The Complete Car Camping Checklist (Printable)

Car camping forgives a lot of mistakes that backpacking doesn’t — you have trunk space and don’t need to count ounces — but that abundance also makes it easy to forget something specific. This checklist is organized by category so you can go through it section by section.

Shelter & sleep

• Tent (plus stakes, guylines, and a footprint/groundsheet)
• Sleeping bags rated for expected overnight lows
• Sleeping pads or air mattress (plus a pump if not self-inflating)
• Pillows or stuff-sack pillow inserts
• Extra blanket for shoulder-season trips

See our camping tents review and sleeping bag guide if you need to fill gaps in this category.

Kitchen & food

• Camp stove plus fuel (and a lighter or waterproof matches as backup)
• Cookware: pot, pan, basic utensils
• Cooler with ice — see our YETI vs. RTIC comparison if you’re shopping for one
• Plates, bowls, cups, reusable cutlery
• Dish soap, sponge, and a small basin for washing up
• Trash bags (pack out everything)
• Water — bring more than you think you’ll need, plus a filter as backup

Comfort & camp setup

• Camp chairs
• Folding table (if the site doesn’t have a picnic table)
• Lantern or string lights, plus headlamps for each person
• Portable power station or power bank — see our power station review
• Extra batteries for every battery-powered item you’re bringing

Clothing & personal items

• Layered clothing appropriate for expected temperature swings
• Rain jacket regardless of forecast
• Sturdy closed-toe shoes plus a second pair for around camp
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Toiletries and a small towel

Safety & navigation

• First aid kit
• Map of the area (don’t rely solely on phone signal)
• Multi-tool or knife
• Fire extinguisher or way to fully extinguish a campfire
• Emergency contact info left with someone not on the trip

Pre-trip checklist (3-5 days before)

1. Test the stove and lantern to confirm they still work
2. Check tent for damage from last use; reseal seams if needed (see our waterproofing guide)
3. Charge all rechargeable gear and power banks
4. Check the weather forecast and adjust the clothing/shelter list accordingly
5. Confirm campsite reservation and any permits required

Frequently asked questions

What’s most commonly forgotten on a car camping trip? Extra tent stakes, a trash bag system, sunscreen, and a backup light source.

How far in advance should I start packing? 3-5 days, to leave time for testing gear and replacing anything broken or missing.