{"id":8062,"date":"2025-02-20T15:34:56","date_gmt":"2025-02-20T20:34:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/shaleewanders.com\/?p=8062"},"modified":"2025-02-13T19:51:59","modified_gmt":"2025-02-14T00:51:59","slug":"what-to-bring-on-a-camping-trip","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/shaleewanders.com\/what-to-bring-on-a-camping-trip\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Bring on a Camping Trip"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\t

Travel With Me! Discover trips to New Zealand, Maldives, Europe and More in 2025 & 2026. Explore here<\/a><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\"Shalee\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n

\n\t\tWhat to Bring on a Camping Trip\n\t<\/h1>\n\t

February 20th, 2025\u00a0<\/p>\n\t

\"what<\/a><\/p>\n

When going on a camping trip, the most common thing I see isn’t underpacking – it’s overpacking. As humans, we can survive on very little, yet somehow, the thought of going away for two nights on a camping trip makes us believe we need our whole house + the ultimate apocalyptic kit. Trust me, I do it, too! Even with years of camping and backcountry experience under my belt, I still continuously find myself overpacking for nearly every camping trip. So whether you’re heading into the mountains, the woods, or a lakeside retreat, having the right gear can make or break your camping experience. Packing smart ensures comfort, safety, and a smooth adventure in the great outdoors.<\/p>\nAs someone who routinely spends days to months camping at a time, here are my biggest tips for what to bring on a camping trip:\n

What to Bring on a Camping Trip<\/h2>\n

1. Camp Stove<\/h3>\n

Cooking over an open fire sounds romantic, but a reliable camp stove is a game-changer. It provides a controlled flame, making it easier to cook meals efficiently, especially in wet or windy conditions. Don’t forget to pack enough fuel! I use the one-burner Coleman camp stove<\/a> for most of my camping meals. It’s compact, lightweight, and cooks everything I need!<\/p>\n

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2. Newspaper or Fire Starter<\/h3>\n

Getting a fire going can be a struggle, especially in damp conditions. Bring newspaper, fire starter sticks, or fire-starting cubes to make the process easier. Before you go camping, store some dry kindling or firewood in a shed or garage if possible. That way, you’ll ensure you have an easy fire starter kit, no matter the easy weather! I always keep the newspaper I get in our mailbox as my stash for Firestarter every year.<\/p>\n

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3. Layers, Layers, Layers<\/h3>\n

Weather can change quickly, so pack moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. Having extra socks, shoes, and jackets can make a big difference when camping! Before you leave on your camping trip, check the highs and lows for weather. If you are camping in a tent, ensure you have enough layers to keep you warm overnight.<\/p>\n

4. Tent, Sleeping Pad, Inflatable Pillow<\/h3>\n

A sturdy tent, a comfortable sleeping pad (or camping cot), and an inflatable pillow will keep you warm and protected from the elements. I use the Decathlon inflatable pillow here as my go-to. Regular pillows take up a lot of space in a car, which is why I love the compactness of inflatable camping pillows.<\/p>\n

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5. Portable Power Supply<\/h3>\n

A portable power supply or solar charger can keep your phone, camera, and other electronic devices charged, especially on extended trips. If on budget, buy small external charger to keep your phone charged. If you are planning to camp a lot and possibly camp outside of established campgrounds, I recommend buying a larger Jackery<\/a> or Ecoflow<\/a> power supply. It’s an investment, but you won’t regret it!<\/p>\n

6. Cooler<\/h3>\n

A quality cooler keeps food and drinks fresh, reducing the need for frequent resupply trips. Ice packs or frozen water bottles help extend its cooling capability. If you plan to eat things like deli sandwiches or roast up some hot dogs over a fire, a reliable cooler will be an essential part of your camping trip!<\/p>\n

7. Games (Cornhole, Lawn Games, Cards, etc.)<\/h3>\n

Camping is about relaxation and fun! Bring cornhole, lawn games, or a deck of cards to enjoy downtime at camp. One of our camp favorites is a game called Kubb<\/a> that we learned in Sweden. Fun, easy to learn, and perfect for both adults and kids.<\/p>\n

8. Headlamps<\/h3>\n

A headlamp is a must-have for hands-free lighting around the campsite and nighttime navigation. Personally, I like rechargeable headlamps instead of ones that use batteries. My husband and I use these ones from Amazon<\/a> and we love them!<\/p>\n

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9. Bug Repellent & Sunscreen<\/h3>\n

Protect yourself from insect bites and sunburn by packing bug repellent and sunscreen. Proven Repellent<\/a> is a brand that we love that creates a DEET-Free bug repellent that is also a sunscreen. A double win! This is not a sponsored shout-out, I just truly love their product.<\/p>\n

10. Camp Sandals<\/h3>\n

Don’t forget to pack a pair of shoes that are easy to take on and off around camp. Teva Sandals<\/a> are my go-to camping and backpacking sandals. They are perfect to put on for a quick walk to the bathroom or shower, but also feel great to put on after a long day of hiking & exploring.<\/p>\n

