Camping Checklist
Preparation is essential for any outdoor adventure. Having the necessary supplies and equipment can make a difference in your overall enjoyment and experience. Checklists are a great tool to help with your organization. Your camping list will vary according to the type of camping and activities you have planned, the places you are going, the time of year and the length of your trip. Add or remove items to suit your individual needs. Please email us with any other items that you would include in your camping checklist.
By popular request, we’re now offering a printer friendly camping checklist!
Shelter
__Tent
__Ground cloth/tarp
__Extra stakes
__Shade tarp/poles/rope/stakes
__Axe or hammer
__Mat for tent entrance
__Dust pan/brush
Bedding
__Sleeping bag
__Sheets/blankets
__Pillow
__Air mattress/sleeping pad/cot/tarp
__Air pump
__Repair kit for air mattress
__Utility bags for storage
Cooking
__Large water jug & water bucket
__Coolers/ice
__Thermos
__Stove with fuel/propane
__Matches/lighter
__Charcoal/firewood/buddy burner
__Dutch oven/tin can stove/box oven/etc
__Campfire grill/BBQ grill
__Fire starters/newspaper
__Tablecloth/thumb tacks/clips
__Plates & bowls/paper plates & bowls
__Silverware/plastic silverware
__Measuring cups
__Heavy-duty aluminum foil
__Paper towels
__Trash bags
__Dish soap
__Clothes pins
__Cooking oil/Pam spray
__Containers for food storage
__Potholders/oven mitts
__Pots and frying pans with lids
__Soap for outside of pots and pans
__Cook utensils-spatula, knife, spoon
__Tongs
__Skewers/grill forks
__Can opener/bottle opener
__Folding table
__Dutch oven
__Pie irons
__Mugs/paper cups
__Mixing bowl
__Cutting board
__Ziplock bags
__Napkins
__Dish pan
__Dish rags/towels
__Scrub pad/brillo
__Seasonings/sugar/condiments
__Potato peeler
Clothes
__Shoes/boots
__Jeans/pant/belt
__Shorts
__T-shirts
__Socks/extra socks
__Hat
__Bandana
__Sweatshirt/jacket
__Underwear
__Sleep clothes
__Rain gear
__Swim suit/towel
__Laundry bag
Personal
__Shower shoes/flip flops
__Towels/washcloth
__Soap in plastic case/shampoo
__Tooth brush/tooth paste
__Deodorant
__Comb/brush
__Razor
__Feminine products
__Toilet paper
__Shower bag or 5 gallon bucket
__Camping shower/shower pump
__Other personal items
__Personal medications – take extra
Miscellaneous
__Sunscreen/chapstick
__Lantern with fuel/mantles
__Extra batteries/bulbs
__Compass/GPS
__Bug repellant/candles
__Whistle
__Water filters/purification/treatment
__Camera/battery/film/video (see photo jigsaw puzzles)
__Books/magazines (a Kindle would be better)
__Candles
__Maps/directions
__Misc. tools
__Backpack/fanny pack
__Fishing gear/license/bait
__Radio
__Musical instruments/song books
__Camp chairs
__Sunglasses
__Hammock
__First aid kit
__Tissues
__Saw/axe
__Park map/guidebooks/trail maps
__Lantern pole or hanger
__Collapsible drying rack
__Popcorn
__Marshmallows, Graham crackers, Hershey bars (Smores)
__Flashlight/batteries
__Pocket knife
__Plastic grocery bags
__Binoculars
__Rope/clothes line
__Canteen/water bottle/coffee pot
__Bungi cords/straps
__Cards/games/toys/golf
__Duct tape/electrical tape
__Notepad/pen
__Reservations info./confirmation
__Cell phone/charger & 2-way radios/walkie talkies
__Small shovel
__Safety pins
__Money/ID/credit card/quarters
__Bikes/helmets
__Travel alarm clock
__Work gloves
__Umbrella
__Hand wipes
__Drinks/snacks
__Small sewing kit
__Fire extinguisher
__Hot chocolate/tea bags/coffee
__Scissors
__Watch
Tell someone of your plans – give details of where you are going and when you expect to return, give directions and possible alternative roads that you may take, provide cell phone numbers, vehicle description and license plate numbers, hand-held radio channel and codes that you will use, and provide local authority phone numbers (State Police, Game & Fish Commission, Sheriff Dept, etc.) for the county or area that you will be in.
