The Essential Camping Checklist for a Comfortable Night Out

The best camping trips are the ones where you do not have to think about gear once you arrive. Run through this checklist before you leave home.

Shelter and sleep

• Tent, stakes and a footprint or groundsheet
• Sleeping bag rated for the lowest expected temperature
• Sleeping pad for comfort and insulation from the ground
• Pillow, or a stuff sack filled with clothes

Light

• A headlamp for hands-free tasks
• A flashlight or lantern for lighting up the tent and campsite
• A way to recharge: power bank or car charger

Staying cool and comfortable

• A portable rechargeable fan for hot nights in the tent
• Camp chair
• Insect repellent

Sun and weather

• Wide-brim sun hat, ideally with a neck flap
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Rain jacket and a warm layer, even in summer

Camp tools

• Work gloves for handling firewood and hot cookware
• Multi-tool or knife, lighter and matches
• First aid kit and any personal medication
• Trash bags, so you leave no trace

Find lights, fans, gloves and sun hats in our Camping Gear collection.