September 28th, 2009
Hopefully this checklist will assist you with one of the most daunting parts of the family camping trip: packing. You might even want to modify the list to make it your own, and then laminate a copy and store it with your tent or other camping gear — that way, you always have the list handy and you’ll know what to pack.
Part 4: What to Pack
1. Clothing
Kids will be kids, and you can count on your kids getting extra dirty during a camping trip, so extra clothing, socks and shoes are essential items to pack. Be sure to also pack swimsuits if swimming is an option, and towels if showers are provided. Warm pajamas and layers are a good idea, as it can get chilly at night, depending where you are camping. Rain gear is also a good idea in case of inclement weather.
2. Sunscreen
3. Insect repellent
4. First aid kit (especially with antibiotic ointment, calamine lotion, bandaids and simple meds like children’s Tylenol)
5. Games, activities or toys (just a few should cover it, and while they’ll likely prefer playing with rocks, sticks, bugs and dirt, you’ll be glad you brought the toys if it rains and everyone is confined to the tent)
6. Loveys and other bedtime items (stuffed animals, blankets, pillows, etc.)
7. Favorite snacks
8. Food
9. Cooking utensils
10. Camping stove OR lighter fluid, charcoal, firewood, etc.
11. Water and water bottles.
12. Sleeping bags, blankets, tents, stakes, rain fly, dining fly
13. Camera and film or memory sticks, batteries
14. flashlights, batteries
15. glow sticks (for fun and safety at night, and can also double as a nightlight after the kids turn in for the night)
16. deck of cards
17. graham crackers, chocolate and marshmallows for s’mores
You are likely to think of other things you wish you’d packed once you arrive at the campsite — it helps to make a list while camping of “things to bring next time” and you can add it to this list to ensure you travel with everything you need.
Join us in the final installment of this series, where we’ll share some tips for making memories last.
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