Having a complete camping checklist before leaving on a trip is absolutely essential. Checklists can help new and intermediate campers remember, collect and bring the right equipment.
Personally, I always tend to create a list of camping equipment that I need to bring so that nothing is forgotten and left at home. My camping checklist is then shared with fellow campers so that everyone can coordinate what’s being brought.
So, to help you create your own list of equipment to bring camping, check out the following universal camping checklist!
Article Contents:
Tent and Sleeping System
A camping sleeping system starts with a proper tent. You need to bring a single tent (or multiple tents) large enough for all campers to sleep comfortably and potentially some additional gear.
Each camper also needs bedding supplies. Additionally, a tarp might be required which can be used to protect your tent from rain.
- Tent
- Tent footprint
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Pillow
- Tarp
- Rope for tarp
Kitchen and Cooking
Cooking while camping can be relatively easy if you bring the right gear.
Personally, I don’t like to over complicate my camp kitchen. I bring a single stove, a fry pan, and a pot. I can then cook anything easily, from scrambled eggs to a steak!
So, you need to bring proper food storage, food preparation, cooking, eating, disposal equipment and supplies.
And, depending on where you camp, adequate water collection and purification equipment.
- Cooler
- Food barrel
- Rope for food barrel
- Camp stove
- Butane / Propane / Liquid Fuel
- Frying pan
- Cutting board
- Spice wheel
- Pot
- Plate
- Bowl
- Utensil set (fork / spoon / knife)
- Camp suds
- Dish sponge
- Kitchen towel
- Water filter / purification tablets
- Water jug
- Cooking knife
- Silicon spatula
- Wooden cooking spoon
- Can opener
- Garbage bag
- Organics bag
Fire-Making
Making a fire is definitely a must when camping and only requires a few key pieces of equipment.
Check out my article on how to start a campfire if you need step-by-step instructions. Or, better yet, check out my how-to video (linked below).
- Hatchet / axe
- Folding saw
- Lighter / matches
- Fire starter
Toiletries and Hygiene
My personal philosophy when it comes to camping is to keep my toiletries as simple and basic as possible.
However, you should bring any additional supplies to feel comfortable and clean to maintain your level of hygiene.
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Toilet paper
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Feminine hygiene products
Electronics
Any electronics that you end up bringing camping needs to functional.
Depending on the duration and location of your camping trip, you might need access to additional power to keep your electronics running.
And if you’re in the backcountry, you might need equipment to navigate and contact help in an emergency.
- Headlamp
- Battery bank
- Solar charger
- Phone charging cable
- GPS device
- Emergency transponder
Miscellaneous
The rest of the camping equipment you need helps to elevate your camping experience.
Camp chairs, hammocks, fishing gear, and even board games are great to bring.
Finally, tools, med-kits, and maps keep you ready for anything nature throws your way!
- Backpack / daypack
- Medical kit
- Camp chair
- Hammock
- Water bottle / hydration bladder
- Park maps
- Compass
- Lantern
- Multi-tool
- Ropes
- Fishing pole + tackle box
- Board games
Dog Gear
Camping with my dog is one of the reasons I enjoy the outdoors so much.
My dog’s camping equipment is fairly simple. However, some dogs require additional gear depending on the type of camping that you do.
- Pop-up bowls
- Leash
- Dog food
- Collar bell
- Lifejacket
Pro-tip: Check out my article on how to camp with a dog for more information!
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