The Ultimate Family Camping Checklist: Everything You Need for a Fun & Stress-Free Trip

Thinking about taking the kids camping but worried you’ll forget something important? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!

As an Occupational Therapist and nature-loving parent, I know how powerful time outdoors can be for reconnecting, regulating, and recharging. Whether you're first-timers or seasoned campers, this family-friendly camping checklist will help ensure your adventure is smooth, safe, and full of great memories.

🌲 Family Camping Checklist

🛶 Essentials

• Tent or awning (caravan/camper) with pegs & guy ropes

• Groundsheet or tarp

• Sleeping bags (appropriate for weather)

• Roll mats or air mattresses

• Pillows

• Camping chairs

• Camping table

• Lanterns or torches (with extra batteries)

• Headtorches

  
  

🍳 Cooking & Food

• Cool box (with ice packs) - electric ones are great!

• Portable stove or BBQ (with propane/coals)

• Lighter or matches

• Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs, ladle)

• Cutlery, plates, bowls, and cups

• Pots, pans, and kettle

• Soap & sponge

• Dish towel & washing-up bowl

• Food storage containers or Ziplock bags

• Refillable drink bottles

• Bin & recycling bags

• Kitchen roll or napkins

• Water bottles

• Tea / coffee / sugar / condiments

• Squash / pop

• Easy meals, snacks, and treats (s’mores, anyone?)

  
  

👚 Clothing

• Weather-appropriate layers (hoodies, t-shirts, fleece)

• Waterproofs (jackets, trousers, boots)

• Warm coats (especially if waterproofs are wet)

• Extra socks & underwear

• Hats (sun hats and warm hats)

• Gloves (weather dependent)

• Swimwear / wetsuits / water shoes & gloves

• Changing robes (great for beach or post-shower changes)

• Pyjama's or cosy sleepwear

• Walking shoes/boots or sandals

• Walking socks

• Flip flops (handy for shower blocks)

  
  

🧼 Toiletries & Health

• Toothbrushes & toothpaste

• Soap / shampoo / conditioner

• Towels & washcloths

• Sun cream & SPF lip balm

• Insect repellent or wristbands

• Wet wipes / hand sanitiser

• Toilet paper (always handy)

• Portable toilet (especially useful at night)

• Hair bobbles for long hair (especially windy days)

• First aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, antihistamines)

• Any prescription medications

  
  

🎲 Kids & Entertainment

• Card/board games (Uno, Go Fish, Dobble, Fiveup)

• Outdoor games (swingball, football, frisbee)

• Colouring books / crafts / activity packs

• Binoculars for wildlife watching

• Nature scavenger hunt (print ahead)

• Bikes/scooters + helmets

• Bedtime stories or books

• Favourite stuffed toys or comfort items

  
  

✨ Bonus Items (Optional but Awesome)

• Hammock

• Solar charger / power bank

• Fire pit & firewood (check site rules)

• Picnic mat / outdoor blanket

• Clothesline & pegs

• Travel clothes wash for muddy gear

• Bug netting or screen tent

  
  

📎 Practical Extras

• Campsite booking confirmation

• Local walking maps / guidebooks

• Emergency contacts list

• Spare car keys

• Small amount of cash or coins

• Backpacks for hikes

• Sitting mats (great for picnics)

  
  

💡 OT Tip: Let kids help pack and set up camp! It builds independence, motor skills, and confidence. Nature also provides sensory-rich environments that are great for regulation and development—for everyone in the family.

🎒 Want a printable version of this checklist? I can share a free downloadable PDF—just let me know in the comments!

💬 I’d love to hear from you—what are your must-haves when you go camping with your family? Let me know in the comments what you find useful to bring along on your trips!

Happy camping, and may your marshmallows be golden (not burnt)! 🏕️