What to Pack

Seriously, packing is the worst part of camping. There’s just so much to remember and forgetting something could lead to an outdoor disaster. Don’t make packing stressful and use the following resources to make your camping trip a breeze. Download our packing list and make sure you don’t leave anything behind. We make it easy to know what to pack for you camping road trip.

Not sure what to cook? No problem! Download our handy checklist to get you started or check out all the great recipes listed on our what to eat page.

The Main Gear

• Truck or SUV Tent
• Strap Protectors
• Tarp(s)
• Mat for Camping Entrance or screen room footprint
• Axe
• Hammer / Mallet
• Small Shovel
• Fire Starters
• Matches / Lighter
• Flashlights / Lanterns
• Fuel
• Table / Chairs
• Sleeping Bag
• Bed Sheets
• Extra Blankets
• Pillows
• Air Mattress 
• Sleeping Pad
• Air Pump

Fun Stuff

• Cards / Games
• Books / Magazines
• Cell Phone Charger
• Camera
• iPod / Radio
• Camera
• Fishing Gear / License
• Binoculars
• Bikes
• Canoe / Kayak
• Hammock
• Frisbee
• Glow Sticks
• Water Toys
• Kites
• Ball (Soccer, Football, etc.)

Hygiene 

• Shower Bag
• Bath Towel / Beach Towel
• Washcloths
• Shampoo / Conditioner
• Biodegradable Soap
• Toothbrush / Toothpaste / Floss
• Comb / Brush
• Razor / Shaving Cream
• Deodorant
• Lip Balm
• Lotion
• Sunscreen
• Aloe
• Bug Repellant
• First Aid / Band-aids
• Thermometer
• Medications
• Hand Sanitizer
• Small Mirror
• Nail Clippers
• Tweezers
• Toilet Paper
• Laundry Bag

Cooking

• Water Jug / Pump
• Water Filter
• Cooler / Ice
• Stove with Propane / Fuel
• Campfire Grill / BBQ Grill
• Skewers / Grill Forks
• Pots / Frying Pans
• Pot Holder / Hot Pad
• Cooking Oil / Spray
• Oven Mitts
• Cooking Utensils (Spatula, knife, tongs, etc.)
• Spoons
• Measuring Cups
• Can Opener
• Coffee Pot / French Press
• Cutting Board
• Plates / Bowls
• Mugs / Glasses
• Cutlery
• Tablecloth
• Aluminum Foil / Plastic Wrap
• Resealable Plastic Bags / containers
• Paper Towels / Napkins
• Garbage Bags
• Dish Soap
• Washing Bin
• Sponges / Scrubbers
• Drying Towel

Clothing

• Pants
• Shorts
• T-Shirts
• Tank Tops
• Long Sleeve Shirts
• Sweater / Sweatshirt
• Pajamas
• Socks
• Underwear
• Swimwear
• Jacket / Coat
• Hat
• Gloves
• Scarf / Bandana
• Sneakers
• Boots
• Sandals / Flip flops

Other Necessities 

• Compass
• Rope
• Pocket Knife / Multi-tool
• Headlamps
• Candles / Holders
• Extra Batteries
• Clothes Pins
• Sewing Kit
• Extension Cords
• Scissors
• Duct Tape
• Watch
• Sunglasses
• Umbrella
• Backpack
• Cash / Credit Cards / Wallet
• Driver’s License
• Medical Insurance Cards
• Health Cards
• Boating License
• Maps / Directions / Guides
• Reservations / Permits
• Area Information

Related Pages to Check Out:

• Where to go
• What to Eat
• National Plan a Vacation Day