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The Ultimate Camping Checklist

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Whether you love planning logistics and packing for a camping trip or tend to leave it to the last minute, it’s important to make sure you have all of the essentials. At CleverHiker, we love for all things planning so we put together this checklist to help make packing easy and stress-free.

To determine what gear you need to bring on your trip, ask yourself these questions:

• What is the weather forecast for the specific area I’ll be in?  Look up the weather forecast for the entirety of your trip and take the lowest low and the highest high as the temperature range you need to plan for. If precipitation is in the forecast, you’ll need waterproof outer layers as well.
• Are you going to a campground or a primitive campsite?  This will help you determine whether or not there will be picnic tables, fire pits, bathroom facilities, water, and electricity. You’ll obviously need to pack a bit differently for primitive camping.
• What activities would you like to do?  You get to decide how you want to spend your time in the outdoors. Complete your gear list with the items you need to make hiking, fishing, biking, playing games, or just relaxing in camp enjoyable.
• How luxurious do you want your camp to be?  Think of your campsite as a blank canvas where you can set up as much or as little as you’d like to make it your own. Some people take great pride in setting up elaborate, cushy camps, while others prefer to take a more minimalistic approach.

Starting from Scratch?

While this gear list may look intimidating at first, you don’t need every single item here, and you’ll probably find that you already have a lot of these items around your house.

Start by gathering the important basics like your shelter and sleep system first, then expand from there.

If you’re on a tight budget, consider renting or borrowing big-ticket items to get you started. Your camping supplies will upgrade and evolve as you go on more trips and grow to love camping.

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE PRINTABLE CHECKLIST (Change margins to ‘narrow’ when printing)

Site Gear/Furniture

• Chairs ( camping / backpacking )
• Hammock + tree straps
• Outdoor rug
• Tablecloth ( clips )
• Clothesline ( clothes pins )
• Clear plastic bins to store items
• Insect repellent (or Thermacell )
• Sit pads for insulation on chairs

Primitive Site Gear

(when water, toilets, & electricity aren’t available)

• Water filter/purification
• Collapsible water bottles or large water container
• Trowel / shovel (when outhouses aren’t available)
• Toilet waste bag
• Portable camp shower

Shelter/Bedding

• Tent ( camping / backpacking )
• Stakes + guylines + mallet
• Sleeping bag ( camping / backpacking )
• Sleeping pad , mattress , or cot
• Air pump or pump sack
• Camping blanket(s)
• Sunshade , tarp, or screen house ( stakes + guylines )
• Duct tape + Tenacious tape (repairs)

Electronics

• Power bank & extra batteries
• Phone & charger
• Tripod & wireless shutter remote
• Lantern or tent lights
• Headphones or speaker to play music

CONSUMABLES

• Ice for cooler
• Food & snacks (or freeze-dried meals )
• Coffee/tea/creamer
• Cooking oil or non-stick spray

CAMP KITCHEN

• Stove + fuel ( camping / backpacking )
• Lighter or matches
• Cookware ( camping / backpacking )
• Cooking utensils (spatula, ladle, etc.)
• Grill rack / dutch oven (to cook over fire)
• Coffee maker
• Travel mug(s)
• Water bottle(s) or hydration pack
• Dishes + utensils
• Cutting board + knife
• Biodegradable soap + sponge
• Dishwashing basin (or plastic bin)
• Pack towel or paper towels
• Food containers , Ziploc bags + foil
• Bags for garbage & recycling
• Bottle opener / corkscrew
• Measuring cups / spoons
• Paracord + food bag (for bear country)

CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR

• Hiking pants ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Shorts ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Short-sleeve shirt & sun shirt ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Underwear ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Down jacket and/or fleece jacket
• Windbreaker and/or rain jacket (depending on forecast)
• Base layers
• Shoes & socks
• Hats (1 warm , 1 for sun )
• Swimsuit & pack towel
• Sandals ( Men’s / Women’s ) or camp shoes
• Bandana or washcloth

PERSONAL GEAR

• Knife or multitool
• Wallet (cash, credit card, ID)
• First-aid kit
• Sunscreen + lip balm
• Toiletries (shampoo, lotion, etc.)
• Prescription Rx
• Toilet Paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Travel toothbrush, paste + floss
• Comb / brush
• Ear plugs + sleep mask
• Permits/reservations/fees/licenses
• Check weather forecast

CAMPFIRE SUPPLIES

• Fire starter (egg cartons also work well)
• Matches or lighter
• Firewood (if unavailable near campsite)
• Tarp (to cover wood + protect car)
• Roasting forks for s’mores

FUN & ENTERTAINMENT

• Games ( dice , cards, etc.)
• Reading material, notebook / sketchbook & pen
• Instruments
• Fishing gear
• Books / maps / field guides
• Dog gear (dishes, leash, longline, bed)

Camping Tips

Staying organized.

It’s really easy to keep your camping gear organized by using clear plastic bins with lids. You can see what’s inside each one at a glance and slide them easily in and out of the car. The bins also keep your items contained and protected from dust and critters in camp. And, as an added benefit, your stuff will always be stored in one place at home – ready to go for your next adventure. All you’ll have to do next time you want to head out is quickly go through the bins with your checklist, add clothing, restock consumables, and you’re good to go.

Camping Food

The camp kitchen and your food system will vary greatly depending on how much or little you want to cook on your camping trip. Some people prefer to bring mostly cold or prepared foods, while others enjoy whipping up gourmet meals at their campsite.

Deciding whether you’d prefer not to cook, to cook on a stove, use a grill, or over a fire will help you figure out what to pack and what kind of food to shop for. We usually prefer to prep and combine some ingredients at home, then do some simple cooking on a stove in camp. Taking the time to make a meal plan before your trip will make your role as camp chef much easier and more fun.

Check out our Easy Camping Recipes That Taste Gourmet post for meal ideas. We also have a ton of other food-related resources that work for both camping and backpacking.

Stay Cool, Cooler

A quality cooler will have thick insulation to help keep it cold for a long time. But even the best cooler will lose its cool after a day or two on hot summer trips.

Use these tips to help your cooler perform to its max potential, keeping food safe and drinks ice-cold, the way we like ‘em:

• Pre-chill both your food and your cooler before you load it for the best start
• The fuller your cooler is, the less trapped warm air has to cool, so choose one that isn’t too large and top it up whenever possible
• Separate your drinks from your food in two smaller coolers instead of one large one to reduce the number of times people open them
• Cover your cooler with a blanket, sleeping bag, or pad, and keep it in the shade

If you’re in the market for a new cooler, check out our list of the  Best Coolers .

Garbage in Camp

It’s a good practice to keep your campsite clean and free of litter to keep birds, rodents, bears, and other wildlife from getting a taste for human food. It really doesn’t take much to follow Leave No Trace protocol and it improves the way you experience your campsite too.

We try to separate garbage from recyclables whenever we can. Dispose of garbage in campground receptacles when you leave your site unattended or store foods items and garbage in your car. In bear country, it’s a good idea to keep your food in a bear locker, store it in your car, or properly hang a food bag like the Ursack .

First Aid Kits

You can’t be prepared for absolutely everything, but you should have what you need to take care of minor cuts, scrapes, sunburn, bug bites, upset stomachs, and headaches. Check out our Best First-Aid Kits list to find the best one for you and your camping needs.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

Need More Camping Advice?

SOTO Amicus Cookset Review

Snow Peak Gigapower 2.0 Backpacking Stove Review

Primus Essential Trail Backpacking Stove Review

MSR WhisperLite Backpacking Stove Review

BRS 3000T Backpacking Stove Review

Men’s Kuhl Renegade Rock Shorts Review

Men’s Nike DRI-Fit Challenger Shorts Review

Men’s REI Trailmade Amphib Review

Men’s REI Sahara Cargo Shorts Review

Men’s Patagonia Quandary Shorts Review

Men’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts Review

Men’s Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Review

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The Ultimate Camping Packing List: 84 Things You Need (+ Our Advice on the Best Brands)

Wanderlust got you pining for mountains and valleys? Are you looking to escape to the forest or desert? It sounds like you have camping on the brain. Whether it’s your first camping trip or you’re hundredth, anytime you plan an outdoor adventure, you want to plan and pack accordingly. Sounds stressful? Don’t worry. I’m here to make it easier on you.

When you’re camping, the last thing you want is to forget something. After all, the squirrels and bears don’t exactly run Walmarts for forgetful travelers. But, you also don’t want to overpack and make setting up camp and hauling supplies a nightmare. So here’s my no-frills tent camping packing list for families – it’s easy peasy to use, and it’ll make planning your next camping trip ten times easier. 

SETTING UP YOUR CAMPSITE

Whether you’re camping at a designated campground or roughing it off a forest road, getting your camping site set up correctly is the first and most crucial step to a fun and successful trip. 

• Tent . You can’t go camping without a tent. It has to be at the top of your camping packing list! If you want my advice, make sure you have a decent quality one. I always inspect my tent for rips, tears, and holes before packing, in case it needs repairs or replaced. (Nothing ruins a camping trip like a ripped tent roof on a rainy night.) On that note, ensure that your tent’s windows and bug screens don’t have any tears, or you may end up sharing your tent with mosquitos and flies.Also, don’t forget to pack the ground tarp, poles, stakes, and rain cover – again, a soggy tent is a sad tent.

I wanted to share our tent with you, but looks like they aren’t making it anymore. It’s been a while so we’re looking at a new one and this is on my wishlist. It’s the Marmot Tungsten 4P Tent great for backpacking with the family.

Per person:

• Dan and I have used Kelty bags for years and years – snow or burning heat. They pack small, they are light weight. We wouldn’t dream of using anything else. Our kids just outgrew their kiddo bags and we bought them the same ones. This is the link to the newest version our bags… Women’s Kelty / Men’s Kelty
• Sleeping pad . Want a more comfortable sleeping arrangement? Pack a sleeping pad; it’ll do your back a favor. Pro tip: Unless your kids are very young (like under 3 or 4 years old) skip the kiddo sleeping pad and go for the adult. I know it costs more, but you’ll be better off because they will be happy. Young camper? This one is the best one on the market: REI Co-op Kindercamp Sleeping Pad – Kids’
• Pillow . You can pack a normal pillow, but keep in mind that if it floods or bugs get into your tent, your pillow can quickly go from cozy to a soggy, bug-infested mess. I recommend bringing an inflatable or waterproof camping pillow or getting waterproof and bug-proof pillowcases for your normal pillows. I bought this larger pillow without telling the kids, thinking I was pulling a fast one on them. Karma got me. The Sea to Summit is waaaay better, even though it’s smaller. Why? because it fits within the headspace of your sleeping bag. You know the little “hoodie” art at the top…so it’s not slipping and sliding everywhere all night. Now I try to offer the boys the bigger one and they smirk. Like I said…karma.
• Headlamp . Having a headlamp around for midnight bathroom runs and emergencies will make getting in and out of your tent easier and reduce the chances of stepping on your camping buddies.

MAKING IT COZY

Just because you’re camping in the wilderness doesn’t mean you can’t turn your tent into a comfortable haven! Not only are these supplies a recipe for a cozy tent, but they’re also a good idea for making your camping trip more comfortable in the long run.

• Lantern. Nothing says camping like a tent lit by lantern light. Plus, having lanterns on hand can help with those late-night bathroom trips (no one wants to trip on a root or step in poison ivy on a nighttime bathroom break). I recommend bringing electric or solar-powered lanterns to reduce the risk of fires in the tent. Just make sure to charge them, and bring extra batteries.
• Hammock . If you want the ultimate chill camping experience, bring a hammock to sling up at the campsite. Just remember your tree straps! These seriously are game changing in the hammock world! Once, when we were leaving a backpacking site, a guy from a 100 yards over came and offered to buy ours from us on the spot. Here are the Eno straps we use.
• Tent rug . Who says you can’t have a rug in your tent? Make sure you get one that the sand will filter thru. Put it right outside your door when you are taking on and off shoes to keep your tent clean. We don’t take once backpacking with us, but if you’re car camping then it’s a must. We use CGear brand , for camping and RVing. 
• Tablecloth and clips . If your campsite has picnic tables, pack a tablecloth . (I recommend a waterproof one, in case of spills, rain, etc.) First off, eating on a tablecloth is preferable to eating on a table that critters may use for a bed when you aren’t there. Second, it adds to the cozy factor of your trip. ( Don’t forget clips )
• Kindling . You can’t light a long-lasting campfire without kindling! If you don’t pack any, you can usually find some around the campsite in the form of dry sticks, leaves, etc.
• Firewood . Double-check that your campground allows outside firewood and if there are fire restrictions in the area. Some national parks and forests implement fire restrictions during the dry season and only allow fires in designated areas. Campgrounds and sites may also require you to purchase firewood from owners instead of chopping or bringing your own. 
• Because we try to be frugal, we only have backpacking chairs. But these are comfy enough that we even pull the Helinox Chair Zero out at our house – and the only weigh one pound so we can take them anywhere. I will admit that we have a small hole in one of them, but we’ve had them for 7 years and we have lugged them all over the country.

TOOLS & SUCH

Packing the correct tools will not only keep your campsite functional but safe. Double-check your supplies before leaving for your trip – you don’t want to forget one of these:

• Knife. I actually recommend packing more than one knife. For example, bring a utility knife for cutting rope, sticks, etc., and at least one knife with a sheath for use opening food supplies, cutting up meat, etc.
• Clothesline cord . If you plan to swim or play in the water, pack a clothesline cord for optimal clothes drying conditions. I pack one for every trip, just in case my clothes get muddy or wet.
• Multi-tool. I mean, it’s a knife, file, screwdriver, and more. You can use it for almost anything.
• Paracord . Paracord is great for an emergency clothesline, for hanging a tarp, for various knots, etc. Wear it as a bracelet for portability.
• We’ve used the Schrade Full Tang Hatchet  for over a decade. Once a year we take it to the farmers market to get it sharpened, but I bet we have it a lifetime. Love it.
• First aid kit. I usually pack two, one for my hiking bag and one for the campsite. In addition, I recommend packing an extra ankle brace and ibuprofen in case of sprains or injuries from too much outdoor fun.
• Cell Phone battery pack . You’re camping – skip social media and connect with nature! But, just in case, keep a cell phone battery pack on hand for emergencies and for taking photos.
• SOS Flashlight . I recommend every member of a camping party have a small flashlight capable of flashing SOS on their person during trips. Lanterns are great, but flashlights are more portable and can be used to signal for help in emergencies.

COWBOY KITCHEN

One of my favorite parts of camping is the cookouts. There’s nothing like baked beans over the fire or pancakes made on a camp stove! Here’s what you need for a complete camping kitchen.

• An MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove is the only way to roll here, in my opinion. Works for camping or backpacking, and it’s very reliable. Here’s the fuel you’ll need to go with it (and very easy to find at any camping store.)
• Lighter. Unless you can start a fire with just kindling, flint, and steel, you’ll want to bring a lighter. I recommend bringing an extra in your camping gear, just in case yours runs out of lighting fluid.
• Collapsible Shovel . The National Parks Service recommends individuals have a shovel to cover campfires with dirt when extinguished. Plus, they’re handy if you need to dig a firepit or dig out a stuck tire from mud or snow..
• Pot and Pan . Camp cooking is hard without at least one pot and one pan (also on the list). If you have to choose between a pot and pan, I usually recommend the pot – you can use it to purify water if needed, and can fry up eggs, bacon, etc., in it, too.We have this set from GSI Outdoors , but we typically use just the medium post and the frying pan (especially if we’re backpacking.) The removable handle makes it easier to pack, for use. They are non stick and easy to clean, too.
• Cooking utensils . Cooking utensils every day and camping kitchen essentials. Bring a spatula, spoons, and kitchen mitt or potholders along.
• Plates/Bowls . Bring camping plates and bowls. (I don’t recommend glass, bring the metal camping ones if you can.) Or bring biodegradable paper plates and bowls. 
• Eating utensils . Again, you can bring your classic metal utensils or go for recyclable forks and spoons. Avoid plastic, especially if you aren’t staying at a regularly maintained campsite with trash cans.
• Coffee pour-over set. Your Keurig can’t make the trip, but a coffee pour-over set can! The Stanley Camp Pour Over Coffee Set is the best. Amazon’s price is a little better on this one, but not by much.
• Water bottles . Unless you’re backpacking in to a spot where you know there is water (and you pack your filter) then bring filled water bottles and/or jugs to your campsite. Ensure you bring enough for everyone to have at least 100 oz. a day, especially if you’re being active, plus more for cleaning dishes. Some campsites have running water, but some don’t.
• Cooler . You’ll want one for your meat and produce.
• Wash bin . You’ll need one to clean your dishes.
• Sap (biodegradable fire starter.) Collect your own at the campsite, or buy pine resin , which is the same thing.
• Rags for washing/drying . You’ll have some dishes to do, even out in the middle of nowhere.
• Water filter . Having a reliable water filter on hand in case you run out of clean H20 is a must. I recommend the LifeStraw for each person if it’s just for emergencies. If you want to leverage a water source nearby for a a few days then consider using the MSR MiniWorks EX Water Filter . Ours has lasted for about 4 years now (and going strong) with FREQUENT usage. We just bring this and an empty jug with our water bottles.
• Water storage jug . In case you need to collect water, pack a plastic or metal jug.
• Trash bags . As the National Park Service says, “Leave No Trace.”
• Ziploc bags. Purchase waterproof, freezer-safe bags for storing leftovers. Resealable bags also help prevent animals from getting into the leftovers. 
• Bottle opener
• Corkscrew . Essential if you plan on packing wine for the camping trip.
• Bear canister (if required) . If you’re in an area with bears, mountain lions, or other large predators, pack a bear canister to store your food in so they don’t steal your food. Some campgrounds and many backpacking destinations require it. If the area you’re in requires a bear canister, you might read that a hard canister is required ( like this one ) but you should be aware that a lot of places will say that because it’s easier than saying “Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee Certified” Every hard canister is IGBC certified, but the only soft-side certified is an Ursack. We prefer a soft-side canister because it’s easier to cram things in, and it’s easier to carry, and highly recommend it: Ursack AllMitey Bear and Critter Sack 
• Sponge . For cleaning purposes.
• Salt and pepper.  
• S’mores Fixin’s. No camping checklist is complete without s’mores supplies. Enough said. So, grab the grahams, chocolate, and marshmallows!
• Cutting board . It makes prepping food a whole lot easier than trying to slice up dinner on a log.
• Food. Unless you’re backpacking, pack extra food, just in case. I recommend enough food for an extra two days’ worth of meals or at least extra canned goods in case of emergency.

CLOTHING BASICS

I’ll admit I tend to over-pack clothing for camping, but only because I have a tendency to fall in the mud, water, or bushes. So, I’ll give you a minimum recommendation, but know you aren’t alone if you want to pack a few extra articles of clothing to be safe. (And if you’re camping with kids, definitely bring extras!)

• 2 pairs of shorts or pants (for every 3 days of travel) . Pack according to the weather and terrain. Pants are best for areas with ticks or poison ivy, even in the summer.
• 2 shirts (for every 3 days of travel) . Unless you plan to change shirts daily, you can usually get away with one for every 3 days of travel.
• Undies (enough for every day of travel) . Undies are one thing I tend to pack a few extras of, just in case. 
• Bra(s). Pack at least one for a 3-day trip, two if you want to play it safe.
• Jammies (according to season.) If you’re sleeping in the mountains, pack warmer jammies like flannel or sweatpants.
• Swimsuit/coverup/water shoes (if there is water play) . Pack your swim gear as needed.
• Socks (for every day of travel) . Changing your socks daily will help prevent blisters and infections.
• Sneakers/Hiking Shoes. Pack your shoes based on terrain – if you plan on hiking, don’t forget to bring your sturdier shoes!
• Hoodie or sweatshirt . Packing extra layers will keep you prepared in case of extreme weather.
• Hat . Pack a hat that will keep the sun off you in the summer and will warm your head in the winter or fall.
• Rain Jacket or coat. Pack your coat according to the season – rain jackets or windbreakers for warm weather, heavier coats for colder weather.

