A summer camping packing list should include items such as: personal item, sleeping bag, tent, stove, lantern, flashlight, first aid kit, water purification system, fire starter, food, cooking utensils, bath towels, pair of water shoes, swim goggles, a swim shirt, power toothbrushes, extra sheets, toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, and other essentials.
What’s On Your Summer Camping Checklist?
While it may seem like a lot of stuff to pack, I recommend keeping things simple and prepare a camper gear comprehensive list. If you are not yet an experienced camper, the best way to prepare yourself for any situation is to know what you will need before heading out into the wilderness.
A Summer Camping Checklist
Sleeping Bag – You can never have too many sleeping bags! If you are going on an extended trip, consider bringing two or three different ones so that you don’t have to worry about which one to use at night.
Tents – There are several types of tents available; however, if you plan on spending most of your time in campground sites, then a tarp-style shelter is probably all you will need.
Stove – Stoves come in various sizes and shapes, but you generally want something with a large capacity. For example, a propane tank stove has enough fuel for up to six hours of continuous cooking.
Lantern – It is important to bring a lantern because they provide light when there is no electricity available. They also make it easier to cook by providing heat from the flame.
Flashlight – This is another essential item to have while camping. Flashlights come in both rechargeable and non-rechargeable varieties.
First Aid Kit – Make sure that you have everything you need to treat minor injuries, including bandages, antiseptic ointment, pain relievers, and even a splinter remover.
Water Purification System – Water is an absolute necessity during a camping trip. In addition to having clean drinking water, you should also be prepared to boil water for making tea and coffee.
Fire Starter – Having a fire starter is very helpful when camping. It makes starting fires much faster than using matches alone.
Food – While you won’t always be able to eat out, it is nice to have some snacks to munch on while sitting around the campfire.
Cooking Utensils – Cooking utensils are necessary to help you prepare meals. Some people prefer to bring their own pots and pans and reusable water bottle, while others find it more convenient to buy them at the camp location or site.
Toiletries – Bring along some bathroom supplies such as soap, body wash, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, bath towels, etc.
Sunscreen – Sunburn is common among campers who spend long periods outdoors at sports camp or fishing camp, for example. Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.
Rain Gear – Rain gear is essential if you plan on being outside for longer periods of time. You might not think that you need water resistant clothes, rain pants and a poncho until you get caught in a wet weather.
Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and gnats can cause irritation and discomfort. Insect repellent helps keep these pests away from your body.
Other Essentials – Don’t forget anything else that you think you might need. Things like extra hand sanitizer, swim goggles, specialty equipment, refillable water bottles, gadgets, cell phones, bug spray, extra clothes, pangaea voyager towel, batteries, classic camp accessory and flashlights are just a few examples of additional items that could prove useful.
Packing Items You will Need But Can Probably Borrow or Buy at Camp Store
My biggest concern is that it doesn’t address what you might want to take but can’t borrow or buy at the camp store. For example, you probably couldn’t buy a tent at Walmart, so you would need to rent one. Or, maybe you wanted to bring a cooler instead of buying one at the camp store. The key here is to make sure you know what you can do without. This will save you money and hassle later on.
Tips
Think Like A Hiker
Pack light, but don’t forget anything important. Make sure everything has its own place in your backpack so it doesn’t get lost. If you’re going to be away from home for several days, consider purchasing a small waterproof storage container to keep all your supplies together.
Do Your Research
Before leaving for your trip, research all the different types of tents available. It’s easy to fall in love with a particular brand of tent, but once you arrive at your destination, you might end up hating it. Make sure you have enough room inside your tent to comfortably sleep. Also, look for a tent that allows you to pitch it in an open area. This makes it easier to set up and tear down.
Bring Extra Clothing
Depending on the season, you may want to bring more clothing than you normally would. In the cold weather, you may want to wear multiple layers of warm clothing. And, in the summer months, you may want something lighter, comfortable day clothes.
Remember, you won’t always be wearing shorts and t-shirts while hiking. And if you plan to go for mid-day swims on the camp swimming pool, you may want to pack extra swim shirt, pair of water shoes and personal towel.
Bring Waterproof Storage Container
If you plan to stay at a hotel, you may not have access to running water. Even if you do, you may not have a sink to wash your hands. So, you’ll need to carry around extra drinking water. If you plan to drink out of streams or lakes, make sure you have refillable water bottles or jug to carry it in.
Check Out What You Already Have
If you already have a tent, then you can skip this step. However, if you don’t have one yet, check out what you currently own. Are there any clean clothes you could use? Could you repurpose an old suitcase or duffel bag? Do you need extra sheets? Do you need a 2-week supply of food? Maybe you could even find an old tent and use it as a shelter.
Choose Your Backpack
When choosing a backpack, choose one that fits your needs. Some people prefer water resistant large backpacks because they are comfortable and spacious. Others prefer smaller bags because they are easier to carry. Think about how much weight you’ll be carrying and whether you plan to hike long distances.
If you wish to bring your conscientious child to summer camps or celebrate their birthday during camp, you may want to purchase a child ready backpack. It is designed specifically for children ages 5-12 years old. You can put their dirty clothes and other essentials inside.
Be Prepared
You never know what and when will things happen at overnight camps. So, make sure you have some basic emergency supplies. These include: a compass, map, flashlight, matches, fishing line, duct tape, rope, batteries and even an emergency contact sheet. You also want to make sure you have plenty of cash, credit cards, and identification.
Don’t Forget To Leave Yourself Space
You don’t want to run out of space in your backpack. That means you need to leave yourself some breathing room. Try to limit your belongings to less than 20 pounds (9 kg). Anything heavier isn’t worth lugging around.
Keep An Eye On Expensive Items
Make sure you only bring the most essential items. For example, if you plan to purchase souvenirs, make sure you buy them before you leave. Otherwise, you may spend too much money and not have enough left over for food.
Pack Lightly
Don’t overload yourself with heavy items. The last thing you want is to struggle through the woods just so you can get home. Instead, try to keep your load light.
Use Common Sense
If you’re planning on doing anything dangerous, like climbing mountains or crossing rivers, make sure you’re prepared. Always think about the weather conditions. If it’s raining heavily, you probably shouldn’t climb a mountain due to slippery surfaces . Likewise, if it’s snowing, you might want to rethink your plans.
Make Sure It Fits
Before buying a new backpack, make sure it fits properly. This includes making sure it has straps that fit securely. Also, make sure the size is right for you. If it doesn’t fit well, you’ll end up having a hard time carrying all your stuff.
Take Pictures Of Everything
It’s important to document everything you pack. This helps you remember where you put things later. Plus, it makes it easy to share your experiences with others.
Include Important Information
If you’ve got a lot of gear, you should write down its location and contents on a personal note. This way, you won’t forget anything.
Bring Waterproof Gear
Waterproof clothing and footwear are great ways to protect yourself from getting wet. They help prevent hypothermia by keeping you warm and dry.
Bring Extra Clothing
In case you get caught outside during a storm, you’ll want extra layers of clothing. This includes jackets, personal towel, sweaters, hats, gloves, scarves, swim shirt and swim goggles.
Check Your Supplies Before Hiking
Check your supplies often while hiking. Make sure you have what you need before leaving. This includes drinking water, food, shower caddy and any necessary medications.
Before You Go..
If you’re planning on going hiking, camping, fishing, boating, or any other outdoor activity during your vacation, it’s important to pack the right equipment the entire time. It’s not always easy to find what you need at the last minute, so plan ahead and prepare for days before camp activities start.
