Reconnect with nature (and your family!) by planning a camping trip. This classic summer activity is fun for all ages and easy on the budget. If you’re a camping newbie, it can be quite daunting to plan your first trip, especially when it comes to packing. That’s why we put together the ultimate family camping checklist. On this list, you’ll find all of the necessities for a successful trip—plus, it’s printable. Happy camping!
Print out your FREE family camping checklist.
Make a Plan:
- Pick a date
- Determine how long you want to camp
- Reserve your campsite
- Make a rain contingency plan (and consider these other brilliant camping tricks).
- If you have small children, consider doing a trial run in the backyard. Here’s our ultimate guide to the activity.
Pack the Essential Gear:
- Tent and stakes
- Tarp
- Air mattress(es)
- Sleeping bags
- Folding lawn chairs
- Folding table
- Blanket(s)
- Pillows
- Lantern/flashlight
- Clothesline (for hanging wet swimwear and towels)
Prep Your Outdoor Kitchen:
- Cooler + ice
- Cast-iron skillet (You’ll want it to make these tasty breakfast recipes.)
- Portable grill (+ charcoal and lighter fluid)
- Matches/lighter
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Meat thermometer
- Skewers
- Tongs
- Large/small bowls
- Aluminum foil
- Plates
- Cutlery
- Napkins
- Cups/water bottles
- Water jug
- Trash bags
- Sanitizing wipes
- Paper towels
Bring Our Best Camping Recipes:
- Breakfast for each day
- Lunch for each day
- Dinner for each day
- S’mores supplies (Here are fun new ways to make ’em.)
- Portable snacks
- Water
- Juice
- Beer/wine/liquor
These are 14 easy camping breakfast ideas for your camping trip.
Personal Items:
- Clothing
- Pajamas
- Bathing suit
- Shoes
- Rain gear
- Toiletries
- Wallet
- Towels
Have a Little Fun:
- Board games (These are our top picks.)
- Lawn games
- Beach toys
- Coloring books + crayons
- Books + magazines
Keep Safety in Mind:
- First aid kit (You can find a lot of first aid remedies in your pantry!)
- Bug spray
- Extra batteries
- Sunscreen
- Life jackets (if you’re going in the water)
- Baby wipes
- Toilet paper
Don’t Forget:
- A map or compass (you might not always have cell service!)
- Camera
- Umbrella
- Cellphone charger
This article was originally published by Taste of Home.
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