Cold Weather Camping Gear and Checklist (with kids)

I've already shared our Summer (or warm weather) list here.  and I know I've talked about us being minimalists - so don't expect a detailed outline of each jacket and color we bring, just a general checklist you can print and make notes on for yourself and links to our actual gear.  I'm constantly updating and adding to this list so check back and see if anything has changed or pin the link so you can find it easily each time!  It's also worth noting, this is our list with toddlers and kids if you have babies add diapers and wipes to the list.  Here's what you'll need in cooler weather while still keeping kids comfortable.

For the site:

• Tent, poles, stakes
• Extra tarp or canopy - we actually rarely bother bringing this, unless we're expecting rain.
• Sleeping bag for each camper
• Yoga mats instead of mattresses
• Extra blanket(s) for around the campfire
• Folding Chairs (1 per person)
• Headlamp and flashlight (check your batteries before you leave)
• LED Lantern
• Fire starters
• Ax or hatchet
• Shovel (especially if there's not toilets)

For the 'kitchen':

• Gas Stove (we use this one.)
• Fuel for stove
• Matches or lighter
• Food - we prep and pack most items before we go! don't forget snacks for the drive.
• Egg holder - we learned the hard way
• Firewood (so much firewood! I think about a bundle an hour)
• Folding pan
• Large pot
• Pre-made cold brew coffee - we don't bother bringing the french press unless it's a long trip
• Bottle opener - on multi tool
• Mason Jars or Pyrex (double as plates and bowls after first meal) and plastic bags for leftovers
• Trash bags (1 per day)
• Paper bag - use for bringing up dry food, then reuse for recycling (1 per day)
• Cooler
• Ice
• Water Gallon Jug 
• Individual reusable water bottles
• Whiskey 
• Drinks for kids (doubles as mixers for adults)
• Individual forks, spoons, knives
• Mug (1 per person)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Foil
• Biodegradable soap
• Dishtowel
• Extra bin for washing dishes (optional depending how many nights)

Clothes:

• Clothes for each day (try to pick something you can also sleep in)
• Socks (we prefer wool)
• Jacket - it's not fun camping cold if you're going to splurge on gear, please, invest in your jackets!
• Backpack
• Sleepwear for kids
• Swimsuits
• Rain jacket if expecting rain
• Boots that can be used for hiking/walking shoe
• Hats, Beanie
• Scarf (bigger the better)
• Gloves
• Socks (we prefer cooton or wool)

Toiletries:

• Sunscreen (my recipe here)
• Insect repellent 
• First-aid kit
• Vitamins and/or medications
• Toothbrush
• Tweezers
• Toilet Paper
• Hand Sanitizer and wet wipes - mom life so I usually already have in my car.
• Camping towel (1 per person and yes, they're worth the investment! It saves so much space)
• Soap (same soap as kitchen soap)

and don't forget:

• Camera (film or digital)
• Permit or Access Pass
• Campsite reservation confirmation
• Maps, area information
• Pet supplies and food
• Two way radio

Did I leave off anything important? These are our basics, obviously every trip is different but these are our go to items and I've linked to our actual items when possible on amazon using my affiliate link.  

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Affiliate links don't cost you anything extra to buy the items but it does supplement our income and finance this blog.