Basic First Aid Kit
__Personal medications
__Roll bandages
__Adhesive tape
__Antiseptic wipes
__Sterile gauze pads
__Cotton swabs
__Tweezers
__Safety pins
__Scissors
__Bee sting kit
__Sinus medications
__Tissues
__Bug repellant
__Sunscreen
__Notepad/pen
__Sterile compresses
__Splinting materials
__Personal information/contact person
__Feminine products
__Ipecac
__Razor blades
__Plastic bags
__Small bottle of water
__Blanket
__Other personal needs
__Small mirror
__Triangular bandages
__Misc. Band Aides/bandages
__Anti-acids (Tums, Rolaides)
__Antibiotic cream
__Aspirin/Ibuprofen/Tylenol/Naproxin
__Hydrogen Peroxide
__Ace bandages
__Sunburn lotion
__Burn ointment
__Snake bit kit
__Eye drops
__Poison ivy cream/cleansers
__Heat/cold packs
__Small flashlight
__Latex gloves
__Antibacterial soap
__Thermometer
__Coins for emergency phone calls
__Antibiotic soap
__Butterfly bandages
__Twine
__Mole skin for blisters
__Road flares
__First aid manual
__Nail clippers
Additional First Aid Tips
- Take a First Aid class and a CPR class – keep current on this information
- Keep supplies in a well marked, durable, waterproof container
- Keep the contents organized
- Know how to use everything in your first aid kit
- Inspect content often, re-supply as needed
- Keep readily available at all times
thanks for the list friend very helpful
If you are traveling with kids who will not use the porta potty, you can make one out of a bucket, toilet seat and substrate, or you can buy a portable one small enough to carry. Or, I guess you could always dig a hole, so a small trowel is a good idea if you’re doing a thru hike. Don’t forget zip lock and 5 gallon trash bags – life saver.
Thanks, that’s very detailed! My husband works in the city full time so I am in charge of packing everything for our family of 5 to go camping this weekend! One thing not on the list that my family will need…diapers! Ha ha.
this list its very thorough, if you are going for many days its good to bring book, and the Bible to read and Meditate..!! God Bless.
This list was the best thing it help alot. But they forgot a lot of thing like flashlight . And most of all the food so we could cook and eat.
How about a tick kit?
Been tent camping regularly for many decades. A good camping checklist is a requirement if you don’t want to forget an important item. You get so anxious to get going that you can forget many things.
Camping in bear country is really difficult without a camper or motor home. The danger is real. A friend of mine had a black bear tear into his pop-up camper with him and his family inside. Lucky he had a .45 with him. When in bear country always use extra caution. Keep food secure. Don’t use any smelly deodorants, shampoos, or lotions. Keep the campsite clean. Don’t burn any leftover food or garbage or pour things on the ground that might contain food odors. When hiking always make noise so you don’t surprise a bear. Get as much information as possible to protect yourself before going into bear country.
I’d like to repost what the checklist description says at the beginning:
“Checklists are a great tool to help with your organization. Your camping list will vary according to the type of camping and activities you have planned, the places you are going, the time of year and the length of your trip. Add or remove items to suit your individual needs.”
There, now everyone that has an issue with the amount of things on the list might understand the POINT of the list (this is a CHECKLIST, not a REQUIREMENT list….) SMH. On a personal note, its a great list, I only take the basics but since I am the one that has to plan every single 2 week trip, it gets a little overwhelming and its SOO nice to have a thorough checklist to get the packing done. I’d like to add I have to pack for 2, plus 3 large dogs, and I drive a TINY honda civic with a system in the trunk and have to use a car topper, so yes to the ignorant and arrogant, the BASICS can get very confusing, instead of being nasty you should thank these people for taking time out of their busy schedule to make this for those who actually appreciate/need it. If you dont have anything to add to the list then just stfu and get a life trolls!
Perhaps someone has already mentioned this in one of the older comments which I have not read yet.
However, I believe it is very important. At least, for some of us.
If you need to wear eyeglasses you must, must, MUST, take at least one extra pair.
What are you going to do if you lose/break them? Even when you only THINK you have lost them you will be freaking out if you know you do not have a back-up pair.
Those of you who are young with perfect eyesight will not understand. You are still at the age when you think that losing your sex drive with age is everything. We older folks realize that losing your glasses IS EVERTHING.
