Photo by: Vanessa Garcia Source: Pexels
Shelter & Bedding:
- Tent (with stakes and guylines)
- Ground tarp or footprint for under the tent
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad or air mattress
- Inflatable pillow
- Tent repair kit
Cooking & Food Supplies:
- Camping stove or portable grill
- Fuel or charcoal
- Lighter or matches (waterproof)
- Cooking pots and pans
- Utensils (fork, knife, spoon, spatula)
- Plates, bowls, and cups
- Biodegradable soap and sponge
- Food storage containers
- Cooler with ice packs
- Food and snacks
- Can opener
- Trash bags
- Food for campfire (e.g., marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers)
- Foil (for cooking)
- Food seasonings and condiments
Clothing:
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers)
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Warm hat for cold nights
- Gloves
- Hiking boots or shoes
- Extra socks and underwear
- Camp shoes or flip-flops
- Swimsuit (if needed)
Personal Items:
- Personal identification (ID, permits, reservations)
- Cash and credit cards
- Personal medications
- First-aid kit
- Sunscreen
- Bug repellent
- Towel and washcloth
- Biodegradable toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo)
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
- Prescription glasses/contact lenses with cleaning solution
Navigation & Communication:
- Map of the camping area
- Compass or GPS device
- Fully charged cell phone with portable charger
- Emergency whistle
- Itinerary left with a friend or family member
Lighting:
- Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Camping lantern
- Tent light
Entertainment:
- Books or e-reader
- Playing cards or board games
- Travel journal and pen
- Musical instrument (e.g., guitar, harmonica)
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Miscellaneous:
- Multi-tool or knife
- Duct tape (for quick fixes)
- Rope or paracord
- Camp chairs or portable seating
- Camp table
- Water bottles or hydration packs
- Water filter or purification tablets
- Camera or action cam
- Extra batteries or power bank
- Daypack for hikes
Safety:
- Bear spray or deterrent (if in bear country)
- First-aid kit
- Personal locator beacon (PLB)
- Emergency blanket
Leave No Trace:
- Biodegradable soap and cleaning supplies
- Trash bags (pack out all trash)
- Reusable cutlery and dishes to minimize waste
This checklist is designed to be comprehensive, but depending on your specific trip, location, and duration, some items may or may not be necessary. Ensure that you’ve personalized it to suit your needs. Safe camping!
