Packing For Your Trip!
Here are some suggestions on items that you will need to pack for your camping trip with your kids! Please keep in mind that needs vary and this is just a starting place for your packing list.
| Shelter | Tips |
| Tent | Go Cheap! Until you get some experience, don't spend a fortune. |
| Dust Pan | For cleaning up the tent every morning and every night. |
| Mat for Tent Entrance | To reduce how often you need the dust pan. |
| Sleeping Bags | Match the temperature rating to where you're going. |
| Pillows | Bring the ones that you use at home. |
| Air Mattress | There's really no reason to go without one of these for everyone. |
| Food/Outdoor Kitchen | Tips |
| Water Container | CamelBaks are great! Hang them from a tree and everyone can use them to drink. Also, get a 5-gallon plastic water bag. |
| Camp Stove | Two burner propane models work best. |
| Charcoal | Match-light briquettes work wonders at getting your fire started quickly. |
| Garbage Bags | Sturdy, lawn-type bags have countless uses, also Ziploc style bags. |
| Aluminum Foil | Can replace pots and pans for many meals. |
| Tongs | |
| Oven Mitts | |
| Condiments | Salt & Pepper, various spices, ketchup and mustard |
| Can Opener | Combo can, bottle, corkscrew. |
| Paper Towels | Can be used as napkins and are more versatile. |
| Lighter and Matches | Lighter is good for emergencies. Practice starting a fire with just one match! |
| Comfort & Convenience | Tips |
| Poncho | Depending on where you're camping, you may want to keep these very accessible. |
| Flip-Flops | You will want to have good boots on most of the time, but flip-flops are great for around the campsite. |
| Lantern | Battery powered ones are easy to use and safe. |
| Camping Chairs | Trust us, sitting on the ground is only fun if you're under 5 years old. The kids will even snag your chairs if you aren't careful. |
| Wet Wipes | Not just for diaper duty, wet wipes are great for cleaning off pots and pans or freshening up before bed. |
| Rope | For hanging up packs, securing rain tarps and numerous other things. |
| Flashlight | Do not walk around in the dark. We have had countless situations where a flashlight kept us from having a run-in with wildlife (snakes and animals). |
| Pocket Knife | |
| Small Shovel / Trowel | Depending on the campsite, you might need to build your own bathroom. Please learn the right way to do this before you go. |