Doing last-minute packing for a camping trip is often the greatest barrier to getting out and enjoying the outdoors. Forgotten essentials can turn what would have been a great trip into an uncomfortable and disappointing experience. Camping USA’s Tent Camping Checklist will help you get on the road with all the essentials to ensure an enjoyable trip.
Tent Camping Checklist
- At least 1/2 gallon per person/day — Water filter if relying on natural water sources
- Water bottle, to carry while hiking
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Shade Canopy & Rope & Stakes
- Extra pair(s) of shoes
- Pillows
- Overhead rain tarps (not just shade).
- Mattress or pad – Inflator for air mattress
- Hats
- Camp axe or hammer to pound tent stakes
- Large (18-30 gal) Rubbermaid(tm) container for food storage
- Ice Chests
- ICE!
- Backpack, daypack, and/or fanny pack
- Portapotty with grocery bag liner (easy cleanup)
- Two way radio(s) (ham, CB, Family)
- Small shovel
- Rope or String
- sunblock
- Pocket Tool
- Guitar/Harmonicas/Other musical instrument(s)
- Fishing pole and gear (+ license & bait!)
- Compass and Map
- Camp Chairs
- Small Folding Table
- Canoe or boat
- Camera w/good battery and extra film
- Binoculars
- Bike/Seats/Helmets
- Basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)
- Flashlight and/or headlamp
- Gas lantern (and/or electric)
- Camp Stove (two burner for families and one burner for individuals)
- Firewood
- Table cloth for picnic tables
- BACON!
Personal Cleaning Items
- Bar soap
- Comb/hair brush/clips/bands/hair ties
- Contact lens supplies
- Deodorant
- Dish rack
- Dishwashing soap and rubber gloves
- Feminine supplies
- Hand Sanitizer (waterless)
- Laundry Detergent (biodegradeable preferred)
- Make-up bag
- Razor & shaving cream
- Shampoo
- To save space, unroll toilet paper and reroll it and put inside the tube
- Toilet Paper
- Toothpaste & toothbrush
- Towel
- Washcloth
- Whisk broom to clean table and tent site