Camping Supply Checklist

Picture of two children in a tent

 

   

Sometimes it can be hard to figure out what to pack, especially if you haven't done a lot of camping before. This list is a good starting point for most people. Of course, if you are staying in a non-electric tent site you won't need your phone charger, and if you are staying in a canoe-in site you will need a bunch of extra water-related things...but this list is a good basic starting point. (And don't forget your food, just because it isn't spelled out on the list!)

Clothing

  • Long pants
  • Shorts
  • Socks (plus extras in case you get wet)
  • Underwear (plus long underwear if needed)
  • Pajamas or other sleepwear
  • Short-sleeved t-shirts
  • Sweatshirts or fleeces
  • Long-sleeved shirts
  • Gloves and stocking cap if needed
  • Windbreaker or jacket
  • Spare shoes or boots
  • Rain gear
  • Baseball hat
  • Swimsuit with plastic bag
  • Laundry bag
  • Water shoes (for swimming and in the shower)

Personal Gear

  • Backpack or other day pack
  • Insect repellent
  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Spare batteries
  • Wallet
  • Notebook and pencil
  • Board games, lawn games, books, playing cards, Frisbee
  • Water bottle
  • Sunglasses
  • Phone charger
  • Baby/antibacterial wipes (for quick and easy cleanup)

Personal Hygiene and Safety

  • Soap
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Shampoo
  • Brush and comb
  • Family first aid kit (medications, Band-Aids, tape and gauze, antiseptic, etc.)
  • Feminine products
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Glasses and contact lens storage and cleanser
  • Washcloth
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater)
  • Towels
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Lip balm
  • Deodorant
  • Toilet paper
  • Surface disinfectant supplies

Camp Gear

  • Directions to campground
  • Tent with ground tarp
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad
  • Pillow
  • Rope or cord
  • Multi-tool or small tool kit with hammer to pound tent stakes
  • Lighter and matches
  • Newspaper to light fire
  • Lantern with fuel
  • Small broom and dustpan
  • Folding camp chair

Kitchen Gear

  • Water
  • Camp stove
  • Camp stove fuel
  • Water jugs
  • Bucket or tub for washing
  • Dishcloth and scrubber
  • Dish soap
  • Dish towels
  • Knife or scissors
  • Pot
  • Pan
  • Utensils and roasting sticks
  • Stove-top coffeepot
  • Can opener
  • Plates
  • Bowls
  • Paper towels or napkins
  • Mugs or cups
  • Measuring cup
  • Roasting forks
  • Food
  • Cooler and ice
  • Resealable plastic bags (quart or gallon sized)
  • Aluminum foil
  • Trash bags
  • Tablecloths and clips for picnic tables

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