We have the complete guide to camping for beginners available, whether you want to take the kids out for a weekend in nature or find a solo escape from the city.
By following step-by-step instructions, you can confidently ensure that you have not forgotten any important items at home or that there will be an adequate supply of toilet paper at the campsite. In this guide, we provide a comprehensive list of everything you should pack in your vehicle before leaving for a peaceful vacation, as well as guidance on the necessary actions to take upon arrival at the camp.
When camping at a drive-in campsite, packing becomes simpler compared to backpacking or being in the backcountry since there is no need to be concerned about weight or carrying all your belongings on your back. Hence, you can bring along some extra comfort items and fully enjoy your camping adventure!
Make sure to check out our Camping Gear Checklist for a comprehensive guide on all the items you’ll require.
If you plan to go camping, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what items to bring with you. A checklist can greatly assist you in saving time on research and making some preparations. This guide is specifically designed for car campers with limited outdoor knowledge, making it ideal for beginners who are going camping for the first time.
Camp Gear for Beginners
Tent
When considering a camping tent, it’s important to think about the weather and desired size. It serves as a comfortable shelter in nature, providing warmth and protection from rain or snow.
Our best camping tents roundup offers a variety of options, and the ideal tent for you can be found based on personal preference, considering that a three-season tent is always a reliable option.
If your tent does not include a footprint, you can use a tarp to protect the tent floor from the ground, thus ensuring the interior remains dry and pleasant.
Even high-priced tents may come with low-quality stakes. Confirm the stakes’ durability and strength before departing. If car camping, remember to bring a rubber mallet for effortless securing of the tent and tarp corners.
Sleeping Pad & Bag
One concern that people often have when preparing for their initial camping experience is if they will be able to sleep. The solution to ensuring a good night’s sleep is utilizing a sleeping pad or air mattress.
For beginners who are planning to go camping, we suggest using air mattresses or sleeping pads equipped with an air pump. By doing so, you will be elevated from the ground and provided with extra insulation during colder nights. To find some suggestions, be sure to refer to our yearly selection of the top sleeping pads.
To ensure a restful night’s sleep, it is important to consider your sleeping bag. Regardless of whether you opt for synthetic or down fill, ensure that the comfort rating matches the anticipated weather conditions. For instance, if you predict a nighttime low of 25 degrees Fahrenheit, selecting a bag with a 22-degree rating or lower would be advisable.
The Best Camping Sleeping Bags of 2023
From affordable choices to versatile camping bags, we have compiled a list of the top sleeping bags that cater to every budget and purpose. Continue reading to learn more.
Pillow
If you’re not backpacking, you should definitely relish the luxury of having a pillow while camping. There is a wide range of inflatable camping pillows to select from. However, if you’re traveling to the campsite by car, nothing compares to the comfort of your beloved pillow from home.
For beginners, a helpful tip is to ensure that your tent and sleep system are set up in an upright position as soon as you arrive at the campsite. It is considerably more time-consuming to set up a tent, inflate an air mattress, and arrange your sleeping bag in darkness. Additionally, if you have no prior experience in setting up a tent, it is advisable to practice doing so at home before embarking on your trip.
Toiletries
Towel
If you’re dry camping, you won’t have the option of using communal showers like those found in many campgrounds, which are convenient for staying clean.
Instead of bringing your bathroom towels, opt for a microfiber travel towel which is convenient to pack into a duffel bag or daypack. It also dries rapidly when hung on a tree or clothesline.
Toilet Paper
Make sure to bring toilet paper with you! It’s always a wise decision to have your own, even if the campsite claims to have all the necessary facilities.
When considering the process, each individual should bring a small bag containing their necessary hygiene items for a weekend, including items such as prescription medications, travel-sized toothpaste and toothbrush, a small comb or brush, a travel-sized bottle of shampoo (or a bar), lip balm, and items for menstrual care.
Sun & Bug Protection
When you go camping, you typically spend the whole day being exposed to the sun. It is important to wear sunblock, even if the weather is cloudy. Additionally, depending on where and when you are camping, it is also a good idea to invest in bug spray.
First-Aid Kit
You will only require a single first-aid kit for your whole group. Although severe injuries are less probable, small cuts and scrapes are quite frequent, especially if you have adventurous children!
Include essential items such as bandages, gauze, tweezers, as well as over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and antihistamines in your pack.
Camp Accessories
Lighting
It is important to have a few lighting options. A cheap headlamp or flashlight is necessary for finding items in your tent at night or going to the bathrooms on a midnight stroll.
Consider trying out rechargeable lanterns, such as the solar-powered inflatable Luci lantern, during dinner or family game time at the camp.
Camp Chairs & Table
In addition to bringing lighting, it is important not to overlook bringing a few chairs and a table. Although certain campgrounds might offer picnic tables, these tables are not suitable for sitting around the fire.
Camp chairs are typically constructed from long-lasting nylon material, which results in their lightweight, foldable nature that facilitates easy portability. They are highly suitable for leisurely activities at the camping site and can conveniently be relocated to shaded areas, sunny spots, or brought together for socializing around the campfire during nighttime.
