Ultimate Family Camping Checklist

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

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

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

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. 

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 [Download your free printable camping checklist!]