Few activities offer more family bonding time and exciting outdoor recreation than going camping. That’s why more people are taking their families on camping trips than ever before! In fact, three million more Americans went on a camping excursion in 2012 than they did in 2010, a major increase in popularity.
But each year, countless families will arrive at their camping sites and make a horrifying discovery: they’ve forgotten to pack an important item, and now the camping trip is all but ruined!
Don’t be like these families — always arrive at your camping sites packed and prepared. To make sure you and your family are ready for anything during your family summer camping excursion, we’ve compiled this list of the most essential items to pack:
Accessories
- Hiking boots
- Sunglasses
- A hat or bandanna
- Backpack
Toiletries
- Biodegradable soap
- Antibacterial wipes
- Deodorant
- A hairbrush or comb
- A first aid kit
- Sunscreen
- Prescriptions and medicine
- Insect repellent
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toilet paper
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Other various personal hygiene items
Clothing
- A light jacket or sweater
- A pair of gloves or mittens
- Hiking socks
- Long-sleeved and short-sleeved shirts
- Underwear
- A raincoat
- Pants
- Moisture-wicking socks and long underwear
Camping gear
- A tent and related tent equipment
- Camera and camera accessories
- A collapsible water bottle
- A lantern
- Sleeping bag
- Matches or a lighter
Food and cooking items
- A small, portable stove
- Cooking and eating utensils
- Food, including plenty of snacks
- Napkins and paper towels
- Plates and cups
- Plastic garbage bags
And for an even smoother camping experience, encourage the kids to pack their own bags — this lets them get involved in the packing process and also allows them to pack their favorite toys, books and other belongings!
Know of any other must-pack items to bring before leaving on a family camping trip? Share your own tips and tricks with us in the comments below!
