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

Back to top