Our Summer Camping Gear and Checklist (with kids)

We try to keep it minimal whenever camping, granted we have kids and would love to "glamp" and we could probably cut back on even more {or at least that's what Husband, backpacker and avid hiker, tells me).  I think I've cut it down to the least amount of stuff for SUMMER, see our winter equipment (coming soon), while still keeping our kids comfortable.

For the site:

• Tent, poles, stakes
• Extra tarp or canopy - we actually rarely bother bringing this, shade from trees work well
• Sleeping bag for each camper
• Yoga mats instead of mattresses
• Extra blanket for around the campfire
• Folding Chairs (2) 
• 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!
• Egg holder - we learned the hard way
• Firewood (so much firewood!)
• 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 and plastic bags
• 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 water bottles
• 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 cooton or wool)
• Backpack
• Sleepwear for kids
• Swimsuits
• Rain jacket if expecting rain
• Shoes: hiking/walking shoes, easy-on shoes, water shoes depending on site
• Hats

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
• And we're going to invest in some walkie talkies!
• Two way radio

I don't think I forgot anything, but you might check back if I've added to the list in the future. These are our basics obviously every trip is different but these are our 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.
list adapted and modified from here.