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The Ultimate Family Camping List

October 26, 2023 By Johnny



Free Camp Forest photo and picture

Whether you have experience in camping or are new to it, creating a checklist is an effective method for staying organized and ensuring that you don’t overlook any essential items. Moreover, it provides an opportunity to create lasting memories with your family. In order to assist you, we will guide you through the process of preparing a comprehensive camping packing list, enabling you to have an enjoyable trip with all the necessary supplies.

Before you pack, do your research

Before starting to pack, the first step is to conduct research on your campground/campsite to become familiar with its features and available facilities. Campgrounds can have a wide range of amenities. Most established campgrounds offer basic amenities such as bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, water spigots, trash/recycling, and firepits. In addition to these, some campgrounds may also provide playgrounds, splash parks, stores, restaurants, bike/boat rentals, hammock hook-ups, ice makers, electricity, hot tubs, movie nights, zip lines, laundry, wifi, swimming pools, nature crafts, yoga classes, and many other options.

To ensure you are well-prepared for your camping trip, it is advisable to check if the local campground provides online information regarding the layout of your designated campsite. This will enable you to ascertain the available space and existing amenities. For instance, certain campgrounds offer amenities such as water access, a fire pit, a picnic table, and electricity. Conversely, some sites may not have any of these facilities, necessitating you to bring additional supplies for a more rustic camping experience. Regardless, you will still need to pack various items to ensure a successful trip.

How to acquire your camping gear affordably

If camping gear proves to be costly, it is advisable to search for items at a price lower than the original. Secondhand gear can be equally reliable and significantly cheaper. The most suitable option for your family’s budget and requirements should be pursued. The following are some methods to economize while ensuring all necessary items are obtained:

  • Check your local “buy nothing” or yardsale sites on Facebook. 
  • Look for camping gear rental services near you; by renting, you can test a product to see if you like it before taking the plunge on a purchase. 
  • Buy in the off-season or during big sales; prices are sometimes better.
  • Borrow from friends.
  • Ask for camping gear as gifts from family or friends for holidays or birthdays.
  • Check thrift stores; this is where we found our cooler & camp chairs.
  • You local “dollar store” should have inexpensive utensils, tablecloths, flashlights, and snacks.

Camp packing tip: make your own list

The packing list for every family will vary depending on the time and location of camping, the age of children, the weather conditions, the available amenities, the level of comfort desired, camping experience and skills, and numerous other factors. We have made an effort to provide you with a camping packing list for families that can serve as a foundation for creating your own list. We have included all the essential items, as well as numerous optional items that you may or may not want to bring. It is not necessary to bring everything! Camping is about embracing a simple lifestyle, so bring only what you require to feel comfortable.

Begin with our list as a guide, but create your own primary version of your packing list and revise it each time you go camping. It will evolve significantly over time as you come up with ideas to enhance the camping experience, as your children mature, as the seasons alter, and as you become more accustomed to camping. Developing your own list will prompt your mind to recall items that might be crucial for your family. While packing, be sure to mark off each item on your list as you pack it, and then review it again to ensure everything is included (in case you became sidetracked during packing).

Camping gear for babies and toddlers

When it comes to camping, children of any age can participate. Nevertheless, we are aware as parents that babies and toddlers require more attention compared to older children, and the same goes for the camping equipment we should pack. Regardless of whether this is your baby’s initial camping experience or their tenth, there are certain items that you might consider bringing specifically for your babies and/or toddlers while camping. Here are some of our top suggestions:

  • Pack and play – This can be a safe spot for your child to play in outside at the campground and can also serve as a bed inside your tent.
  • Outdoor gate – An adjustable play gate can allow your child to play safely on the ground while still being enclosed within a safe area. 
  • High chair – If your baby or toddler is used to eating in the same high chair daily, you may consider bringing it. This will make mealtime easier for everyone!
  • Kid carrier – A hiking backpack or carrying sling can be helpful, especially when you go on adventures. 
  • Sound machine – If your campsite has electricity, a sound machine can be helpful to drown out the extra noise during nap time or at night. 
  • Stroller – Besides being a great way to transport your little one, a stroller can also help carry gear.
  • Comfort items – If your child is used to sleeping with a special baby, stuffy, toy, or blanket, be sure to bring it! 

