I’ve been car camping the past 3 weekends here around Colorado. Every time there was something I forgot! We have a well-organized camping bin that we can throw in the car, but there’s always something small (like grabbing a deck of playing cards) that I forget.
You don’t want to end up in the woods without your essential items like lighters, sleeping pads, and toilet paper.
I put together a go-to packing list for car camping. You can see it below or get the free printable camping list below so you always have a checklist with you.
Download the Printable PDF Here
Car Camping Packing List
Sleeping Essentials
- Tent
- Sleeping Bag
- Camp Pillow
- Sleeping Pad
Campsite Essentials
- Foldable Table
- Camp Chairs
- Lighter/Matches
- Firestarter
- Headlamps or flashlights
- Tarp or other shade/rain cover (optional)
- Rope
- Water jug
- Camp ax or hatchet
- Trash and recycling bags
Kitchen & Cooking Gear
- Stove with Fuel
- Pots and pans
- Cooler
- Ice or ice replacement
- Camp sink or wash bin
- Camp-friendly soap
- Plates, dishware, utensils
- Ceramic mugs
- Large knife and cutting board
- Aluminum Foil
- Tongs
- Oven mitt
- Dishtowel
- Dutch oven
- Food, spices, cooking oil
- Charcoal (optional – if site has charcoal grills)
Personal Gear
- Clothes
- Backpack
- Water bottle
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Extra socks
- Jacket
Health & Hygiene Gear
- Hand sanitizer
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Toilet paper
- Toothpaste & toothbrush
- Deodorant
- Washcloth or facial wipes
Camping Extras (optional)
- Playing cards (or other games)
- Music player (with headphones)
- Aeropress or french press for coffee
- Campfire Roasting forks
- Hammock
- Reading book
- Fishing/sports/activity gear
- Lantern or battery powered lights
- Table cloth
- Picnic blankets
What are your favorites to bring when you go camping? Do you recommend anything else I should add to the list?
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