In the event that you already have a picnic table at your campsite, it is still advantageous to have a lightweight folding table as it provides extra surface area for food and beverages. We have conducted evaluations on some camping tables that we particularly prefer, and their details can be found below.
WHAT TO WEAR WHEN CAMPING IN THE SPRING AND SUMMER
1. MOISTURE-WICKING CLOTHING
During the spring and summer seasons, it is highly probable that you will perspire when you are outdoors. It is essential to possess particular clothing items for your camping expedition, such as shirts or tank tops that are designed to wick away moisture. These shirts are crafted from a technologically advanced polyester material that effectively soaks up sweat and dampness from your body. Such attire assists in keeping you cool, even when confronted with scorching temperatures during the spring and summer months.
Men’s moisture-wicking shirts and women’s moisture-wicking shirts come in a variety of options that can be a lifesaver on a hot spring or summer day. These shirts are perfect for activities such as exploring the campground, hiking, or engaging in other outdoor activities.
2. SUN HAT
When planning a camping trip, it is essential to pack a variety of hats. Bringing both a wide-brim hat and a regular ball cap or visor is highly recommended as they are ideal for both relaxing at the campsite and exploring the surroundings. These suitable caps will provide sun protection and prevent bugs from bothering your face.
If the weather forecast for your camping trip calls for ample sunshine, it is essential to have hats. Explore various options of sun hats and hats that offer SPF protection to pack for your camping trip.
3. QUICK-DRYING SOCKS
To prepare for your camping trip, make sure to bring a sufficient amount of socks to match with your sneakers, boots, and other closed-toe shoes. Among the top choices for camping socks are those that are durable and quick-drying. As you explore the outdoors, encountering muddy trails, puddles, and damp environments is inevitable, making quick-drying socks essential for keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
When searching for quick-dry socks, make sure to choose thin pairs to prevent your feet from becoming too hot in the hot spring or summer days. You can find quick-dry socks for both men and women to wear while hiking or exploring the campground.
4. QUICK-DRYING SHORTS AND PANTS
Although it may seem like a good idea to pack jeans, it is important to have comfortable bottoms suitable for walking in nature. Including quick-drying pants and shorts in your camping trip luggage will be one of the optimal clothing choices for exploring the surrounding environment.
These pants are made out of a mixture of polyester, spandex and nylon. This combination of materials makes the bottoms quick-drying, moisture-wicking and breathable. There are even options that are water-resistant. Check out different styles of men’s quick-drying pants and women’s quick-drying pants for an excellent addition to your camping wardrobe.
5. LAYERS
Although daytime temperatures might be higher in the spring and summer, it is possible for nighttime temperatures to be cool at your destination. Simply wearing a T-shirt and shorts may not be sufficient during a chilly night. Therefore, it is advisable to pack some layering items in your suitcase to provide additional warmth on such nights.
When preparing for cooler days or nights on your trip, make sure to pack a variety of extra layers such as sweatpants, joggers, long socks, long-sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, and more. It is important for campers to always be prepared with layers to ensure comfort, even if they believe they may not require them.
6. RAIN JACKET
It is important to bring a rain jacket on your camping trip regardless of whether the weather forecast predicts rain or not. Rainy days are common during both spring and summer seasons. Moreover, certain locations tend to experience sudden rain showers throughout the day, hence having a rain jacket is essential to stay dry while being outdoors.
If the weather forecast for your upcoming trip indicates rainstorms, it may be wise to pack rain gear such as ponchos, rainboots, and other waterproof clothing to ensure you stay dry and make the most of your time. You can find various options for men’s and women’s rain jackets to take along on your next camping expedition.
7. SWIMSUIT
If the campground you plan to visit provides access to a body of water, such as a swimming pool, it is essential not to overlook the necessity of bringing a swimsuit. During the spring and summer months, when the weather is delightful, it presents an ideal opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim.
8. WATER SHOES
Do you have any plans to swim in a lake or discover a river during your camping expedition? A pair of water shoes would provide foot protection without compromising your enjoyment of the water. It would be wise to include water shoes in your camping attire checklist for a delightful experience while swimming and exploring.
WHAT TO WEAR WHEN CAMPING IN THE FALL AND WINTER
1. BEANIE OR WINTER HAT
In addition to shielding your head, face, and shoulders from the sun, it is essential to carry a hat during your camping expedition to ensure warmth. If you anticipate cold temperatures either in the day or night, a beanie or winter hat is necessary camping gear.
If you’re looking to stay warm during hiking, sitting by a campfire, or engaging in any campsite activity, a knit cap, wool hat, or fuzzy winter hat will provide the necessary comfort. You can find suitable winter and fall hats for your upcoming camping trip.
2. LAYERS
Campers have relied on layering for years when camping in the winter and fall time, as it is essential to stay warm. There are three levels of layering: the base layer, mid-layer, and outer layer.
The clothing trick for camping adventures involves three layers. The first layer comprises thermal gear for warmth, the second layer consists of shirts and fleece jackets, and the third layer comprises waterproof jackets and pants. This clothing arrangement ensures comfort and safety. As the temperature rises, removing the outer layer keeps you cool, while adding it back helps maintain warmth.
