If you’ve been camping, you know that packing for the camping trip is crucial to its success. For seasoned campers this might be a no-brainer. However, if you’re heading out on your first camping trip or at least the first one without the help of the pro-camper in your family, you need a checklist! Because, while no one is going to forget to pack a tent or sleeping bag, you might forget the smaller things. For that reason, here’s a list of 14 things you can’t forget to pack for your next camping trip.
1. Sunscreen
Even when the weather promises to be nice and cold, the sun can get you. Better to be prepared than to deal with sun burns and skin peeling.
2. Food/Water
Bring more than a box of the variety fun-sized potato chip bags! Plan out every single meal for each day you’re there along with snacks and a lot of water. For some camping food inspiration, check out these unconventional camping recipes and campfire snacks.
3. Cooking Supplies
Are you camping somewhere with a small grill or stove top? Or maybe you’re taking an RV? Figure out what you will need to cook and decide if you need to bring coal, wood or propane with you.
4. Personal Hygiene Products
Depending on where you’re staying, you may or may not have access to a bathroom. Either way you need to stock up on a couple of essential products like: toilet paper, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, soap, face wipes, and hand wipes. All of these are life savers for when you undoubtably start to feel a bit gross.
5. Extra Change of Clothes/Shoes
While shouldn’t take your entire closet on your camping trip, you should bring an extra change of clothes in case of an emergency. Be sure to also bring an extra pair of shoes and research what kind of shoes you need for the particular camping grounds you’ll be staying at.
6. Map
In today’s age, we tend to take navigation for granted. It’s likely that at some point during your trip you will have to unplug or lose connection, meaning no Google Maps. So make sure you print a map before leaving.
7. Lighter
Unless your party trick is starting a fire with sticks, you should pack a lighter or two. They will save your life.
8. Heater
Being cold sucks. Invest in portable buddy heater for a warm night’s sleep.
9. S’mores
Classics are classics for a reason. Whether you make them over the fire or over a propane fire ring, s’mores are a must!
10. Headlamps / Flashlight
Once the sun sets, you’re on your own and a fire only provides so much light. Head lamps are great at providing much needed light as you cook dinner or take a bathroom break. You can also use flashlight for this.
11. First Aid Kit
Cuts and falls happen. Pack a simple first aid kit and some pain relievers.
12. Music Playlist and Speakers
Just because you have to unplug doesn’t mean you can’t jam out. Create a couple of different playlists and bring along a wireless speaker. Dance parties are encouraged!
13. Camera
Phone cameras get the job done, but if you want some great photos from your camping trip, bring along an actual camera. Make sure to capture candid moments and take lots of video. When you look back, you’ll be glad you did.
14. Trailer
You need a lot of stuff when you go camping and trailers are a great way to bring along all of the larger items that might not fit in your car. Both the 4′ x 7′ utility trailer and the 4′ x 8′ cargo trailer are great trailer sizes for transporting camping gear.
What are some things that you always pack for your camping trips? Share them in the comments below!