While we are on the eye subject. Please consider taking a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from overexposure to the sun. They are also very useful if you are in to fishing. A quality pair of sunglasses will enhance your ability to visually explore the underwater terrain.
Still on the eye subject. If you are planning to do any airgunning etc. Safety glasses a MUST. You would not be the first to lose an eye. Do NOT underestimate the power of a ricochetting pellet.
Hey Rip if someone wants to take their Bible that’s their business not yours….no need to get nasty…..it’s a comprehensive list and you take what you need or want ….good job ….p.s. most parks I’ve been to do not allow firearms so bring a good knife
@ Rhonda
If you are from anywhere, or camping anywhere, a portable weather radio is highly recommended. (Radio is listed under miscellaneous, but weather radio should be added/substituted)
Very nice looking list, even with the number of spelling typos (Band-Aids, Rolaids, snake bite kit, bungee cords, zip-loc bags)
Never mind. . . I think I’ll just stick to my adventures in trekking to Starbuck’s. They have wild animal pictures. . .
great list but some idea’s would be to freeze your water before you go if you are taking bottle’s .. that will keep things cold longer
great for chilling beer. dog food for your dog. i don’t think i saw that and a gas tank (my husband always forgets) also a sleeping mask to keep the light out.. helps with sleep.jumper cables . to leave in the car expectialy for group camping
i like this list thank you..also useful for planning my disaster emergancy kit..thank you!!
btw i would add my bf’s car battery charger in case he car dies while we are int he woods,etc and cant charge our cells….id also suggest one cooler for drinks n ice and another for meats/cold food, depending on how long u camp for may need a few trips to town for fresh ice
I understand there are “Traditionalists” who like camping to be old-fashioned and what they consider true camping (and what lots of people refer to as roughing it)…but I think those people should just quietly do their own thing, not lambaste the people who want camping to be a comfortable, convenient and enjoyable experience (especially for family members who were hesitant about going). Even if the kids watch a DVD in the evening, so what? They are up the next morning fishing on the lake…or exploring during a hike (things that weren’t going to happen if they just stayed home). If you enjoy camping under a lean-to in a place that’s 100 miles from the nearest store, that is your prerogative! I personally commend all people who are getting outside and enjoying whatever part of the wild they are in…it sure isn’t home! The last state park campground I stayed at had alligators, snakes, raccoon and many other assorted creatures and bugs…if it wasn’t camping, I don’t know what to call it…I’ve sure never had any of those things at a hotel!! (By the way, we also love getting remote sometimes and hearing the silence and seeing more stars…but we aren’t always able to take that kind of trip or don’t want to). Anyway, thanks for a great list to add to my own!! Everyone have a great and safe time out there!
Who camps at campsites? Lol.
Great list to get ideas from, but a lot of non-essentials!
dryer sheets! i have found that if you put them in your sleeping bag or in your pocket that they really keep the bugs away!
good to go!!
The Bible is the most important part of the list not the least! God created all the natural beauty that we enjoy while camping. Thank you God for your Awsome Outdoors!!!!
Thanks for the list. Very Comprehensive!
This is obviously for, as I like to call it, “fluffly” camping.. I am looking for something a little more ‘back country’ intensive.. I have a lot of whittling to do…
The list is excessive. Might as well take the whole house with you.
For “campground” trips… Tent, sheets (sleeping bags or even blankets are too hot in summer) pillow. Personal items and clean underwear.. Only if you really care to shower, but let’s be honest, you’re camping. Water, and cooler. On the food I like to pre make things. Like breakfast burritos. Make them at home, wrap in foil and warm up in the coals in the am. Who really wants to get up after sleeping on the ground all night to I’d pancakes and eggs and bacon. Clean up consists of disposing of the foil. And bring thinks you can cook on a stick. Oh and if there are shower facilities that you plan to use…. Quarters. Just a few ideas there. Let’s cut out bringing half the kitchen. Camping isn’t supposed to be a luxury, but you can prepare to camp smart and convenient.
On real camping, the best thing to do is have knowledge. People who like to do real camping like to live off the land as much as possible. And for you rv campers…. What’s the point!?!?
Wow that was one great list of things
I’m planning to go for 2days with my friends
its my first time about 4hours drive and
this list was a great help,we being shopping
for the last 2days and our plan for camping is
to go next week:D
anyways thank you for the nice reminder:)
OMG! this is a great list but what about shoes? istill feel like theres a lot missing! anywho
LOTS OF BEEEEERS
@Rip
If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say it at all.
