Making a Camping List: A Basic Guide

Making a camping list is vital for preparing for a camping trip. When you go camping, you are basically will be staying in a home away from home, and making a list ensures you cover all necessities you need for a safe and enjoyable camping.

Camping is one of our most looked forward to activity whenever summer time approaches.  We have always camped as a young family with our little kids. Here is why we love camping.

Lately, it has taken a new dimension for us because as the kids start to grow, we are not confined to just being in the campsite and taking walks around. My eldest has started to go on real biking trails with her dad. We go on easy hikes as a whole family, and my eldest and my husband go on longer hikes.

Moreover, the kids has started to show interest in kayaking. So we will be looking into buying one next year.

So, the way we prepare for our camping trips has evolved over the years. We have gone from being full-on haulers, to minimalist, then back to elaborate packing, then to minimalist and back and forth.

No matter how we pack or prepare, one thing is for certain: a good camping list is necessary for an enjoyable adventure. Otherwise, our trip will either be uncomfortable, unenjoyable or even unsafe.

And always for me, it always starts with a list. So, whenever a camping date is approaching, my list always look like this.

My Camping List: Things to Bring on A Camping Trip

Start with the Shelter

This is basically taken care of by my husband. And of course, you will only need to do this once when it is your first time.

• Tent. Find a tent that fits the number of people in your group. Don’t forget the tent stakes and a repair kit.
• We used to have a roof top tent that we set over our truck or a small trailer. It is fun and unique! When we have outgrown it, we bought an NU camp trailer which we have served us for a good number of years. OH how we love that one!
• Lately we are back to basics and using a tent, but its not just a normal tent. We are loving this Inflatable Camping Tent by Quechua. It has divisions where the front can be your living area and there are 2 rooms at the back where it is nice and dark and cozy!

Sleeping Gears

• Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress: Provides insulation and comfort. We love this lightweight small air mattress. Don’t forget an electric air pump if using an air mattress.
• Pillows and Blankets (if you are using Air Mattresses) 
• Sleeping Bags: You can also just bring sleeping bags instead of  the mattresses and pads. If you prefer ultra comfort, you can bring both. Select a sleeping bag rated for the season and temperature. Consider a sleeping bag liner for added warmth.
•  I love bringing pillows and blankets with mattresses because they are more cozy and homey! However, sleeping bags can offer more warmth when you are a on a no electricity campsite.

Clothing

It is imperative to check the weather of the place we are going to so you can pack appropriate clothes. However, that doesn’t mean I am not going to pack emergency clothing items in case the weather becomes unpredictable.

By that I mean, I always have the kids bring a set of shorts and light shirts in case it is suddenly hot and sunny even if we anticipate a cold weather camping.

And even if it is a nice sunny stay, I always make sure to pack raincoats and sweaters (sometimes even jackets because, you know.. Canada!)

• Day clothes – the amount depends on how many days we are staying. So if we are staying 2 days, I always pack 2 sets plus an extra.
• Underwears and Socks.
• Outdoorsy Clothes. Depending on the activity, pack clothes that are ready for outdoors, joggers, sweat pants or waterproof shirts etc.
• Sleep wears. Cozy pjs. Sweaters. I always love a homey camping vibe, so I have the kids to bring their cozy pjs and then layer with sweaters as needed.
• Sweaters.
• Winter Jackets.
• Raincoats.
• Hats, Slippers, Sneakers or Hiking Shoes.

Cooking and Food Supplies

• Cooking Gear: A portable gas stove, or BBQ.
• Cookware: Pots, pans, and a kettle for boiling water.
• Utensils: Spatula, knife, and other necessary cooking tools.
• Eating Utensils: Plates, bowls, forks, knives, and spoons.
• Cleaning Supplies: Biodegradable soap, sponge, and a dishcloth.
• Meals: Plan and pack non-perishable foods and snacks. Think about easy-to-cook meals and ingredients.
• Condiments: Salt, pepper, and other spices or sauces.
• Beverages: Coffee, tea, or other preferred drinks.
• Cooler and Ice Packs: For perishable items if you’re camping where refrigeration is not possible.
• Paper Towels
• Tablecloth

Personal Items:

• Toiletries: Soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion and any other personal hygiene items.
• Sunscreen and Bug Spray: Protect yourself from the sun and insects.
• Hair Brush, and Combs.
• Towel: Quick-dry or camp towel for personal use.

Safety and Navigation

• First Aid Kit: Include basics like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications (EpiPen’s).
• Multi-tool or Knife: Useful for a variety of tasks.
• Firestarter: Matches, lighters, or a fire starter kit.
• Bear Spray: If camping in bear country.
• Map and Compass: Essential if you’re venturing into unfamiliar terrain.
• GPS Device: Handy for precise navigation and tracking.

Entertainment

• Books or E-Readers: For some quiet time by the campfire.
• Fishing Gear: If you plan to fish.
• Games and Cards: To entertain during downtime.
• Tablets and other Electronics

Add Extras Based on Your Needs

• Camping Chair: For comfort around the campfire.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: With extra batteries.
• Portable Charger: For your electronic devices.
• Camera: To capture memories of your trip.
• Hammock: For relaxing in the great outdoors.
• Camp Rug or Mat: To keep dirt out of your tent.

By thoughtfully preparing your camping list, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Remember, this is a basic guide, but it is actually more or less how my camping list looks like. This list will greatly be customized based on your own needs and camping style.

Happy camping!