Whether you are heading out for your very first camping trip or simply want to make sure you have not forgotten anything important, having a solid packing list makes all the difference. In this guide everything is broken down into five simple categories so it is easy to follow and even easier to check off before you leave.
If you are tent camping, a good quality tent does not have to be expensive. The Ozark Trail tent from Walmart is a reliable, budget friendly option and comfortably fits two people. It is a great starting point if you are new to camping and not yet sure how often you will go. There is no need to invest in expensive gear until you know camping is something you will do regularly.
If you are traveling from far away and do not want to bring a tent, many campgrounds and outdoor gear shops offer rental equipment - worth checking before you buy.
A comfortable sleep setup is one of the most important parts of a good camping experience. There is no reason to sleep uncomfortably outdoors.
Inflatable twin mattress
Pillows
Comforter or blankets
Pro tip: Always pack warmer bedding than you think you will need. Temperatures drop significantly at night outdoors, even in summer. It is always better to be too warm than too cold π
Fire starter cubes or fire starter liquid and a lighter
Tongs
Portable camp stove
Butane fuel canisters - approximately 8 canisters for a 3 day trip
Firewood - available for purchase at or near most campgrounds so no need to bring your own
These are the items that are easy to forget but make a significant difference once you are out there.
Headlamp or flashlight - campsites have no street lights and it gets very dark at night
Bug spray
Sunscreen
Rain jacket or poncho - weather can change quickly outdoors
Basic first aid kit including bandages, pain reliever and anti-itch cream
Trash bags β one of the most commonly forgotten items and absolutely essential
Drinking water - most campgrounds provide water on site but it is not suitable for drinking. Always bring your own supply of drinking water in gallon jugs
Camp chairs
Clothesline
Cooler - essential if you are cooking with any perishable ingredients
Disposable utensils or basic cookware
Disinfectant wipes, paper towels and dish soap
For a complete printable and downloadable Camping Checklist covering everything mentioned above and more, download the free PDF. You can print it out before your trip or use it as a reference while packing.Β
This guide is part of the Camping For Beginners series by Getaway On Wheels. For an even more detailed look at the full camping bin setup, check out the pinned video on the TikTok page. Episode 3 is all about building a campfire! Follow along at @getawayonwheels on TikTok and Instagram so you do not miss it π₯ποΈ