Packing the right toiletries will keep you feeling clean, fresh, and prepared even in the middle of the woods. 

• Lip balm . Avoid chapped lips and sunburns with UPF lip balm.
• Brush or comb . Combs are great for getting twigs and debris from hikes out of your hair.
• Hair elastics (hair ties). Pack extras in case you lose a hair tie on the trails.
• Deodorant . You should always pack this for any trip. 
• Toothbrush and toothpaste . Dental hygiene is important even in the woods.
• Sunscreen . Pack sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 30 to prevent sunburns. 
• Medicines. Pack your regular medication in addition to your first aid kit.
• Feminine Hygiene . Pack your hygiene products as needed.
• Bug spray . Pack a quality bug spray. Note: if you’re in an area with ticks, get a tick-specific spray. If you can’t use bug spray, get the bug-repellent bracelets.
• Anti-itch cream. Preferably one for poison ivy, allergies, and bug bites.
• Toilet paper . Preferably biodegradable options safe for septic tanks (to be gentle on any public facilities available at your campground).
• Bath wipes. These guys are on my “camping essentials” list. Camping can get muddy and sweaty, and you’ll get dirt in strange places. So pack the bath wipes, even if your campsite has showers. Just trust me on this.
• Hand sanitizer . In case no facilities are available.
• Wag bags and/or a small trowel. For use when facilities are unavailable. This is the wag bag brand we use .

JUST FOR FUN

Add some fun and adventure to your trip by including some of these extra accessories – totally optional, of course.

• Cards/other games
• Star-reading app
• Trekking poles
• Fishing pole + tackle
• Guitar or speaker
• Glow sticks
• Book of scary stories

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR CAMPING TRIP

• LAKE TAHOE: 23 OF THE BEST LAKE TAHOE CAMPING DESTINATIONS
• BIG SUR: 15 GREAT BIG SUR CAMPING SPOTS ADVENTURERS WILL LOVE
• OREGON COAST: 19 GREAT SPOTS PERFECT FOR YOUR OREGON COAST CAMPING TRIP

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Camping Checklist – Essentials & Printable PDF

Have you ever struggled with packing for a camping trip and forgotten the torch batteries or worse, the insect spray? It’s a familiar frustration. The ‘what to pack’ puzzle can leave us in knots, and forgetting the smallest thing can be a real dampener.

But fret not! I’ve curated a camping essentials checklist to ensure you’re perfectly kitted out for your next outdoor adventure.

Ready to shed the packing stress and embrace the camping thrill? Check out our interactive packing list below or click the download button to see our printable PDF.

Shelter and Bedding

Make sure to check your sleeping bag has the right temperature rating for the weather you will be camping in.

Non-Essentials

Cooking and eating.

Pack more food and water than you’ll think you need.

Basic Clothing To Pack

Spare clothes are must-haves just in case the temperature drops or your clothes get wet.

Seasonal Clothing for Cold Weather or Summer

These are a mixture of essentials and non-essentials depending on what conditions you will be camping in.

Personal and Hygiene

Family items.

I’ve purposefully not marked any of the below as essential, “must bring” items as it can vary so much from family to family and depending on whether you’re wild camping or on a glamping trip.

Leisure Items

Everything below is non-essential, although perhaps useful if you still want to get along after the camping trip is over!

Navigation, Lighting and Tools

Packing list for more advanced campers.

Some of you might be planning a more intense wild camping adventure. Here is a list of a few extra bits of gear that you might want to consider.

Let’s Make the Best Camping Checklist in the World!

Folks, if you’ve read this far, I need your help. Each year, many people are put off from taking their first camping trip because of that same feeling of anxiety in the pit of their stomach that you’re feeling right now.

You know the feeling – it’s the voice saying “you’ve definitely forgotten to pack something!”.

Let’s fight against that voice so that we all know what to take camping. If you find something that isn’t in the list above, please drop me a comment in the discussion section below. Thank you!

Alternative Ways to Download The Camping Checklist

You can view our  downloadable camping checklist pdf here .

Useful Resources

Family camping checklist – essentials & printable pdf.

It’s no picnic preparing for a group adventure but we can help with our comprehensive UK-centric family camping essentials checklist. Check it out!

Camping Essentials For Women [Girls’ Checklist + PDF]

Packing the right camping essentials for women can feel a tad overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be! Find out what to take with our checklist.

Backpacking Checklist 3 Day (Printable PDF & Editable)

Here’s our checklist of things we think you’ll need for a weekends backpacking along with hints, tips & hacks for the first-timer who might need a bit of guidance.

Camping First Aid Kit Checklist (Printable PDF & Editable)

No matter if you are camping, hiking, or backpacking a first aid kit that you paid for or created is a must for making the trip safer and more comfortable.

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Ultimate Camping Packing List | Free Printable Checklist

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Whether you’re an experienced camper or just getting started, it's always helpful to have a camping list on hand.

In this article, we'll cover all the camping essentials, from tent stakes and utility rope to eco-friendly items that'll help you enjoy the outdoors responsibly!

Plus, our free camping checklist is available to download and print below, so you can check off the items when you're shopping online or at the store!

Download our Free Camping Packing List Here

Different Types of Camping

It’s important to consider what type of camping option is best for you. Here are a few popular types of camping:

• Backcountry camping: This involves carrying the bare minimum to save weight, hiking deep into the wilderness, and setting up camp far away from other people. It requires special preparation, as you'll need to be prepared for any obstacles you may encounter on the trail.
• Car (or base) camping: A great option for beginners, car camping is done by parking your car near a campsite, then bringing in the necessary equipment and supplies. It's great for those who want to be close to the car and have the comfort of sleeping in it if desired.
• RV camping: Recreational vehicles (RVs) offer a more luxurious camping experience with some of the amenities you may find at home, such as running water, a shower, and a kitchen. This type of camping is great for those who want a bit more comfort than tent camping can provide.

Once you’ve decided on the type of camping you want to do, it's time to consider where to go for the best experience.

Where To Go Camping

What type of landscape or terrain interests you? Are you a desert person or is the mountain more your speed? What kind of activities do you want to do while camping, such as hiking or fishing? These are all important questions to ask yourself when narrowing down a campsite and a list of things to take camping.

Seasonality is also a factor when planning where to go camping. For example, if you're planning to camp in the mountains during winter, you might need extra gear like a sleeping bag rated for cold weather and snow boots.

How To Find the Right Campsites

Once you have an idea of where to go, make sure to research your destination thoroughly. Check for any fees that may be associated with the campsite and read through reviews from other campers.

Sites like Recreation.gov and The Dyrt provide a detailed list of camping spots, plus reviews and ratings. Another option is Campendium for RV camping and Freecampsites.net for budget-friendly campers.

Additionally, consider any special amenities you might need, such as potable water or a dump station. It's also important to research local amenities within a 40-mile radius of the campsite, including any grocery stores and ATMs.

Ultimate Camping Packing List

From camping must-haves and cookware to camping clothes and toiletries, this comprehensive packing list will help you crush your next outdoor adventure!

Camping Must-Haves

No camping list is complete without these essentials:

• Three-season tent
• Tent stakes
• Camping pad (or sleeping bag)
• Utility rope
• Firestarter
• Fire extinguisher
• First-aid kit
• Camping chairs
• Hard-sided camp cooler
• Refillable water dispenser
• Outdoor LED lanterns
• Bug netting
• Citronella candles to repel insects
• Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife
• High-capacity power bank
• Picnic blanket

Pro-tip #1 | Camping Basics

If this is your first camping trip — or if you're rusty in the tent setup department — practice by pitching your tent at home before you go. That way, you'll be well-prepared and confident when you arrive at the campsite!

Camping Attire and Accessories

Choosing the right clothes for your camping trip can make a huge difference in your comfort level. Here are some key clothing items to include:

• Breathable tops (cotton T-shirts, wool overshirts)
• Convertible hiking pants
• Base layers/thermal wear (wicking shirt, thermal undies, fitted synthetics)
• Thick socks (preferably wool)
• Sleepwear (long-sleeve tops and full-length bottoms)
• Outerwear (rain jacket, windbreaker, fleece pullover)
• Sunhat or visor
• Warm hat or beanie
• Shower sandals or flip flops
• Hiking boots

Pro-tip #2 | Camping Attire

When it comes to camping clothes, it's always best to layer. Choose clothing made from lightweight fabrics that will keep you warm and dry without weighing you down (think: merino wool and flannel). If the weather is unpredictable, pack a variety of clothes so you can adjust your outfit as needed throughout the day.

Camp Kitchen and Cookware

Having the right cookware can help make your outdoor meals more enjoyable. Here’s a checklist of essential kitchen items for your camping packing list:

• Camping stove and fuel
• Portable coffee maker
• Reusable water bottles
• Cast-iron skillet
• Cooking pot with lid
• USDA-certified firewood
• Resealable plastic bags
• Tablecloths and clips
• Plates, cups, and utensils
• Bottle opener
• Chef's knife
• Paring knife
• Cutting board
• Aluminum foil
• Skewers and grilling tools (spatula, tongs)
• Bamboo utensil set
• Paper towels

Pro-tip #3 | Camping Cookware

When base camping, it can be helpful to set up a camp kitchen with either a chuck box or a folding station . This way, you'll have easy access to all your cooking essentials and a go-to workspace for meal prep.

Camping Food and Drink

Don’t forget to bring enough food and drinks for your trip. Here are some essential items for your camping packing list:

• Cooking oil
• Spices (salt, pepper, etc.)
• Condiments (ketchup, mayo, mustard, etc.)
• Protein and energy bars
• Dried fruit
• Nuts and seeds
• Canned food (beans, soups, stews)
• Instant oatmeal
• Fresh fruits
• S'mores ingredients (marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers)
• Stovetop popcorn (in a popping pan)
• Breakfast meats
• Spread (peanut butter, jam, etc.)
• Hamburgers or veggie burgers
• One-gallon water jugs
• Coffee, tea, hot chocolate
• Beverage mixes (juice or lemonade)
• Your choice of milk (whole, coconut, oat, etc.)

Pro-tip #4 | Camping Food and Drink

When it comes to food, freeze what you can at home before transferring to the cooler. This will help keep food items cold and preserve their freshness throughout your camping trip. Lastly, plan for meals that are easy to cook and require minimal cleanup.

Camping Toiletries and Hygiene

In addition to the camping essentials listed above, don’t forget to include the following toiletries and hygienic items in your camping packing list:

• Biodegradable soap
• Hand sanitizer
• Dental floss
• Toilet paper
• Towel (or quick-dry towel)
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Camp shower bag (if applicable)
• Portable mesh shower caddy
• Cotton balls
• Shave cream
• Hair brush or comb
• Three-way camp mirror
• Sanitary pads or tampons

Pro-tip #5 | Camp Hygiene

When you think of things to take camping, unscented products don't usually come to mind. But these are known to attract wildlife, so choose scent-free items where you can and avoid unwanted visitors!

Camping Clean-Up Items

Next up on our camping packing list are cleaning supplies. Here’s what you'll need:

• Collapsible camp sink (w/drain)
• Eco-friendly dish soap
• Scrub brush and sponges
• Dish towels
• Multi-surface cleaner
• Microfiber towels
• Travel laundry bag
• Eco laundry detergent
• Tide To Go pen
• Portable travel clothesline
• Garbage bags

Pro-tip #6 | Camp Clean-Up

For camp clean-up, it's important to establish a routine of regular maintenance and ensure that you always tidy up before nightfall. This not only maintains cleanliness but also helps keep the campsite safe and livable for others.

Extra Camping Items

Finally, don’t forget these add-ons that can make your camping experience even more enjoyable and safe:

• Camp glow sticks
• Emergency flare
• Safety whistle
• Hiking poles
• Portable solar charger
• Portable fan (battery-powered)
• Space heater (if camping in colder conditions)

Pro-tip #7 | Extra Camping Items

When you're packing for a camping trip, it's easy to get carried away. To avoid overpacking, figure out the activities you'll be doing and plan accordingly. For example, if you're going fishing or water rafting, pack appropriate gear and clothing to make the most of your time outdoors.

That's a Wrap

Taking the time to plan and pack for a camping trip can make all the difference in your outdoor adventure. With that said, you don't need to bring everything under the sun with you. Just have a clear idea of what type of camping you want to do and for how long, then you can use our camping packing list as a guideline.

To find some of the items listed above, plus other rad travel gear, feel free to browse our online shop . And for more travel tips and hacks, check out the rest of our blog .

Happy trails! ⛺🔥🪵✨

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Ultimate Camping Checklist

Nothing brings people together like sitting around a campfire, taking a day-long bike ride through the woods, or spending an afternoon kicking back with your feet in the sand. But, one packing mishap can cut a great camping trip short—ruining an otherwise picture-perfect day.

That’s why we put together this comprehensive checklist of the must-have items you need for your next camping trip. Whether you’re a solo traveler, are bringing kids along, or have a family pet in tow, we’ve covered all the bases, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting anything regardless of your party size.

This printable camping checklist not only takes the stress out of packing, but it also provides priceless peace of mind when you want it the most. Check out what made our list of necessary camping items and what might be better off left behind.

Table of Contents

Must-haves for your campsite, ultralight tent.

If you’re camping solo and need a lightweight tenting solution for backcountry camping, you can’t go wrong with a one or two-person ultralight tent. Your back will thank you!

If you’re driving to your camping spot and need space for multiple campers, you’ll want to invest in a cabin-style tent that can house parties of six or more.

Inflatable Sleeping Pad

For a good night’s sleep, you need to separate your body from the hard, cold earth. For this, rely on a lightweight sleeping pad to provide the comfort and warmth you need.

Waterproof Sleeping Bag

You won’t get a good sleep without a warm, lightweight sleeping bag with a comfortable foot box at the bottom. A waterproof bag will guarantee a cozy night even if your tent leaks.

Inflatable Camping Pillow

Don’t forget to support your head and neck overnight. Invest in an ergonomic neck pillow so you feel recharged and ready to go in the morning.

LED Headlamp

Staying up late is half the fun of camping. Embark on nighttime adventures with the help of a headlamp to help guide your way through the dark

You won’t want to spend much time at your campsite unless you have a comfortable place to sit. For that, rely on a folding high-back camping chair.

Compression Sack

Not everyone’s a light camper. If you pack many miscellaneous items, bring a compression bag to keep your items safe, secure, and portable

An all-in-one mess kit, including a spork, flat-bottomed bowl, and thermal mug provides everything you need to devour your camp food.

Camping Table

Unless your campground has a picnic table, you need a sturdy surface to hold your gear and prepare your food. For this, trust a portable camping table.

Your headlamp will only get you so far. To illuminate your whole campsite and improve safety conditions, bring a 360-degree lantern to place on your camping table.

Extra Batteries

It’s never a bad idea to bring an emergency reserve of batteries to back-up your headlamp, lantern, flashlight, radio, and other essentials.

First-Aid Kit

Never leave for a camping trip without a first aid kit equipped with topical antiseptic, gauze, band-aids, and itch relief ointment. Stuff it in your backpack and only take it out when needed.

Campsite Accessories

Air matress.

A blow-up air mattress can save you a lot of discomfort if you’re sleeping in a tent over multiple nights. An air mattress should be included on any car camping checklist.

Forested campsites are perfect for stringing a hammock. Tie a hammock up between two trees for a shady afternoon in the sun or a relaxing sleep under the stars.

Sleeping Bag Thermal Liners

Nothing can ruin a day in the bush like being kept up all night by the cold. Prevent nighttime shivers by investing in a thick thermal liner for your sleeping bag.

Clothesline

If you’re doing laundry or washing your towels and rags while camping, you won’t want to hang your clean clothes on a tree branch. Instead, hang a clothesline for a better dry.

Fold-Away Sleeping Cot

Young families need a sleeping cot for infants and small children to safe soundly and warmly without being disturbed by the cold ground or scurrying animals.

If you can’t find the room to store all your equipment in your tent, consider picking up a rain tarp to keep your gear safe and dry during a rainstorm.

Don’t make a mess of your campsite. Instead, pick up a tablecloth and lay it over your picnic table so you can keep your site squeaky clean for the next set of campers.

Protect yourself from the sun during the hot summer months by hanging a sunshade over your tent, table, or campsite.

Tent Footprint

Send your tent poles through a perforated tent footprint to ensure your tent won’t puncture. Plus, having an extra layer between you and the ground will keep you warmer overnight.

Eating and Drinking

Backcountry campers have limited access to clean drinking water. Having a LifeStraw at the ready can make the difference between staying healthy or contracting a serious illness.

Cast Iron Pan

There are few things that will last longer than a cast-iron pan. Pick up a cast iron pan to fry your bacon and eggs in the morning, or steaks over the campfire in the evening

Keeping drinks cold and food hot is tricky when on the road. Fortunately, a Thermos container is an all-in-one food storage solution that insulates heat.

There’s no easy way to bake food in an open fire. A Dutch oven, however, takes some of the stress out of backcountry cooking and baking.

Campfire Grill

A tabletop grill provides a safe and flat surface to barbecue hot dogs, hamburgers, and whatever else you’ve brought along with you on your camping trip.

Firestarter

Unless you have propane, you need firestarter to conveniently cook food at your campsite. Use firestarter to save you a headache when it comes time to cook over the fire.

Storing your drinks, snacks, and food in a rolling cooler provides much-needed convenience and security while camping. Plus, no one wants a warm beverage at the beach.

Matches and Lighters

Always carry a box of matches and a few butane lighters while camping so you don’t have to stress out over starting a fire.

Pour a bag of ice into your cooler to help keep your drinks and perishable food refrigerated. Ice can also be used to bring down swelling in case of injury.

Plates and Bowls

Some things you can’t eat with your hands alone. Bring reusable plates and bowls with you to ensure a clean and environmentally-friendly camping experience.

Eating during a backcountry camping trip can produce a lot of garbage. Don’t leave a trace behind—bring trash bags with you so that you can haul your garbage to a disposal site.

Flipping steaks or sausages over a grill grate can be a serious challenge. That is, unless you have a trusty pair of tongs to safely reposition your food over a heated element.

Potato Peeler

Whether you’re making hash browns in the morning or boiled potatoes with dinner, a handheld manual potato peeler takes some of the stress out of your campground cooking routine.

Just because you’re at a campground and away from your kitchen doesn’t mean you can skimp out on taste. Be generous with seasonings and spices on your food.

Ziplock Bags

Resealable bags can keep your food fresh and prevent it from oxidizing. If you plan ahead, you can also use Ziplock bags to bring pre-made food to your campsite.

If you cook with a cast-iron pan, bring a tough scrub pad to make sure you get every drop of grime and gunk off your cooking surface.

Cutting Board

Pack a cutting board so you can cut meat, veggies, or whatever else you need to get your grub on. Best of all, cutting boards contain your mess so nothing spills onto the ground.

A folding spoon-fork hybrid utensil makes it easy to dig into, or slurp up, your favorite meal. Whether you’re eating a salad, soup, or steak, you can do it all with a spork.

A bag of high-calorie trail mix can be a lifesaver if you run out of food in the backcountry. Always keep a bag of hearty trail mix whenever you venture into the bush.

Dehydrated Rations

Bags of dehydrated food rations should be kept on an emergency basis. All you need to do is add water and voila, you’ve got edible food.