It’s not like beliefs are being pushed on you. It’s just a suggestion to bring a Bible, for a Christian who might be reading this thread. If you don’t agree, then just gloss over it and forget about it. No need to leave a nasty comment, insulting others’ beliefs.
awesome list
can you make a list for People Who are going Camping In A pop-up Camper Before July 16 of 2012 It’d Really Help Or if anyone wants to help Email me at Punisherx9@hotmail.com
(By the way I’m 13)
Thanks for this great list!! One thing that I personally can not stress enough when tent camping – BE PREPARED FOR THUNDER STORMS!! I would suggest BRINGING EXTRA TARPS & TIE DOWNS, LARGE PLASTIC GARBAGE BAGS (Cover or bag your firewood, unless you like waiting til “Christmas” to eat!?), STORE CLOTHES EITHER IN WATERPROOF BAGS OR IN YOUR CAR If severe weather hits, your tent may become compromised and leak! (Possibly from the top and bottom) Laundromats are not always available and you may end up heading for home wearing your p.j.’s while your wet clothes and gear gets moldy in your trunk!! – True story!! :/
This was very helpful.. have been on my camps but u just seem to forget what u need every year
hehe
Wow. I never thought the list would be so long
Hey, Rip…why don’t you do as you requested and keep your beliefs to yourself. No one disrespected your belief by stating their own.
Consider taking TerraShield as all natural bug spray instead of other toxic options!
My friend’s hubby took it to Elk Camp while the others used Deep Woods OFF. He was the only one who didn’t have any bites at all.
Message me if you need help finding some!
this is acthully very helpful
Great List! I found it very helpful. Lots on the list that I had not thought of. I don’t remember seeing extention cord (for charging multiple cell phones or radio use) although I may have missed it. someone said a flashlight was not on there but I found it under misc. @RIP~ If you don’t believe in fairy tales then why are you so against the bible? If God doesn’t exsist and he is only a fairy tale what are you fighting? Everyone has the right to their opinion or to put the bible or other “fairy tales” as you call it, on their list if they like. I will be carrying my bible on my trip to read all about my creator while enjoying all he created
Happy camping all and thanks for the list!
Thanks so much for the list. I had my own list saved and lost it when I changed computers. I have learned NEVER to pack without a checklist after we went camping one year and forgot the sleeping bags! Happy camping!!
Thanks for this list..really comprehensive and can be customized to our needs.
Advice: If you’ve never camped before…camp in your backyard or nearby state park for 2 nights. That will show you what you need.
Thanks for all the advise. Can anyone recommend the best bug spray ever?
This list was very thorough and helpful! Just remember to pack for extreme weather conditions and bring proper gear cause nature is unpredictable. Though this list covers the basics and then some…
I got the idea for the front door mat for the tent from one of these lists years ago. Best idea!!!! Really keeps the dirt out of the tent, need to use the hand broom and dust pan (also really useful) a lot less. If you have room, a dollar store dish drainer is handy.
@RIP – Fairy tale or not Rip, you’ll find out once you do R.I.P. Ironic eh?
Holy crap I’m 50 years and I have been camping up and down Lake Huron for decades. Cut this list in half unless your going to take a tractor trailer. LMAO. A pan, axe, sharp swiss army knife, food, lantern,fishing pole and bait plates, matches, tent and a mickey of Jack.
Also need to add-
Beer
Vodka,rum, or whiskey
Weed
Bong (extra water to fill said bong)
Rolling papers
And never forget extra cigs cause you know you’ll smoke more than usual
I take about 1/2 of that stuff and do just fine
I’m going to overnight camp on Sunday! Can’t wait!! Going to be taking a 4 hour car ride the second week of camp up to Northern Wisconsin for about a 5-day camping trip! It will be my first time camping! I am SOOOOOOOO excited!
It’s hard to find educated people in this particular topic, however, you seem like you know what you’re talking about!
Thanks
Great list! I’ve been camping my whole life, but a refresher list is always a good thing to have! Found a few things I’d overlooked and we are headed out tomorrow. Thanks again!
Wonderful list! Thank you for publishing.
i didn’t see LIFE JACKETS: if canoeing or boating and you have children, it’s a law and wise…
thanks for a GREAT list !