Wondering what to pack for your first camping trip?

One of the most common questions I get is: “What kind of camping gear do you use?”

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to figure out what to bring camping— you’re not alone! it can be hard to know what’s actually useful and what’s just “nice to have”.

This guide is here to help. I’m sharing my go-to camping gear checklist, filled with essentials I’ve personally tested and truly love. Everything in here is beginner-friendly, easy to use, and perfect for weekend adventurers— whether you’re going solo, with a partner, or bringing your dogs along.

Think of this as a starting point— not a shopping list. You don’t need every single item to have a great time outdoors. But if you want a cozy, organized, and low-stress trip, these gear ideas will set. you up for success.

And yes— there’s a free printable checklist included at the end to make your packing process even easier!

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Camping Essentials

Camping Tent

When you’re starting out as a camper, the tent is the most important piece of gear you’ll need. Think about how many (or pets) will be sleeping in it to make sure there’s enough room for everyone.

My first Coleman tent was a Costco find, and it has lasted me nearly ten years— I still have it! Even though it’s starting to show some wear and tear, it’s brought me countless memories.

My second tend came from REI. It’s my go-to for backpacking, but I also use it for solo camping trips. Unfortunately, this REI Passage 2 tent is discontinued, though they have a newer version— the Trailmade 2 Tent with Footprint.

I recently upgraded to the Base Camp 4 to provide more space for my two dogs. I also got the Skyward 4 so my 6’2″ husband can stand comfortably without having to crouch.

Head to this video to see my first impressions and final thoughts on REI Co-op Base Camp 4

I can’t stress enough how important it is to practice setting up your tent at home before you go camping! This way, you can figure out how to set it up, make sure you have all the parts, and ensure everything is working properly.

Sleeping Bag

Sleeping bags are the second most important piece of gear for camping! When choosing one, starting with the temperature rating is essential. I recommend selecting a bag with a lower temperature rating than the lowest nighttime temperature you expect at your campsite, since you can always unzip it if you get too warm.

For beginners, a 3-season sleeping bag is a great choice because it will be versatile enough for spring, summer, and fall camping.

My first sleeping bag was from Costco. I can’t remember the brand, but I’ve had it for years. Yes, you read that right— years, ever since I was a little girl!

By the time I met my husband, I finally decided to upgrade to the NEMO Forte 20, and I LOVE this bag!

I highly recommend reading articles on how to choose sleeping bags for more in-depth information on temperature ratings and sleeping bag shapes.

Tip: When you’re home, store your sleeping bag outside of the stuff sack to keep it working properly! Here’s more information on storing your sleeping bag. 

Camp Blanket

You can’t go wrong with bringing your favorite blankets from home; they sure add a touch of comfort and familiarity to your camping experience. Personally, I love bringing blankets on every camping trip!

The Rumpl blanket is my go-to; they’re not only incredibly comfortable, but they’re also durable, insulated, and weather-resistant (though not waterproof).

What makes them even better is that they’re made from 100% recycled materials. Knowing that I’m making a positive impact while camping with my Rumpl blanket adds an extra layers of satisfaction to my outdoor adventures.

Camp Mattress

Gone are the days when we could sleep directly on the ground. As we get older, comfort becomes key for an enjoyable camping experience!

I’ve tried various sleeping pad, and it really comes down to personal preference. I recommend visiting your local camping stores to test out different pads and find the one that suits you best.

Here are few things to keep in mind:

Air Mattress:

• I wouldn’t recommend bringing an air mattress. They can become very cold because the air inside does not provide much insulation from the ground.
• Air mattresses are susceptible to punctures and leaks from sharp rocks, sticks, or even your pet’s claws.

Sleeping Pads:

Sleeping pads are designed with advance insulation technology to keep you warm by retaining your body heat. Sleeping pad come in various types, including different methods of inflation:

• Self-Inflating Pads: These pads contain open-cell foam inside, and when the valve is opened, the foam expands and draws in air automatically.
• Manually Inflated Pads: These pads require you to blow them up using your breath or a pump.
• Air Pads: Similar to manually inflated pads but often come with a built-in pump or a separate pump sack to make inflation easier.
• Closed-Cell Foam Pads: Made from dense foam filled with tiny closed air cells, these do not require inflation.

