Planning a camping trip with kids can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it can be a breeze! That’s why I’ve created a genius Camping with Kids Checklist to help you stay organized and stress-free.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you’ll need to ensure your family’s camping adventure is comfortable and fun. Plus, we’ve included a free printable checklist so you can easily pack and be ready for a memorable outdoor experience with your little ones!

Why It’s a Good Idea To Use a Checklist When Camping With Kids

I don’t know about you, but I’m a HUGE list person. If it ain’t on the list, I’m likely to forget it. I love lists. When you go camping, if you forget an essential, it can ruin the whole trip…for everyone! Having a checklist that you can use each time you camp, is a life saver…literally. We keep our list in your camping boxes and if we’re out camping and want to bring something the next time, we add it to the list.

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What’s On My Camping with Kids & Family Checklist?

Wondering what to pack for a family camping trip? I’m sharing what’s on my camping with kids and family checklist to help you prepare for a fun and stress-free outdoor adventure. From essential gear to family-friendly extras, this list will make sure you’re ready for anything.

1 – Food & Cooking

When it comes to cooking while camping, you can either pack items from your kitchen for each trip or invest in a set of dedicated camping dishes. By keeping these designated items stored in your camping tub, you’ll save time and avoid the hassle of packing and unpacking every time you head out on an adventure. Here’s my list of what you will need.

  • Aluminum Foil – always comes in handy
  • Plastic Utensils & Paper Goods – bowls, plates, and cups. I prefer the sturdy ones when camping.
  • Paper Towels – again no dinky ones. There are ones on Amazon, but Costco is also a great place to get them.
  • Lighter / Matches
  • Fire Starter / Lighter Fluid
  • Mixing Bowl – we just have a camping bowl that stays with our camping things. Use these collapsible ones for easy storage and they have lids.
  • Mixing Spoon
  • Rubber Spatula
  • Kitchen Towels
  • Oven Mitts
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Can Opener
  • Water Bottles
  • Water – in gallon containers, 2-3 gallons is usually good for 1-3 nights. This comes in handy for handwashing, putting out fires, cooking, and cleaning.
  • Measuring Cups – we also have designated camping measuring cups. Use these collapsible ones for easy storage.
  • Empty Tupperware Containers – these come in handy for leftovers and other miscellaneous items.
  • Table Cloth – you can either invest in a sturdy plastic one, or buy some cheap dollar store ones that you can just throw away after. These ones are actually elastic and can slip over the table to keep it on with the wind.
  • Seasonings – we just have our camping seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic.
  • Cooking Oil
  • Non-Stick Spray
  • Dish Soap
  • Grilling Tongs
  • Grilling Spatula or Fire Cooking Grate
  • Camping Skillet
  • Dutch Oven
  • Grill
  • Camping Skewers / Roasters – These are our favorite because they are collapsible. You can also get these cool hotdog roasters or s’more roasters.
  • Egg Holder (if you eat eggs) – These are the best for transporting eggs.
  • Ice
  • Cooler
  • Food for Meals – Write out your meals so you can make a list of all the food you need. Here is a great list of camping meal ideas.
  • Graham Crackers, Chocolate, Marshmallows
  • Snacks
  • Cleaning Brush

2 – Clothes & Shoes

Make sure you pack the proper shoes and clothes. You want to check the weather where you are going and be prepared for any hiking, swimming, fishing, or sports you might do.

  • Bathing Suits
  • Outfits for Each Day of the Trip – consider weather and planned activities
  • Shoes (2 Pairs) – sandals, tennis shoes, shower shoes, or hiking boots
  • Underwear
  • Pajamas
  • Socks
  • Sweater / Hoodie
  • Bathing Suits
  • Hat
  • Gloves (depending on weather)
  • Sunglasses

3 – Sleeping & Camping items

The hardest part of camping with kids is the sleeping. Being prepared can make all the difference.

  • Extra Batteries
  • Ziploc Baggies (all sizes)
  • Trash Bags
  • Flashlights / Lanterns
  • 14 in 1 Camping Tool (includes a knife or strong cutting utensil)
  • Tools (hammer, screwdriver, pliers, axe)
  • Scissors
  • Firewood
  • Blankets / Sleeping Bags
  • Air Mattress- I think the ones with the electric pumps are the best
  • Pillows
  • Tent
  • Wipes (even if your kids aren’t young)
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Tarp
  • Camping Chairs- Here is one of our favorites. If you are just starting out, you could buy some cheap ones and then work your way up to replacing them with nice ones. Cheap ones don’t last as long and tear easily.
  • First Aid Kit
  • Clothespins – these come in handy more than you know
  • Firewood
  • Duct Tape – can fix anything.
  • Bungee Cords
  • Working Gloves
  • Hand Soap
  • Compass
  • Bear mace

4 – Toiletries

Hopefully you like camping by bathrooms, but if not, this list should still cover the essentials.

