Get ready to pack up and sleep under the stars. This car camping checklist covers off the camp essentials, plus has some extras to make your campsite extra sweet – you may not need everything on this list, so adjust your camp checklist for what makes sense for your group and plans.
Heading into the backcountry? See our backpacking checklist or canoe or kayak touring checklist instead.
Sleep and shelter
Tent footprint (groundsheet)
Sleeping pads or air mattresses (don’t forget the pump)
Campsite set-up
Portable table and tablecloth
Lanterns or string lights
Cord to tie up as a clothesline
Kitchen and cooking
Can opener
Cooler with ice
Aluminum foil
Corkscrew and bottle opener
Garbage bags
Plan for firewood (check regulations where you’re staying)
Outdoor essentials
Campsite reservations and park pass
Clothes and shoes
Check the weather forecast for where you’re going and think about what kinds of activities you’ll be doing, then adjust your packing to match. If you’re staying near the water or in the mountains, it can get cooler than you’d expect so be ready to layer.
Bring clothes made of quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials. Here are some ideas for where to start:
Personal stuff
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Earplugs
Toiletry kit with your essentials
Extra set of contacts or glasses
Medications
Power bank or spare batteries for electronic devices
Phone
Fun extras
Bikes (great for kids at the campground)
Books or magazines
Paper and art supplies (get inspired to make art in the wild)
Watersports gear and PFDs
