Are you ready to decompress in the glory of Mother Nature? Camping is a classic summer family trip that can and should be taken every year, even just for a weekend. If you are prepared with the essential camping gear, the trips will always be a low budget expense.
Bringing your family out into a natural environment surrounded by the elements, will help everyone disconnect from their devices and appreciate life for what’s in front of them.
If you have never been camping before, and this is your first time, being prepared with some basics can help make the process fun and seamless.
This is a classic summer activity for children of all ages (easier to manage when children are about 4 and up) and doesn’t cost too much once you are invested.
Just so that you are prepared and ready to go out on your camping adventure, we’ve provided you with a free family-camping checklist. You can also use this checklist if you are camping with friends.
On this list, you will find all the necessities for a fun and successful trip and, don’t forget – it’s printable. Use it for packing inspiration or once you’ve gathered most of your stuff, to check if there anything else missing.
Print out your FREE family camping checklist.
Make a Plan:
- Schedule for a weekend, or holiday weekend
- Pick a duration (3 days, 5 days)
- Research and book your campsite, do you need electrical hook ups, water, access to a River?
- Make a backup plan in case of poor weather conditions
- If you have small children, try camping in your backyard first, as a trial of how you could manage it.
Pack the Essential Gear:
- Tents, picks, and sledge hammer
- Tarp (for added protection from the elements)
- Air mattress(es) and inflatable sofas!
- Sleeping bags, if you are backpacking
- Folding lawn chairs, make sure to pick comfortable ones like these
- Folding table – you will need a surface to layout your food and equipment
- Blanket(s) – to add a cozy and homey feel to your trip
- Pillows – what’s a life of luxury?
- Lantern/flashlight – for when night falls.
- Clothesline (for hanging wet swimwear and towels)
Prep Your Outdoor Kitchen:
- Cooler and Ice (Ice packs work best)
- Cast-iron skillet (easy to clean with salt and water)
- Portable charcoal or electric grill, depending on campground hookups.
- Matches, lighter, and lighter fluid
- Chef’s knife, and pairing knives
- Slim Cutting boards
- Meat thermometer
- Skewers (disposable wooden or metal)
- Tongs (metal preferably)
- Large and small bowls and plates
- Aluminum foil
- Cutlery (try these eco friendly versions)
- Napkins and Paper Towels
- Cups/water bottles
- Water jug
- Trash bags (don’t forget this essential item)
- Dishwashing liquid and sponges
Food items to bring:
- Breakfast, like these make-ahead meals
- Lunch and Dinner foods
- Healthy snacks (raisins, nuts, fruit)
- Water
- Juice and Tea
- Your alcoholic spirit of choice
Personal Items:
- An outfit per day
- Sleepwear
- Bathing suit
- Waterproof Sneakers
- Rain Jacket and Boots (check weather in advance)
- Toiletries (Toothbrush, Floss, Comb, Etc)
- Wallet, Phone, Keys
- Several Towels
- Toilet paper
Have a Little Fun:
- Lawn games (good for physical activity)
- Beach toys (for the kiddos)
- Stationary table activities
- Flashlights and Storybooks
- Radio and tablets (tech in moderation)
Keep Safety in Mind:
- First aid kit (A simple travel kit like this)
- Bug spray (this natural one works wonders)
- Extra batteries (rechargeable is better)
- Sunscreen (again, go for natural)
- Life jackets (especially for children)
Don’t Forget:
- Your car charger and backup external battery
- Device chargers
- Camera
- Umbrellas