Survivalist Gear

Don’t go venturing into the woods without a canister of bear spray at the ready. Keep your bear spray in your tent overnight to protect yourself against bears and other intruders.

You need a long, thick rope to hang your food from if you’re camping in bear country. Suspending your food overnight keeps animals away from your campsite.

When disaster strikes and your equipment starts falling apart, trust a roll of duct tape to put it all back together. Plus, duct tape can patch holes in your tent.

Hunting Knife

A large hunting knife will keep you and your fellow campers safe if you run into an emergency. If you’re backpacking in the woods, you need a knife at the hip.

Axe/Hatchet

When you’re in the bush, you need to chop your own firewood. Bring along a freshly sharpened axe to safely cut wood at your camp.

Pocket Knife

Handheld folding knives (like Swiss Army knives) provide protection and utility for cooking, carving, and other recreational activities on the trail.

As a safety precaution, use a carabiner to hang your food pack overnight from a tree at least 200 feet away from your campsite.

Clothing Necessities

Without a large backpack (30L and up) it can be near-impossible to lug all your gear to camp. Make sure you choose a bag large enough to hold your meals on the trail.

Long Underwear

Cold weather camping calls for long underwear. Bring at least one pair of whole-body thermal underwear to keep you warm and cozy during frigid nights.

Visored Hat

Pack a hat with a visor to block the sun out of your heats and deflect heat and harmful UV rays away from your forehead.

Wet feet can ruin a hiking trip. Bring a pair of long Merino wool socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable no matter the weather.

Long-sleeve Shirt

When bugs are out, you will be happy you packed a long-sleeved shirt. The more skin you cover, the less real estate you give bugs and insects on which to bite you.

A cool pair of shades not only look great, but they protect your eyes against damaging UV rays and help improve your vision on the trail.

Swim Trunks

If you’re camping near a body of water, bring swimming shorts along so you can cool off in the water when it starts heating up.

Hiking Shoes

Not all shoes are appropriate for the trail. Invest in a pair of hiking shoes to go the distance without slips or falls.

Rain Jacket

Roll up a rain jacket and stuff it in your camping pack so you can stay dry when it starts to pour.

Water Shoes

Keep your feet safe and cut-free by wearing a pair of water shoes when you’re getting your feet wet at the beach.

Ancillary Camp Items

A short rope can act as a guy line for your tent. When tightened, a guy line stabilizes your tent and keeps it secure on the ground during storms.

A stainless-steel multi-tool lets you make emergency repairs to your equipment without having to dig through a toolbox.

Extra Tent Stakes

Tent stakes can easily bend or snap in hard ground. Pack a few extra stakes to ensure that your tent stays firmly planted.

Clothespins

Your clothesline won’t be of much use unless you have clothespins with which to secure your clothing to the line.

Tea Candles

Illuminate your campsite in a soft, yellow glow with the help of small, potted tea candles. This way, you can save the batteries in your lantern.

Citronella Candles

Scented citronella candles repel bugs and other unwanted visitors from your campsite. Light one on your picnic table and watch as insects scurry away.

Must-Have Small Items

DEET-containing bug repellent spray will keep mosquitoes, hornets, and flies at bay. Not only will this make you more comfortable, but also safer by reducing the risk of bloodborne disease.

A coat of high-SPF sunscreen will block out dangerous UV rays from the sun, keeping your screen free of burns and sun damage.

Hand Towels

A supply of hand towels will keep your campsite sanitary when cooking and washing, and can help control messes and spills.

You don’t need a smartphone when you’re in the bush, but it’s probably a good idea to bring along a basic cell phone for making emergency calls.

From freight trains and transport trucks to crows and wasps, campgrounds can sometimes produce a lot of unwanted noise. Bring ear plugs to block out the noise pollution.

Battery Bank

You never know when your electronic devices might run out of juice. Keep a battery bank on-hand to ensure 24/7 access to electronics in an emergency.

A simple battery-powered flashlight should be a must-have item on any camper’s packing list. Your flashlight should be lightweight and always stored with your regular camping supplies.

Essential Hygiene Items

A bar of soap not only keeps your hands clean for when you’re handling food, but can also be used in a lake or tap to wash your body.

Feminine Products

Female campers should always bring feminine products like tampons or pads in the event of unexpected menstrual cycles.

A container of dish soap lets you camp with confidence knowing that your plates and cooking gear are safe and sanitary.

Large Bucket

An oversized basin-style bucket lets you clean your clothes or dishes in a sanitary tub without spills or messes.

Any outdoor adventure requires deodorant. Whether you’re hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, or whatever else—make sure you smell good while doing it.

Toothbrush and Toothpaste

A vacation is no excuse to skip out on oral hygiene. Whenever you camp, make sure you scrub your teeth before and after sleeping.

Campfire food can get messy. Pack a stack of napkins to minimize the mess from your hot dogs, chili, or s’mores.

Hanging Shower

A hanging shower device can help you rinse off after a sticky day in the sun, or a rugged day on the trail.

Personal Items

As the saying goes, “leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories.” When you’re out in the bush, a camera can help you preserve memories that last a lifetime.

Wearing a sleep mask or eyeshades overnight can help block out unwanted light pollution, including moonlight or starlight.

When nature calls, use baby wipes to clean up the mess and keep your body hygienic and clean at all hours of the day.

Board Games

Board games can help pass the time on rainy days. Games such as Jenga, Scrabble, and Monopoly can be lifesavers when you’re stuck in the tent all day.

Deck of Cards

There’s nothing better than sitting around the picnic table with some of your closest friends playing a game of cards. Bring a deck to keep yourselves entertained during slow days.

Roasting Skewers

You can’t roast marshmallows or make s’mores unless you bring roasting skewers. Bring at least two metal skewers to keep marshmallows or sausages roasting throughout the night.

Additional Campsite Items

You can’t build a fire without a steady supply of logs. Bring bags of firewood with you, or chop your own, if you want to cook without a stove.

Bungee Cords

You never know when a few spare bungee cords might come in handy. If you need a make a last-ditch repair to your backpack or cooler, sometimes bungee cords can save the day.

Field Guide

If you’re venturing into unknown territory, you should have a local field guide with you. A field guide can inform you about dangers in the area.

If your electronics break, you can rely on your compass to guide you to safety. Pair your compass with a map to find your way back to camp

Ultralight Water Bottles

Lightweight water bottles, as well as plates bowls, are must-have items for backpacking. Even shaving a few pounds off your overall load can make a world of difference.

A Good Book

When you’re rained out, curling up in the tent with a novel can make you feel right at home. It’s always a good idea to pack a book or two in your overnight bag.

Portable Speaker

There are few things better than listening to music around a campfire. Bringing a portable Bluetooth speaker lets you listen to your favorite tunes no matter where you are.

Musical Instrument

It’s never a bad idea to bring a folksy musical instrument like a guitar, ukulele, or harmonica to jam out with around the campfire.

Nothing beats bird-watching and sightseeing with a pair of high-powered telephoto binoculars. Pack them on your next bird-watching adventure and notice the difference they make.

About The Author

Ayesha Holloman

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The Ultimate Camping Packing List: 29 Essentials

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Unlike other vacations where you can just run out to the nearest store if you’ve forgotten something, you’re solely dependent on your packing skills when you’re out in the wilderness. This camping packing list has all the essentials you’ll need for a safe and comfortable trip.

Download Our Ultimate Camping Packing List

Be prepared for the great outdoors with the editable version of our Ultimate Camping Packing List .

Camping Packing List: Gear

Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag is the most essential piece of camping equipment—without the right one, you’ll be in for a cold and uncomfortable night. Many sleeping bags are “mummy style,” which can be way too claustrophobic for a good night’s sleep, especially if you’re a side or stomach sleeper.   Sierra Design’s Backcountry Bed 700 / 20 Degree sleeping bag has a unique design that feels more like sleeping with a comforter on your bed at home than a sleeping bag. It doesn’t have any zippers; instead, there are insulated hand and arm pockets to help you completely cover yourself, plus a self-sealing foot vent so you can regulate temperature. The bag has an minimum temperature rating of 16F, which is very impressive considering that it only weighs 2.5 pounds.

Sleeping Pad (Backpacking): Thermarest’s NeoAir XLite is a favorite of many through-hikers, and it’s easy to see why. This three-season air mattress will keep you warm and comfortable even on the rockiest ground, yet it packs down to the size of a water bottle and weighs a mere eight ounces. I love that this mattress doesn’t skimp on comfort despite the light weight—the fabric is super soft, and it uses a patented reflective ThermaCapture technology to trap your body’s warmth and minimize heat loss.

Sleeping Pad (Car Camping): If you’re not hauling all your camping supplies on your back, comfort is more of a concern than weight, and you can go for a plush model like Sea to Summit’s Comfort Deluxe S.I. Sleeping Mat , available in a double size that’s perfect for couples camping together. This mat has an R-value of 5.2, so you can use it even in the winter, and it has 10-centimeter vertical side walls that make it feel like a real mattress. Best of all, this sleeping mat is self-inflating, so you don’t have to waste your breath trying to blow it up before you can finally go to sleep.

Pillows: After a long day in the woods, you’ll want to rest your head on something soft. Short on space? Sea to Summit’s Aeros Pillow Ultralight lives up to its name, clocking in at 2.1 ounces, and is small enough to fit in a pocket when deflated. The pillow is covered with a polyester stretch knit fabric that’s cozy enough that you won’t miss a pillowcase. Got a little extra room in your pack? For just 0.5 ounces more, the Aeros Pillow Premium uses an even more plush fabric covering and is extra comfortable. Both pillows have a thin synthetic fill layer that wicks away perspiration, as well as a curved design that cradles your head. Each pillow inflates in just three breaths and deflates in under a minute.

Tent: Unless you truly want to sleep under the stars (and deal with any inclement weather that comes your way), you’ll need a tent. An easy-up tent, like this one , is quick to assemble or to tear down.

Chair: Relaxing, eating, and sitting around the fire are all better when you’re not on the ground. The CLIQ Chair packs down small for easy transport, but assembles into a comfortable seat in seconds.

Light: Goal Zero’s Crush Light runs off of solar power and can last for up to 35 hours on one charge. It collapses nearly flat, so you can use this on backpacking trips—hang it from your tent as a reading lamp or carry it to light your way on a dark trail.

Solar Charger : If you can’t bear to completely disconnect in the wild, pack a solar charger ( like this small foldable one ) to power up your phones and other gadgets. Even if you don’t plan on using your phone, this is good to have in case of emergency, as it has a built-in LED flashlight, compass, and whistle.

What to Pack for Hiking: 38 Essentials

Camping Packing List: Food and Drink

Bear Bags: If you’re bringing food, you need to also bring a way to protect that food from wildlife. Even if you’re not in bear country, you’ll still have rodents and other animals after your stash. A bear-resistant bag, like this one by Ursack , is made from a bulletproof fabric that can withstand a bear attack and doesn’t need to be hung off the ground (but must be tied to something secure, like a tree trunk). Or go for a lighter-weight odor-barrier bag like this one from Base CampSource, which eliminates any food smell and won’t attract animals to your camp. These should be hung off of the ground in bear country.

Cooking Set: Unless you’re doing ready-to-eat meals, you’ll need to bring utensils and pans for cooking. This one from Bulin has everything you need, from pots and pans to a dish sponge for scrubbing, for an affordable price.

Camping Stove: This gas camping stove from Coleman packs down small when not in use and is lit with the push of a button so you don’t waste time fumbling with matches. The cover unfolds into a set of wind-blocking panels to keep the flames alight.

Instant Coffee: If you’re used to starting off your day with a nice hot cup of coffee, don’t deprive yourself of that in camp. Instant coffee, like these sachets from Tandem Coffee Roasters , are easy to pack and prepare in minutes.

Cups: These collapsible cups are made from a food-grade silicone that is lightweight and packs down small, but can hold hot beverages without scalding your hands.

Water Bottle: If you’re staying at a campground with potable water, where keeping your drink cold is more of a concern than water quality, pack an insulated bottle like this one from YETI . Headed to the backcountry? The LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle will give you safe drinking water fast.

Meals: Don’t feel like cooking while on vacation? There are plenty of tasty ready-to-eat meals these days that just need boiling water to eat. Check out our editors’ taste test of Good to Go meals here .

The 5 Best Lightweight Hiking Boots for Travel

Camping Packing List: Hygiene

Wet Wipes: If no shower is in sight, these Surviveware biodegradable wet wipes are designed for “no rinse bathing and showers.” Thankfully, they’re unscented and hypoallergenic.

Dry Shampoo: Similarly, a small container of dry shampoo can help remove sweat, smells, and oil—no water required.

Hand Sanitizer: Hygiene is really important while camping, especially if you don’t have a clean water source for hand washing. Use hand sanitizer before eating, before preparing food, and after using the bathroom.

Camping Shower: Can’t go that long without a shower? A small solar shower bag can be filled up and heated by the sun to give you a quick hot shower.

Quick-Dry Towel: This microfiber towel dries up to four times faster than a regular cotton towel, and packs down very small.

Biodegradable Soap: Coleman’s Camp Soap comes in spill-proof sheets that are biodegradable and can be used for hand washing, showers, and dish washing.

Biodegradable Shampoo & Conditioner : This eco-friendly 3-in-1 conditioning shampoo and body wash from Stream2Sea is biodegradable, eco-friendly, and reef safe.

Toothbrush and Paste: Make sure you use potable water when brushing your teeth, and pack a small toothbrush and toothpaste set like this one .

The Best Travel Swimsuits for Any Type of Vacation

Camping Packing List: Miscellaneous

Trashbags : Always pack out what you pack in (even trash), so don’t forget the trashbags .

Sunscreen and Bug Repellent : Badger offers both sunscreen and bug repellent made from natural ingredients in easy to apply packaging.

First Aid Kit: Don’t go camping without a first-aid kit —even if you just use the bandages for blisters, you’ll be glad you have it.

Caroline Morse Teel is still working on her camping packing list. Follow Caroline on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from camp.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

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The Ultimate Camping Checklist for a Comfy Night Under the Stars

Plus a detailed, downloadable version that you can use for your next campout.

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Use this packing list to make sure you don’t forget anything for your next camping trip.

Illustration by Emily Blevins

Camping means different things to different people. Some travelers relish the idea of roughing it on a backcountry trip through a national park with only their hiking boots and camping essentials, while others load up for car camping with every possible creature comfort (think air mattresses, chargers, camp stoves, and more). I prefer a happy medium for our outdoor adventure packing list: All the basics plus a few creature comforts (a chair for stargazing, some fire starters, a fluffy camping pillow, maybe a cast-iron skillet for the perfect campsite breakfast, and lip balm) for a weekend outdoors.

For casual car campers—those who prefer to drive to a campsite rather than hiking or biking in—you’ll still need all of the essentials: a camping tent, sleeping bag, warm clothes, food, and a way to cook it all. But you also have the space to bring a bit more than just the basics, like trash bags, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and other personal items. To make sure you’re prepared and comfortable, use this camping checklist to guarantee you pack everything you need.

Tip: Download or save the printable camping checklist below to use for your next camping trip.

First-time camping tips

Before I jump into the camping checklist, let’s get some basics out of the way. The idea of camping is romantic—you never immediately think of the things that could bring discomfort like, say, some unexpected rain or a noisy crew at the neighboring site. Buying gear may seem like the biggest task, but make sure you know where you’re going to be camping first. Choosing a location is very important, as you want to know what kind of weather to prepare for, as well as the wildlife that also calls the area home. Once you determine those factors, narrowing down your gear will be easier.

Take the time to read customer reviews on the big-ticket items, like tents, hiking boots, camp stoves, and car camping structures. If needed, give retailers a call to talk through your options. More often than not—especially at shops like REI that celebrate outdoor communities—the staff will have opinions and experience using various pieces of gear.

Many campsites are on review sites like TripAdvisor and Yelp—if you’re curious about amenities, it’s best to refer to those who have experienced the spaces firsthand. (It also doesn’t hurt to consult the Reddit community r/Camping .) You can also search for the campsite on Instagram and scroll through tagged photos to better know what to expect.

Tip: Download or save this camping checklist to use for your next camping trip.

To set up your campsite, you’ll always need a shelter, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad, which can help you stay warm at night by keeping you off the ground. Other items—like chairs and pillows—add an extra touch of comfort. Also: Check your campground amenities before you pack. Most drive-up campgrounds will provide a picnic table and firepit and sell firewood on site.

• Tent, with footprint and stakes
• Sleeping bags
• Sleeping pads or cots
• Camping chairs
• Lighting, like a lantern and string lights

You may also want

• Camping table
• Firewood (aim to buy locally sourced wood close to your campground to avoid introducing invasive insects)
• Extra batteries
• Axe or hatchet (for chopping wood)
• Tent repair kit

To keep everything organized, consider packing everything in a dedicated camping gear bin or box, like the foldable Thule Go Box ($130).

Toiletries and first aid

When packing toiletries for camping, it’s more about being prepared for cuts, bug bites, and basic hygiene. If you’re only camping for a night or two, you might even skip showering entirely—though that doesn’t mean you can’t stay clean(ish). A simple body wipe and a stick of deodorant can do wonders after a night in a tent. Try to skip the paper towels (less trash!) and use quick-dry towels or a washcloth instead.

• Biodegradable soap
• Body or face wipes
• Toilet paper
• Quick-dry towel
• Hand sanitizer
• Insect repellent (plant-based Natrapel , $14, is a good DEET-free option)
• First aid kit, like the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight Kit ($34), which includes adhesive bandages, gauze, tweezers, and pain relievers in a weatherproof bag.
• Camp shower
• Flip-flops (if your campsite has a shower)
• Clothesline

As a kid tagging along on my brother’s Boy Scout campouts, I learned that you should always, always, bring an extra set of clothes and shoes. No, not because it was part of the Boy Scout manual, but because I could never manage to make it through a night of s’mores without getting marshmallow all over myself. Bottom line, first-time campers: The unexpected happens in the great outdoors, so check the forecast and pack clothes that will keep you warm and dry during cold weather and at night and cool during the day.

• Short- and long-sleeved shirts
• Pants and shorts
• Warm jacket for evenings
• Boots or shoes for hiking
• Sandals for lounging around the campsite
• Sleep or loungewear
• Rain jacket
• Gloves or mittens

Camp kitchen and cooking

Sure, you could get creative with nothing but a roll of tinfoil and a campfire to cook your meals (hello, fire-baked potato). You’ll also want to bring along a few other camp kitchen essentials for cooking and cleaning up after, for those campfire taco dinners and pancake breakfasts.

Keep in mind that if you’re camping in bear country, it’s a good idea to bring a bear-proof canister to store your food (some coolers, like the Yeti Tundra , can be used with bear-proof locks). However, drive-in campsites will often provide metal lockers to keep your food safe from bears and other wildlife.

• Stove and fuel
• Matches or lighter
• Kitchen kit (pots and pans) and cooking utensils
• A good knife
• Mess kit (plate, bowl, and eating utensils)
• Portable coffee maker (like Snow Peak’s collapsible coffee drip , $43)
• Biodegradable soap (I like Joshua Tree camp soap , $10, which doubles as dish and body soap)
• Trash and recycling bags
• Filled water jugs (if your campsite doesn’t have potable water)
• Grill and charcoal
• Cutting board
• Bottle opener
• Water container or reusable water bottles
• Can opener (if you’re bringing canned foods)

It’s also helpful to plan what meals you want to make while camping and draft a food shopping list beforehand. Oatmeal, freeze-dried soups, sandwiches, and hot dogs are always easy-to-cook camp classics. If you’re looking for more inspiration, I love the delicious camp-friendly recipes (like a tinfoil shrimp boil or skillet pizza) in The Campout Cookbook ($19).

