Getting Ready for Camping

There are many things to remember to bring when you are planning for your first camping trip. Preparing well will help your trip go smoothly.

Involve the family in your camping planning

As you plan and think about the trip, involve your kids in the planning process. Let them help choose the location, the activities, or the meals -- your kids will get more excited. Your camping trip will not only be something they do for a week or a weekend, but it will become something they feel engaged in and start anticipating.

If you plan ahead as a family, everyone is better prepared, and everyone has time to get excited about what they want to see and do on the trip.

Here are some of the things you could plan together:

• Plan the camping menu together
• Have your kids help choose where you go
• Have your kids pick the sights they want to see
• Practice camping in the backyard
• Let them pick a few special treats to bring

Packing for your first camping trip

Below we have provided a basic packing list for your first camping trip. At minimum, you want to consider bringing the items on the list. You might consider printing the list and hanging it someplace visible, e.g. on the refrigerator, a month or so before you go on the trip. Every time you see the list you are reminded of your upcoming adventure, and you can conveniently add anything you think of that you want to bring. Having a list is a great way to make sure you have the essentials you’ll need to enjoy your trip! Note: while we haven't added them to the list, things like playing cards, simple board games, and books can make your camping downtime much more enjoyable.