Preparing for a camping trip can be as exciting as it is daunting, especially when it comes to packing.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or setting off on your first outdoor adventure, having a comprehensive checklist is crucial to ensure you don’t leave behind any essentials.
Here’s a curated camping checklist courtesy of our Park Ambassador Program to help you pack smartly and enjoy the wilderness worry-free:
**Click here to skip down to our complete checklist**
Shelter and bedding
One of the most iconic pieces of camping equipment is the tent. You’ll want to ensure your tent is appropriate for the weather and number of occupants. But that’s just the start!
Here are some other helpful items that will ensure you have a good night’s sleep in the great outdoors:
- A ground sheet and tarp helps protect the bottom of your tent from dampness and punctures
- A mattress or sleeping pad provides insulation and cushioning from the ground. An air pump (if using an air mattress) makes for easy inflation
- Light bedsheets can be used as a sleeping bag liner or stand-alone bedding in warm weather
- Sleeping bags or warm blankets: choose according to the season and temperature rating
- Remember to bring a pillow for neck support and a good night’s sleep!
Camp kitchen
Camping is a fun activity, and like all fun activities, it requires energy!
Prepare meals in advance so you can fuel your camping trip. Here are some essential kitchen items that will help you stay energized during your trip:
- A screen dining tent or tarp with ropes will provide a comfortable and bug-free area to enjoy meals
- Folding chairs and a tablecloth will add a touch of home comfort to the dining experience
- A reliable camp stove and sufficient fuel are crucial for cooking, while a variety of pots and pans will allow for versatile meal preparation
- Don’t forget an oven mitt to handle hot cookware safely!
- Durable plates, bowls, cups, and a complete utensil set will make serving and eating meals convenient. A cutting board and sharp knife are essential for food prep, and a large bowl and serving spoons will come in handy for salads or communal dishes
- A can opener is a small but vital tool, and a coffee press or maker will ensure you start your mornings right
- Ample water storage is provided by the water jug and bottles, and a cooler with ice will keep perishables fresh
- The dishpan, biodegradable soap, and cleaning supplies will make after-meal clean-up eco-friendly and efficient
- Lastly, aluminum foil, zipper-lock bags, or resealable containers are great for storing leftovers, and a few extra garbage bags will help you leave no trace
With this checklist, you’re set for a delightful culinary experience in the great outdoors!
Campfire gear
Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, and a campfire is an essential part of the camping experience.
Here’s a comprehensive list of campfire gear to ensure you’re well-prepared for your next outdoor adventure:
- Firewood, kindling, and tinder: always check local regulations regarding the transportation of firewood to prevent the spread of pests. It’s often recommended to purchase firewood near your camping site
- Matches/barbecue lighter: Waterproof matches or a long BBQ lighter are essential for starting your fire safely and efficiently
- Campfire forks or a pie iron are great for cooking over the campfire. Campfire forks are great for marshmallows or hot dogs, while a pie iron can make a variety of hot sandwiches or desserts
- A hatchet helps split firewood into smaller, more manageable pieces or create kindling
- Fire starters can help ignite your campfire quickly, especially in damp conditions. Options include wax-based cubes, magnesium fire starters, or homemade starters using dryer lint and wax
Always have a bucket of water or sand nearby in case you need to extinguish the fire quickly.
Remember to leave no trace and always fully extinguish your campfire before leaving the site.
Lighting
The proper lighting will enable you to see around your campsite and campground when it gets dark at night.
Several lighting options are available to ensure you have a smooth camping trip, by day and by night!
- A lantern is ideal for illuminating your campsite or tent, providing a stable light source for activities like cooking or socializing
- A flashlight or headlamp, on the other hand, is essential for personal navigation after dark, allowing you to move safely and hands-free in the wilderness. When selecting a headlamp, consider features like brightness, battery life, and comfort
Tool kit
Your camping gear toolkit is well-equipped for various needs and emergencies.
- duct tape and extra batteries are versatile for quick fixes and power needs
- rope and bungee cords can secure gear or create shelter
- a small broom and dustpan keep your campsite clean
- a mallet is helpful for driving stakes into the ground, while a screwdriver or multi-tool can assist in repairs
- a sewing/patching kit is handy for mending gear, and an extra tarp provides additional protection from the elements
These items are great to cover basic repairs, maintenance, and utility needs for a camping trip.
First aid
Having a well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have for ensuring safety and preparedness for your camping trip.
Your first aid kit should include:
- bandages for different injuries
- ointments to prevent infection and aid in burn treatment
- tools for applying dressings or removing splinters
- medications to manage common illnesses
Don’t forget to include any personal prescriptions and health cards, which are crucial in case of emergencies.
It’s always a good idea to tailor the kit to the specific needs of your travel group and the nature of your trip.
Toiletries
When preparing for a camping trip, it’s important to bring toiletries that will keep you comfortable and hygienic outdoors.
