Ultimate Checklist for Car Camping: Don’t Leave Home Without These

Ultimate Checklist for Car Camping: Don’t Leave Home Without These

Heading out on a car‑camping trip means you can bring more gear—but it also means more to remember. Use this ultimate checklist to pack efficiently and enjoy a stress‑free adventure.

1. Shelter & Sleeping

Tent (with footprint/tarp & extra stakes)
Rainfly or rain tarp
Sleeping bags (season‑appropriate rating)
Sleeping pads or air mattresses
Pillows or inflatable travel pillows
Extra blankets

2. Cooking & Food

Portable stove (propane or multi‑fuel) + extra fuel
Lightweight cookware (pots, pans, kettle)
Utensils (spatula, tongs, cooking spoon)
Eating dishes (plates/bowls, cups, cutlery)
Cutting board and knife
Cooler with ice packs
Biodegradable soap & sponge
Trash bags & zip‑lock bags
Food staples & meal kits
Snacks and quick energy bites

3. Hydration & Water

Insulated water bottles or hydration bladders
Large water jugs (for cooking/clean‑up)
Water filter, purification tablets, or pump

4. Clothing & Footwear

Moisture‑wicking base layers
Insulating mid‑layers (fleece, down)
Waterproof shell jacket & pants
Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
Camp shoes or sandals
Hat, sunglasses, and gloves
Extra socks and underwear

5. Lighting & Power

Headlamps + spare batteries
Lanterns or string lights
Portable power bank or solar charger

6. Safety & Navigation

First‑aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, medications)
Multi‑tool or knife
Maps/GPS device or smartphone with offline maps
Fire extinguisher or bucket for water
Bear canister or wildlife‑proof container (if required)
Whistle and emergency blanket

7. Comfort & Extras

Collapsible camping chairs
Foldable table or camp kitchen stand
Camping hammock or daypack chair
Outdoor rug or ground mat
Camping pillow

8. Entertainment & Activities

Deck of cards or travel games
Binoculars or camera
Books, journal, or sketchpad
Fishing gear or sports equipment

9. Clean‑Up & Leave‑No‑Trace

Pack of cleaning wipes
Biodegradable toilet paper
Trowel (for cat‑hole waste if no facilities)
Recycling/trash sorting bags

Pro Tip:
Pack by zones (cooking, sleeping, safety) and store items in labeled bins or duffels. Keep daily‑use essentials handy and heavier gear at the bottom of the car. With this checklist, you’ll be well prepared to hit the road and make the most of your car‑camping adventure!