What to bring when camping with dogs

Camping can be a wonderful experience for your family and dog if you can bring them along. Dogs love camping! Here are a few things to keep in mind when you decide to bring your furry companion on the trip.

  • Dog bed – If your dog is used to sleeping on a bed every night, don’t leave it at home! You want them to feel comfortable while camping and have a place to rest during the day.
  • Leash and dog lead – Even if your dog is the “goodest-boy ever” you still want to have a leash and even a dog run for your campsite. This is for your dog’s safety as much as anyone else’s.
  • Dog food – You’d think this would be a given, but sometimes, I forget it if it isn’t on a list!
  • Dog bowl – Always keep a bowl of fresh water out for your pup, especially in hot weather.
  • Outdoor dog pen – Sort of like a playpen for dogs, this small but helpful pen will keep your dog contained. 

Family Camping List

Camping offers a wonderful opportunity to breathe in the fresh air and engage in enjoyable camping activities that may not be available in other settings.

You have the option of going camping in state and national parks, private campgrounds, or even your own backyard.

However, if you have never experienced a family camping trip, the thought of preparing for your initial excursion can be quite daunting.

Fortunately, a picnic table, a campfire ring, and a cleared spot to pitch your tent are typically included at the majority of campsites.

Additionally, shared bathrooms, running water, and onsite firewood for purchase are commonly found at many campgrounds.

Food, water, shelter, a fire starter (kindling), and a light source (a lantern or headlamp) are the top five crucial items to bring when camping.

Our list of family camping essentials includes these five key items!

Camping Storage and Supplies

Before creating your cabin packing checklist, it is important to first figure out the method of transportation and storage for your belongings.

To start, employ packing cubes and put your clothes into waterproof duffel bags with soft sides, which can be conveniently stored within the limited areas of a tent during camping.

Afterward, organize your remaining camping equipment by distributing them into portable storage tubs.

Furthermore, these items possess enough durability to be used as seating for individuals at the campsite.

Lastly, ensure you have a spacious and reliable cooler that can effectively maintain low temperatures for an extended period of time to preserve both food and drinks. (We highly recommend this particular cooler, as it has the added advantage of being officially certified as Bear-Resistant.)

Items to remember

  • Storage tubs
  • Tent bag
  • A reliable cooler
  • Duffel bags
  • Backpack/day pack

Family Camping Essentials: Shelter

If you’re planning to go tent camping with your family, the crucial item to not forget is a tent that is waterproof.

When selecting the best family tent, the most important factors to consider are size, price, construction, and ease of assembly.

An inexpensive tent will likely meet your family’s needs if you plan to camp sporadically in ideal weather situations.

When faced with challenging weather conditions or when intending to invest in a tent for the long-term, it is advisable to contemplate purchasing pricier camping equipment, such as a premium-quality tent.

If you are interested in having a camping shelter in the form of a park model, motor home, or travel trailer, make sure to consult this guide on how to rent an RV for additional planning assistance.

Items to Remember

  • A good tent
  • Tent stakes
  • Tarp or tent footprint
  • Mallet
  • Tent rainfly/windbreak
  • Mat for tent entrance
  • Family car camping tent (if applicable)

Bedding Needed For Each Camper

  • Sleeping bags
  • Blankets
  • Pillows
  • Single air mattresses
  • Hand pump

Weather-Appropriate Clothing For Your Packing List

In order to reuse your top and bottoms multiple times, opt for lightweight fabrics that have moisture-wicking properties.

Make sure to bring clothing in layers to prepare for chilly evenings and possibly unforeseen rain or temperature fluctuations.

When facing the great outdoors, the least desirable outcome is to end up feeling cold, wet, or uncomfortable.