11. Axe or Portable Chainsaw<\/h3>\n

If your campsite allows fires and has available wood, an axe or portable chainsaw makes cutting firewood much easier. If you plan to camp in a forested area, you can often save money on buying firewood and instead collect your own. This isn’t as much an option when camping in popular established campgrounds, such as state parks. But a chainsaw is always handy no matter what!<\/p>\n

12. Toilet Paper & Paper Towel<\/h3>\n

Campground bathrooms aren’t always the most reliable for toilet paper. Bring a backpack roll, just in case! Paper towel is a camping must. You’ll use it more often than you think for meals, cleaning up messes, or just wiping down dirt. I always recommend having wet wipes on hand.<\/p>\n

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13. Quick-Dry Towel<\/h3>\n

A quick-dry towel is great for washing up, swimming, or wiping off condensation from your tent.<\/p>\n

14. Outdoor Blanket<\/h3>\n

I recently discovered how useful an outdoor blanket is while camping. It can be used as a picnic table cover, a place to lay in the grass and go stargazing, or a play area for kids. Buy one; you won’t regret it! I recommend buying one that easily packs like this one<\/a> up so it is portable and mess-free.<\/p>\n

15. Water Bottles<\/h3>\n

Instead of packing a lot of plastic water bottles, bring reusable water bottles for everyone who is coming on the camping trip. Most established campgrounds have a place to refill water that is cold and reliable. If you want extra water, buy a five or 10-gallon water jug to keep at camp. Packing plastic water bottles takes up a lot of unnecessary space and also causes a lot of trash to be packed out with you. Not worth it!<\/p>\n

16. Instant Coffee & Mug<\/h3>\n

Mornings in the wilderness are better with a cup of coffee. Pack instant coffee and a durable mug for easy brewing. I know what you’re thinking; instant coffee sucks! Go buy the Trader Joe’s instant coffee. It is my favorite and comes with cream and sugar in each packet. If you want to make your own coffee, look into buying a camping coffee press.<\/p>\n

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17. Pots & Pans<\/h3>\n

Lightweight and durable cookware is necessary for making meals over a camp stove or fire. I always bring one skillet and one sauce pan when camping. Most established campgrounds also have outdoor sink areas to wash out dishes.<\/p>\n

18. Eco-Friendly Dish Soap<\/h3>\n

Keep your cookware clean while being mindful of the environment by using biodegradable dish soap.<\/p>\n

19. Pet Trackers (Tractive Brand)<\/h3>\n

If you’re bringing a pet, a GPS tracker like Tractive<\/a> ensures they don’t wander too far from camp.<\/p>\n

Being prepared means you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying nature. With these essentials, you’ll be ready for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!<\/p>\n

\"what<\/a> \"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

20. Trash Bags<\/h3>\n

Last but not least, trash bags! Please remember to leave no trace when camping and have plenty of trash bags to pack out your trash. If you are camping in an established campground, you can leave your full trash bags at the dump station leaving the campground. Double-check your camping area when you leave to ensure nothing is left behind!<\/p>\n

20. Kindle or Book<\/h3>\n

If you are someone who enjoys a good book, don’t forget to pack it! Camping is the perfect excuse to disconnect, set down your phone, and enjoy a good read. If you have a Kindle and will be camping out of service, make sure you download new books before you leave for your trip so that they are accessible when you get to camp.<\/p>\n

21. Foldable Camp Table<\/strong><\/h3>\n

A nice, foldable camp table will make all the difference while camping. If you have the space, you can pack a big folding table for use. If you are trying to be minimalist while camping, invest in a small, packable camping table. I have this one from Amazon<\/a>. Also, I cannot think of a piece of camping gear I hated more than this camping table<\/a> – avoid all styles like it!<\/p>\n

22. Camp Chairs<\/h3>\n

Last but definitely not least, you need some good camping chairs! Pick some up at your local department store or order them online. Make sure you pack enough, as there is nothing worse than getting to camp and realizing you are one camping chair short!<\/p>\n

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What to Bring on a Camping Trip<\/h2>\n

If this is your first camping trip, expect that your packing list isn’t going to be perfect. I mean, I go camping all the time, and I still forget and constantly adjust what I bring with me. But this list is a great starting point to ensure you are well-equipped and ready for a camping adventure, whether in an established campground or heading out to do some dispersed camping. Have a blast!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\"travel\n\t

At any given moment, Shalee is either lost, hunting for ice cream, or obsessively planning her next adventure.<\/p>\n

Born and raised in rural Michigan, she began exploring the shores of Great Lakes as a teen, often sleeping in her car to save money. Eventually, her urge to explore pushed beyond her Midwest borders. Today, Shalee shares her tips and stories to thousands of readers interested in adventure and outdoor tourism. Her pack now includes two spunky hiking cats<\/a> and her partner, Josh. Learn more about her here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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shaleewanders<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n
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Travel With Me! Discover trips to New Zealand, Maldives, Europe and More in 2025 & 2026. Explore here What to Bring on a Camping Trip February 20th, 2025\u00a0 When going on a camping trip, the most common thing I see isn’t underpacking – it’s overpacking. 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