Don’t feel like prepping and shopping for your camp meals? Patagonia Provisions supplies such items as dried fruit, dehydrated bean soups, and even canned mussels that you can pack for a weekend of low-fuss food .

This article originally appeared in 2019. It was updated on May 23, 2024, to include current information.

How to plan your camping trip

What clothes to pack, the best toiletries to bring along, how to plan your meals, what gear to bring for day hikes, the proper way to set up your campsite, our camping expertise, planning your first camping trip here's the essential gear you'll want while roughing it.

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Sitting around a campfire and stargazing from a cozy sleeping bag has long been a favorite pastime of many Americans. And more are joining the trend: A quarter of North Americans who camped in 2020 said it was their first time, and nearly two-thirds said they plan to go again, according to a report from Kampgrounds of America.

We're all for new faces at the campgrounds — a weekend away allows you to take a break from your phone and enjoy nature and its many benefits . But knowing what to pack is an art.

We would know: Our writers, Hannah Freedman and Rachael Schultz, have spent countless days on every kind of camping trip over the years. While each trip is different and requires its own specific gear, it's important to always pack the essentials.

Below is everything you absolutely need for an overnight or multi-day trip, as well as a few nice-to-haves that make sleeping on the ground far more fun.

For backpacking, you'll need a lighter, more heavy-duty packing list. Check out our ultralight backpacking guide .

Planning a camping trip comes in two parts: picking your campsite and deciding what to pack. What you need for a car camping trip depends entirely on who's joining you, where you're going, when you're going, and for how long.

Here's what to keep in mind while planning.

How do I find a good campground?

If you're looking for a campsite to enjoy, consider starting with our list of the  best campsites across the US . We also have you covered with a list of less-known places to check for last-minute camping reservations, including private campsites . And if you're eager to bring your four-legged friends with you, be sure to check out our  tips for camping with dogs . 

If you're a seasoned camper and want to try your hand at free camping, you'll have to look beyond national parks and developed campgrounds. Dispersed camping is available for free on most Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or  United States Forest Service (USFS) land ; check out their websites for how free dispersed camping works.

Who all is camping? 

This list is a great starting point for car campers and tent-pitching newbies but you'll want to make sure you create your own specific pack list based on several key factors.

First, think about how many people you're going with. If it's a family camping trip, you may want a four-person tent or two separate tents so adults and kids can have their own spaces. If you're heading out on a solo experience, a medium one-person tent works just fine, or an alternative like hammock camping . 

Where will you camp?

The type of campsite you'll visit and how long you plan to camp are both vital considerations. Will the campsite have running water or will you need to bring your own jugs of water? Is it off a main road or deeper into the backcountry where cell service may be nonexistent?

If it's the latter, you'll want to factor that in when making decisions like how extensive your  first aid kit  should be. It's also smart to plan out meals and snacks ahead of time to make sure your food needs are covered no matter how long you're gone.

What's the weather forecast?

The season and weather also make a world of difference when it comes to what you're packing. Most casual campers generally go during warmer months when lighter layers and less heavy-duty gear are preferable.

In the summer, check the fire restrictions where you're headed since most places in the west and the Rocky Mountains have fire bans most of the summer to prevent wildfires. That means you won't be able to have a campfire at night.

If you plan on camping in the winter, or somewhere that still has snow, you'll want to add items like snow pants, gaiters, and warm gloves to your list. Packing an extra pair of socks and spare blankets won't hurt either.

What do you plan on doing? 

Finally, don't forget to think about the activities you'll want to do. If you're headed to a river where fishing is permitted, throw in a fishing rod and a tackle box. If you're camping with friends, bring a deck of cards or other easily portable games. If you'll be hiking, break in your hiking boots before and have trail maps on hand.

Packing for camping is not like packing for any other trip. You need to be protected from the elements, which may be drastically different from day to night. Even in the summer, the desert and mountains can be blistering hot during the day but down in the 30s and 40s at night.

That means you need to focus on practical gear. It's even smart to overpack (assuming you're not backpacking) in order to bring just-in-case items like a rain jacket or thermal layers . 

You want breathable, sweat-wicking clothes for the day (i.e. no cotton, which gets wet and stays wet), including a sun shirt and hat to protect your arms or face.

Whether you want to hike or lounge in shorts , leggings , or hiking pants for men or women is up to both you and the terrain you'll be adventuring on. No matter what season you plan to camp, it's smart to pack a warm base layer and a lightweight fleece for unexpectedly cold or windy days — they double as pajamas on crisp evenings, too, especially if your sleeping bag isn't as warm as you need.

Always pack a wool beanie and warm socks as these are invaluable on chilly nights. Also helpful are sturdy sandals to wear around camp which help give your feet a break from hiking boots . And don't forget the SPF .

This base layer is extra soft and moisture-wicking. Not to mention the HeiQ Fresh durable odor control comes in very handy after a long, sweaty day.

Read Insider's guide to the best base layers for men and for women .

This moisture-wicking tee is breathable to keep you cool, dry and comfortable.

These men’s hiking boots are comfortable from the outset and will hold up for thousands of miles hiking in all conditions.

These women’s hiking boots are comfortable out of the box, breathable, and waterproof.

Read Insider's guide to the best hiking boots for  men  and  women

A good pair of trail pants like these should be water-resistant, sweat-wicking, come with UPF protection from harmful UV rays, have some stretch to them for comfort, and have a zip pocket or two.

Read Insider's guide to the best hiking pants for men  and  women

This ultrasoft layer is ideal to throw on over a t-shirt. It has a little bit of stretch, is anti-pill, and has zippered pockets to store a phone or other important items securely.

Patagonia's Better Sweater Fleece Jacket is equal parts comfortable and warm, and it comes in a variety of colorways to match anyone's personal winter style.

Read Insider's guide to the best fleece jackets for men

Lightweight, sweat-wicking, four-way stretch fabric, and zippered pockets — these lululemon athletic shorts deliver on all fronts.

These hiking shorts are made from durable, water-resistant stretch fabric, have a comfortable high-rise fit, and are cute enough to feature on IG.

The Patagonia Torrentshell Packable Rain Jacket can keep you dry in serious rainstorms, but it can also fit into a briefcase, backpack, or glove compartment.

Keep your feet happy and dry with these moisture-wicking wool socks, which have cushy bottoms for a long hike and elastic for comfort around the campfire.

Read Insider's guide to the best hiking socks

This classic hat will keep your head warm with enough stretch to fit all sizes.

These trail-ready Teva's balance comfort with durability for the ultimate combo.

Read Insider's full review of Teva's Universal Sandal

All of Sunski’s shades are polarized, which keeps you comfortable and protects your eyesight, without being too expensive so if you break them or lose them in the water, you won’t be too put out.

Read Insider's guide to the best polarized sunglasses

A hip pack is incredibly convenient to stash medium essentials like chapstick and dog waste bags when you’re at camp or on a hike. This one from Patagonia is lightweight, waterproof, made from ripstop nylon, and has three zippered compartments including one big enough to fit a large iPhone.

Beyond the essentials of your toothbrush  and comb , a thorough toiletry bag is essential for both safety and comfort. Items like sunscreen  and moisturizer can help protect your skin from the elements, while nice-to-haves like hand sanitizer  and deodorant wipes help you feel fresh each day.

Keep toiletries organized (and out of the dirt) by packing them in this light-but-durable bag, which features a strap for easy carrying or hanging inside your tent.

Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunscreen is noncomedogenic, lightweight, and water-resistant. It contains SPF 55, and dries down quickly without leaving a greasy residue.

Cleaning your hands before handling food or if the bathroom runs out of soap is crucial. We like this one because the aloe and vitamin E keep your skin from getting too dry, while the flip cap minimize spillage in packing.

A nice way to freshen up when showers aren't available, these body wipe have the added bonus of containing aloe vera and vitamin E to give skin a gentle, refreshing boost.

No one ever thinks they’ll need a first aid kit, but this affordable and compact option is ideal to have on hand just in case to treat minor injuries like cuts and scrapes, burns and bites, and the occasional puncture wound.

Read Insider's guide to the best first aid kits

Always bring bug spray to save yourself a serious headache. OFF! Deep Woods contains 25% DEET so use it sparingly, but it’s the most effective against ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, chiggers, and gnats.

Read Insider's guide to the best bug sprays

Eye drops help re-hydrate your eyes after a night of sitting around the smokey fire, and Clear Eyes Triple Action provides more lubricant to soothe and moisturize.

Camping meals can be as simple or as complicated as you make them. While you can nosh on dried goods all weekend, it's smart to pack along some cooking gear like a camp stove or pot and pan , which lets you boil water or sauté over the fire. If you need to buy groceries for camping food, check out the best places to buy groceries online .

Don't forget your other camping cooking gear like plates, cups, and cutlery , which you can either bring from home or buy an all-inclusive set that you don't have to worry about damaging or breaking.

Any major campground, like a KOA or those at National Parks, will likely have a sink for you to wash dishes in. But medium-sized campgrounds and wild campsites won't so be sure you have your dishwashing system dialed in as well (see below).

This classic, hard-shelled cooler will keep ice cold for, realistically, two days and is a solid option for causal campers looking to not break the bank.

Yeti coolers will cost you a pretty penny, but their superior temperature-retention and durability is well worth the money in the long run if you’re camping for days without access to replacement ice or will be putting the fridge through a beating. The Tundra 75 is uber durable, the perfect size for most trips, and will keep ice frozen for more than a week. Plus, it’s bear-resistant.

Read Insider's guide to the best coolers

The set includes four polypropylene plates, four bowls, four insulated mugs, two- and three-leader pots with lids, a frypan, pot gripper, and a welded sink/stuff sack, all of which neatly nest and stow in the welded sink for easy packing.

Read Insider's guide to the best camping cookware

This handy spoon, knife, and fork set features a removable carabiner so you can easily keep the set together for packing and take the utensils apart for eating. The cutlery is made of pure titanium so it's resistant to corrosion and high temperatures.

If you’re a one pot kind of camp cook or just need to boil water, this lightweight backpacking stove from MSR folds down small and can balance anything from a frying pan to a pot to boil.

Read Insider's guide to the best camping stoves  

This classic, suitcase-style stove is portable, has wind-blocking side panels, and lets you use two burners at once. It doesn’t have a self-ignite but is easy to get going with a lighter, and uses a standard 16oz propane can.

Coffee is a serious necessity for some, and the AeroPress is small, simple, portable, and easy-to-use way to brew a highly competitive, frothy cup of coffee somewhere between a French press and an espresso.

Forgo the full coffee setup with this ingenious pour-over system, which lets you make single cups of coffee with nothing more than boiling water and a cup. The grounds are 100% arabica, responsibly-sourced beans and make a cup 100x more delicious than instant coffee.

Read Insider's guides to the best coffee makers for camping and the essentials you need to make delicious camp coffee

Most developed camp grounds have water spigots easily accessible, but filling up this 6-gallon jug once will save you a lot of trips — and it’s essential when you’re wild camping without water access. Not only does this jug hold a ton of water, but the lid unscrews for an easy-pour spout system.

Wash bins help you clean up after cooking safely without leaving any food bits behind to attract animals. This foldable option is easy for on-the-go and the two bins mean you have one bin for soapy suds and one for a final rinse.

This biodegradable soap requires just a few drops for dish cleaning and adhere's to leave-no-trace practices.

A quick-dry towel will make short work of drying off dishes, and this one unfolds to be nearly 2-feet wide and will dry off quick.

Keeping sanitizing hand wipes in your cooking setup is a pro move to use after you handle raw meat, when your fingers are covered in s’more stickiness, or when you just want to wipe down the table before playing cards.

If you're going camping, chances are you'll at least embark on a short day hike or walk around a park. For a hike of any length, it's smart to bring a sun shirt , hat , sunscreen , water , and snacks .

If your adventure is going to be more than 5 miles, make sure you bring a first aid kit , as well as some extra water and food.

Lightweight, comfortable to wear, and with plenty of capacity for a day on the trail, the Gregory Miwok 24 is a fantastic and affordable option for day hikes.

Read Insider's guide to the best packable daypacks

This 40-ounce water bottle holds enough hydration for a hike (and keep it cold for up to 24 hours) and then lets you keep tea hot back at camp hot for up to six hours. And the handle is comfortable to carry on a hike if you don’t have a pack.

Read Insider's guide to the best water bottles

This simple black hat is made from breathable, quick-drying fabric and features a sweat-wicking headband. The UPF 30 fabric further protects from harmful UV rays and the adjustable back makes it easy to get the perfect fit.

Created by two pro athletes, Picky Bars taste good, are free of most allergens, and provide around 200 calories and 28g carbs of whole-food energy.

Read Insider's guide to the best plant-based protein bars

When it comes to setting up camp quickly and ensuring a good night's sleep, you know you absolutely need a tent and a warm sleeping bag . It's also important not to skimp on a sleeping pad which not only lets you sleep comfortably but also keeps you warm by lifting you off the ground.

An all-purpose tarp can also act as a blanket to sit on, a water barrier under your tent, or a roof to shield your campsite from an unexpected downpour. And don't forget to pack a comfortable  camp chair , and either a headlamp (better) or a flashlight  (cheaper).

A few nice-to-haves that can really change how easy it is to set up camp are a  stake hammer to help secure your tent on dry, hard ground; a nice pillow  (stuffing your clothes into a bag is fine in the backcountry but truly not enjoyable otherwise); and  a collapsible table to cook on if there's no picnic bench. Tables are also great for playing cards on or holding s'mores supplies.

Below is a list of everything we recommend you bring to set up a comfortable camp.

Ideal for the warmer summer months, this two-person tent is easy to assemble and will keep you comfortable even on hot, sticky nights.

This bag is lightweight, water-resistant, and suitable for evenings that get windy or chilly (its ISO comfort rating is 39 degrees).

Read Insider's guide to the best sleeping bags

Klymit's Klymaloft is a superbly comfortable camping mattress that comes as close to guaranteeing a good night's sleep while camping as you can get.

This cushy pillow is slightly curved for better head and neck support, quickly inflates, and doesn't lose air or sink throughout the night.

Keep both your hands accessible while still seeing in the dark with this headlamp, which is comfortable to wear and shines bright.

Read Insider's guide to the best headlamps

These compact flashlights are bright, durable, water-resistant and come in a four-pack so there’s a light for everyone.

Read Insider's guide to the best flashlights

Hitting the sweet spot of value, this foldable camp chair is light enough for multi-day backpacking trips but comfortable enough to lounge at any campsite.

If comfort is of the utmost importance to you, this foldable camp chair is incredibly durable, supportive, and ideal for long nights of sitting around the campfire — a worthy splurge.

Read Insider's guide to the best camping chairs

A stake hammer makes it much, much easier to stake down your tent in hard ground, and this one is durable, lightweight, and doubles as a bottle opener.

This folding table is super lightweight but sturdy enough to hold down in the wind, and folds up with luggage-style handles.

A solid, every day tarp is a must-have on any camping trip and this one comes in three different sizes for cheap.

If you can use a classic Zippo lighter, you can use this Zippo EFK Emergency Fire Kit.

Read Business Insider's guide to the best fire starters

This down blanket is weather-resistant with DWR coating and made of durable, ripstop polyester. It’s a bit of an investment, but we’ve used ours for everything from staying warm by the campfire to sitting on muddy ground to wrapping it around a dog on cold nights.

This solar-generated power pack will keep small electronics charged up, including phones and laptops. Unlike many of its competitors, this one is also environmentally-friendly and quiet.

Read Insider's guide to best portable power stations

Hannah Freedman grew up in New Mexico where she spent many weekends of her childhood pitching a tent with her family and making homemade breakfast burritos on a camp stove  in the morning. Her love affair with the outdoors has continued and, as she's gotten older, she's gone on more ambitious trips, tackling long treks in Patagonia and rafting down the Grand Canyon.

Meanwhile, Rachael Schultz didn't start camping until she was an adult, which means she's well-versed in the big question of what to bring camping for beginners. In her 20s and 30s, she car-camped around the country for four months and now regularly heads out for weekends under the stars from her home base near Aspen, Colorado.

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Everything You Should Pack for a Camping Trip

Jamie Hergenrader is the Commerce Director of the Travel Group at Dotdash Meredith where she leads the content strategy of product reviews and recommendations for the company's travel brands. She joined the company in 2018 and has nearly a decade of experience writing and editing for travel and lifestyle publications.

Of all the outdoor adventures and activities you might enjoy, camping requires one of the most robust packing checklists. Assuming that you are car camping—and not trying to whittle down your belongings for a backpacking trip —you’re essentially creating a temporary home from scratch in the great outdoors, so you need all the essential items for sleeping, cooking, exploring, and setting up a safe and comfortable campsite. Use this complete checklist to make sure you’ve got everything you need for your next night under the stars.

When gathering all your gear for a camping trip, it’s helpful to categorize the things you need by how you’ll be spending your time. That goes for both time of day (e.g. the items you’ll need to sleep at night) as well as the activities you plan on doing there (e.g. whether you plan to hike or dive into a good book by the campfire). Use these categories below as you’re packing to stay organized.

• Tent: This is probably the most obvious item you’ll need to bring when camping, but it can be easy to forget all the necessary pieces. Besides the tent itself , you’ll also want to make sure you have all the necessary stakes, as well as a footprint to protect it from dirt and moisture on the ground, and a rainfly to keep you dry if weather takes a turn. It’s also helpful to bring a mallet for wedging your stakes into tougher ground, plus a small tent repair kit should your tent need some maintenance during your trip. 
• Sleeping Bags: Bring a sleeping bag that’s fit for the conditions and temperatures of your destination and one you’ll be comfortable in. For couples, sometimes a double-wide sleeping bag is preferable. 
• Sleeping Pads: For a comfortable night’s sleep, bring a sleeping pad —you can choose from a variety of types, such as inflatable, insulated, and more.
• Pillows: Depending on how much space you have in your car, you can bring true camping pillows that are more compact but usually less comfortable, or you can bring pillows that you use at home. 
• Sleepwear: Pack clothing that’s comfortable to sleep in as well as comfortable to walk around in for bathroom runs to avoid middle-of-the-night clothing changes in your tent.
• Eye Mask and Ear Plugs: Some perks of sleeping outside—the sound of birds chirping and those gorgeous morning rays—are less ideal first thing in the morning. These will help you score just a little more sleep .

Campsite Essentials

• Lanterns and Flashlights: You’ll need ample light at your site for both safety and enjoyment. Bring a couple lanterns to place on the table or in your tent, as well as flashlights or headlamps for walking around in the dark. (Pro tip: If you’ll be setting up a tent in the dark, headlamps are the way to go to keep you hands-free.) You can also buy some string lights to set up at your campsite to add a little extra ambiance. Remember to pack extra batteries or any necessary charging cables for any light sources.
• Camping Chairs: Bring foldable chairs to set up around the campfire; bonus if they have cup holders.
• Camping Table: Many campsites come with a picnic table. If yours doesn’t, bringing your own is useful to have a place for cooking, playing games, and organizing your belongings.
• Firewood: If you plan to have a campfire, you’ll need several bundles of wood depending on the length of your stay. However, many campgrounds and regions in the country require that you purchase firewood within a certain mileage of the campsite to prevent the spread of invasive species, so check your site’s policy first. 
• Fire Starter: Not required, but using fire starter or charcoal can help you get the flames going more easily, so you can spend more time enjoying the fire than creating it.
• Matches and Lighter: One or the other will do, but it’s best to bring both. 

