Beginner Camping Checklist
Everything a first-time camper needs — without overpacking. Use this as a starting point, then run the trip matcher to personalize it to your dates, group, and weather.
Shelter
- • Tent (with rainfly)
- • Footprint or tarp
- • Stakes and mallet
- • Camp chairs
Sleep
- • Sleeping bag rated for low temp
- • Sleeping pad
- • Pillow
- • Extra blanket
Lighting
- • Headlamp + spare batteries
- • Lantern
- • String lights (optional)
Cooking
- • Stove + fuel
- • Lighter / matches
- • Cookware + utensils
- • Cooler + ice
Safety & first aid
- • First aid kit
- • Bug spray
- • Sunscreen
- • Whistle
- • Pocket knife
Comfort
- • Camp towel
- • Wet wipes
- • Hand sanitizer
- • Trash bags
Want this personalized to your trip?
Run the trip matcher and we'll tailor this checklist to your dates, group, comfort level, and activities — plus matched campgrounds and booking links.
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