Your Complete Camping Essentials Check List
So we are going camping this spring break! We love camping—in fact, we used to go Tent camping all the time. But for the last few years, we’ve been spoiled by our travel trailer. However, this spring break, we’re heading to Big Bend, and since they don’t have many RV hookups, we’re going back to our roots and dusting off all our tent camping gear.
As I’m prepping for our trip, I thought I’d share my checklist so you can plan and prepare for your own camping adventure.
We’re a family of five—two adults and three teenagers—so my list is tailored for that, but you can adjust it for your needs. One of my best tips? Keep a plastic storage bin (like this one or this one) with all your camping essentials so you don’t have to repack everything each time. Trust me, no matter how well you plan, you’ll forget something or realize you need something you never thought of, so keep a running list in your phone to add to your camping box later!
Camping Essentials
– Tent (with stakes)
- I recommend sizing up! We have five people, but we use a 6-8, but sometimes I wish I had a 10-person tent. Maybe I’m a diva, but I like having extra room for everyone’s bags and a little breathing space.
- Single Person Tent
- 2-Person Tent or another option
- 4-Person Tent
- 6-Person Tent
- 8-Person Tent
– Ground tarp or footprint
- A must-have to protect your Tent from rocks and sticks. I recommend getting two tarps—one for under your Tent and one to hang up in case of rain.
- Affordable tarp options
– Sleeping bag (appropriate for the weather)
- Check the weather! I love a flannel-lined sleeping bag for coziness. If it’s warmer, you can sleep with it open and just use a sheet.
- Flannel-lined sleeping bag
- Hooded REI sleeping bag
– Sleeping pad or air mattress (with pump)
- I must have a pad to sleep on! You can get a budget option or go all out with the ultra-comfy MondoKing pad.
- Basic sleeping pad
- Luxury MondoKing pad
- Air mattress (Don’t forget a pump!) – Manual or car adapter pump
– Pillow (or stuff sack with clothes)
- You can bring your own or get a packable camping pillow.
Cooking & Food
– Camp stove (with fuel) or firewood
- Coleman Camping Stove (Don’t forget propane!) – Propane refills
- I also recommend a small grill:
– Lighter & waterproof matches – Get them here
– Cookware (pots, pans, utensils, spatula) – Bring your old kitchen gear or get a camping cookware kit. I like the ease of getting a set with a case, it helps keep things organized.
– Knife & cutting board – I love this set with a case.
– Plates, bowls, cups & cutlery – A set keeps things organized. Here’s a great option.
– Cooler & ice packs – I love a wheeled cooler for easy transport.
– Food & snacks – Keep it simple! Prep easy-to-cook meals ahead of time.
– Trash bags- I have forgotten these, and it’s no beuno!
Clothing & Footwear
– Pack appropriate layers! You can always take them off as you warm up! Plan for colder weather than you think; it is better to have and not need than need and not have! Think vests (here and here) and lighter jackets like this or this.
– Extra socks & underwear – Mereno Wool hiking socks are a lifesaver.
– Rain gear (jacket & pants) Here and here
– Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
– Sandals or slip-ons – Perfect for quick trips outside the Tent and for the campsite shower.
– Hat & gloves (if cold)
– Swimsuit (if needed)
Toiletries & Hygiene
– Toothbrush & toothpaste
– soap & shampoo Put all your toiletries in a large ziploc bag, shower caddie or bag to have all your stuff for shower trips. It is such a pain when you forget something so it’s nice to having everything iin one place! And don’t forget your shower proof shoes for the shower!
– Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
– Toilet papers – bring a few rolls.
– Bath Towel or Quick-dry towel
– Lip balm & sunscreen
– Bug spray
Tools & Safety
– First aid kit – HERE
– Medication – prescriptions and OTC for headaches, allergies or whatever!
– Multi purpose-tool or Knife is a very handy tool!
– Flashlight, lantern and headlamp (with extra batteries)- bring one for everyone so they can easily grab it when and if they go to the bathroom.
– Duct tape (for quick fixes)
– Paracord/rope – So useful! Grab some here.
– Emergency whistle
– Trowel for digging simple holes, and putting up your Tent…it’s a useful tool!
Extras & Comfort
– Camp chairs – Budget options or a rocking option and something a little more sleek.
– Hammock – For the ultimate relaxation (Don’t forget the straps!).
– Lantern or string lights – These are great for illuminating the campsite.Lanterns are great for illuminating your tent at night while you are getting ready for bed, reading or playing games inside if it’s raining
– Books or games
– Bluetooth speaker – play music at a reasonable volume; don’t be one of those people!
– Binoculars- here is a good qality pair that won’t break the bank
– Travel coffee maker or French press – You can Boil water on your camping stove. Camping or not, I must have my morning coffee!
Miscellaneous
– Water bottles (here and Here) or hydration packs (here ),
– Hiking backpack – You may or may not be doing a lot of hiking, but having a small backpack to put your stuff in, hold your water bottles, and carry around as a day pack is so nice, this is optional but I highly recommend it!
– Trail snacks
– Cash & ID
– Park pass or permits (if needed) – Research your hikes and activities in advance!
Camping is such a fun and simple way to get out and enjoy nature! Yes, it takes some planning, preparation, and gear, but once you have your essentials packed and ready, all that’s left to do is relax and enjoy the adventure!
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