Toiletries and Personal Items 

Some personal toiletry items might seem obvious to have, but it’s still helpful to put them on your checklist anyway so that you don’t have to run an errand on your trip because you forgot. These include toothbrush and toothpaste (some campers prefer tablets for the latter for ease of packing); shampoo, conditioner, soap, and towel for showering; and any other personal products you’ll need on your trip, such as a razor, contact lenses, or feminine products. Here are some other items that should be on your list. 

• First Aid Kit: This is always a good idea to have on hand for any accidents, and ideally should include some basic medications (ibuprofen, allergy medicine, etc.) as well as various bandages, gloves, antibiotic ointment, and other common needs. ( Here’s a good option. ) Whichever kind you buy, be sure to open it up and get to know its contents before you head out, so that in case you end up needing it, you know exactly what you have and where it is. 
• Insect Repellant: Bug spray with DEET is best for optimal protection for your body, and you can also buy citronella-based products to disperse around your campsite to keep bugs away.
• Sunscreen: Always pack sunscreen and apply frequently, especially if you’re headed for higher elevation.
• Sunglasses: Any UV-blocking lenses will do, and consider packing a polarized pair if you’re spending a lot of time out in water to block glare.
• Hand Sanitizer: Some campsite bathrooms are better stocked than others, so just in case, it’s wise to keep hand sanitizer handy for when the soap dispensers are empty. 
• Toilet Paper: Similarly, bringing your own roll of TP can be useful for times when it’s missing in stalls or for when you’re out exploring for the day with no bathroom access. 

Meals and Cookware

Plan out your meals in advance of your trip so that you can gather the necessary ingredients, tools, and accessories. Here’s a list, in chronological order of use to help you think through what you’ll need, step by step.  

Food prep: Think about what you’re making, and what kind of prep will go into it. Do you need a sharp knife for chopping up vegetables? If so, you’ll also likely need a cutting board. Some people prefer to prepare their ingredients at home and pack in bags or containers, but if you like to do it at your campsite, it might be useful to buy a set that includes all these things. Pack all of your perishables into a cooler with ice or ice packs to keep food and drinks fresh until you need them.

Cooking: Again, refer to your list of planned meals to know what cookware to bring. In general, though, it’s helpful to have at least one pot and one pan. If you’ll be cooking directly over fire, a cast iron pan is your best bet, and you’ll want to bring a campfire grill grate (or check to see if your campsite already has one). If you’re using a camping stove (in which case, you might also need to pack propane), any pots and pans that fit will do. Don’t forget utensils and tools you’ll need for cooking, as well. Do you need a spatula for flipping eggs or burgers? A spoon for stirring sauces or serving soup? Tongs for grilling hot dogs over the fire? Skewers for roasting marshmallows? While you can bring a lot of this from your home kitchen, it’s helpful to buy a full cookware set that includes most of these items; you won’t have to rummage through your kitchen, and it’s compact and portable for quick packing. Don’t forget to bring oven mitts or pot holders to handle hot pans, especially if you’re cooking over a fire. And stash a bottle of olive oil or butter as well as salt and pepper in your cookware bag for easy seasoning.

Drinking: What will you be drinking? If you like to have coffee or tea in the mornings , bring a kettle or other device for heating water, plus an insulated thermos or mug for sipping. For beer or wine, be sure to bring a bottle opener and corkscrew, plus a koozie or other vessel for indulging. And always pack a few reusable water bottles on any trip to stay hydrated. 

Eating: Besides the actual food, make sure you have all the items you’ll need for when you sit down to actually eat your hard-earned meal, including plates or bowls, plus forks, knives, and spoons. 

Cleaning: Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, you’ll need to clean up properly. Pack a sponge and dish soap for scrubbing all your cookware, cloth or paper towels for drying, plus trash bags for collecting all of your scraps and waste. (Depending on where you’re camping, remember to be bear-aware when cleaning up food at a campsite, making sure food scraps and trash is out of reach and sight—usually it’s best to keep all these things inside your car and never a tent or left out in the open.) You might want to keep two separate bags for trash and recycling. And pack a few reusable bags or containers to store leftovers. 

Clothing and Accessories

As with any other trip, the clothes you pack should be suitable for how you plan to spend your time and also for what the forecast will be wherever you’re heading. For instance, if you’re planning a getaway to a lake or beach destination, be sure to pack a swimsuit, goggles, hat, flip-flops, and beach towel. If you’re more of a woodland explorer, pack your hiking gear, such as hiking boots , appropriate hiking attire , and a day pack to explore the trails near your campsite. Check the weather before you go to determine the layers you might need, and remember that if you’re heading up to higher elevation for a mountain getaway, temperatures tend to be cooler, especially in the evenings, so it might be wise to pack extra layers and blankets, warm closed-toe shoes, and potentially a hat and gloves. It’s also a good idea to always have an umbrella or rain jacket just in case.

Electronics 

The electronics you need are also dependent on what you’ll be doing, but here are some you might want to consider bringing. 

• Portable Chargers: Bring a battery pack and any necessary cables to charge your phone or any other rechargeable devices.
• Extra Batteries: Similarly, if anything you’re bringing requires batteries—lanterns or flashlights—have some extra batteries on hand.
• Bluetooth Speaker: Pack a portable speaker to play some music while you’re relaxing at your campsite. Just remember to keep the volume at a respectable level for your neighbors and also obey any quiet hours of the campground.

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The Ultimate Camping Packing List

From essential gear to accessories and apparel, here’s everything you need for a camping adventure.

In This Article

• Packing Checklist
• What to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Whether to spend quality time with family and friends or just be immersed in nature, camping is a popular pastime for many. While packing is hardly the highlight of a camping trip, bringing the right gear, accessories, and apparel can ensure you are a happy camper and keep safe in the great outdoors.

Figuring out your camping style: backpacking expeditions, drive-in campsites, canoe camping, or a combination of camping types, is a useful place to start. It’s also important to consider your local climate and any specific outdoor activities you’ll need to pack for like hiking or kayaking.

As a lifelong camper and writer specializing in outdoor gear and apparel, I’ve tested a wide range of camping equipment across the trails, lakes, and campgrounds of Upstate New York. From waterproof apparel to tents and cooking equipment, I’ve tested and vetted these camping products firsthand so you can prepare for your trip with confidence.

Camping Trip Packing Checklist

Whether you’re new to camping or a more experienced camper looking to fine-tune your packing style, this camping checklist is a great place to get started. We’ve compiled our top picks for essential camping apparel, footwear, gear, and accessories to enjoy the great outdoors.

Essential Gear

No matter your experience level, there are essential items like tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment that you’ll need for a safe and fun outdoor adventure. I prioritize durability and performance when choosing my gear, as these items will endure the most frequent use and need to withstand variable weather conditions. I also factor in comfort and weight into my decision making to ensure I’m creating a home away from home that’s enjoyable and easy to transport.

Besides experience level, consider your camping style, location, and personal preferences when selecting your essential gear. Living in New York State, many of my favorite camping spots involve boat travel, so gear that’s lightweight, packable, and multipurpose is always a plus. And being 6 feet 4 inches tall, some of my essential gear picks reflect my height. For more compact tent dimensions, the REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent is great for car or boat camping, while the Nemo Dagger Osmo 2P Tent is a lightweight choice for backpackers. The Jetboil Flash Stove is another favorite of mine that I reserve for backpacking trips.

MEC Cabin 2.0

The dual doors, ample headroom, and plentiful pockets add convenience and comfort to tent cohabitation.

The spacious design means a heavier weight that’s best suited for camping by car or boat.

Being 6 feet 4 inches tall, I’ve longed for a tent with ample headroom for quite some time. The MEC Cabin 2.0's ample height means I no longer have to stoop or crouch while moving around and get in and out the tent. Height aside, the 8.5 x 9 foot floor area affords ample space for several campers with room still for pets and gear. There are also eight storage pockets to keep valuables and essentials in quick and easy reach. When nature calls, I appreciate having the option to exit the tent from either side without disturbing fellow campers. On warmer summer nights, I love unzipping the mesh flaps on the dual doors to create a cross breeze. Meanwhile, the denier polyester canopy and rain fly have reliably withstood rainstorms and strong winds.

Best Sleeping Bag

Nemo riff endless promise down sleeping bag.

Its designed for enhanced temperature regulation and extra wiggle room for side sleepers.

Its temperature rating is intended for three-season use.

The Nemo Riff Endless Promise Sleeping Bag boasts a range of comfort and sustainability-oriented features that make it easy to sleep at night. While I appreciate the swaddled comfort of a mummy-style sleeping bag, the extra width in the Riff’s lower half and footbox allows me to effortlessly stretch out my legs. The hourglass silhouette of Nemo’s Spoon bags is cut wider near the elbows, too, to allow side sleepers like myself to shift sleeping positions without hassle.

I’m also a big fan of being able to control temperature with the Thermo Gill vents rather than fussing with the main zipper. The hydrophobic down in the sleeping bag performs well even when wet, plus it’s PFAS-free and Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified. When the sleeping bag is nearing its end of life, Nemo can recycle 100 percent of the materials. The Riff is available in men’s and women’s models, as well as regular and tall sizes— all weighing in the vicinity of two pounds. It comes with both a stuff sack for compact transport and storage bag to keep the down from compressing between uses.

Best Sleeping Pad

Therm-a-rest mondoking 3d sleeping pad.

• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Effectiveness 4.5 /5

It delivers plush padding, warmth, and a spacious sleeping surface.

The packed size and weight aren’t ideal for backpacking.

The Therm-a-Rest Mondoking 3D Sleeping Pad offers ample thickness and insulation to rest easy, regardless of temperature and the terrain underfoot. The pad measures 4.25 inches thick when inflated and boasts an R-value of seven for all-season use. Its StrataCore construction integrates a continuous layer of thermal foam to maintain warmth and support along the sleep surface. The vertical sidewalls make a noticeable difference in preventing sagging and maintaining the pad’s full size. The TwinLock valve system makes set up a breeze thanks to its self-inflating capabilities and clear distinction between the “in” valve for inflation and “out” valve for deflation. I find the large (77 x 25 inches) to be sufficiently sized for my tall frame, though it’s also available in XXLarge (80 x 30 inches).

Best Camping Pillow

Hest camp pillow.

• Quality 4 /5

This compressible pillow packs comfort in a travel-ready design.

Though compact, its weight and volume make it a bit bulky for space-conscious backcountry campers.

To ensure a good night’s sleep while camping, I turn to the Hest Camp Pillow for its ergonomic support and plush size of 22 x 15 inches. The exterior is equipped with a soft stretch nylon that keeps cool, while the interior features a blended polyester and memory foam core that adapts to your sleeping position. The curved, dog bone-like shape cradles the neck and helps keep the pillow in place — solving a persistent issue I’ve had with other camping pillows.

In place of a stuff sack, the Hest Camp Pillow folds into itself, and zips shut for transporting in a more compact 14 x 9 inch package. I find this design feature incredibly helpful for keeping things clean when sharing a tent with dogs (or other untidy campers) prone to tracking in dirt and debris. And whatever happens, the water-resistant cover is machine washable.

Best Water Bottle

Hydro flask 24 oz. wide mouth with straw.

It’s easy to carry, well-insulated, and can be configured with different lid designs.

The stainless-steel design isn’t the most lightweight.

The Hydro Flask Wide Mouth is an all-around performer that I use for camping, flights, and office days alike. The vacuum insulation holds up longer than it takes me to deplete whatever I’m drinking. With a 0.7-liter capacity, the Hydro Flask requires refilling at least a couple times a day, but the wide bottle opening promotes easy refilling, whether pouring from a water jug or kettle. The Hydro Flask weighs 0.8 pounds (when empty) and neatly tucks into most water bottle sleeves or car cup holders. I opt to use it with the Flex Straw cap to have the option of one-handed use if I’m on the go.

Best Camping Stove

Coleman cascade classic camp stove.

It offers durability and solid cooking power at an affordable price point.

The temperature control knobs aren’t the most precise.

The Coleman Cascade Classic Camping Stove is a great companion for group camp trips. The 21-inch two-burner cooktop affords plenty of space for me to cook with a pot and frying pan side by side. I appreciate that the grate design is easy to remove and clean around, as well as sufficiently level for accommodating a griddle across both 10,000 BTU burners. Even on windier days, the twin wind guards, and top lid shield the burners from flickering out. While I’m broadly supportive of the shift to sleeker, lightweight gear, the Cascade Classic’s vintage aesthetic has a nostalgic feel amid modern camping essentials.

Best Cook Set

Gerber compleat cook set.

This all-in-one cook set covers the camp kitchen essentials and stacks together for compact storage.

Camping cutlery doesn’t come included.

As someone whose first camping cook set consisted of mismatching plates, cutlery, pots, and pans in an open storage bin, the compactness and uniformity of the Gerber ComplEAT Cook Set is a game changer. The 16-piece set has everything you’ll need for a group camping trip — and nothing you don’t. This includes a sauté pan with detachable handle, hot pot, 1.4-gallon stock pot, two lids, four bowls, four plates, and a mixing bowl. I love that the lids include strainer holes, and that plates and bowls have different colors to easily distinguish whose is whose. The full cook set stacks together like nesting dolls to fit neatly in a carry bag with a drawstring closure. Though it’s fairly intuitive to reassemble, I appreciate that Gerber added a diagram to the bottom of the carry bag showing how to repack the set.

Accessories

After taking care of essential gear, it’s key to leave room for accessories. Whether to explore the outdoors, stay entertained, or provide some creature comforts, these items are meant to enhance your camping trip.

The Wonderboom 3 Bluetooth Speaker is my go-to choice for campsite tunes for its compact, waterproof design and quality sound. The lightweight Helinox Table One is another campsite staple for its cup holders and folded packability. I also prioritize accessories that help keep me organized, including the Radius Outfitters Large Camp Kitchen Organizer for storing kitchenware and the Stansport Collapsible Camp Sink for collecting and washing dishes.

Best Binoculars

Celestron nature dx ed 8x42mm roof binoculars.

These binoculars offer solid performance and a lightweight design that’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

The clarity becomes a bit blurred toward the edge of the lens.

I always pack binoculars to take in the scenery and in the hopes of spotting wildlife (at a safe distance). The Celestron Nature DX Roof Binoculars offer an ideal combination of durability, compactness, and clarity at a moderate price. The multi-coated lenses and phase-coated BaK-4 prisms enhance the light transmission for vivid images, even at dawn or dusk. As a novice user, I appreciate how the focus knob locks in place once you stop moving it. The Nature DX binoculars are waterproof and come with a neck strap, making them well-suited for paddling excursions.

Best Lantern

Luminaid packlite titan 2-in-1 power lantern.

This lightweight and versatile solar lantern doubles as a charger for electronic devices.

The battery may be depleted if charging multiple devices per day.

I always try to find multipurpose gear to simplify my packing list. Since a camping lantern is a must, I love that the LuminAID 2-in-1 Power Lantern serves as both a light source and a charger for my portable speaker and phone. The self-inflating lantern weighs just 0.78 pounds and packs flat for easy storage when not in use. It delivers 300 lumens of light and multiple brightness settings, including a red-light mode for enhanced night vision. I’m a big fan of the adjustable strap, which effectively makes any tree branch or tent loop a suitable location for hanging the 2-in-1 Power Lantern. I also appreciate that it can be pre-charged by outlet at home, and then recharged by solar panels while camping off the grid.

Best Headlamp

Black diamond spot 400 headlamp.

Its lightweight design and long-lasting performance deliver a high-value experience.

The rechargeable battery is sold separately.

A trusted headlamp is key for hands-free navigation in the dark, whether collecting firewood or searching for the privy. The Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp is a well-rounded design, boasting 400 lumens of brightness, waterproof construction, and up to 200 hours of battery life. It includes multiple light settings, including proximity which I use for washing dishes and red LED night vision that’s perfect for using in the tent before turning in for the night. Between the comfortable strap and 0.17-pound weight, I hardly notice it’s there while wearing it.

Best First Aid Kit

Breakwater supply waterproof marine first aid kit.

The waterproof kit includes first aid essentials and on-the-water emergency gear.

Some of the water-based emergency items might not be useful for desert campers.

The Breakwater Supply Waterproof First Aid Kit has been my go-to for preparing for the unexpected. Since I primarily camp by boat in the Northeast, the dry bag’s waterproof protection is a must in case of capsize or rain. The kit contains everything you need for treating cuts and more serious trauma, plus a range of supplies like rope, emergency blanket, whistle, and light sticks to be ready for an emergency on the water. I love that the dry bag is bright red and comes with a handle so it’s easy to find and grab when needed.

Best Camp Chair

Helinox chair two.

It’s lightweight, incredibly portable, and takes under a minute to assemble.

Though minimalist, it’s a bit too bulky to fit in the ultralight category.

While many campsites provide picnic tables, I much prefer the flexibility and comfort of a camp chair outside mealtime. The Helinox Chair Two is a favorite for its ergonomic support, stability, and packability. The high-back design offers both head and neck support, and I love that the carry bag doubles as a pillow. Simply stuff it with a sweatshirt or fleece and attach it to the headrest. The Chair Two’s three mesh panels provide air flow while the recycled 600D polyester seat material delivers lasting durability and weatherproofing. Assembly is incredibly intuitive — just pop the legs in the hubs after the shock-corded pulls lock into place. Then, slip the cover over the frame, starting with the top of the chair and then pulling tight to secure the seat. The 2.6-pound chair has an impressive weight capacity of 320 pounds. It measures 18.1 x 4.7 5.1 inches when packed, so it’s easy to tuck away in a backpack or gear storage.

Best Sunscreen

Thinksport mineral sunscreen.

• Transfer 4.5 /5
• Opacity 5 /5
• Water Resistance 5 /5

It delivers lasting protection that’s resistant to sweat and moisture.

It leaves a white cast behind, even when fully rubbed in.

More time outdoors calls for top-notch sun protection. I’m a fan of Thinksport Clear Zinc SPF 50 Sunscreen for its lasting performance and suitability for sensitive skin. It offers continued water-resistant protection for up to 80 minutes, allowing plenty of time for paddling and swimming before needing to reapply. The formula is vegan and dermatologist recommended for those with sensitive skin. It rubs in quickly without any oily residue or grease, though it leaves a fairly noticeable white cast.

Best Bug Spray

Sawyer insect repellent.

It protects against a range of insects that can suck the fun out of camping.

It’s more expensive than some other popular bug sprays.

After relying on DEET repellent for two years during my Peace Corps service in Cambodia, I’m a late convert to picaridin repellent for its odorless and less greasy application. Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent uses 20 percent picaridin to protect against ticks, mosquitoes, black flies, gnats, and other biting insects. It provides up to 12 hours of protection, so a little bit goes a long way. The spray pump bottle is easy to use and effective at applying repellent without over spraying. I also appreciate that picaridin doesn’t damage synthetic materials, such as nylon and spandex, which is another drawback of DEET bug sprays.

Best Portable Coffee Maker

Gsi outdoors 30 fluid-ounce javapress.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 3 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Brew Quality 3 /5

This insulated French press makes 30 ounces of coffee and keeps it hot for hours.

It’s a bit bulky and on the heavier side for backpacking.

I take the GSI Outdoors Java Press on all my car and boat camping trips for its ease of use and ability to make four cups of coffee in one go. The French press comes with an insulated nylon sleeve that aids in heat retention and provides a handle for easy pouring. The pour-through lid offers further insulation with its double-wall construction. The silicone ring plunger fits very snug to the press, which helps separate grounds from the brew, though it took some getting used to. I thought it might have been stuck during my initial uses before learning that the plunger works best with a slow, steady push. Weighing 0.64 pounds, it’s not the lightest design, but I store my ground coffee bag in the press to optimize storage.

Best Cooler

Yeti roadie 48 rolling wheeled cooler.

This durable cooler keeps provisions cold and safe with ample storage for multi-day camping trips.

