Camping with your family in the summertime is an experience like no other. It's a chance to appreciate nature's beauty, bond with your loved ones, and create unforgettable memories with your Scouts. Whether you pitch your tent in the woods, camp by a lake, or enjoy a long hike through a scenic location, camping is not only an activity everyone can enjoy, it's also a great way to unplug from technology and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. You can go fishing, swimming, hiking, or relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Plus, camping can be a budget-friendly vacation option that won't break the bank. So why not pack your gear and hit the road with your family this summer? If you're thinking of doing just that, we've got the gear checklist to help you! Read on to learn about all the must-have items to make your family camping trip the perfect experience. 

Tents and Ground Covers – For economy sleeping, go by the tent “sleeping” count. To take your sleeping arrangements up a notch, subtract that number by two (or three!) so you have elbow room.

Sleeping Bags – Check the weather. Buy accordingly. Remember, temperature ratings on bags mean that most users will remain comfortable at the bag degree rating. This is assuming the air temperature does not drop below the bag rating. The degree ratings also assume the sleeper is wearing long underwear and using an insulated sleeping pad under the bag. If you get cold easy, use a “warmer” bag! (Side note: we did not even bother to bring sleeping bags to our Florida excursion. We used cotton sheets and it was perfect.)

Flashlights, Headlamps, and Lanterns – We used a couple of different lighting tools while we were out. I loved the Luci® inflatable solar lantern. It was perfect late at night when we needed a bit of light to make our way around our tent. If you are looking for hands-free options, invest in a solid headlamp. Look for a “red” light or low light feature so you don’t wake up anyone or ruin your night vision after everyone is asleep. Don’t forget to check your batteries if you haven’t used the light in a while and to take extra batteries with you! Check out the expanded selection of Black Diamond Headlamps – they all feature a red light for night vision.

First Aid Kits – Be prepared. If you have a larger camping group, invest in extra supplies!

Scout Handbook – Everything you need, right at your fingertips. ‘nough said.

Pocket Knives and Multi Tools – If you have your Whittling Chip, don’t forget your pocket knife! Adults, be sure to bring yours too. From helping you build a fire to emergency needs with your first aid kit, a pocketknife is a necessity. For even more handy features, bring a Leatherman tool – not only does it come with a straight blade, but depending on which one you choose, you will get any number of other useful tools. Be sure to check the sharpness of your knives before heading out camping and bring a knife sharpener along.

Gear Bags – Pack your belongings in a dry bag and don’t worry about your gear getting wet anymore!

Sleeping Pads – They may take up a little more space, but I definitely suggest investing in the Klymit Static V Luxe. It is larger and more fitting for adults and those with broader shoulders. I am also going to go here… to get into the ultimate comfort experience. Bring an air mattress. Seriously – if you are parking and camping and have an electric hookup or a small battery-operated generator (like this one), you will have the most incredible night’s sleep looking up at the stars.

Camp Pillows – Grab a couple! These pillows are comfortable and easy to inflate and then pack away when you are ready to go.

Extra Blankets – Bring some extra soft blankets to cuddle in! There is camping with the essentials, and there is camping with some extras to make your campsite a home away from home.

Camp Chairs – Time to upgrade your traditional chair. Check out these GCI rocking chairs! Put your feet up on a log and rock away as you share stories and laughs with your camp buddies.

Hammocks – Use this as your sleep solution (we have both rain tarps and bug nets for protection) or as a way to keep your naps on point.

Thermacell – The most amazing invention ever! These awesome devices keep mosquitos and other biting insects at bay. This is actually a must-have for me, as I am always running around with at least 10 mosquito bites on any given day.

Recharge station – Goal Zero® makes cool products that are rugged and powered by solar power. This two-in-one starter kit is great because it comes with a power pack and with a solar panel for recharging the station.

Camp Stove and Fuel – Whether you get a full stand-up stove or a table-top stove, any of these will give you the comforts of home and allow you to cook virtually any meal at your campsite! Choose one and get to cooking up the grub that will make your base camp the place to gather. If you are looking to get fancy, give yourself the ultimate setup with a full cooking station!

Coffee Press – Seriously. Because we are talking about levelling up your camping game!

Cooking Utensils – Use this kit to keep everything you need at your fingertips.

Dutch Oven – They are perfect for cooking one-pot meals. Set your meal up to cook with hot coals, grab your beverage and play a game with your people while you wait for dinner to cook!

Matches – I just have to say that the technology behind matches has come a long way. Windproof and waterproof matches so that you stay prepared even when you might be a little soggy.

This and That – trash bags (bring extras to help store gear and keep it dry if it is raining cats and dogs), hot pads (check this out!), paper towels, dish soap/dish rags, foil, baggies, eating utensils.

Cooler – Stock it with everything you need for your meals

From pots and pans to Dutch ovens, stoves, cooking utensils, and more, find everything you need to complete your camp kitchen!

Clothing – change of clothes, extra socks and underwear, sleep clothes, extra shoes, jacket, rain gear, hat, flip flops for showering.

Personal supplies – toothbrush, toothpaste, soap/towel, sunscreen, bug spray (or check out this combo sunscreen/bug spray!), toilet paper, eye care

Water bottles

Book(s)

Games – Grab a couple of these travel games to play with your young ones! The best part about getting away for a bit is the ability to unplug and connect with your family in a different way.

Camera

• Pack and label separate bins for warm weather and cold weather camping. It is also helpful to have a bag or bin packed that includes all-weather essentials (think your power packs, cooking supplies, etc).
• Ensure that your tent stays water-resistant by spraying waterproofing sealant on the floors and walls (let dry before packing).
• To keep tent condensation low, always unzip a window a bit (while keeping the mesh zipped).

We hope this checklist helps you prepare for your camping adventures! For tents, sleeping bags, lanterns, first-aid kits, cooking supplies, and much more outdoor gear, visit ScoutShop.org—the official store of the Scouting America. Want to share your family adventures with the Scouting community? Tag us with your memories using #ScoutShop_BSA for a chance to be featured on our social channels!