My First self-inflating pad was from Field and Stream, and it has lasted me nearly ten years— I still have it! Over the years, I was gifted the HEYTRIP 4-Inch Self-Inflating Pad, which I really love. However, I recently upgraded to Exped MegaMat and absolutely LOVE it.

I shared my experience with Exped MegaMat camp mattress during my latest trip— watch here.

CAMPSITE RELAXATION

Camp Chairs

Camp chairs make a world of difference at your campsite, offering comfy seating around the fire or for unwinding outdoors.

In my camping journey, I’ve usually gone for budget-friendly options from Walmart, Target, Costco, or Dick’s, and they’ve held surprisingly well. Recently, though I decided to splurge on the Kelty Low Loveseat. It’s been a game changer because now I can cozy up with my husband and our two dogs!

Check out this gear review of the Kelty Low Loveseat— psst, Apollo approves!

Camp Tables

While not always a must-haves, I’ve found camp tables to be incredibly handy. Most campsites do provide picnic tables, but I prefer having an extra table for cooking, which helps keep our main table clean and reduces the risk of attracting wildlife. It’s also convenient to have a small table by the fire for our s’mores and drinks.

My top picks for camp tables are from REI:

• REI Co-op Camp Roll Table
• Mountain Summit Gear Heavy-Duty Roll-Top Table (Medium)

These additions may seem small, but they add so much convenience and comfort to our camping experience.

CAMP KITCHEN

Cooler

The cooler debate is always a hot topic among campers, and everyone has their own take on it. In my opinion, it boils down to personal preferences and budget!

I grew up using Igloo and Coleman coolers in various sizes, and they’ve all served me well. However, I recently received a Rugged Road 45 cooler as a gift, and I was pleasantly surprised by its performance. Since then, I’ve upgraded to the Rugged Road 65. I haven’t tried RTIC or YETI coolers due to their high prices, but who knows, maybe one day!

I’ve shared my review on the Rugged Road 45 cooler.

Camp Stove + Fuel

Let me be upfront— I believe most camp stove are pretty similar, with just different colors and logos. I’ve stuck with my trusty Coleman Classic Propane Stove from childhood, and it’s still going strong! Recently, I was gifted a GSI Outdoors Selkirk 540+, and it does the job perfectly well.

One crucial tip: always remember to pack a few fuel canister and a lighter. You wouldn’t want to be on a camping trip only to realize you forgot these essentials!

Cooking Gear + Utensils

You can definitely bring your kitchen gear and utensils from home! I’ve done that, but over time, I found it easier to have a dedicate set for camping. This way, I don’t have to transfer everything from my camp kitchen box back and forth, reducing the chances of forgetting something. There’s no need for special camping utensils; regular kitchen ones work just fine.

I’ve put together a detailed camping kitchen packing checklist!

Camping Coffee Maker

Camp coffee just hits differently! I’m all for making coffee outdoors Personally, I have a French press specifically for camping, so I never forget it, and I always have my morning camp coffee ritual.

ORGANIZATION

Kitchen + Camp Box

You don’t need anything fancy; a storage bin from Walmart, Target, or even Home Depot does the job! I use the 40-gallon Tough Storage bin from Home Depot, and it’s been perfect for keeping everything organized.

Read Next: Essential Camping Kitchen Box Packing Checklist

Packing

While not absolutely necessary, packing cues have been a game-changer for me. I no longer have to rummage through my bag to find socks or a t-shirt. Everything has its place, and I can locate items without creating a mess or emptying my entire bag.

POWER AND LIGHTING

Power Bank

As much as we tell ourselves that camping is a break from technology, we often find it essential for various tasks like charging camp lights or capture those memorable moments on our phones. I rely on my Anker 313 Power Bank to keep my iPhone charged, and it’s been reliable. Sometimes, I also use it to juice up my Kindle if I forget to do so before heading out to camp.

Camp Lights

Camp lights add a while new level of fun and ambiance to camping! While they may not be essential for everyone, as a Deaf person who relies on sight during nighttime, they are crucial for me. Plus, they’re cute, fun, and gives a personal touch to your campsite! I adore the solar string lights from Revel Gear Camping Lights.