The cooler is leak resistant but not leakproof.

When I need to keep drinks and perishables cold for days, I turn to the Yeti Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler. It has 45 liters of interior capacity, or the equivalent of 76 cans or 54 pounds of ice. Even when I pack the Roadie to the brim, the puncture resistant NeverFlat wheels and Telescoping Periscope handle make it easy to transport it across tough and bumpy terrain.

The length of the extendable handle is a major plus, as I don’t have to stoop while wheeling the cooler along. And when the Roadie arrives at the campsite, the handle neatly tucks away. Both sides have indented handles if I need to shift it around or tilt it to drain melted ice. The interior of the cooler measures 14.5 x 11.4 x 15.8, which can accommodate most food and drink items, including a wine bottle. I typically add in two dry good baskets (one comes included) on the top for storing butter, lemons, and smaller items I use frequently or don’t want to get wet.

Best Gear Storage

Yeti loadout gobox 60 gear case.

This durable gear box keeps camping equipment protected and organized for easier packing and unpacking.

It doesn’t compress or pack down — a potential downside for campers with limited storage space at home.

Perhaps better known for their insulated coolers, Yeti translates the durability and quality construction they’re reputed for to the LoadOut GoBox 60 Gear Case. The Wildproof design is fully submersible and dust-proof, adding assurance that gear and equipment is protected from the elements and critters alike. The 60-liter case can accommodate three removable cargo trays (two come included) and two removable dividers to partition the main compartment. Though the dividers work well, I’ve taken them out to fit larger gear like camp chairs, folding tables, and cooking equipment. Campers with storage needs beyond 60 liters should note that the GoBox is designed to be stackable with other Yeti gear boxes: either three LoadOut GoBox 15s or one GoBox 15 and one GoBox 30 .

Shoes and Apparel

It’s important to account for the local climate and seasonality of your camping trip when selecting shoes and apparel to pack. Regardless of what the weather forecast shows, I like to be prepared for unexpected rain and cooler temperatures. I also prioritize apparel and footwear that I can wear multiple times to leave space for other camping gear and accessories. For clothing, I also opt for items containing merino wool, which has natural odor resistance. For footwear, I seek out waterproof and quick-drying materials that’ll perform well for hiking and water sports alike.

I love wearing the Bedrock Cairn Evo Sandals in summer for their solid traction and breathability. For kayaking and paddle boarding, the Patagonia Quandry Shorts , are a favorite for their quick-drying abilities, UPF sun protection, and zippered pocket.

Best Hiking Shoes for Men

Salomon x 360 ultra pioneer.

They deliver waterproof protection and excellent traction on varied terrain.

The fit can run a bit narrow.

Unless you’re backpacking or taking extensive day hikes, a hiking shoe offers about the same level of protection with less heft. The Salomon X 360 Ultra Pioneer ClimaSalomon Waterproof Hiking Shoes handle wet and slippery conditions like a pro. The All Terrain Contagrip outsoles are equipped with aggressive lugs that provide excellent grip. On a recent trip to Curacao, they performed incredibly on the loose rocks leading to the summit of Mount Christoffel. I love the simplicity of the Quicklace closure system, which effectively lets me tighten the laces with a single pull. While the lower part of the shoe is waterproof, the synthetic uppers cut down on weight and enhance breathability. Campers will also appreciate that the X 360 Ultras employs recycled materials in its construction.

Best Hiking Boots for Women

Merrell men’s speed eco hiking shoes.

They’re lightweight, breathable, and incorporate recycled materials.

They aren’t waterproof.

The Merrell Speed Eco Hiking Shoes offer ample cushion and support for active days in the outdoors. We love their breathability and how they don’t require a break-in period. The outsoles are fitted with durable lugs to grip slippery and loose surfaces alike. The trail-ready shoes also boast sustainability credentials, namely recycled materials used across the uppers, laces, webbing, mesh lining, footbed covers, EVA foam, and outsoles. The Speed Eco Hiking Shoes are also Cleansport NXT treated for lasting odor resistance.

Best Rain Jacket

Patagonia torrentshell 3l jacket.

• Water Resistance 4.5 /5
• Design 4 /5
• Comfort 4 /5
• Breathability 5 /5

It’s waterproof, yet breathable, and packs into its own pocket.

It only has two pockets.

The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket delivers reliable protection from the elements. The jacket’s three-layer shell uses recycled ripstop nylon, a polycarbonate polyurethane membrane, and a tricot backer. It’s treated with a PFC-free durable water-repellent coating to shed precipitation. Materials aside, I find that the jacket's multiple adjustment points and storm flaps along the zippers and pockets are where it stands for keeping moisture out. The hood, cuffs, and hem can be easily adjusted for a secure and snug fit. If things get steamy, opening the underarm zippers affords excellent ventilation and temperature regulation. Though it only comes with two pockets, they’re plenty roomy and ideally positioned for warming hands. Between uses, simply stuff the jacket into one of the pockets (once dry).

Best Base Layer

Smartwool thermal layer crew.

This 100 percent merino wool base layer is designed for warmth, breathability, and odor resistance.

Though eight ounces, the base layer is suited for multiple wears.

My mom instilled in me the old adage “cotton kills” to stay safe on childhood camping and cross-country ski trips in the Adirondacks. Once wet, cotton becomes a poor insulator, whereas wool keeps your warm even when wet. Thus, the Smartwool Thermal Merino Base Layer became a mainstay for its 100 percent merino wool construction. The interlocking knit design offers both breathability and next-to-skin comfort.  I love that it’s formfitting but offers ample stretch and mobility for hiking, kayaking, and other activities. The Thermal Merino Base Layer is great to wear on its own during milder temperatures, though it excels as a base layer within a winter wardrobe, too.

What to Know Before You Pack for a Camping Trip

Research environmental risks.

Being mindful of environmental risks, such as wildlife and natural hazards, is key when packing for camping and setting up camp. If camping in an area with bears, a secure cooler is a must to safeguard your provisions and yourself. In terms of weather-related risks, packing a waterproof tent, extra layers of clothing, and an insulated sleeping bag is recommended to protect yourself from the elements.

Carefully check campground regulations

Campsites often have regulations about what you can bring and the activities you can do. For example, sites in areas prone to wildfires may prohibit campfires, so packing a camp stove or portable grill will be required for cooking. Campgrounds may also institute bans on generators or quiet hours that limit their use, so being prepared with battery chargers and packing equipment that can run without power may be necessary.

Leave no trace

As we enjoy the outdoors, it’s important to be conscious of where we set up camp and our impact on the environment. Cutting down on the number of disposable items you pack can help minimize waste and the risk that anything gets left behind (like swapping loads of toilet paper for a portable bidet ). Setting up your tent and campsite on durable surfaces where there’s no vegetation is another best practice to avoid harming ecosystems and species that can take years to grow.

The type and amount of food you pack should reflect the duration and rigor of your camping trip. For instance, I lived on oatmeal and dehydrated meal packs that required just adding boiling water on a five-day backpacking trip along Sweden’s Kungsleden trail. But when I have access to a cooler, I bring provisions to cook homestyle meals. To save space and cut down on campsite waste, I typically measure and portion out my perishable ingredients like meat and vegetables instead of bringing them in store-bought packaging.

To avoid attracting wildlife, it’s important to never leave food out and unattended or store it in your tent. At minimum, food should be stored in coolers and gear boxes with secure latches. At night, tuck your food storage in your car or place it at a distance from your tent. If camping in bear country, make use of bear boxes if provided on-site. Alternatively, you can use ropes to hang it from a free or store it in a bear canister for safe keeping.

The combination of an insulated sleeping pad and three-season sleeping bag is typically enough to sleep comfortably in temperatures down to 30 degrees Fahrenheit when tent camping. If adding extra camping bedding or blankets, look for wool or insulated synthetic materials for warmth and weather resistance. You may also want to bring a hammock for relaxing outside of your tent.

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Kevin Brouillard is a contributing writer at T+L, specializing in outdoor gear and apparel. His work has been published in TripSavvy, Jetsetter, and Oyster, and he served in the Peace Corps in Cambodia for two years. He used his first-hand experience with outdoor adventure in compiling this list of essential camping gear.

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21 Camping Essentials: WHAT You Should Take & WHY

Home / Prepare / Preparedness Checklists

OK, I’ll admit it…

I forgot to pack our sleeping bags for our weekend camping trip.

Yeah. Not fun!

But THAT “bone-headed” mistake led me to put together the following list.

That way, I’ll never forget any essentials that make camping so enjoyable!

Want a free camping essentials checklist?

1. shelter ( tent/rv ).

But unless your shelter is  your vehicle ( like an RV or van ), you’ll want to triple-check you packed that tent.

Now, if you don’t own a tent, you have a lot of choices.

For example:

Unless you enjoy sleeping under the stars.

If you’re only planning a single camping trip, you might get away with borrowing one.

But if you want to make this a regular hobby, invest in a high-quality one.

Or you could sleep in a hammock if the weather’s nice.

Put a sleeping bag in the hammock .

Or you could invest in a hammock tent .

But what happens if you forget your tent, hammock, or sleeping bag?

In the name of preparedness, you should always have a backup emergency shelter, right?

I’m talking about an emergency survival blanket  or bivy sack .

The Tact Bivvy is a life-saving survival device and an excellent backup.

Toss one in your glove box , and you’ll never be without protection from the elements – whether it’s camping or a roadside emergency.

Check out why I like The Tact Bivvy so much:

↓ Skilled Survival’s TACT Bivvy Review

• Will your campsite have a water pump?
• Or is it near a lake or creek?
• What if your campground doesn’t have any drinkable water nearby?

You need to know this before you go .

Your water plan chances based upon the answers.

You must plan differently for a site with potable water vs. one in the desert.

Either way, you’ll want a large water container to haul and leave it at your campsite for daily use.

You’ll need it for tasks such as:

• And extinguishing your campfire

These containers are perfect for camping.

They fit into any sized trunk, are BPA free, and very convenient.

Each one contains 3.5 gallons of water, they are stackable, have a handle for easy carrying, and are  virtually indestructible .

↓ 5 WaterBrick Uses You Haven’t Considered

And take a few water bottles, one for each camper, so you don’t have to drink directly from the container!

3. High-Quality Survival Knife

You may need one to cut some rope, fillet a fish, or whittle a walking stick.

And a high-quality survival knife is ideal for these tasks.

Invest in one that can pierce, slice, and do some chopping as well.

I always keep my survival knife on me, just in case.

As a survivalist, I recommend a trusty knife  anytime you head into the wilderness.

If you want one that can take a beating but is still lightweight and compact, get a neck knife ( this one is my favorite ).

Pocket knives work well for everyday tasks as well.

But they can’t handle anything more demanding.

↓ Survival Neck Knife Review – Can Your Knife Do This?

4. Medical Supplies

But that also means emergency items like gauze, bandages, and painkillers are not as close as the corner store.

That’s why you must take some emergency medical supplies with you.

You can build your own DIY first aid kit or invest in one .

Either way, NEVER hit the road without this critical essential .

Here’s a review of the one I take camping:

↓ My Medic MyFAK – Walkthrough & Review

5. Sleeping Bag or Blankets

I even take mine during hot summer camping trips.

Why? Because there’s always a chance it gets chilly in the middle of the night.

And if you’re unprepared, you’ll wake up freezing.

Frantically scrambling around for extra layers to end the uncontrollable shivering  – not fun.

So get a nice warm one .

Worst case, if it’s overkill, you can always sleep on top of it.

Then if you get cold, quickly slip back inside.

I recommend investing in a warm one instead of suffering the frustrations of a cheap one.

6. Warm Rainproof Clothes

Heavy coats are warm.

But they can be uncomfortable on a rainy camping trip.

It’s better to pack lightweight, rainproof, waterproof, breathable clothes as a top layer.

That way, you’ll avoid overheating in warm, humid weather.

It’s all about properly layering for any weather conditions.

Look for design details like:

• Armpit zips
• Mesh pockets
• And cinched hoods

These features help protect you from the elements.

Nothing is worse than being soaked all weekend.

So invest in gear that keeps you both dry and comfortable.

7. Insect Repellent

I’ve tried a few alternative repellents, but for me, deet is the only thing that works .

Yes, deet is a nasty chemical , so use it sparingly.

But it keeps those pesky skeeters away.

It’s one of the more important camping necessities on this packing list!

Forget it, and you’ll pay the price.

8. Camping Chairs

I’ve done it many times on minimalist camping and backpacking trips.

Why? Because chairs are too heavy and bulky for such trips.

But NOT for car camping.

If  you’re taking a vehicle to get there, make some trunk space for a good camping chair or two .

Your butt will thank you!

9. Lots Of Firewood

Now…why isn’t firewood higher up on this basic camping gear list.

Isn’t firewood a camping staple?

Yes, it is, but you may not want to pack it.

It depends on your situation.

Experts recommend you buy your firewood locally after you get to your campsite.

And in usually it’s   illegal to transport firewood across state lines…

And if it’s been a dry summer, you might have a fire bane to contend with.

The bottom line is:

But do your research before you leave and make a plan.

Because camping without a campfire just isn’t the same.

10. Air-Tight Containers

But remember:

You’ll be cooking and eating with wild animals around…

Which means you need to respect them.

Never leave your camp food out; instead, put it in air-tight containers – like this bearproof food vault .

These containers ensure you don’t end up with raccoons and bears sniffing their way into your campsite.

Airtight containers trap food smells AND protect them from hungry animals.

11. Sunscreen

When camping I spend nearly all my time in the great outdoors .

I don’t understand ‘campers’ who hide out in their tent or RV all day.

My favorite day is fishing in the morning and hiking in the afternoon.

And being outdoors all day is a recipe for a sunburn.

And yes, YOU CAN still get burn on cloudy days .

So bring some SPF protection .

Get the waterproof kind if you’ll be out on the lake all day and re-apply often.

12. High-Performance Cooler

It also combats digestive illnesses like food poisoning.

So it’s absolutely essential and worth every penny!

A high-performance cooler will keep your foods fresh and cold for at least three days.

Plus, a good cooler keeps your campfire beverages cold.

I like the coolers where you can grab what you need ( beer ) without having to sort through the food items in the dark.

I own a large, sturdy cooler that doubles as an extra seat for your friend who forgot his camping chair!

Oh, and I hope it’s obvious – if you’re taking a cooler, don’t forget the ice…

↓ Yeti Hopper Soft Cooler Review

13. Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress

Now, imagine sleeping on the hard, cold, uneven ground!

Set yourself up for success by investing in a sleeping pad or air mattress .

It doesn’t have to be fancy.

But you want to enjoy your trip instead of ruining your back.

Also, take a comfortable camp pillow  as well.

I can’t sleep well without proper neck support.

And quality sleep is a must to enjoy your camping trip.

14. Survival Tools / Gear

No one wants to end up in a wilderness survival situation.

But every year, thousands of people do…

And if they had survival gear with them, it would keep them alive.

So instead of listing each of these tools individually, I’m going to list the ones you should take – just in case.

• Survival Whistle
• Survival Multitool
• Survival Shovel
• Signal Rescue Mirror

Check out our ultimate survival gear list to ensure you’re always ready.

Want a free 54 item survival gear checklist?

15. Campsite Lantern

That way, your group can:

• Set up evening snacks
• Or light the trail to the restroom

If you forget to pack a good camping lantern, trust me, you’ll notice.

The good news is:

You can get super bright ones at a low cost nowadays!

16. Survival Hatchet or Axe

It splits a ton of firewood fast.

Good luck trying to do that with a knife.

You can also chop down a few small trees (if  allowed at your campsite ).

So get a good heavy-duty axe and add it to your camping list.

17. Toiletries

Some campgrounds include restrooms with flush toilets and TP.

Most do not.

Having a few rolls of toilet paper packed is ALWAYS a good idea.

You never know and being without is less than ideal.

In fact, it’s pretty crappy.

(I know…bad pun but I couldn’t resist)

And if you’re heading to a remote campground – take a portable camping toilet .

Also, if you like clean teeth and showers, etc., pack those essentials as well.

Personal hygiene items like:

• Toothbrushes

18. Fire Starting Tools

I’m a fan of survival skills like starting a fire with sticks .

But there’s also nothing as frustrating as spending hours trying to get your campfire lit.

And your family and friends don’t care how you get it going…

So long as it doesn’t take all night.

Add these WetFire Tinder Cubs to get those marshmallows roasting ASAP.

And don’t for get to pack a survival lighter .

19. Warm Thick Socks

Socks are one of the most underrated essentials on this camping list.

Don’t pack thin ankle socks, which will cause blisters.

Thick long socks will protect your ankles and feet from ticks and mosquitoes.

Also, don’t wear the same socks over and over..

Bring a fresh pair for every day.

There’s nothing that feels better than putting on a pair of fresh socks that fit.

Not sure which brand of camping socks to go with?

I wear Smartwool’s .

20. Cooking Utensils

It’s hard to enjoy a great camping meal without a plate or fork.

So pack some cups, bowls, plates, forks, knives, and spoons.

There’s no real way to improvise these items.

And don’t forget some telescoping forks for cooking hot dogs and marshmallows over your campfire.

21. Camping Stove

Why? Because there’s no guarantee you can have a campfire to cook with.

I discovered this the hard way.

We showed up at a campsite with our Dutch oven and a campfire grill grate, only to find out there was a fire ban!

We end up borrowing a fellow camper’s Colman Classic Propane Stove .

Thank goodness for random campsite friends.

Lesson learned:

ALWAYS pack an alternative way to cook your meals!

Side Note #1:

For winter camping, check out getting a tent stove .

Side Note #2:

Will your site have a built-in picnic table? If not, you may want to take a portable camping table .

How About A Few Non-Essentials

Why would I put “nonessentials” on this list of camping essentials?

Well, because some things are really, really nice to have!

So here are a few of my favorite camping nonessentials to wrap things up:

• A pair of campsite sandals
• A few new books ( I highly recommend this book )
• My acoustic guitar
• Some healthy snacks
• Lightweight Folding Camping Table

Dispelling The 5 Most Dangerous Camping Myths…

Myth #1: you can drink water from a stream.

It’s so tempting to dip your canteen into that crystal-clear mountain stream, right?

To take a big delicious swig!

But don’t be fooled by appearances.

You can’t trust that water source.

It might LOOK pure, but there could be nasty bacteria and pathogens lurking in there.

IT may be a one-way ticket to the land of diarrhea.

So, always purify your water before you drink it.

Myth #2: Bears Only Come Out at Night

Bears are just as active during the day, especially if looking for food.

When in bear country, store your food properly.

Use bear-resistant containers, and make noise to alert to your presence.

It’s better to be loud and annoying than to surprise a bear on its turf!

Myth #3: You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days

Ah, an overcast day – seems like the perfect time to skip the sunscreen, right? Wrong!

The sun’s harmful UV rays will penetrate those clouds and fry your skin.

So, always lather up with sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and protect yourself from those sneaky sunbeams.

Skin cancer is no joke, folks.

Myth #4: Moss Always Grows on the North Side of Trees

I’m sure you’ve heard that moss always grows on the north side of trees…

Well, not exactly.

While it’s true that moss favors the shadier, more moisture-laden side of trees, it’s not a foolproof compass.

Many factors can influence moss growth, like:

• the tree’s location
• the local climate
• and even the individual tree’s characteristics

So, if you’re lost in the woods, don’t rely solely on moss to find your way.

Use a real compass or a GPS device instead!

Myth #5: You Can Outrun a Charging Bear

Some folks think they can outrun a charging bear. Let me tell you, that’s a recipe for disaster!

Bears are incredibly fast and can sprint at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour.

Us humans, on the other hand, are no match for that kind of speed.