  • Towels
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Repellent – you can try the bracelets or the stickers
  • Hair Ties
  • Toilet Paper
  • Dry Shampoo
  • Hairbrush
  • Raincoat
  • Skin Care / Make-up
  • Shampoo / Conditioner
  • Body Wash
  • Toothbrush / Toothpaste / Floss
  • Deodorant
  • Menstrual Products
  • Handheld Mirror
  • Medications
  • Body Wipes – These wipes for when you can’t shower

5 – Baby & Toddler

Babies have a whole list to themselves because they need so much.

  • Wipes
  • Pacifier with Extras
  • Pack n Play
  • Diapers
  • Formula
  • Baby Food/ Oatmeal
  • Baby Snacks
  • Baby Carrier – one of our favorites
  • Stroller
  • Baby Toys
  • Baby Seat
  • Lots of Snacks
  • Portable Potty
  • Toys
  • Mat / Cot – Here’s a great mat for kids
  • Blankets
  • Sippy Cup
  • Nightlight

6 – Activities

Activities are optional and dependent on when and where you’re going, but I recommend having as many as you can.

  • Glow Sticks – these are fun for games at night or just to play with. Kids love them.
  • Frisbee
  • Balls
  • Outdoor Sports Equipment
  • Sidewalk Chalk
  • Water Guns
  • Nerf Guns
  • Coloring Books & Crayons
  • Board Games / Playing Cards
  • Bug Catchers / Nature Journals / Nature Scavenger Hunts
  • Books
  • Bubbles – learn how to make your own bubbles
  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Canoe / Kayak / Water Sports Equipment
  • Fishing Gear
  • Sand Toys

Download this fun travel bundle to do while camping or as an activity in the car on the way.

7 – Luxury Items

These items are fun or great to have, but are not a necessity. You can still have a successful trip without them.

  • Hammock
  • Shaded Shelter / Canopy
  • Outdoor Rug – great for just outside the tent to try and keep it a little tidy
  • Folding Table
  • Portable Cooking Stove – we’ve used this one for a while and it’s never steered us wrong
  • Broom
  • Basin for Cleaning Dishes
  • High Chair
  • Head Lamps
  • Water Filter
  • Portable Charger
  • Laundry Bag
  • Mosquito Net

Free Printable PDF Camping with Kids Packing Checklist

I’ve created a streamlined camping checklist with all the essentials, and you can download it for free from my shop! It’s perfect to keep on hand for every camping trip. Simply store it in your camping gear for added convenience and quick reference whenever you head out on your next adventure.

Complete family camping checklist mockup.

Camping With Kids Tips & Hacks

Now that you know what you need to go camping with kids, I also want to share my top camping with kids tips.

1 – Be Prepared

Planning ahead is key when camping with kids. Pack extra clothes, snacks, and essentials to account for unpredictable weather or accidents. Make sure to have a first aid kit, plenty of water, and a few comfort items from home to keep kids happy and prepared for anything that comes your way. If you follow this list, you should have all the things you need.

2 – Unplug

Camping is the perfect opportunity to disconnect from screens and technology. Encourage kids to explore nature, play outdoors, and enjoy being present in the moment. Use the time to bond as a family and focus on the simple joys of outdoor living.

3 – Don’t Stress About Bedtime

Bedtime while camping doesn’t have to follow strict rules. Let kids stay up a bit later, enjoy the campfire, and soak in the excitement of being outdoors. It’s okay if routines shift—what’s important is that everyone gets some rest and wakes up ready for more fun.

4 – Involve Kids in Camp Chores

Give kids simple camping tasks, like gathering sticks for the fire or helping with meal prep. This makes them feel involved and teaches responsibility in a fun way.

5 – Start Small

If you’re new to camping with kids, start with a simple overnight trip or set up camp in your backyard. This allows kids to get comfortable with sleeping outdoors and gives you a chance to test out your gear without committing to a long trip.

6 – Set Boundaries

Set clear boundaries to keep kids safe and comfortable at the campsite. Establish designated play areas, explain the importance of staying within sight, and teach them basic safety rules about campfires, wildlife, and water. This helps ensure everyone enjoys the trip safely.

A camping with kids checklist is a great way to stay organized as you prep for an adventurous family trip!

Camping with kids can be an unforgettable adventure, especially when you’re well-prepared. With a camping checklist, you’ll have everything you need for a smooth, stress-free trip. Don’t forget to grab your free printable checklist to make packing easy and ensure your family has a fun and memorable experience in the great outdoors. Happy camping!

A genius camping with kids packing list free printable Pinterest pin.