Car Camping Checklist Essentials

Car camping is sweeping the nation, as more and more people want to get away from the busy streets, but don’t have time for a full blown camping trip. Car camping is the act of camping in a tent, but in the direct vicinity of the car. This allows for more storage room, a way to leave immediately, and a water proof emergency shelter. As with other camping situations, a car camping checklist is necessary to ensure that no hiccups occur that can’t be fixed.

The Car

A car camping checklist should be quite similar to a normal camping checklist, but with a few more items. Car camping is a way to bring a large amount of additional water proof storage space to a campsite that should not be wasted. First of all, and most importantly, every checklist has to have a First Aid section. A car camping checklist can contain a less complete First Aid list, because of easier access to transportation and hospitals. However, this doesn’t mean skimping is an option. Tragedy can strike at any moment and the campers unprepared will regret it.

Portable Fridge

Food storage is probably the most prominent advantage of car camping. Every car camping checklist should have an extremely detailed and exact list of all food accompanying the campers. Cars allow for heavier items, such as coolers and ice chests to be transported to the campsite, dramatically increasing the amount of food that can survive without electricity. Campers should take full advantage of the mock refrigeration and fill their car camping checklist with a wide variety of items. While not necessary, this creates a more pleasant and enjoyable camping trip, with nature and comfort hand in hand.

Printable Checklists

For the camper who has forgotten to create a car camping checklist, fear not, for the internet harbors a printable camping checklist. These are generally well thought out and very complete, yet the lack of personal items should be noted. Some of these allow a certain number of customizable slots to incorporate personal items into each individual camping trip. Regardless, these printable checklists should be reviewed thoroughly and altered accordingly to match the supplies exactly.

Not Sleeping Under the Stars

Another option offered by car camping is a dry, water proof shelter that doesn’t require assembly. Most campers consider it “green” to sleep in a car, but no one should let that influence their actions. If camping, always do what’s best for the entire camping party, even if it means looking green and sleeping in the car. The morale of the group is more important than the pride of one. By doing this, one can remove a fair portion of the car camping checklist, including tents and netting.