I recently received MPowerd Solar String as a gift, and I love them!

TOILETRIES

Shower Roll

Growing up, I remember my mom always lugging around our toiletries in this clunky, ugly orange backpack, and I was always so embarrassed by it. Over the years, I’ve been on the search to find a more stylish way to store all my essentials. I stumbled upon the REI Shower Roll, and I was super thrilled. I opted for the small size, perfect for weekend camping trips. It neatly holds my skincare routine, mini face towel, deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste, Kinfield sunscreen, and bug spray.

What sets the REI shower Roll apart for me is its eco-friendly construction from recycled materials, its water-resistant design, and the convenience of three pouches. Plus, the hanging strap is a game-changer for keeping it clean and accessible.

I’ve shared my review on REI Shower Roll.

Travel Kit

For longer camping or backpacking adventures, I swear by the REI Travel Kit bag. It’s ideal for storing larger items like shampoo, conditioner, and lotion.

Multi Towel

Another must-have from REI is their multi towel. Getting a towel that dries quickly is an absolute game-changer. Once it’s dry, you can simply fold it up and stash it away. I have the medium size, and my husband loves the larger one.

First Aid Kit

This is one of the most essential pieces of gear no matter where your adventure takes you. Accidents can happen anywhere, and having a first aid kit ensures you’re ready to handle any minor injuries or medical issues that may arise during your camping adventures.

EXTRA

Books/ Kindles

I’m a book nerd through and through, always eager to dive into a new mystery, thriller, suspense and horror story whenever I can. There’s something about camp horrors that just feels so fitting for camping trips!

Here are a few reads I’ve enjoyed:

• “The Last Time I Lied” by Riley Sager– It follows a woman returning to the summer camp where her friends disappeared years ago, unraveling dark secrets along the way.
• “Descent” by Tim Johnston– A family vacationing in the Rockies where a daughter disappears, leading to a gripping mystery.
• “The River at Night” by Erica Ferenik– It’s about a camping trip gone wrong in the remote Maine wilderness, a setting that adds to the suspense.
• “The River” by Peter Heller– Two friends on a canoeing trip in northern Canada who stumble upon a crime scene.
• “The Woods” by Harlan Coben– A prosecutor who revisits the disappearance of his sister from a summer camp years ago, uncovering shocking truths.

If you’re like me and devour books at a lightning speed, a Kindle can be a game-changer for camping. Instead of lugging around multiple physical books, you can store thousands of eBooks on a Kindle, saving space and weight in your camping gear. Plus, many Kindle come with built-in lighting or adjustable brightness, making it easy to read comfortably at night by the campfire or in your tent without disturbing others.

Hammock

My must-have for any camping trip— it’s not essential, but a hammock adds such a relaxing touch after a day of outdoor adventures. Ever since I got my Eagle Nest Outfitter hammock a few years ago, it’s become a camping staple. Any brand of hammock works well, as they allow you to feel more connected with nature and unwind in peace.

Sunscreen

This is a topic that I strongly feel needs to be discussed more. As our world changes, protecting the Earth— including our waterway— is more crucial than ever. The sunscreen we use can impact marine life when it washes off into the water! I highly recommend checking out www.SafeTheReef.org to learn how to protect yourself from harmful chemicals while safeguarding our precious waters.

Some personal favorites of mine for eco-friendly sunscreens:

• Kinfield
• Badger
• Raw Materials

They not only protect your skin but also contribute to protecting our environment— a win-win in my book!

Looking for a Camp Packing Checklist

Want the full list of my camping essentials? I’ve put together a detailed camping gear guide, checklist. Download it below!

FINAL THOUGHTS ON CAMPING GEAR AND PACKING CHECKLIST

You don’t need fancy gear to enjoy the outdoors— but having a few thoughtfully chosen essentials can make the difference between a frustrating trip and a relaxing one.

Whether you’re brand new to camping or just looking to level up your setup, I hope this post gave you helpful ideas and fresh inspiration for your next trip.

You’ve got this— and I’m cheering you on every step (and miles) of the way.

Happy Camping!