Going on your first camping trip? Let’s talk about packing. Sure, a stay in the wilderness typically requires much less in the clothing and shoe departments than other vacations, but there are a few essentials you won’t want to forget. So, before you head out, consult our and checklist to make sure you have everything you need for a successful camping trip.
1. Clothes
One of the best things about camping is spending uninterrupted quality time with friends and family, without the common high-tech distractions. Maximize the fun with these things:
- Binoculars
- Camera / Go-pro
- Travel-sized board games
- Playing cards
- JBL/ Speakers
This is a comprehensive list, and you may not need it all — it just depends on what type of trip you’re going on. If you plan of hiking most of the days and pitching a tent in different locations each night, for example, leave the board games at home and stock up on hiking essentials instead.
2. Eating and drinking essentials
Chances are you’ll have to prepare your own meals (there aren’t too many sit-down restaurants in the woods), so save some real estate in your bag for a portable kitchen. These items include:
- Camping stove with fuel
- Utensils (Both for cooking and eating)
- Lightweight, reusable water bottle
- Lightweight towel and soap
- Small cutting board
- Food
3. Personal items
Unless you’re going “glamping,” plan to be selective with your personal care items and bring only the basic necessities:
- Toilet paper
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray and itch relief
- Hand sanitizer
- First aid kit
- Toiletry kit (with a toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, soap etc.)
- Painkillers
4. Navigation tools
If you’ll be traveling to multiple spots, or plan to hike during the day, it’s important to have tools that’ll help guide you and ensure a safe trip. Here’s what to pack:
- Portable GPS
- Compass and map (It’s a good back-up for the GPS)
- Chargers (If you’ll be near any charging stations on your trip. Regardless, make sure all of your devices are fully charged before you leave.)
- Maps or a guidebook
- Pen or pencil
- Flashlights or headlamps (And extra batteries)
- Travel lantern
5. Camp necessities
Here’s what you’ll need to sleep as safely and comfortably as possible:
- Tent (Double check you have all the necessary poles and stakes)
- Sunshade or tarp
- Sleeping bags
- Sleeping pads or a light air mattress
- Travel pillows
- Folding chairs and table (if car camping)
- Pocket knife for any quick cutting needs
6. Entertainment
One of the best things about camping is spending uninterrupted quality time with friends and family, without the common high-tech distractions. Maximize the fun with these things:
- Binoculars
- Camera / Go-pro
- Travel-sized board games
- Playing cards
- JBL/ Speakers
This is a comprehensive list, and you may not need it all — it just depends on what type of trip you’re going on. If you plan of hiking most of the days and pitching a tent in different locations each night, for example, leave the board games at home and stock up on hiking essentials instead.
