rain gear and layers for colder weather.
- Shoes: In addition to clothes, you’ll need some sturdy shoes for exploring. Depending on where you’re going camping, closed-toe shoes may be best t protect your feet from rocks and sticks.
- Hat: A hat is great for protecting your face from the sun, although it can also double as a towel or dishrag if necessary!
- Bikes: Make sure to bring your bikes, folding electric bikes, scooters, and e-scooters to get around the park.
- Camping Games: Don’t forget to grab our list of fun games to play around the campsite! There are plenty of classic games like tag and frisbee, but we’ve also included some new ideas like bug catching and scavenger hunts. So round up your friends and family and get ready for some fun in the great outdoors!
Now that you know what to bring on your next camping trip, all that’s left is to have fun! Be sure to take plenty of pictures and enjoy exploring all that nature has to offer!
-Denny