What to Pack for a Camping Trip

Camping trips are supposed to be fun and stress relieving, but packing for them can be the opposite. I always seem to forget something when packing for a camping trip, so I created a camping checklist. This way I don’t forget anything ever again! I’m sharing it with you, so that you won’t forget anything on your next camping trip. This way you can unwind and enjoy nature to the fullest. You may not need everything on this list, but it is there just in case you do.

Camping Checklist:

  • Tent – for sleeping in of course.
  • Sleeping bag – to keep warm at night.
  • Crash pad – let’s be honest, sleeping on the ground hurts.
  • Pillow – to lay your head on at night.
  • Camping chair – for sitting by the fire all night.
  • Headlamp/flashlight/lantern – to see at night.
  • Wood – to start a fire. You can usually by this at your campsite.
  • Fire starter/kindling – to make it easier to start a fire.
  • Charcoal – to cook your food.
  • Lighter/matches – to start your fire.
  • Grill/Stove – to cook your food.
  • Pots/Pans – to cook your food in.
  • Cups – to drink out of.
  • Plates – to eat off of.
  • Grill utensils – to flip those burgers.
  • Utensils – to eat your food.
  • Napkins/paper towels – for clean up.
  • Garbage bags – to dispose of your garbage.
  • Tin foil – to cook things on.
  • Cooler – for anything that needs to be kept cold.
  • Water/LifeStraw/Steri-Pen with container for water – for hydration of course!
  • Ice – to keep things in your cooler cold.
  • Food and snacks – so you don’t go hungry.
  • Alcoholic beverage of choice – for nights by the fire.
  • Coozies – to keep your drink cold.
  • Sunscreen – to prevent sunburn.
  • Bug spray – to keep away those pesky mosquitos.
  • Hand sanitizer – to use after going to the bathroom.
  • Biodegradable wet wipes – for your “showering” needs.
  • First aid kit – for cuts and scrapes.
  • Deck of cards – for your entertainment needs.
  • Potato chip clip/rubber bands – to keep food fresh.
  • Backpack/Camelbak – for hiking.
  • Hiking boots – for hiking.
  • Wool socks – for your hiking boots.
  • Hat – sun protection.
  • Sunglasses – more sun protection.
  • Hammock – to relax at your campsite or on hikes.

Now you are ready for your camping trip!

Don’t forget to separate your recyclables from your garbage. National Parks have garbage bins, as well as recycling bins on site, take advantage of this. Use bear proof storage bins when provided, they are there for a reason. REI is a great store to visit if you need to buy any of these supplies. Have it all ready to go in a tote in your car or garage for an added bonus! Enjoy your camping trip!

Let me know if there is anything you think I should add to this list!

Don’t forget to book your trip with your favorite travel planner, yours truly. If you liked this blog post, check out What to Pack for the Inca Trail!

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