- pack your deodorant, toothbrushes and toothpaste, and personal items for proper camping hygiene
- consider including hand sanitizer, a quick-dry towel, hairbrush, and washcloth
- other items, including sunscreen and bug repellent, provide essential protection from sunburns and pesky bug bites
Remember to keep these items OUTSIDE of your tent and INSIDE your vehicle. They are wildlife attractants.
Clothing
It’s important to pack clothing that is well-suited for various weather conditions. This includes:
- footwear for different activities, like close-toed shoes/hiking boots for trails and sandals for more relaxed settings
- standard clothing items, from underwear items and pajamas, to outerwear like jackets and rain gear
- a bathing suit, hat, and sunglasses are must-have items for days on the beach
- regular shorts, short-sleeve shirts, and everyday clothing are standard for most days in the park when the sun is shining
Consider different types of weather by including items for both warm and cool conditions, such as shorts and bathing suits for sunny days, and mittens and long underwear for cooler weather.
Check the weather forecast for the park you’ll be visiting to get a sense of which clothing items you’ll need.
Don’t forget to pack according to the specific climate of your camping destination to ensure comfort and protection throughout your trip.
Bringing the kids?
Unsurprisingly, it’s essential to pack items that ensure kids’ comfort and entertainment.
Don’t forget to bring:
- a cherished toy for a sense of familiarity
- special blankets or pillows for cozy sleep
- water/sand toys for fun at the beach
- a selection of games or a deck of cards can provide hours of family fun
- storybooks are perfect for winding down at night
Remember to pack extra clothing to accommodate the unpredictable nature of outdoor adventures.
Outdoor fun equipment
For a fun camping trip, ensure you pack:
- a camera or smartphone to capture memories
- a sturdy backpack for your gear
- water shoes for aquatic activities
- a personal flotation device (PFD) for water safety — many parks lend PFDs free of charge!
- sports equipment like a soccer ball, bikes (with helmets, lights, and locks)
- beach umbrella for shade
- planning on angling? Bring your fishing rod, tackle, and a valid fishing license
- if canoeing is on the agenda, include a canoe, paddles, and a safety kit with a bailer, 15-meter rope, whistle, and an extra PFD
Be sure to check online to see if the park you’re visiting rents canoes, kayaks, PFDs, bikes, and more!
Let’s camp!
Remember: the key to a successful camping trip is preparation.
Prioritize your items based on necessity and the nature of your trip. However, this list should provide everything you need to ensure a fun, safe, and memorable time camping.
Still feeling a little unsure about packing for your next trip? Check out our Camping Essentials resources, or sign up for a Park Ambassador online workshop here! Our Ambassadors will be happy to answer your questions.
Looking for some extra support for your first camping trip? Check out our FREE Ambassador Programs designed to teach camping and outdoor skills to visitors new to camping at Ontario Parks.
Sign up for the Park Ambassador online workshops here!
We hope to see you at a park this season!
Full checklist:
Shelter/bedding
| Ground sheet/tarp | |
| Air mattress/sleeping pad | |
| Air pump | |
| Bedsheets | |
| Sleeping bag/blanket | |
| Pillow |
Camp kitchen
| Dining tent | |
| Folding chairs | |
| Tablecloth | |
| Camp stove | |
| Fuel | |
| Pots and pans | |
| Oven mitt | |
| Plates, bowls, cups | |
| Utensil set | |
| Cutting board and knife | |
| Can opener | |
| Coffee maker | |
| Water container | |
| Cooler | |
| Dishpan and soap | |
| Cleaning supplies | |
| Aluminum foil | |
| Resealable containers | |
| Extra garbage bags |
Campfire gear
| Firewood | |
| Matches/barbecue lighter | |
| Campfire forks/pie iron | |
| Hatchet | |
| Fire starters | |
| Bucket of water/sand |
Lighting
| Lantern | |
| Flashlight/headlamp |
Tool kit
| Duct tape | |
| Extra batteries | |
| Rope/bungee cords | |
| Broom and dustpan | |
| Mallet | |
| Sewing/patching kit | |
| Extra tarp |
First aid
| Bandages | |
| Ointments | |
| Tools for first aid | |
| Medications | |
| Personal prescription(s) | |
| Health card(s) |
Toiletries
| Deodorant | |
| Toothbrush and toothpaste | |
| Hand sanitizer | |
| Quick-dry towel | |
| Hairbrush | |
| Washcloth | |
| Sunscreen | |
| Bug repellant |
Clothing
| Close-toed shoes/hiking boots | |
| Standard clothing items | |
| Bathing suit | |
| Hat | |
| Sunglasses | |
| Cold weather clothes | |
| Wet weather clothes |
Kids’ items
| Cherished toy | |
| Special blanket/pillow | |
| Water/sand toys | |
| Games | |
| Storybooks | |
| Extra clothes |
Outdoor fun
| Camera/smartphone with charger | |
| Backpack | |
| Water shoes | |
| PFD (if lending isn’t available) | |
| Sports equipment | |
| Beach umbrella | |
| Fishing equipment | |
| Paddling equipment |
