Whether you’re planning your first family camping trip or you’re a camping pro, having a camping checklist handy is always a good idea. Planning a family camping trip can be exciting, but it can be stressful. Just like packing for any other trip, the thrill of your upcoming adventure may cause you to overlook some simple but essential items for your trip.
We created this family camping checklist to make preparing for your upcoming camping adventure stress-free and easy. Whether you’re going to be camping in the mountains, by the lake, in the forest, or at the beach, it’s important to have these camping must-haves packed and ready to go.
Family Camping Checklist
Camping Checklist: The Essentials
Camping Tent
This may seem obvious, but sometimes the most essential items for your trip can be forgotten when packing.
If you don’t already own a camping tent, make sure to buy a tent that is spacious enough for the whole family, easy to set up, and weatherproof.
For added protection from the ground and bugs, you may want to purchase a ground tarp too.
Sleeping Bags and Pads
Ensure each family member has a comfortable and warm sleeping bag when reviewing your camping checklist.
If you haven’t camped before and think the sleeping bag may not provide enough cushion for you, you may want to consider purchasing a sleeping pad for under your sleeping bag.
Camping Checklist: Food and Drink
Camping Stove and Fuel
Don’t forget to pack your portable camping stove or grill and the necessary fuel. You’ll also want to pack matches and a lighter in case the stove or grill doesn’t light immediately. These will also come in handy for starting a fire.
Camping Food and Snacks
Pre-plan your meals ahead of time so you can make sure you have everything you need when stocking up at the grocery store. When you’re done shopping, add the items to your camping checklist.
Make sure to bring a variety of non-perishable snacks with you. You’ll also want to pack mini-snacks for hikes and other outdoor activities during your trip.
Water
We recommend bringing water gallons for campsite use and single water bottles on-the-go hydration. For an environmentally-friendly option, use water gallons to refill water jugs or canteens.
Cooking and Dinner Utensils
Bring pots, pans, cutting knives, spatulas, and more with you for meal prep and cooking. Don’t forget eating utensils like cups, bowls, plates, knives, forks, and spoons.
Cooler
You’ll want to remember your cooler so you can keep your perishable food items fresh and drinks cold. Make sure your cooler is large enough for all of your items ahead of time.
Camping Checklist: Gear and Equipment
Flashlights and Lanterns
Pack lanterns or emergency flashlights to keep your campsite well-lit at night. The flashlights can be used during late night excursions into the woods or on the beach.
It’s important to add new batteries to all of these lights before leaving. You’ll also want to pack extra batteries, or a recharging battery device, with you in case the batteries die. As a reminder to yourself, include batteries on your camping checklist.
Camping Clothing and Gear
Pack a variety of clothes for each family member for different weather conditions. We recommend packing rain gear, hiking boots, extra socks, and hats for the trip. It’s always wise to pack for an extra day or two, just to be safe.
Portable and Comfortable Chairs
Bring foldable, collapsible chairs for everyone to enjoy time by the campfire and at the campsite.
Camping Checklist: Hygiene & Safety Items
Bug Spray and Sunscreen
Protect your family from insects and mosquitoes with bug spray, insect repellent, and citronella candles.
Don’t forget sunscreen to guard against sunburn, even on cloudy days.
First-Aid Kit
Pack a well-stocked first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. These items are essential for handling minor injuries and ailments.
Personal Hygiene Items
Make sure to pack toothbrushes, toothpaste, toilet paper, paper towels, washcloths, towels, shampoos, and soap. Pack any prescribed medications first.
You don’t want to forget these items on your trip because there may not be an accessible store nearby.
Camping Checklist: Entertainment
Games and Activities
There will be plenty to do during your family camping trip, especially during the day, but it’s always good to pack some games and activities for your trip.
Bring books, playing cards, board games, or puzzles for downtown. If your family tends to be more active, pack a frisbee, football, badminton set, cornhole, Spikeball, or horseshoes.
Now that you’ve gone through this complete camping checklist for your family camping trip, you can relax and get ready to enjoy your trip outdoors. Preparing and packing ahead of time gives you peace of mind and allows you to relax as soon as you hit the road. Focus on quality time with your family and enjoy the beautiful scenery. So, gear up, embrace the adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!
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