If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed by all the gear and wondering, what do I actually need to take camping? You’re not alone. Whether you’re new to the camping scene or a seasoned pro, creating the perfect camping checklist can be tricky.
It’s so easy to overpack – or worse – forget something essential. In this guide, we’ll break it all down so you know exactly what to bring without going overboard. From the camping essentials list to smart packing tips, we’ve got you covered.
Below, we’ll be unpacking (no pun intended) our essential camping checklist. As an added bonus, you can also download it in a handy printable list. Believe us, this can be a total lifesaver!
And, while you’re here, why not join our Queensland Camping Facebook Group to connect with like-minded people in the Sunshine State, ask for advice and share your own camping checklist and outdoor experiences?
Ready? Let’s get into it!
Below is our comprehensive guide to things to take camping. Now, of course, chances are, you may not need all of this gear. Depending on where you’re going, how long you’re going for, and who you’re travelling with, the reality is, you may not need much more than a tent and a sleeping bag.
However, we aim to be thorough here at Queensland Camping, and we’ve designed this camping checklist to set you up for a comfortable camping experience. You won’t find your personal items like clothing, toiletries, and food on this list because they’re unique to everyone, but you will find everything you’ll need to sleep, cook, and relax.
Tent
Unsurprisingly, a tent is at the very top of our camping checklist. The type and size you’ll need depends on a few factors like how many people it’s for, how often you’ll be camping, how much money you want to spend, etc. We’d recommend checking out our detailed tent guide for the best deep-dive into all of that.
In short, we highly recommend investing in a good quality pop up tent that goes up in seconds. (Gone are the days when a tent should take hours to set up!) Our top choice is the Coleman Instant tent.
When packing for camping, a few other things you’ll want to bring along for your tent is a hammer or mallet to knock in the pegs easily and perhaps some spare pegs, rope and poles.
Camp cupboard
Another completely optional item on the camping checklist is camp cupboards for your tent. They fold up and are perfect for storing your clothes and personal things. If you’re going away for an extended period or have a big family, these could be a total lifesaver!
Gazebo
For some people, a gazebo may be optional, but we can’t recommend them highly enough on your camping checklist. A 3×3 gazebo can act as the living area of your campsite and is probably where you’ll spend most of your time. Just make sure you tie it down properly so it doesn’t make it’s way up into a tree!
For more info, read our guide on choosing a gazebo.
Mesh flooring
For the ultimate camping checklist, add some mesh flooring. This is entirely optional, and of course, the grass is fine for your ground. But if you want a nice clean campsite and something you can clean off (highly recommended when camping with kids!), then ground cover is a must.
It’s not expensive, and it makes your camping experience so much more comfortable. We’d advise you to skip the crappy jigsaw rubber mats and opt for a large mesh floor the same size as your gazebo.
Chairs
If you’re just starting out, you don’t need the top-of-the-line gear on your camping checklist. However, if you’re planning on visiting the great outdoors on a regular basis, nothing is more important than a super comfortable camping chair.
The cheap $10 Bunnings offerings are okay, they do the job – but spending a little more can be worth the investment for a better chair. You might even want to consider something with a little built-in table for that all-important beer or glass of wine.
You can read our camp chair guide for more info.
Tables
No matter what sort of camper you are, all camping checklists must have a table. The size and number of tables are a personal thing, but one large table or table and chairs setting may be all that you need in the centre of your site.
Bringing a tablecloth can also be a nice touch, as you can take it off at the end of the day and give it a good shake out. Bonus tip: Add tape or some clips to your camping checklist; otherwise, you’re bound to get annoyed with the tablecloth flapping around in the wind!
Camp kitchen
A camp kitchen is a worthy addition to any camping checklist. Essentially, it’s just a set of fold-up cupboards with a built-in tabletop so you can put away pantry items and cooking utensils as well as have somewhere to prepare meals.
You can even get some with a built-in kitchen sink!
Sun tent
For families, it can be a good idea to add a little pop up sun tent to your camping checklist. A sun tent is an excellent idea for a playroom. It can give kids a space to go and play while the adults hang out in the main area.
Plus, if you’re beach camping, you can easily take it down to the sand for some sun shelter. Be sure to check out our beach tent guide.
Air mattress
Unless you’re hardcore, your camping checklist will include something to sleep on. We can vouch for the Coleman All Terrain air mattress which is really good quality.
If you do bring an air mattress, an air pump is also something to add to the list. Alternatively, you can use an air blower for this purpose.
A self inflatable mattress can be excellent; the only downside with a sleeping pad like this is the bulkiness leads to them taking up more space.
The other option is a stretcher which is like a small bed. You can even get like bunk beds which are great for bigger families with a small tent. You can read our air mattress guide for more info.
Sleeping bag and bedding
Sleeping bags are a camp staple on any camping checklist, because they’re warm, comfortable, and don’t take up much space – however, if you’d prefer sheets and blankets, go for it.
