🏕️ Beginner camping checklist

Everything a first-time camper needs for a night or two at a campground, without overpacking. Tick items off as you pack; your ticks are saved on this device.

Shelter

Tent with rainfly (practise setting it up at home)
Footprint or tarp for under the tent
Tent stakes and a mallet or rock
Camp chairs

Sleep

Sleeping bag rated below the night's forecast low
Sleeping pad or air mattress (insulation matters as much as the bag)
Pillow or stuff sack with clothes
Extra blanket

Light

Headlamp for each person
Spare batteries or a charging bank
Lantern for the table

Kitchen

Stove and fuel (check it lights before you leave)
Lighter and waterproof matches
Pot, pan, plates, cups, utensils
Cooler with ice, and a plan for food storage (bears, raccoons)
Water bottles or a large water jug
Biodegradable soap, sponge, small wash basin
Trash and recycling bags

Safety

First aid kit
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Map of the area (phones lose signal)
Whistle and a small knife or multitool
Your reservation confirmation and any permits

Nice to have

Camp table cover or tablecloth
String lights
Cards or a game
Firewood bought locally (moving firewood spreads pests)

Tips

Helpful next

More checklists

⭐ No time to research? Let a trip planner do it.

Tell us where and when. A planner gets back to you within 24 hours with a day-by-day plan, the exact booking dates and links, and help booking. From $49.

Plan my trip →