Camping Gear Checklist

Don't leave home without checking this list...twice!

 

There is nothing worse than getting out into the woods and discovering some important camping item you left behind.  There is probably something we have left off our camping gear checklist, but we haven't figured out what it is.

 

Enjoying the great outdoors with your family means being prepared.  Here is a good start! 

 

CAMPING GEAR Checklist

 

While quantities may vary according to the size of your tent, the length of your trip and the number of people in your group, your basic camping kit will comprise the following items:

 

 

BASICS

Tent

Fly

Tarp

Tent pegs

Tent poles

Guy ropes

Hammer

Portable lights, Flashlights, or lantern

Fold-up table

Chairs

Tent repair kit

Large water container (for storage)

Small water container (for personal use)

Sleeping Gear

 

What you sleep on depends on what you feel comfortable with and how much space you have in your vehicle to transport it. As a minimum you will need to pack:

 

Sleeping bag

Sleeping Pad, Air Mattress, Etc.

Blankets

Pillows (inflatable or conventional)

Cooking Equipment

 

You don't need much cooking equipment. Most of your camp cooking and food preparation can be done using a simple kit:

 

  • Portable gas stove

  • Stand for gas stove

  • Pans

  • Waterproof matches

  • Cutlery

  • Utensils - long fork, large slotted spoon and tongs

  • Can opener

  • Plates and bowls

  • Grill

  • Skillet

If you prefer to cook with a fire, add these items to the list:

 

  • Firewood

  • Old newspaper (for lighting fire

  • Extra matches

  • Fire starters (never use liquid fuels such as kerosene)

  • Barbecue cleaning equipment

  • Ax

  • Campfire tripod

 

Note some areas don't permit fires, or have restrictions on the collection of firewood. At other times total fire bans may be in place, necessitating the use of a gas stove. To be safe, always bring a gas stove - even if you plan to cook using firewood.

For cleaning up afterwards, you'll need:

 

  • Bucket

  • Paper towels

  • towel

  • Portable sink

  • Scourers

  • Disposable wipes

  • Mild biodegradable detergent

  • Plastic bags or garbage bags for food scraps

  • Personal hygiene and toiletries

Camping Gear Checklist PDF for Easy Printing

tent
backpack
axe

Your basics need to include enough of the following to last your trip:

  • Soap

  • Shampoo

  • Toothpaste

  • Toothbrush

  • Towel

  • Toilet paper

 

If going to remote locations without facilities you may wish to consider:

  • Portable shower

  • Portable toilet

  • Additional Clothing

 

In addition to your normal clothes, it is important to allow for bad weather conditions. You should take:

  • Boots

  • Rain gear

  • Spare clothing (kept dry)

  • Hat

  • Light long-sleeved shirt for sun protection

  • Cold-weather clothing

 

Safety is paramount. On any camping trip, it is important to pack these essential safety items and have them at the ready:

  • Flashlight

  • Spare batteries

  • Mobile phone

  • Mobile-phone car charger

  • Maps

  • First aid kit

  • Compass

While you might think you do not need maps for navigation, it is important to have maps on hand. Road maps can help you explain where you have broken down. A fire extinguisher is a vital part of your safety equipment.