And, if you do opt for sleeping bags, make sure you get the ones that can be fully unzipped and used like a blanket.
We highly recommend these Coleman Pilbara and Coleman Youth sleeping bags. Oh, and if you’re looking for some more info, be sure to check out our sleeping bag guide!
(Side note: whatever you do, don’t forget some comfy pillows!)
Camping lights
If you have power, this will give you more options with camp lighting. But we recommend that your set-up is sufficient for a non-powered site – this just gives you the option for both powered and non-powered sites.
Don’t be tempted to scrimp on this though. If you have poor lighting, you’ll become really frustrated with not being able to see at night, and it can ruin your whole experience.
This Makita light is a lifesaver and a must-have on our camping checklist. The rechargeable batteries can also be used between many of their products (radios, blowers, etc.) which comes in super handy!
Headlamp
Headlamps are great for kids and adults alike. They’re great for having your hands free for activities like cooking. We recommend something like these Coleman headlamps but there are many different options on the market.
Torch
Torches always come in handy when camping, but if you have excellent-quality lighting and headlamps, you’ll only need one or two. Unfortunately, the thing about torches is they’re so easy to put down somewhere and lose them.
Esky or portable fridge
Obviously, keeping your food and drinks cold is a top priority at camp. Depending how long you’re away from home, you may be able to get by with your old faithful esky. However, you may need more than one.
We can vouch for this Waeco cooler. It does a great job keeping everything cold and the ice can easily last a whole weekend. If you’re away any longer, you’ll need fresh ice though.
You can read our complete guide on choosing a camping esky here or choosing a portable camping fridge here.
BBQ
Many campgrounds have BBQs, so a portable BBQ may not be a necessity for your camping checklist. However, if you like cooking in your own space, we recommend the portable BBQ; it’s well worth the investment as it’s easy to take on day trips too!
Portable stove
A Coleman 2 burner stove can be a great camping investment, even in addition to a BBQ. You certainly don’t have to bring both, and if the campground has a camp kitchen you don’t need either!
However, at the very least, it’s a good idea to bring a small stove with you. This allows you to cook basic food and even boil the kettle for a cuppa in the comfort of your tent site. Check out our complete guide to choosing the one that’s right for you.
Gas cylinder
Of course, if you bring along a portable BBQ or stovetop, you’ll need something to power it up. Make sure you add a gas cylinder to your basic camping list and check the gas level before leaving home!
Lighter or matches
A lighter or matches is a must-have when it comes to getting the BBQ or stovetop going. So be sure they are on your camping checklist!
Cookware
When it comes to a camping checklist, you really can’t go past the importance of . You can either buy a dedicated camping cookware set or bring along the ones you use at home.
Water container
A large water container is a must-have for your camp packing list. Also, be sure that everyone in the group brings their own water bottle to refill throughout the day.
Kettle
This probably goes without saying, but a camp kettle is absolutely vital for your favourite morning brew.
Plates, bowls, and cutlery
When it comes to essential camping items, plates and bowls absolutely make the cut. Make sure to bring at least one for everyone in the group and be sure they aren’t breakable. We can personally recommend this enamel set.
Mugs and glasses
Any camping checklist must also have mugs for those morning cuppas. Again, make sure there is one for everyone in the group and that they are not breakable. 18/8 stainless steel mugs are best for keeping your tea or coffee nice and warm.
And of course, don’t forget about glasses, but it’s a good idea to bring plastic ones. We can vouch for the Palm tumblers and wine glasses – almost as good as drinking from a glass!
Serving bowls and trays
The need for servingware will really depend upon what you plan on cooking, but we recommend looking for a couple of collapsible bowls to save on space.
Chopping board
Having a chopping board with you is highly recommended for all of your food prep. Bring at least one, and a second if you can fit it in.
Cooking utensils
Ensure you have everything you need to cook and serve all the food, such as tongs, knives, a spatula and serving spoon. Also, make sure you have things like a bottle opener, can opener and vegetable peeler on hand.
You can even buy some pretty neat camping cookware sets which have everything included.
Cling wrap and aluminium foil
While it’s much better for the planet to use reuisable containers, sometimes you just need some foil and/or clingwrap at your camping site.
Reusable containers
We find packing a range of reusable containers is great for storing leftover food. You can even find some collapsible options for space saving purposes.
Paper towel
Paper towel is right at home on any camping checklist. It’s handy for cooking, cleaning, and of course, dirty hands.
Tea and coffee
Where would you be without your morning cuppa? This one should probably be on top of your list, huh?
Condiments
Think salt, better, oil, tomato sauce, etc. Whatever you and your family enjoy on meats, veggies, and salad, pack it!
Dustpan and broom
A dustpan and broom are a nice-to-have when camping to keep the tent and gazebo area clean. You may even like to bring along a blower which (literally) makes cleaning a breeze.