Items to remember

  • Shirts (long and short sleeve)
  • Shorts
  • Pants
  • Sweatshirt/Jacket
  • Underwear
  • Socks/Extra socks
  • Swimsuit/Towel
  • Sleep clothes
  • Shoes and hiking boots
  • Flip flops for taking a shower in

Personal Items

When considering the contents of your personal care items, select only the essential necessities, ensuring you choose cautiously and avoid unnecessary additions.

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Portable shower caddy
  • Soap (in a plastic case)
  • Shampoo/Conditioner
  • Deodorant
  • Comb/Brush
  • Toothbrush/Toothpaste
  • Razor/Shaving cream
  • Contact lenses/Eye solution
  • Make-up
  • Chapstick
  • Feminine products
  • Medications

Camp Kitchen Gear

It is likely that when you go camping, you will be making your own meals in your camp kitchen.

When it comes to packing for family camping, it’s advisable to thoroughly consider the items required for your camp kitchen, regardless of whether you’re new to camping or not.

The camping equipment you pack will differ based on your cooking preferences, food choices, and desired level of simplicity or sophistication for your camping meals.

When considering what to include in your checklist for camp cooking, make sure to think step by step.

Items to remember

  • Camp Stove
  • Fuel/Propane
  • BBQ Grill
  • Matches/Lighter
  • Newspaper for lighting a campfire
  • 5-Gallon water carrier with spout
  • Fresh press/Percolator for coffee

Dishes & Utensils

  • Cast iron cookware (like this affordable 5-piece set)
  • Plates/Bowls/Mugs
  • Forks/Spoons/Knives
  • Napkins, paper plates, paper towels
  • Can opener
  • Bottle opener/Corkscrew
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Tongs
  • Wooden spoon
  • Extra-long skewers/Grill forks
  • Tablecloth (We love these 8-foot fitted plastic tablecloths!)
  • Potholders/Oven mitt

Camping List Food & Drink

  • Food
  • Snacks
  • Bread
  • Fruit
  • Sauces
  • Butter
  • Cooking Oil
  • Salt/Pepper/Spices
  • Milk/Juice/Soft Drinks
  • Coffee/Fliters
  • Water storage jug filled with clean water

Food Storage

  • Aluminum foil
  • Storage bags/Baggies
  • Containers for food storage
  • Food locker (if in an area with bears)

Clean-Up

  • 2 collapsible dish tubs for (one for washing and one for rinsing dishes)
  • Dish soap, dish cloths, dish towels
  • Garbage bags
  • Scrub pad
  • Small broom, dustpan
  • Wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer

Last Minute Miscellaneous Items

For your next camping trip, it is important to remember other essential items regardless of the type of camping you’ll be engaging in.

Due to limited storage and space, it is always better to have fewer miscellaneous camp essentials.

Without the appropriate miscellaneous items, a camping trip can rapidly turn into a highly unpleasant experience.

Here, I have compiled a list of miscellaneous items that I suggest you should not forget to bring.

Items to remember

  • First aid kit
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Duct tape
  • Travel clock
  • Clothesline
  • Smartphone with portable power pack charger
  • Money/ID/Credit card
  • All of your dog’s needs

Lighting

  • Flashlight(s)
  • Headlamp
  • Batteries
  • Lantern
  • Lantern fuel
  • Matches
  • Glowsticks (for fun!)

Camping tools

  • Compass
  • Binoculars
  • Saw and/or camping axe
  • Pocket knife
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Scissors
  • Work gloves

Furniture

  • Outdoor folding table
  • Camping chairs

Ultimate Camping List for Fun & Entertainment

The most enjoyable aspect of camping is the opportunity to spend valuable time with the entire family (while being free from electronic devices and modern distractions) and making lasting memories together.

One of the reasons why many families choose to camp in the first place is because they want to get away from it all.

As a result, it is essential to include certain items on a camping packing list for families to ensure entertainment for both younger and older children.

To enhance your enjoyment without using screens, consider exploring our top-rated portable yard games options and also contemplate bringing the following items along.

Items to remember

  • Bikes
  • Books/Magazines
  • Cards/Board games/Toys
  • Frisbee/Football
  • Fishing rod/Bait/Net
  • Radio
  • Travel hammock
  • Camera/GoPro (Let the big kids do the filming!)


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