How to Prepare Camping Checklist

When you go camping, you pack necessities such as toiletries, bedding, kitchenware, food and clothing, as well as extra camping gear needed to run a camp. It can be difficult to keep track of the dozens of items you need, but a well-organized camping checklist can make the task easier.

Steps

Part 1 Writing the List

1. 1 Type a master checklist on your computer, then add to or subtract from the list as needed. Your list will become more comprehensive as you take more camping trips.
   • If you decide to hand-write your list, arrange the list with 1 subject per page. In other words, write a page (or more) each for the toiletries, first aid kit, camping gear, kitchen basics, groceries, camping clothes and miscellaneous.
2. 2 Go through your house in your mind as you write your list. For example, think about items in your bedroom, kitchen and bathroom, then make note of the items you want to include.
3. 3 Check off items on your list as you load them into bags and the car.

Part 2 Toiletries

1. 1 Write your camping list to include sun screen, toilet paper, feminine products and a handheld mirror in addition to your basic toiletries. Use an anti-bacterial soap on camping trips.
   • Take quarters with you in case the campground has coin-operated showers.

Part 3 First Aid Kit

1. 1 Make a first aid kit with adhesive bandages, roll bandages, Ace bandages, adhesive tape, sterile gauze pads, cotton swabs, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic cream, scissors, tissues, tweezers, splinting materials and sterile compresses.
   • Include a bee sting kit, sinus medications, bug repellent, ipecac, antacids, pain relievers, sunburn lotion, poison ivy cream, hot and cold packs, a thermometer, butterfly bandages and a first-aid manual.
   • Remember to include your prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Part 4 Camping Gear

1. 1 Include flashlights, extra batteries and light bulbs, rope, clothespins, a lighter or wooden matches, and newspapers or other fire starters. Also take a Swiss Army knife or multi-purpose tool, a hatchet that can double as a hammer, and trash bags to hold trash or dirty clothing.
2. 2 Make a note to check your tent. Be sure you have poles, ropes, stakes and tarp.
3. 3 Check to make sure you have enough sleeping bags for everyone.
   • Include on your list pillows and inflatable cushions or blow-up mattresses, a pump and a leak repair kit.
4. 4 Include battery-operated lanterns, which are safer around children than gas lanterns and can be used without danger in the tent.
5. 5 Take along backpacks, especially if you intend to do any hiking.

Part 5 Kitchen Basics

1. 1 Remember to include a large spoon, a spatula, tongs, a grill fork, a pot, a pan, paper towels and napkins, aluminum foil, plastic storage bags, hot pads, a water jug and a can opener. Also take silverware, plates, bowls, cups, a plastic dishpan to wash them in and cloth towels.
2. 2 Plan snacks and three meals for each day you are on your camping trip. Write a separate shopping list for food and beverages.
3. 3 Include on your list a camp stove and charcoal and lighter fluid if you intend to grill.

Part 6 Camping Clothes

1. 1 Make a note on your list to take rain gear or a poncho in addition to your regular clothes.
2. 2 Include a hat to protect you from the sun.
3. 3 Take warmer clothing even if camping in the summer in case of an unexpected cold front.
4. 4 Take old sneakers or rubber sandals for swimming in an area with a rocky or weedy bottom.
5. 5 Include a pair of pants or shorts with a zip or Velcro pocket so you don't lose your wallet and keys on a hike.

Part 7 Miscellaneous

1. 1 Take road maps, trail maps, an umbrella, a sewing kit, a fire extinguisher for the car, money and a credit or debit card.
2. 2 Include cards and games, magazines and books, sporting gear, a radio or digital music player, binoculars and a hammock and camp chairs. Take toys if you have young children.