When planning a camping adventure, find out ahead of time what amenities will be available so you can plan accordingly. You would not pack the same gear for a backpacking expedition as you would for a camping trip where a car will remain nearby a site with electrical hookups and showers. The website Family Camping Gear suggests campers make planning part of the fun. Get your group together to decide what to bring and to make a checklist.
Shelter
When you pack your tent, check for stakes, poles and rain fly. You will also need a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, pillow and light source. For campsite comfort, pack chairs and a hammock or two. Most campsites have a picnic table, but you may want to bring an additional folding table. If you are traveling to a bug-infested area, you may want to bring a screen tent as well as sleeping tents.
Food
Most sites will have a grill, but for quicker cooking you may want to bring an outdoor stove. Good food choices for car camping include eggs and hash, burgers and hot dogs, nuts and nut butters, grilled cheese, canned foods, raw vegetables, lunch meats and pasta. Remember also to pack kitchen equipment: cutting board, knife, utensils, paper plates and bowls, cups, grilling tools, can opener, storage bags, aluminum foil, sponge, trash bags and wash bucket. For an extended stay in the backcountry, you will need to make more careful food choices. Include lightweight high-calorie foods such as nuts, nut butter, cheese, powdered drinks and dehydrated meals.
Food Safety
For car camping, USDA recommends bringing two coolers: one for drinks and snacks and one for the rest of your perishables. This is because the snack cooler will probably be opened and closed many times, which will cause it to warm up more quickly. USDA also recommends keeping the cooler out of the sun and covering it with a blanket or tarp. This will help keep the contents cool.
Water
Find out if potable water will be available, and how far it is from your campsite. You may want to bring several gallons of water with you to keep nearby. Consider bringing a large water tub with a spout for drinking or washing.
Clothing
Pack appropriate clothing for the climate, and bring extra layers and extra socks. Cotton is not the best choice for cooler climates or for water sports; it gets cold and clammy when wet and takes a long time to dry. Instead, choose wool or synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon or polypropylene. If you plan to hike, bring appropriate shoes. Pack sandals or water shoes for lake or river swimming and for camp showers.
Tools and Equipment
If you plan to have a fire, an ax is a good idea. Do check with your camp hosts, however, since many areas require that you buy fire wood. In either case, you should pack a lighter and fire starter or newspaper to get the blaze going. For a portable source of light, pack flashlights, headlamps and batteries. Other items to consider include water bottles, small shovel, duct tape, small toolbox, maps and backpacks for day hikes.
Entertainment
What will you do while camping? Bicycles, bike pump, swimming toys, picnic blanket, fishing gear, Frisbees and tent games for rainy days are all good ideas. Field guides and binoculars can help you see things you'd miss otherwise and can help you identify poisonous plants and edible berries. Consider leaving the electronics behind to get the most out of your outdoor experience.
Health
Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and soap may help increase your comfort and enjoyment of the outdoors. If showers will be available, you may want to bring shampoo and conditioner. If showers will not be available, wet wipes and a towel may come in handy. Other items to consider include first-aid kit, lip balm, bug spray, a mirror and mole skin for blisters.
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