The Unofficially Definitive Camping Checklist

BY Jenica June 14, 2021

The world has been cooped up this last year so it’s no surprise that many are looking to escape into the wilderness for a few long weekends this summer. If you are new to camping and outdoors, your local outfitters may be a bit daunting with countless brands and gadgets. You don’t need to go spending thousands for a few days up in the mountains, but we have a few suggestions of must-haves for your camping trip when you’re starting from scratch.

Camping Pad

You might be thinking you can find some “soft ground” when you’re setting up camp, but a good camping pad can make or break the rest of your weekend. These can range from $20-100+ depending on the brand, the thickness, and material.

Sleeping bag

Not all sleeping bags are created equal. Make sure you look at the tags to check the temperature ratings! You could be camping somewhere blazing hot and find that your bag has a below freezing temperature rating and wake up in the middle of the night in a sweat. Shop for a sleeping bag fit for your destination.

Camp chairs

There aren’t always perfectly created campgrounds with logs and rocks around a fire. If you don’t want to be sitting on the ground, bring a few camp chairs to cozy up at night while you make your s’mores.

Lanterns and Tent Lights

Whatever you bring, remember to also bring extra batteries! Bring a few lamps to hang in your tent, hang by your food area, and some flashlights to help guide you around after dark.

Tent

If you’re setting up next to your car, there are nifty tents that can pop up in an instant! This makes camp set up easy and hassle-free. However, the quick set-up tents tend to be a bit bulkier and heavier, and not the best option if you plan on hiking with your gear.

Hydration Pack

Make the most of your adventurous vacation when you find those epic and instagrammable hikes looking over a flower filled valley! But make sure you’re hydrated by packing a hydration pack. You can also fill your bag with other small necessities and snacks for a quick on-the-go excursion. 

Small Extra Necessities

We won’t always have access to outlets to plug our electronic devices and it’s important to have some sort of connection in case of an emergency. Bring along a solar cell-phone charger to keep your phone juiced up. Other necessities include a first aid kit, mosquito repellant, and permits to wherever the road takes you. 

Enjoy Your Time with Mother Nature

However you choose to experience the Great Outdoors, enjoy every second of it. Nature is full of new and exciting things, peaceful retreats, and undiscovered adventure. Whether it’s a week, a weekend, or even just a day, camping offers the perfect way to recenter and recharge.