3. WOOL SOCKS
Ensure that your camping experience remains cozy by wearing a reliable pair of wool socks to keep your feet and toes warm. These socks not only shield you from potential health risks like hypothermia when the temperature plummets, but also come in a variety of colors and thickness options to meet your needs. It is essential to verify that your thicker socks fit snugly in your hiking or snow boots that you plan to bring along for your camping excursion.
4. GLOVES
In order to stay warm during chilly weather predicted by the forecast, it is important to ensure that you have all the necessary clothing items and accessories. One essential item to remember to bring along is a pair of gloves or mittens.
For your camping trip, make sure to bring gloves suitable for the anticipated weather conditions. If the forecast predicts snow and you are going to a campground, it would be ideal to bring a thick pair of snow gloves that are water repellent. On the other hand, if you are camping during the fall and expect cooler weather throughout your trip, having a thin pair of gloves or mittens would be beneficial.
Make sure to properly dry your wet gloves so that you can maintain warm hands because wearing soaking wet mittens will offer little protection against the elements.
5. WATERPROOF JACKET
A waterproof jacket will help keep you warm when it is cold outside and protect your other clothing layers from getting wet, as the weather during the fall and winter seasons can be unpredictable, regardless of whether it is sunny, raining, or snowing.
A waterproof jacket can be worn for various occasions and is a versatile clothing item. These jackets are built to be durable and have a long lifespan. To find the ideal waterproof jacket for your next trip, explore a range of styles, including lightweight options and thicker designs, available for both men and women.
6. WATERPROOF BOOTS AND SNEAKERS
If you are considering a kayaking excursion or a hiking adventure, the subsequent item you should include on your camping checklist is a pair of waterproof boots. These boots will safeguard your feet against getting wet as you traverse puddles, rivers, snow, and other damp terrains along your journey.
When your socks and shoes are wet, it can make you uncomfortable and make you end your activity early. In addition, it can be dangerous, particularly in cold weather. It is advantageous to purchase high-quality waterproof hiking boots for your fall or winter camping trip.
7. QUICK-DRY CLOTHING
It is essential to have quick-drying clothing for any camping excursion. Whether you are hiking near water bodies, experiencing a sudden rainstorm, or getting sweaty from engaging in enjoyable camping activities, the priority is to ensure your clothes dry rapidly, allowing you to remain comfortable throughout the day. It is crucial to choose camping gear that possesses quick-drying attributes to prevent it from becoming an obstacle during the trip.
8. VEST
If the temperature drops outside, a practical method to add an additional layer is by wearing a vest. Vests are commonly worn during autumn and can be suitable for places with moderate winters. Combine them with long-sleeve shirts or lightweight jackets to keep yourself warm while spending time at your campsite.
Plan All Your Meals
When it comes to camp food, it doesn’t have to be dull. However, simplifying the food preparation can greatly facilitate the cooking process and the subsequent clean-up.
To ensure a smooth trip, begin by creating a simple meal plan before embarking on your grocery shopping. Afterwards, dedicate some time to preparing certain food items prior to your departure. This may involve tasks such as pre-cutting onions and peppers or opting for canned food to minimize both time and inconvenience.
Water
In order to be adequately prepared, it is important to ensure that you bring sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and washing dishes. Generally, if you are staying in a campground, water will be available onsite. It might be advantageous to bring individual coolers equipped with spigots for water and a cooler that opens from the top for storing food and ice.
Stove
Although cooking over a campfire may seem ideal, having a portable stove is a more sensible option for meal preparation. You have the option of choosing a smaller stove specifically designed for backpacking. However, we recommend using the Coleman Classic Stove, which conveniently fits on a tailgate or table. Reserve campfire cooking for enjoying s’mores.
When planning for your camping trip, it is important to ensure that you bring an adequate supply of propane that will last for the entire duration. Additionally, remember to verify whether the attachment is compatible with your stove.
Coffee(!)
If you are new to camping, you might not initially consider coffee. However, there is nothing better than the delightful aroma of a hot cup of coffee to wake up to. To keep things uncomplicated, you can use a stovetop kettle, a French press, or some pour-over filters.
Dishes
Remember to include cutlery and dishes. Using a durable set of metal, enamel, or plastic dishes can help minimize your waste. For your camping trip, make sure to bring one set of dishes per person, along with a few extras for communal use or leftovers. Additionally, have a clean and sharp knife dedicated to cooking, and keep a cutting board in your kitchen supplies for meal preparation.
For added convenience in cleaning up after a meal, you can bring two tubs of medium size. Fill the first tub with warm, soapy water for washing, and have a second tub filled with clean water for rinsing.
To ensure an environmentally friendly practice, use soap that is eco-friendly and ensure that you dispose of the dirty water in designated areas. To simplify the task of washing and drying dishes and keeping your table tidy, consider using one or two microfiber wash towels.
As a beginner, it is important to remember to gather all your rubbish each evening and keep it either in the car or a safe garbage container. This practice will not only preserve the beauty of the surroundings but also deter any inquisitive animals from approaching your camping spot during the night.
