Camping Checklist

Camping is a fun way to enjoy time outside with family, friends or even just yourself. And there are myriad ways (and places) to do it. You can camp with just the essentials or zhuzh up your site with blankets, pillows, a hammock and more. You can pitch a tent in many state and national parks, at private campgrounds, in the backcountry or even in your own backyard. (For more info, read Where Can I Camp?)Most campsites include a picnic table, a place to park your vehicle and a spot to pitch your tent. Many also have shared bathrooms and running water (though you'll want to check this before setting out).Part of the joy of camping is needing very little gear to exist outdoors. But it's also nice to have a comfortable, convenient and homey setup. If it's your first time camping, it might be best to borrow or rent some of these things. As you become a more experienced camper, you may find that part of the fun is figuring out what to bring along to meet your needs.While you're packing, use this handy camping checklist to make sure you don't forget anything important and to make sure you've stocked up on the things you need. This is a comprehensive list, so we don't expect you to bring along every item—though we won't judge you if you do!Printer-friendly version (PDF)CampsiteThese are important items for your camping essentials checklist:Tent (and footprint, stakes)Sleeping bagsSleeping padsCamping pillowHeadlamps or flashlights (and extra batteries)Camp chairsCamp table (if no picnic table)Lantern (and mantles and fuel/batteries if needed)Optional:Sunshade, tarp or screen houseHammockCotsSleeping bag linersFirewood sourced near campsiteCamp rugTablecloth and clips (or tape)Clothesline with clipsTools & Repair ItemsMulti-toolDuct tapeExtra cordTent-pole repair sleevePad/Mattress repair kitMallet or hammer (for hammering tent stakes)Saw or axe (for cutting firewood)Small broom and dustpanKitchenMany campgrounds have drinkable water. If not, bring your own, or be prepared to treat water if there's a water source. Also, for even more ideas and food suggestions, see our separate Camp Kitchen Checklist.Stove and fuelMatches/light/firestarterCook pots (and pot holder)Frying panEating utensilsCooking utensilsBottle opener, can opener, corkscrewSharp knifePlates/bowlsMugs/cupsCutting boardCoolerIce or ice substitutesWater bottlesCamp sink or wash binsBiodegradable soapPot scrubber/sponge(s)Trash/recycling bagsDish towelOptional:Camp grill and fuelGrill rackGriddleDutch ovenCharcoalPortable coffee/tea makerRolling ice cream makerMarshmallow/hot dog roasting forksSmall food-storage containers/bags/foilLarge water jugsLarge, clear plastic bins to store kitchen gearCampsite ExtrasMost of the following items are optional, though depending on how remote your campsite is, navigation tools such as a map, compass and/or GPS may be required (for more info, read about the Ten Essentials).Solar and portable powerBinocularsNavigation toolsField guides (flowers, insects)Star chart/night-sky identifierBook/reading materialNotebook and pen/pencilMusic player with headphonesGames and toysDog gearDry bags, stuff sacks or clear plastic bins to store itemsClothing & FootwearMoisture-wicking underwearMoisture-wicking T-shirtsQuick-drying pants/shortsLong-sleeve shirts (for sun, bugs)Lightweight fleece or jacketBoots or shoes suited to terrainSocks (synthetic or wool)SleepwearAdditional items for rainy and/or cold weather:Rainwear (jacket and pants)Long underwearWarm insulated jacket or vestFleece pantsGloves or mittensWarm hatOptional:SwimsuitsWater sandalsIn-camp sandals or bootiesBandanasHealth & HygieneToilet paperHand sanitizerToothbrush and toothpasteToiletry kitQuick-dry towelMenstrual productsPrescription medicationsFirst-aid kit or first-aid supplies (see First-Aid Checklist)Sun and bug protection:SunscreenSunglasses (and sunglasses straps)Sun hatLip balmInsect repellentInsect repellent deviceOptional:Urinary productsSanitation trowel (if no toilets)Baby wipesAlcohol or antiseptic wipesMirrorBrush/combCosmeticsSpare eyeglasses/contact lens suppliesEyeshadesEarplugsPortable camp showerPersonal ItemsCredit card and/or cashIDCellphoneCampsite reservation confirmation (if required)**Recreation.gov is a great resource for public lands campsite reservations; Hipcamp is a great resource for private lands campsite reservations.Video: What to Take Camping