Camping made easy: The Ultimate Family Camping Checklist! (free printable)

Using this family camping checklist makes camping with kids easy and stress-free.

Camping with kids can quickly become chaotic and stressful. This can lead to parents not wanting to go through the trouble of getting outdoors with their families. The best way to enjoy camping with your kids is to be as prepared as possible for the trip. The more you plan and pre-prepare, the more you can relax and enjoy the time outdoors with your family. To make camping with your family more fun and relaxing, we have prepared the Ultimate Family Camping Checklist so you can focus on the fun and leave your worries behind!

[Download your free printable camping checklist!]

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Essential Camping Gear

Tent (large enough for your family). If you can stand in your tent it is even more comfortable. We have found Coleman tents to be durable and comfortable. I recommend getting a size bigger than it says. For example, if you have a family of 4, get a 6-8 person tent. This way you have room for air mattresses and your bags.
Sleeping bags (Temperature-appropriate). We like using a double sleeping bag like this for adults (it can be used as one big bag, or 2 smaller bags), and one like this for kids. We prefer thinner sleeping bags that don’t overheat us in the summer. When it is colder we use extra blankets to keep warm.
Extra blankets. If your kids are like mine they kick off their sleeping bags. We like to bring extra blankets for everyone and layer, especially if it is cold at night.
Sleeping pads or air mattresses. (if you are bringing an air mattress make sure you have the ability to blow it up i.e. an electrical outlet in your car or an adapter). To save space in the car & tent our kids use sleeping mats and we use a queen-sized air mattress. This fits well in our 8-person tent.
Pillows
Camping Chairs I like these for adults and these for kids.
Camping Table (if not provided at the campsite). I like a bigger one for cooking and I love this smaller one for games and sitting around the campsite.
Headlamps and flashlights (bring extra batteries)
Multi-tool, camping knife, and/or an axe or hatchet. Even if you buy firewood you may run out and need to cut more or break down the logs you brought.
Duct-tape
Biodegradable toilet paper
Baby Wipes

Cooking & Food Supplies

Portable camping stove or grill. We love using our camp chef, but it requires a full-sized propane tank which takes up a lot of space. If you are tight on space the Blackstone grill is a good option, or the portable camp stove. Sometimes we even use a Dutch oven over a fire for all of out cooking.
Fuel for stove
Matches or lighter (bringing an extra is recommended just in case)
Cooler with icepacks. This cooler is the best and will keep your food cold longer. If that is out of the price range this is a good cheaper option.
Reusable water bottles
Extra water (enough for the entire trip)
Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs, etc.)
Pots, pans, or Dutch oven & kettle
Plates, bowls, and cutlery. I like to have a set just for camping that I can keep in my camping tote. Having designated camping items makes packing quick and easy.
A medium-sized bowl. Having a bowl is great for cooking and cleaning. I like a collapsable one for space-saving packing.
Coffee supplies (I like to bring a French press)
Tin foil
Empty Tupperware (in case you have leftovers)
Biodegradable soap and sponge/washcloth. I always keep a pack of green scour pads and at least 3 washcloths in my camping tote. I always end up using at least 2 washcloths while camping so having extra is nice.
Trash bags (leave no trace!)
Non-perishable snacks and easy meals
Marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for s’mores
Bear Canister if camping in bear country

Clothing & Personal Items

Weather-appropriate clothing (layering is key!)
Extra socks and underwear
Rain jackets/ponchos. I keep enough ponchos for my family in our camping tote.
Hats and sunglasses
Sunscreen, chapstick, and bug spray
Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
Flip flops/sandals. Having a pair of easy-to-get-on and off shoes is nice for when you are hanging around camp, and getting up in the middle of the night.
Swimsuits (if near water)
Quick-dry towels (bonus if they fold up small)
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
First-aid kit (make sure it includes an antihistamine and aspirin).
Prescription medications

Fun & Entertainment

Maps & guidebooks
Binoculars for wildlife watching
Fishing gear (if applicable). Make sure that if you are fishing, you have appropriate licensing before you leave for your trip.
Bikes, scooters, & helmets (if you have the space)
Board games or card games
Simple Arts & Craft Supplies. We like to bring construction paper, stickers, and pens/markers.
Books & activity sheets for kids
Journal for documenting your trip
Hammock

Safety & Navigation

Compass or GPS device
Emergency Whistle
Bear spray
Fire extinguisher
Emergency contacts & park ranger info
Backup phone charger & power bank

Final Check Before You Leave

Before heading out, double-check your family camping checklist and make sure your gear is packed! A well-prepared trip means a stress-free adventure and more time for making memories with your family.