Your best bet when faced with a charging bear is to stand your ground, make yourself look bigger, and make loud noises to intimidate it.

Running away could trigger its predatory instincts, and that’s a situation you want to avoid at all costs.

Final Thoughts

Camping can be an amazing experience.

But ONLY IF  you’ve properly prepared.

You see, the key to having a good camping trip vs. a nightmare is all in preparation.

Packing all these camping essentials to keep it fun and relaxing – instead of frustrating.

• Every campsite and every camp trip is unique.
• Research the campground before you go.
• Rules and regulations differ for dispersed camping vs. national parks.
• You need to know what amenities are in place such as washrooms, electricity, and more.

So use this camping checklist to know for a FACT you’ve got everything!

Next, learn these 21 amazing camping hacks to improve your camping life.

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Camping Checklist

We cover everything you need for a successful camping trip, from essentials like a tent and camp stove to extras like sunscreen and firewood.

Jason Hummel Photography

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Whether it’s your first time car camping or you’ve been at it for years, it never hurts to have a good checklist. To help you get out of the house with all of the essentials in tow, we’ve outlined everything you need including campsite and sleeping gear , camp kitchen essentials ,  outdoor clothing and footwear , health and hygiene products , and personal items and extras . For each category, we’ve listed necessary items—along with our top picks—as well as optional gear. Finally, for all our product recommendations in one place, see our detailed camping gear reviews .

Editor's note: The table above provides a brief overview of what you'll need to get outside, but our full PDF version is printable and offers a more comprehensive breakdown of the necessities and nice-to-haves. See Our Camping Checklist PDF

Campsite and Sleeping Gear

Whether you’re headed out for a quick weekend getaway or taking an extended vacation in the woods, the gear below is what we bring on every trip to create a comfortable backcountry basecamp. We've also included a handful of optional items that may or may not be worth packing depending on what amenities (if any) will be available at your campsite. And when applicable, we've included links to our gear round-ups where we break down our top picks for each category.  

Camping Tent

Our top pick: The North Face Wawona 6 ($500) What we like: Open interior and massive vestibule at a price that's hard to beat. What we don’t: Time-consuming to set up; partial-coverage rainfly leaves the bottom exposed to moisture.  

Camping Sleeping Bag

Our top pick: REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 ($139) What we like: Affordable and comfortable for 3-season use with a rectangular shape, warmth-trapping hood, and 20-degree rating. What we don't: Heavier and less compressible than mummy bags.

Camping Mattress

Our top pick: Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D ($240) What we like: Thick build and plush foam make this one of the most comfortable sleeping pads on the market. What we don't: Expensive and overkill for occasional campers—for our top value pick, check out  Sea to Summit's Camp SI .

Camp Pillow

Our top pick: Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow ($37) What we like: Soft exterior, machine washable, and cinch cord makes it easy to tailor firmness.  What we don't: Foam takes some time to expand; those on a budget can just bring a pillow from home.

Camping Chair

Our top pick: REI Co-op Campwell Chair ($60) What we like: Sturdy, nicely appointed, and breathable for hot summertime temps. What we don't:  If support is a top priority, consider opting for a chair with a higher backpanel like the  Alps Mountaineering King Kong .

Our top pick: Petzl Actik Core ($85) What we like: Great output, long battery life (via AAAs or the rechargeable battery), and easy-to-use interface. What we don't: Too front-heavy for running—for that, we turn to Black Diamond's Sprinter 500 .

Camping Lantern

Our top pick: BioLite AlpenGlow 500 ($80) What we like: Impressive output, ample lighting modes, and fun tech features. What we don't: Pricey and takes a little time to learn how to operate.  

Optional Campsite and Sleeping Gear

• Camp table (if no picnic table)
• Sleeping bag liner
• Camping blanket
• Tent footprint/ground cloth
• Extra stakes

Camp Kitchen Gear

Seasoned campers know the value of setting up a quality outdoor kitchen, especially if you've got a larger group or are planning to be out for more than a night or two. Items like a camping stove and cooler are no-brainers, but don't overlook the smaller, easier-to-forget items like cookware, utensils, and food prep supplies. And we can't help but love a quality kitchen set like  GSI Outdoors' Destination  to help keep our cooking supplies organized and ready to go.  

Camping Stove and Fuel

Our top pick: Eureka Ignite Plus ($160) What we like: Quality build, generously sized cooking area, and well-sorted feature set.  What we don't: Discerning campers can get double the output with Camp Chef’s Everest 2X .  

Cooler  or Wheeled Cooler  (Pre-Filled with Ice)

Our top pick: RTIC 52 Ultra-Light ($199) What we like: Versatile size and competitive ice retention for less than the competition. What we don't: Only sold online and a small step down from the cooling capabilities of a Yeti (like their signature  Tundra 65 ).  

Cookware and Utensils

• Pots and pans
• Cooking utensils (spatula, large spoon, tongs)
• Silverware (forks, spoons, knives)
• Bottle/can openers

Food Prep and Dish-Washing Supplies

• Matches and/or lighter
• Cutting board
• Cooking oil
• Paper towels
• Measuring cups
• Aluminum foil
• Seasonings and condiments
• Wash bin/portable sink
• Sponges/scrubbers
• Food and gear storage (Ziploc bags, plastic bins, etc.)

Optional Kitchen Gear

• Water jugs (if no potable water)
• Portable coffee/tea maker
• Firewood (if fires are permitted)
• Axe/hatchet
• Fire starter

Outdoor Clothing and Footwear

The clothes you pack when camping will largely depend on expected temperature and weather conditions, but it all starts with a quality layering system: baselayer, midlayer (insulation), and rain shell. Dedicated hiking footwear can also go a long way toward maximizing your overall comfort on adventures from camp. And if you're heading out in the shoulder seasons, don't forget cold-weather gear like a hat, gloves, and neck gaiter.  

Moisture-Wicking Baselayer

Our top pick: Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino 1/4-Zip ($120) What we like: 100% merino wool build is warm, super soft against the skin, and naturally resists moisture and odors. What we don't:  Wool baselayers require care to last and don't come cheap—for a wallet-friendlier option, we turn to polyester layers like Patagonia's $79 Capilene Midweight Crew .  

Down Jacket or Synthetic Jacket

Our top pick: Patagonia Down Sweater ($279) What we like: Great warmth for the weight and looks great for everyday wear.  What we don't: We prefer something lighter—like the Mountain Hardwear  Ghost Whisperer/2 Hoody —for backcountry use.  

Rain Jacket

Our top pick: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ($179) What we like: 3-layer protection and durability in a sleek and affordable package. What we don't: Fabric is stiffer and more crinkly than some of the higher-end competition, including Arc'teryx's venerable Beta LT .

Hiking Pants and/or Hiking Shorts

Our top pick: Prana Stretch Zion ($95) What we like: Excellent comfort, durability, and versatility for crossing over between outdoor and everyday use. What we don't: For hiking in hot weather, we prefer the more breathable Outdoor Research Ferrosi .

Hiking Boots or Hiking Shoes

Our top pick: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX ($175) What we like: Light, comfortable for all-day wear, and can handle everything from short day hikes to lightweight overnights. What we don't: Relatively thin and flexible underfoot for carrying a heavy pack over technical ground.

• Hiking Socks

Our top pick: Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion ($25) What we like: Great padding and breathability for 3-season use, seamless construction, and backed by a lifetime warranty. What we don't: Tougher than they are soft and plush.

Optional Clothing and Footwear

• Camp sandals or slippers
• Neck gaiter /buff
• Long underwear

Health and Hygiene

Staying clean and comfortable in the backcountry can be a challenge, but the good news is that many major campgrounds have facilities like pit toilets and running water (in the form of spigots) to make the experience a little easier. If not, you may want to consider a portable toilet and/or shower, and don't forget the usual assortment of toiletries like soap, toilet paper, and basic first aid supplies.  

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Toilet paper
• Soap/hand sanitizer
• Toiletries kit (shower supplies, deodorant, etc.)
• Quick-drying towel
• Personal medications
• First aid kit  

Sun and Bug Protection

• Insect repellent  

Optional Health and Hygiene Items

• Trowel or portable toilet (if no facilities available)
• Portable/solar shower

Personal Items and Extras

Most items on the above checklist are obvious camping essentials that you probably won't leave behind, but forgetting your wallet or cell phone can be just as much of a trip-ender as leaving your tent at home. On that note, here are some of the smaller personal items that you’ll want to consider before heading out. Some of them (like camp games) certainly aren't necessary but can help make your trip more enjoyable.  

• Basic repair kit (multi-tool, duct tape, extra cord)
• Navigation (map, GPS , compass)
• Water bottle
• Earplugs and eye mask
• Batteries and/or solar charger
• Notebook and pen/pencil
• Book or Kindle
• Bear spray (if required)
• Activity-specific gear ( daypack for hiking , pole for fishing, etc.)
• ID, cards, cash
• Cell phone with charger
• Campsite reservation
• Forest Service/park pass (if required)

Other Considerations: Weather, Group Size, and More

While the list above covers the basics for most trips, there may be other items to consider depending on the time of year, how many people are in your group, and whether you’ll be camping with kids and/or pets. Starting with seasonality: Most of us are predominantly fair-weather campers, but those who like getting out in the winter months will need warmer and more protective gear, including a 4-season tent , cold-weather sleeping bag and pad, thicker layers, and snow-specific equipment like snowshoes or skis and avalanche safety tools (beacon, probe, and shovel). For a more comprehensive breakdown of the gear you’ll need for cold-weather camping, check out our Winter Camping Checklist .  

Group size is another important factor to weigh when packing. For example, smaller groups may not have any issues cooking on a standard two-burner stove, but larger parties may want to step up to a larger freestanding unit (or even a portable grill), opt for a three-burner design, or bring along more than one stove. If you’ll be basecamping for a while, you may also consider setting up a shade structure and folding table for hanging out and cooking or fashioning a clothesline to dry wet gear. Portable fire pits have also become increasingly popular recently, and we love Solo Stove’s offerings for their precision and lack of smoke.

Finally, if you’ll be camping with kids or pets, certain accessories and extras can go a long way toward maximizing overall comfort. For kids, it’s always a good idea to pack games and camp-friendly toys like frisbees, cards, and other compact items to pass the time at night or in inclement weather. For pets, we recommend bringing along a longer leash or runner to allow your dog to move around at camp while still remaining close by, collapsible food and water bowls to maximize space, and a bed and/or blankets to keep warm at night. Ruffwear makes some of our favorite dog gear and accessories on the market, from storage-equipped packs to car seat covers and even dedicated sleeping bags.  

Additional Car Camping Tips

• Be sure to confirm ahead of time which amenities (if any) will be available to you. Will your campsite have a fire pit and/or picnic table? Are there bathrooms and/or showers on site? Will you have access to running water for filling up bottles and reservoirs?
• Check restrictions before you go to ensure you're up to date on current fire bans, required bear-proofing measures (such as bear canisters or bear bags for food), etc. 
• When loading up your car, start with the biggest and heaviest items first (e.g., hard-sided coolers and water jugs) and stack smaller and lighter items on top. If you'll want quick access to something while driving to your campsite (such as food), be sure to separate it ahead of time.
• If you’re limited on space, consider using dedicated compression sacks for soft gear like clothing, sleeping bags, etc.
• Prep what you can at home to save time at camp and minimize the amount of gear you need to pack. Cut vegetables, marinate meats and stash them in a labeled Ziploc, pre-measure your spices and condiments, etc.
• Combine like-minded items in one container to make it easier to find what you’re looking for when you arrive: A tote with your tent, sleeping bag, and pad; a dedicated bin for kitchenware and cooking equipment; clothing in a duffel bag or suitcase, etc. We like to use clear plastic bins since they make it easy to see what’s inside at a glance.
• Use resealable bags for toiletries and other small items you don’t want to lose or get wet, such as lighters and matches.
• To maximize insulating performance, it’s best to pre-chill your cooler prior to loading it up by filling the interior with ice for at least a few hours. When you’re ready to hit the road, swap in some fresh ice along with your drinks and food (most brands recommend a 2:1 ice-to-food ratio).  

Where to Buy Camping Gear

When it comes to purchasing gear, we recommend supporting your local gear shop whenever possible—they are important community centers for outdoor enthusiasts, and chances are that the staff will have insider information about the surrounding wild spaces. That said, we tend to do the lion's share of our gear shopping at REI Co-op , which has over 100 brick-and-mortar locations across the U.S. and an excellent inventory both in-store and online. Another good option for online shopping is Backcountry.com , which offers free shipping on orders over $50 and excellent customer service. For cheaper items and those who need gear quickly, it’s hard to beat Amazon for the sheer volume of sellers and product options. It’s also worth checking to see if there is a consignment or used gear shop near you—buying secondhand does not necessarily mean sacrificing quality, and you also get to help keep equipment out of the landfill by giving it a second life. Back to Our Camping Checklist   See Our Camping Gear Reviews

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Camping Checklist: 151 Items To Pack (That You Can’t Forget!)

By: Author Brennan Valeski

Posted on Last updated: August 7, 2021

Categories Camping

• Pinterest 13

When gearing up for your next camping trip, there's no secret that preparing ahead of time will save you the headaches. That's why we've created this handy camping checklist to help you when getting ready for your next trip.

Everyone going camping will have specific gear they need. This info-graphic goes through some of the basics for what to pack camping. The rest of the camping checklist goes in more depth below.

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Camping checklist.

Camping's most definitely some hard work. You're preparing food several days in advance, packing the car, and making sure there's enough to do with the family. It can be overwhelming at times.

Yet, it doesn't have to be so bad with this camping list. Not to mention, you'll be guaranteed to create lasting memories and get in touch with the outdoors. When preparing for your next trip, also consider these tips:

• Get a date on your calendar: It can be easy to talk about wanting to go camping, yet campgrounds tend to fill up quick. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance to secure your spot(s).
• Invite friends: Going camping only with your significant other or family can be blissful in itself. Yet, if you want that full campground experience, then you should invite some friends along!
• Prepare your gear: Use the camping checklist below to make sure you bring what you need. Check essentials like your tent, stove, and lights to verify they work beforehand. You don't want to be stuck in the woods without these working!
• Prepare a meal plan: First, write down how many days you're camping. Then, determine what you want to eat for each meal (breakfast, lunch and dinner). Also consider how you'll serve each meal and bring the necessary cutlery, condiments, can opener, etc.

Feel free to download the list below to create your own camping checklist:

Most campgrounds will include a fire pit, picnic table, water and electric. Although if you plan on rural camping or backpacking, then you may need other additional gear. These are the essentials any camper may need for their campsite, and comfortable sleeping:

• Tent (+ stakes )
• Sleeping bags
• Sleeping pads
• Camping pillow
• Insulated blanket
• Flashlights or headlamps (+ extra  batteries )
• Camp chairs
• Camp table (if no picnic table)
• Lantern (+ fuel/ batteries if needed)
• Sunshade, tarp, or screen house
• Sleeping bag liners
• Tablecloth and clips
• Clothesline with clips

RV Essentials

Camping with an RV or recreational vehicle makes things much easier. You pull up to your site and plug in, it's that simple. For those traveling with a motor home, there's some specific gear you'll want to add onto your camping checklist.

• EMS (electronic management system)
• Water pressure regulator
• Sewer hose and fittings
• Tire pressure gauge
• Roadside tool kit
• Battery tender
• Roadside assistance program
• S.O.P. (standard operating procedures)

Tools & Repair Items

When gearing up for your camping trip, everyone needs a solid tool kit. You don't want to be stuck without the tool to fix something that's broken. Feel free to adapt these recommendations based on your equipment.

• Mallet or hammer
• Saw or axe  (for cutting firewood)
• Fire starter or ferro rod
• Small broom and dustpan

Most campgrounds will have potable drinking water. If not, bring your own, or prepare to treat water if there's a water source. You can also prepare some food ahead of time at home, and load it into your cooler.

• Plates/bowls
• Water bottles
• Bottle opener
• Cooking utensils
• Trash /recycling bags
• Outdoor grill
• Portable coffee/tea maker
• Marshmallow/hot dog sticks
• Food containers
• Storage bins for camp kitchen gear

Campsite Extras & Entertainment

Most of these items are optional, yet depending on how remote your campsite is, you may need a map or other navigation tools. Some of these extras are fun things to bring camping, and make it more enjoyable with friends and family.

• Solar and portable power
• Field guides (flowers, birds)
• Book/reading material
• Notebook and pen/pencil
• Music and speaker or headphones
• Movies and TV
• Games and toys

Clothing & Footwear

The clothing and footwear you pack will depend on the weather and season. If you plan on hiking or swimming, you may need additional gear. Packing for beach can also be a great camping activity.

• Pants or shorts
• Long sleeve shirts
• Lightweight jacket
• Boots or shoes (for terrain)
• Socks (synthetic or wool)

Additional items for rain and/or cold weather:

• Rain-wear (jacket and pants)
• Long underwear
• Warm insulated jacket or vest
• Insulated pants
• Gloves or mittens
• Warm hat or beanie
• Water sandals
• Camp sandals/flip-flops

Health & Hygiene

When in the outdoors, there's a wide variety of health items you may need. Consider your camping conditions (RV or tent), and weather/terrain. Some more rural campsites may require more careful planning to prevent injury.

• Toilet paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Toiletry kit
• Quick-dry towel
• Menstrual products
• Prescription medications
• First-aid kit or first-aid supplies

Sun and bug protection:

• Tanning oil
• Sunglasses (+ retainer leash)
• Insect repellent candles
• Mosquito killer
• Urinary products
• Sanitation trowel (if no toilets)
• Alcohol or antiseptic wipes
• Spare glasses/contact solution
• Portable camp shower

Camping with your dog can be excellent way to get you and your pal some fresh air. Make sure to pack any necessary gear for them based on the situation. Your dog will need similar care to you, so consider certain items based on weather.

Before taking your dog outdoors, take a quick trip to your vet. In addition to verifying their overall wellness, make sure that your dog is up to date on their shots and vaccinations. The outdoors contains various creatures such as ticks, fleas, and mites that could harm your dog if proper precautions aren't taken.

Pet Expert at BeyondTheTreat.com

• Collar or harness
• Water container
• Collapsible food bowl
• Crate or cage 
• Nail clippers or grinder
• Pick up bags

Outdoor Adventure

When venturing into the outdoors, you may want to bring along some fun. Many campgrounds feature biking paths and hiking trails. Some places even feature docks to load your boats or water sports gear into the water.

• Fishing gear
• Paddle board (inflatable SUP)

Personal Items

When traveling, it's always important to keep your valuables safe. Be sure not to forget these items when planning your camping vacation.

• Credit card and/or cash
• Campsite confirmation (if needed)

What To Take Camping

One of the benefits to staying in the outdoors is that you don't need a lot. Yet, it's also much more comfortable to bring along all your gear. As a more experienced camper, it's fun to try and condense what you pack. That can lighten the load, and allow your campsite setup to be much quicker. Yet, be sure you don't forget anything important on your next camping trip, and use this list.

This short YouTube video goes over some examples of what to pack camping:

Use this camping checklist as a guide for building your own list. Every camper will have specific items unique to their situation. It's crucial to double check that you don't forget anything on your camping trip. Using a checklist will help you eliminate stress, and verify you've got everything you need before heading out.

