Heading into the great outdoors can be a thrilling adventure. But it’s key to make sure you’re well-prepared to make the most of your camping experience.
Packing for a family camping trip can seem like a daunting task. You have to remember everything, from the tent to the food to emergency survival gear. That’s why we’re here to help!
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to pitching a tent under the stars, this guide from Blain’s Farm & Fleet will ensure you pack everything you need for an unforgettable trip.
Don’t forget to mark a tent off of your camping checklist. Choose one that’s appropriate for the season and number of people using it. If you’re camping solo or with a partner, a two-person tent offers cozy space with some room for your gear. A camping tent’s capacity label doesn’t account for personal belongings, so when in doubt, size up.
We recommend you practice setting up your tent in your backyard before your camping trip. This will ensure you’re not fumbling with poles or instructions on your first day.
It’s also a good idea to bring extra tent stakes and a tent repair kit in case your tent rips. Bring a tent tarp along to pitch your tent on. It will provide an extra layer between you and the ground.
It’s important to check the weather forecast before leaving. If it’s going to be hot when you’re camping, it might not be a bad idea to bring a tent fan. A tent rain fly will also keep your tent dry if it rains. Mosquito netting can save you from pesky bugs.
You’ll feel rejuvenated after a good night’s sleep while camping. Remember to bring an air mattress, sleeping pad, or cot for extra comfort. If you’re bringing an air mattress, don’t forget an air pump and an air leak repair kit. If you want to sleep or just relax outside, make sure you bring along a hammock.
A sleeping bag will keep you toasty, while sheets, blankets, and pillows will bring a feeling of home. Nighttime in the outdoors can get colder than expected. For this reason, opt for a sleeping bag rated for temperatures slightly lower than what you anticipate. Ear plugs might also help you sleep better.
Think about what you plan on cooking while you’re camping. You might be campfire cooking or using a camping stove. If you plan on using a camping stove, don’t forget extra fuel. If you plan on using the campfire, bring things like approved firewood and fire starters, if necessary.
You will want to bring camping cookware and utensils such as camp forks, bottle openers, paper plates or bowls, water bottles, and pie irons. Aluminum foil can serve double duty for cooking on the campfire and saving leftovers. If you need coffee in the morning, a coffee percolator will be your best friend.
Keeping food in coolers with ice or ice packs will give you more menu options. It’s a good idea to bring a few coolers, one for ready-to-eat food and/or beverages and one for raw food.
You’ll need to clean up after yourself, so bring along garbage bags, paper towel, wet wipes, and a tablecloth with clips for easy cleanup.
And of course, don’t forget to pack enough food!
Having the right camping gear on your camping checklist is essential. Bring along a first aid kit for minor cuts and bruises. Lanterns, flashlights, extra batteries, and waterproof matches can all help provide a light source.
A multi-tool can come in handy for a variety of emergencies. Hand warmers are ideal if the temperatures are going to be lower. And you’ll want a good bug spray to keep those pesky mosquitos away.
Other things to consider bringing include binoculars, a compass, dry and wet bags, a clothesline for wet clothes or towels, and a hammer for the tent stakes.
If you’ll be camping with your dog, bring essential supplies like waste bags, collapsible bowls, and outdoor toys.
When it comes to clothing, the type of weather you’ll be experiencing is the main factor to consider. If it’s going to be colder, sweatshirts, jackets, thick socks, a winter hat, gloves, and a warm base layer is a must. If there’s a chance of rain, don’t forget a rain jacket or poncho.
If it’s going to be hot outside and you plan on going swimming, pack your swimsuits, a sun hat or baseball cap, a beach towel, and sandals. If you’ll be hiking, take some activewear and a good pair of hiking boots.
Depending on where you’re camping, you’ll need toilet paper and hand soap or sanitizer. Bring enough toiletries for the duration of the camping trip. A camping shower and camping toilet can also come in handy if you’re not staying in an RV or a campground with bathrooms.
Don’t forget any medications you or other campers will need. It’s a good idea to bring extra medication in case of an emergency or prolonged stay. Other personal hygiene products to bring include a toothbrush, toothpaste, any shampoo or body soap you may need, and sunscreen.
Our camping checklist covers the essentials. Of course, it’s also a good idea to bring along some form of entertainment, too. Pack up the kayaks, fishing poles, or water toys for a day on the lake. If hanging around the campsite is more your style, bring along some lawn games to play.
And don’t forget your camping chairs and a portable speaker for sitting around the fire! And keep your devices charged with a portable charger.
For more tips about braving the great outdoors, check out our other Camping articles.
