The Beginner’s Basic Camping Checklist

There are a number of items you should never leave home without, regardless of whether you’re roughing it or renting an RV. From bedding to kitchenware to clothing, we have everything you need.

Everyone should go camping at least once in their lifetime, but it can be complicated, so before you go, a camping checklist can help. There are a few essentials that you just cannot leave home without, even though some campers choose to rough it in a tent or rent an RV.

We wanted to ensure that you have the best camping experience possible and return home with great memories—which is why we’ve created a list of all the items you’ll need on your camping trip. From clothes to kitchen supplies and gear to help you sleep, we’ve got you covered. Check it out below.

Camping checklist by category

There are a lot of things to consider when going on a camping trip, and it can be hard to keep them all in order. It can help to break down your camping checklist into different categories like sleep, tools, food, clothes, and hygiene so you don’t miss anything.

Campsite setup essentials

Below each category, you’ll find our list of camping essentials, or the basic things you’ll need during a camping trip. While it may not be clear why certain items are listed, you’ll understand exactly why these items need to be brought along when you’re in the wilderness sleeping under the stars.

Sleep

A Mountain Summit Gear cot — Sleep warmer and cozier with a camping cot that keeps you off the cold ground and replaces the need for a sleeping pad. We like the sturdy steel frame and 300-pound weight capacity on this **Mountain Summit**

Ground tarp
Sleep pad or cot
Sleeping bag or bedding
Pillow
Ear plugs
Eye mask

Tools

A Duracell lantern — You can use a camping lantern to read a book under the stars, light your camping kitchen for a late-night dinner, or accompany you on a dark walk to the bathroom. We like that this **Duracell lantern** works via solar or rechargeable batteries, and has a handle to hang it.

Lanterns
Flashlight or headlamp
Multi-tool
Fire starter
Paracord
Portable phone power bank
Portable power station (optional)
Satellite communications device (optional)

Kitchen

Cooking equipment (grill, griddle, etc.)
Cooking fuel
Cooking pans (skillet, cast iron skillet, saucepan)
Spatulas
Utensils
Trash bags
Ice chest/cooler
Water bottle
Paper towels
Plates
Cutting board
Knife
Cooking oil
Resealable bags
Cups/mug

Clothing & footwear

A pair of Smartwool socks — A comfy pair of hiking socks is a must for multiple days on the trail. Plus, wool hiking socks do the trick when you want to keep your feet warm at night while tent camping. We love the light cushioning and secure arch fit on these **Hike Classic Edition crew socks.** Check the price at Smartwool.PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY SMARTWOOL

Waterproof or resistant shoes or boots
Slide-on shoes
Moisture-wicking shirts
Hiking bottoms
Hat
Merino wool socks
Light jacket, sweater, or sweatshirt
Moisture-wicking undergarments (bra and underwear)
Sunglasses

Health & hygiene

A red Surviveware first aid kit — It’s always a good idea to have a first-aid kit while camping. Between chopping wood and making fires to hiking blisters and bug bites, you never know when you’ll need it.

Toilet paper
Biodegradable body wash and shampoo and/or body wipes
Sunscreen
Bug repellant
Medical kit
Hand sanitizer
Lip balm
Deodorant
Hair products (dry shampoo, hair bands, head bands, etc.)
Small shovel (optional)
Shower shoes (optional)
Camping shower (optional)

Camping checklist to-do’s

Before you hit the road on your camping adventure, there are quite a few things you need to do to keep you safe and secure for the entirety of your trip.

• Book a campsite that fits the type of camping you want to do. Is the campsite suitable for tent camping or RVs? Does it have water and/or electricity? Do you need a restroom with showers nearby? Is there a grill on the site? Can you build a fire at the campsite, and is it outfitted with a built-in grill or fire pit?

• Plan your meals and buy groceries, ice, and all camping essentials.

• Fill up on gas and check the tire pressure and oil levels of your car.

• Pack an emergency kit in your car (for example, jumper cables or portable battery jumper, first aid kit, water/snacks, flashlight, basic set of tools, etc.)

• Bring your cell phone and a charging bank, especially if there is no electricity at the campsite. You may also want to invest in a satellite communications device if you don’t expect cell phone service.

• Download off-line maps to your destination and/or hiking maps.

• Inform someone where you’ll be and provide them with the phone number and address of the campsite in case you need to be contacted.

• Have a friend or neighbor watch your home, take care of your pets or plants, get your mail, etc.

Camping checklist by season

Depending on when you want to camp, you may need some additional or different gear and tools that will make your camping experience more comfortable. Below we’ve listed camping essentials that can help you survive the varying environmental elements of a particular season.

Summer camping essentials