Sunday 18th of November 2018

Great post! Glad I could be a part of it :)

Brennan Valeski

Thanks! It's awesome to have you featured :)

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The Ultimate Camping Checklist (33 Essential Items)

Home » Articles » Explore » The Ultimate Camping Checklist (33 Essential Items)

by Kyle Boureston | June 2nd, 2023

Kyle is the founder of Mantelligence, a relationship & dating coach, and a conversation & communication expert. His work has been featured on Marriage.com, Reader's Digest, Vice, Ask Men, and Refinery29. He ... Read Full Bio

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via: Depositphotos / byheaven

Camping is one of the best  manly  hobbies :

While camping, you're free to experience nature, connect with friends, and build a ton of survival skills. in But if you've planned a camping trip recently, I'm sure you know:

One of the least exciting (and frankly, overwhelming) parts of camping is packing for your trip .

You need to pack gear for cooking, sleeping, hiking, shelter, food storage, safety, survival, special gear for extreme weather, wilderness exploration, and/or just relaxing.

...And all that gear has to be considerably lightweight, environmentally responsible, and not easily damaged.

In other words:

You can't just toss a few items in a backpack, and expect to be well-prepared for all those aspects of camping.  You need a thought-out plan  (and detailed camping packing list).

...And if you're wondering what to take camping (and what are the essentials for your camping list) then this is a must-read post:

Below, I put together an all-inclusive, highly specific camping checklist  that can help you plan, and be quickly prepared for your time in the wilderness.

Free Downloadable Bonus:   Download and print our FREE camping checklist PDF . Check off each item from our beautifully designed camping checklist to amke sure you don't forget anything!

via: Mantelligence

The Essential Camping Checklists for Your Next Camping Trip

This guide's main camping checklist covers what each person (or couple) should pack for a  weekend   of backpack camping (these are the things needed for camping) .

...And there are even  4 add-on lists to help you prepare for specific types of camping :

• Camping with cool tech
• Cold-weather camping
• Hot-weather camping
• Wet-weather camping

...and finally,  a helpful guide to packing for  other  camping trips (longer trips, trips with kids, extreme weather trips, etc.).

Sound good?   Then start packing.

Camping Checklist for a Weekend Backpack Camp  (33 Camping Essentials)

via: Amazon

1. Lightweight backpack

The first item you need is a lightweight, water-resistant backpack … because you of course have to store all the other items on this camping checklist somewhere, right?

Backpacks come in every size... so choose the right size for your trip (longer trips = bigger backpacks... but the backpack linked above should be perfect for weekend trips).

2. Small day bag for hikes

You can take a  day bag  hiking, after you’ve set up camp.

As far as size... it only needs to hold snacks, a water bottle, a map, and a first aid kit, so don’t feel like you have to get a huge, pocketed bag.

3. Tent (or tarp, stakes, mallet)

This is one of the most obvious camping necessities... unless you plan to sleep under the stars (and I recommend you check the weather before doing that), you need a sturdy, well-made shelter.

Now... what type of tent do you need?

Well... it depends on your situation, but you can bring a multi-person tent, a single-person tent, or a tarp (and with a tarp you’ll also need stakes , a mallet , and/or bungee cord to rig it off the ground).

4. Sleeping bag/pillow

You can get a rectangular sleeping bag, a warm mummy sleeping bag, or even a giant queen-size sleeping bag... and don’t forget a comfortable, collapsible pillow (to prevent a stiff, sore neck).

...And research it before you buy, to make sure your sleeping bag is appropriate for the weather (not too stuffy, and not too thin).

One big reason men camp is to enjoy beautiful scenery , right?

…So you’ll probably want a camera to capture that scenery for you.

When I camp, I love having a GoPro (they’re light, small, and can clip onto your gear, hands-free), but you can also use your phone, or pack a traditional camera (the one linked is my personal camera, and I love the pictures it takes).

6. Portable charger

A portable phone charger is a necessity, especially if you’re using your phone as a GPS/map.

If you aim to ‘disconnect from the world’ on this trip, I understand the temptation to leave your phone behind… but I don’t recommend it.

Instead, bring your phone (and portable charger), put it in airplane mode so no calls bother you,  and use it if there’s an emergency.

An insulated  water canteen is  incredibly valuable  on a camping trip. The other option, a plastic bottle, does not keep your water cold... plus, most campsites prefer you bring in as little plastic trash as possible.

Get a durable metal canteen (like the Yeti, linked above) that keeps water cold and fresh, and keeps the campsite free of trash.

8. Weather-appropriate clothing

For your weekend trip, pack shirts, pants, outerwear and sleeping clothes that fit the weather... and remember to pack one extra set of clothes,  just in case  all yours get soaked, scorched, torn, etc.

See the add-on camping lists below for specific cold , hot , and wet-weather clothes to pack.

9. Socks and underwear

Pack socks that fit smoothly  into your hiking boots (you really don’t want overly thick socks that make your boots too tight), and extremely comfortable underwear…  because one of the worst things on a long hike is itchy, sagging, tight or bunchy underwear/socks.

10. Boots/terrain shoes

If you're camping on level ground, and not walking far from the campsite, then tennis shoes are fine…

…but if you’ll be hiking at all , especially on uneven terrain, invest in hiking boots or hiking shoes. They stay drier, are more durable, and have better traction and support than tennis shoes.

When you're camping, you can always  use a hat...  it can protect you from the sun, rain, or cold.

Bring a hat that best suits your needs (but for the basic weekend camping trip, a good baseball hat works just fine).

12. Sunglasses

Unless it’s going to rain the entire time , you’ll need sunglasses.

I always wear high-quality plastic sport sunglasses that are lightweight, won’t get hot to touch, and won’t break easily.

13. Fire starters

One of the best parts of camping is building, cooking on, and sitting around a fire, right? Bring an fire starter  (instead of matches, which are less reliable).

Also find out if your campsite sells firewood, if you’ll be able to chop kindling (if so, bring an axe), or if you need to bring your own firewood.

14. Roasting sticks/aluminum foil/pots/grate

I’ll bet that no matter what happens on this trip, you're going to want to eat … so unless you want only dried food for the weekend, bring along a way to actually cook meals.

• Roast hot dogs over the fire with roasting sticks
• Pack aluminum foil with meat and vegetables and cook the packs directly in the fire (here are  some great recipes for this kind of cooking)
• Grill steaks, burgers, and vegetables over a grate
• Boil meat, beans, potatoes, etc. in a pot over the fire

…And don’t forget to bring Tupperware or re-sealable plastic bags to store leftovers.

People stress out about what food to take camping more than any item on their camping checklist.

...And if you need some help with your camping food list, here’s some ideas for what foods to pack :

Dried foods: granola, protein bars, bagels, jerky, trail mix, nuts, dried fruit

Meat: raw steaks, chicken breasts, burger patties, hot dogs

Vegetables: canned veggies, canned beans, raw veggies

Eat these foods dry, or use the cooking techniques above to make delicious campfire meals.

If you cook foil dinners,  the foil you cook the food in becomes a plate … so all you’d need to pack is a fork…

…but if you’re not eating foil dinners,  pack some environmentally responsible, biodegradable paper plates .

17. Fork, spoon and knife

I recommend that each person on the trip pack an all-in-one set of utensils… because you have much less to keep up with that way!

18. Garbage bags

You definitely don’t want to litter because you forgot garbage bags, so toss a roll in your backpack.

Bonus: if it rains, large garbage bags can be used for ponchos, or to rig extra shelters with duct tape in a pinch.

19. Knife/multi-tool

Any camping packing list would be sadly incomplete without a knife or multi-too l, right?

Make sure the knife is sharp, and make sure you pack it  in your pocket , not at the bottom of your backpack… so it’s ready immediately, if you need it.

20. Can opener

You'd be surprised how many people forget this camping essential!  If you don’t have a can opener on your multi-tool, pack a small can opener to open vegetable and bean cans.

If you pack raw meat, and/or drinks you want to keep cold, you need a cooler .

The one linked is small and portable... but you can get a bigger one, if you won’t need to carry it too far (big coolers get heavy, and are best for car camping ).

22. Blankets to sit on

I can nearly promise , you won’t regret carrying a multi-purpose, waterproof camping blanket in your backpack.

You can use it as a picnic blanket around the fire, an extra layer for warmth, a towel for swimming, or as extra tent protection against sudden rain.

23. First aid

This is extremely important… even if you’re just camping overnight. In the outdoors, you never know what injuries will happen... and it’s best to be prepared , rather than regretful that you didn’t plan for an accident.

Pack a small first aid kit for close-to-civilization camping, and a heftier first aid kit for deep wilderness camping.

24. Emergency blanket

An emergency blanket (or thermal blanket) brings body temperature up from dangerously low levels, and prevents the body from going into shock. It’s a necessary emergency item on a camping trip.

Some first aid kits contain emergency blankets , and some don’t... so check yours before you leave, and buy an emergency blanket if you need one.

Pack a good amount of nylon rope… you never know when you’ll need it to climb, rig a shelter, tie up a boat, etc.

26. Duct tape and tent repair kit

Duct tape is a must-have item on any camping checklist. With it, you can fix anything in your campsite that’s ripped, broken, or leaky.

You should also pack a tent repair kit (especially for long-term camping), and use a duct tape to fix anything other than large tent damage.

27. Headlamp

I prefer powerful headlamps  over lanterns or flashlights… they keep your hands completely free.

Get a high-quality one (like the one linked above), and make sure it has brand-new batteries in it before you go.

28. Sunscreen

This one should be obvious… you definitely don’t want to deal with a painful, itchy sunburn while you live outdoors for the weekend, right?

If your skin is going to be in the sun, even if it’s not that hot outside, pack and wear sunscreen.

29. Lip balm

Believe it or not, lip balm is just as important as sunscreen… chapped, dry lips can be incredibly painful.

Pack a small tube of lip balm in your day pack, and apply it a few times a day to prevent dry lips (also, drinking plenty of water helps). source

30. Glasses/contact lenses

If you wear any sort of corrective lenses, make sure you bring your backup pair, and any cleaning supplies you need for them.

31. Deodorant

This item may not be a ‘camping necessity’… but your camp buddies will probably appreciate you wearing it (especially if you don't plan to shower).

Use this expert resource to pick the best deodorant for you.

32. Toothbrush/paste

Pack a small, space-saving sample toothpaste, and your toothbrush.

33. Toilet paper

Do I need to explain why this one is necessary?

Cool Add-on Items for Camping (8 Items)

Above is your basic camping checklist, with the essential items for traditional weekend camping … but if your group doesn't want to camp  too ruggedly , you can add on any (or all) of these ‘luxury’ camping items.

For this type of camping,  pack an  upgraded tent , a comfy air mattress and/or cot, and these items:

1. Camping grill

A portable camping grill can make cooking easier, faster, and more delicious than cooking over a fire. The one linked, by Coleman, is lightweight (under 15 pounds) and is packed with features that make it perfect for camping.

2. Espresso machine

If you need coffee to function (like me), pack this espresso machine that's designed for outdoor use (it doesn’t require  any electricity).

The Nomad  weighs 2 pounds and only requires coffee grounds, boiling water, and the power of your two hands to make delicious espresso (see this awesome video to understand how it works).

3. Folding chairs

These chairs are probably too bulky to carry long distances... but if you’re not walking far to your campsite, a few folding chairs can make sitting around the fire much more comfortable.

4. Biodegradable soap

If you plan to wash dishes, bring along some biodegradable soap that will keep things clean, but that won’t contain chemicals that harm the environment.

5. Kitchen supplies

The kitchen supplies you need depend on what you want to cook … and if you want more complicated (luxurious) meals than hot dogs/foil dinners, pack the pans , whisks , blender , cutting board , quick-dry towels , knives , etc. that you need.

6. Shower essentials

Some guys think the best part of camping is not having to shower … and some guys prefer to feel clean, even outdoors.

If that’s you , pack shampoo, conditioner, razor, comb, etc.

7. Bicycles

Bikes are an awesome way to explore the outdoors!

If you’re camping at a bike-friendly area, bring along mountain bikes and explore.

An Eagle’s Nest Outfitters hammock isn't an essential … but it is a perfect way to relax :

It’s a lightweight, polyester hammock that easily straps onto any tree with nylon straps. You can even wrap a top flap over you, and sleep in it like a cocoon.

Add-on Items for Cold-Weather Camping (4 Items)

There are different levels of cold-weather camping (mild to extreme),  and the following 4 items are only appropriate for camping in chilly weather/light snow.

You'd need to research the recommended items for extremely  cold temps.

Remember that in addition to the items below, you’ll need a thicker, more insulated tent  and  sleeping bag .

1. Thermal blanket

Regular blankets won’t keep you warm enough in cold weather, so bring a specially-designed thermal blanket in addition to your sleeping bag.

2. Foam pad

A foam pad under your sleeping bag does more than make the ground more comfortable … it actually insulates you from the frozen earth, trapping your heat, keeping you off the ground, and protecting you from any wet snow.

Get a dense, thick foam pad (like the one linked) and put your warm sleeping bag on top of it.

Get winter camping gloves that are thick enough to keep you warm, but thin enough to allow free movement of your hands (to rig tents, start fires, etc.).

4. Thermal clothing

Your first layer of winter camping clothing should be moisture-wicking underwear (because by constantly wicking/drying your lowest layer, you are less likely to get hypothermia, from water trapped close to your skin).

Next , wear thermal shirts and pants designed to trap your heat close to your body.

On the outermost layer , wear insulated pants and jacket to keep out wind and water.

Finish with thick wool socks and winter boots.

Add-on Items for Hot-Weather Camping (4 Items)

Just like with cold weather camping, there are different levels of hot weather camping.  The following 4 items are for a summer camping trip that’s hot...  but not extreme, dry heat (like a desert).

You should research what gear you need for that type of hot-weather camping.

Your essential items change for summer camping as well… you’ll need a thinner sleeping bag, and lighter clothing.

1. Swim suit

There’s no better way to reward yourself for camping and hiking in the heat than a swim in extremely refreshing, natural water… and for that, you’ll need a quick-drying bathing suit.

Pack several super-absorbent microfiber towels to dry off both sweat and water from swimming (bonus: they pack very flat, and are extremely lightweight, making them a no-brainer addition to your pack).

3. Insect repellent

I can promise you… you’ll immediately regret not packing insect repellent in the summer.

4. Quick-drying shorts

These quick-drying shorts are amazingly lightweight, and can dry outside in minutes: perfect for sweat and/or swimming.

Add-on Items for Wet-Weather Camping (6 Items)

You might boldly head out to a rainforest to camp,   intentionally planning to get wet…

…or you might get rained on accidentally.  But either way, it’s best to check the weather, and plan for rain if it’s a possibility . Start with these 6 items below that are perfectly suited to wet camping.

If you're sure it's going to rain, get a rainproof tent/rainfly and prepare to sleep off the ground (on an air mattress or cot).

1. Rainwear

Wear and pack rainwear (poncho, rain jacket, rain pants), and moisture-wicking clothing (to decrease the time water stays on your skin, which can cause hypothermia)

2. Rain cover

You’ll need a rain cover for your backpack so all your items and food don’t get wet (trust me, you’ll be extremely disappointed if your dry clothes/food turn soggy in your uncovered backpack).

3. Water shoes

You should actually wear water shoes while you set up camp  (freely allowing water in, instead of trapping it in your socks and shoes. There’s almost nothing more annoying than wearing wet socks… and it can cause hypothermia.)

4. A gas stove

You’ll need a way to cook your food if it's too wet for a fire, so pack a gas stove that only requires a match to be lit for a moment.

5. Microfiber towel

Get a pack of microfiber towels to dry off your gear and your body when you get to the campsite.

6. Newspaper

Since all the kindling will probably be wet, bring some newspaper for kindling (keep it dry in transport, and only try to start a fire if it’s lightly raining).

A Quick Guide to Packing for Other Camping Trips

As you now know, each camping trip calls for unique gear…  but there are other factors besides luxury and weather that affect what you need to pack.

Include any items that these types of trips  call for:

The type of camping

RV camping means you can take a ton of items, since you're essentially in a rolling house… car camping means you can store some items in the car, since you drive close to the campsite… and backpack camping means you should pack the lightest, since there’s a longer hike between your starting point and the campsite.

The weather

Obviously, different weather calls for different gear. We included 3 lists of weather-specific gear above, but if you’re camping in extreme weather, research to find what survival gear you need.

The duration of the trip

Long-term camping (over 1 week) requires more food/food storage, as well as more emergency supplies.

The distance your camp will be from civilization

No matter what, you should know where the nearest help center/ranger station/hospital is… and if you’re staying far from civilization, you need to add more survival/tactical tools to your camping gear   list  (like signaling items , field medical kit , etc.)

The number of campers

Larger groups, in general, call for more preparation. You’ll need more food, first aid, and survival supplies. You may even want to divide up the packing list, and have one person bring food, another bring survival gear, another bring shelter, etc.

The presence of kids

Kids require more careful preparation than adults, since they can’t take care of themselves. This list doesn’t cover everything to bring for kids… so if you are planning to bring children, heavily research what items you should bring for them.

Any activities that need gear

If you plan on fishing, canoeing, snowboarding, spelunking, or any other outdoor activity, you’ll obviously need to bring the gear for those activities as well.

In Conclusion

Packing for your camping trip doesn't have to be such a headache... if you've prepared in the best possible way.

With this essential, all-inclusive camping checklist (and 4 add-on camping lists)  you'll be well prepared for almost  any  camping adventure.

About The Author

Kyle Boureston

Kyle is the founder of Mantelligence, a relationship & dating coach, and a conversation & communication expert. His work has been featured on Marriage.com, Reader's Digest, Vice, Ask Men, and Refinery29. He lives in Austin, TX with his loving wife and his energetic Border Collie.

One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his great surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn’t do.

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Aussie shares five 'must have' camping items from Kmart

She's on a three-month road trip living out of her car, so we trust her space-saving tips!

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An Aussie woman who has been living out of her car and rooftop tent for the past three months while on a road trip through rural Queensland has shared her advice on cutting costs on camping gear.

Georgie Arnold says she recommends five essential items from Kmart that are crucial for saving space and money.

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The 5 essential Kmart camping itmes

First up, Georgie tells her TikTok followers that you can't go past Kmart's $8 stackable storage containers. 

"They fit really nicely in my car, so very ideal," she says, pulling out the drawer of one in her boot containing food items like instant noodles, condiments and spices.

On that note, she says "anything collapsible" is ideal, like Kmart's $16 collapsible kettle, containers and sink.

In terms of packing her clothes away on the road, Georgie uses Kmart's car storage bags which are just $10 each.

"I think they're really great because they've got handles as well. If you're going into a room for a night, you can just pick them up and take them in," she says, showing off a pull-out drawer containing four storage bags full of clothes.

Before she gets to the third tip, Georgie warns her followers to forget the Anko three-piece camping pot set "unless you want to burn all your food."

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More space saving tips

Tip three is to get the $19 camping car organiser, which hangs off the back of the driver or passenger seat.

"You can just fit so many things in them," she says, showing hers off, which holds her water bottle and other easy-to-access items.

The $29 compact camping chair is another one of Georgie's recommendations.

"I do love it. It's so small," she says. 

Second last on the list, she says "you can never forget a shammy." 

"I actually use this $5 one for my rooftop tent, more than my windscreen. If it's been rainy, it's great."

Lastly, Georgie swears by the $12 Kmart LED light and fan. "If you have a rooftop tent, I  highly recommend it. The light is excellent," she concludes.

"Great advice!"

In the comments, fellow campers backed up her tips, with one saying: "I have had that collapsible kettle for over three years, and she’s still going strong."

"That fan light is 10/10, it gives such good light coverage," a second wrote.

"Great advice, thank you!" said another. 

"Love the stackable container idea," one fan replied.

Others shared more Kmart tips, with one person saying, "Kmart has a solar mozzie zapper light. It's about $14 and works well."

"They have a rechargeable fan/light and it is honestly best thing I've ever bought," concluded someone else. 

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Originally published as Aussie shares five 'must have' camping items from Kmart

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