Dishwashing bucket and accessories
Make sure you bring some eco-friendly dishwashing liquid to clean up after meals, as well as some dishcloths and tea towels of course.
To do the dishes in, we’d recommend a large plastic bucket. It’s easy to fill up, move around camp, and empty. Also, a collapsible sink can be a great idea as it saves on space.
Cleaning spray and cloths
Every camping checklist needs something to clean off surfaces before and after meals, so a spray-and-wipe situation may work for you.
Clothesline and pegs
You’ll usually find somewhere around the campsite to string up a line to dry off towels, bathers, tea towels, clothes, and more.
There’s nothing worse than sitting around in wet clothes or using a wet towel, which places a clothesline and pegs on our camping checklist!
Rubbish bin and bags
A compact foldable camp bin is an essential for collecting the rubbish around your site. We also recommend this Bushranger spare wheel bag for 4WDs. If you’d like to hear more about choosing a spare wheel bag, check out our guide.
Spare batteries and portable chargers
When you’re making your camping gear list, include plenty of spare batteries for all your lighting and other accessories that need them.
In additional, make sure everyone brings something to keep all their personal devices charged up. One of these large capacity chargers will keep a phone and camera going for days.
Generator
A generator is certainly something you can camp without, but for a long trip, it’s worth considering one. That way, you’ll be able to keep things powered up, and ensure you can have a wide variety of fresh foods, etc.
If you’re unsure where to start, check out the range of recreational generators at MyGenerator.
Solar panels
Add these to your camping checklist if you aim to camp off the grid. There’s a huge variety of solar panels, from reasonably cheap to really expensive and all price points in between.
Lots of people recommend getting solar panels from eBay however if you need advice, check out the range at Mygenerator, or ask their friendly team for support.
Powerboards and extension cords
If you’re camping at a powered site, or have a generator and/or solar panels, you’ll need a good quality powerboard to plug everything into. You’ll also want a quality extra long extension lead to plug into the power source.
Camp shower
Unless you’re planning to camp where there are on-site amenities, a camp shower is a worthy investment. A pop-up privacy can also be a great idea. For more info, you can read our guide to choosing the perfect camp shower and toilet.
Camp toilet
Camp toilets range from a basic seat and bucket type contraption to more advanced models that even flush! We can vouch for the Thetford Porta , which works reasonably well.
If you want to camp off the grid and be self-sufficient, a camp toilet is a necessity. It even comes in handy in some campgrounds where the facilities are a fair distance away.
Towels
And, of course, there’s nothing more important to round out this camping checklist than towels. Whether for swimming or showering, it’s highly recommended to bring one towel per person on the trip.
FAQs about your camping checklist
Wondering what to take camping? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about utilising a well-rounded camping packing list.
What do I actually need for camping?
When you’re putting together your camping list, focus on the essentials first. Your tent, sleeping bag, and air mattress are must-haves, along with cookware and utensils for preparing meals.
Be sure to include a portable stove or BBQ, camping lights, and a good headlamp or torch for after the sun has set. To round off your camping essentials list, don’t forget a water container, towels, and hygiene must-haves like a camp shower or toilet.
What is the golden rule of camping?
The golden rule of camping is to always be prepared and pack smart. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, your camping packing list should cover everything you might need for a comfortable and safe trip.
This includes items like chairs, tables, and a first-aid kit. But keep in mind the importance of packing efficiently—only bring what you’ll actually use to avoid carrying unnecessary weight.
How do you pack everything for camping?
Packing for a camping trip can seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into categories can make it easier. Start by sorting your camping gear list into sections like shelter, bedding, cooking equipment, and personal items. Use reusable containers to organise smaller things to take camping, such as cutlery, spices, and cleaning supplies.
Place heavier items, like the camp stove or cooler, at the bottom of your vehicle or backpack, and lighter items, like a sleeping bag or clothes, on top. This will help distribute weight and make your camping equipment list more manageable.
How to not overpack for camping?
One of the keys to not overpacking is sticking to the basics. As you prepare your camping packing list, focus on multi-use items and leave out anything unnecessary. For example, a compact camp kitchen setup with minimal cookware can replace bulky gear.
All in all, your camping gear list should reflect the length of your trip and the specific activities you plan on doing. By refining your list to the essentials, you’ll have more room for what matters without cluttering your space with extra things to take camping.
Final thoughts on building the ultimate camping checklist
So, there you have it, our ultimate camping guide! Don’t forget to download your printable camping checklist to make planning your next trip a whole lot easier!
And, while you’re here, why not join our Queensland Camping Facebook Group to chat with like-minded people, ask for advice and share your experiences from the great outdoors? You’ll also find more handy resources like this deep dive into sustainable camping at Queensland Camping.
This camping checklist may contain affiliate links. For more information, please refer to our disclaimer.
