Your Camping Checklist: Don’t Forget Anything for Your Trip
Published on 01/10/2025 by CAMPASUN
Do you already feel the excitement of waking up in the heart of nature? Pitching your tent on a bare camping pitch is an experience that brings great joy. However, the fear of forgetting an essential item can spoil the trip before it even begins. To make sure your holidays run smoothly, preparing a camping checklist is the best solution! Follow our tips—we’ve thought of everything for you.
Key Takeaway: Your Camping Checklist Before You Go
| Catégorie | Articles clés à emporter |
|---|---|
| Matériel | Tente, sac de couchage, tapis de sol, réchaud, chargeur |
| Cuisine | Popote, glacières, vaisselle, jerrican, éponges |
| Vêtements | Chaussures, vêtements multicouches, maillot de bain, crème solaire |
| Loisirs | Livres, jeux, ballons, hamac |
| Maison | Couper gaz/eau/électricité, clés chez un voisin |
Your Checklist of Essential Camping Gear
To camp with peace of mind, you need to plan everything for your shelter and sleeping gear:
- The Right Tent: When choosing your tent, consider its capacity. For extra comfort, opt for a 4-person tent when camping as a couple—you’ll benefit from additional storage space.
- Tarps are versatile allies to protect your gear or serve as a groundsheet against moisture.
- A sleeping bag and a sleeping pad are the keys to a comfortable night.
- A Camping Pillow
- An insulating mat can improve the thermal performance of your sleeping bag.
- A first aid kit is one of the essentials for your camping trip.
- Flashlights—or better yet, a headlamp. It keeps your hands free for evening tasks like cooking, laundry, or tidying up.
- A multi-purpose knife is also a great tool for your camping trip.
To wrap up this camping checklist, here’s a list of things you should not forget:
- Rope and string, a hatchet or a mallet
- Matches or a lighter
- A small broom and a dustpan
- Duct tape
Cooking Gear: Eating Well While Camping
What’s better than a meal prepared outdoors? Cooking while camping is a simple yet delicious pleasure. Your checklist should include:
- A Camping Stove
- A large cooler is ideal for food, and a smaller one for drinks.
- Water jerrycans: having plenty of drinking water is essential, especially in hot weather.
- Cooking equipment is just as important: a frying pan, a pot, a spatula, and a can opener. For dishes, you’ll need a basin, biodegradable soap, and dish towels.
- Trash bags and resealable bags to keep your campsite clean and well-organized.
Most of our campsites in the South of France offer dining services, but you are completely free to choose! According to the French Federation of Campers, Caravanners and Motorhome Owners, out of the 7,460 campsites in France (2021), 43% provide a restaurant service and 53% have a bar. This gives you plenty of flexibility to decide whether you feel like cooking or not. By carefully preparing your camping checklist, you’ll avoid any unpleasant surprises!”
Clothing and Accessories
The secret to a great camping trip lies in adaptability. In the heart of nature, weather conditions can change quickly! The layering principle is your best ally. Pack:
- A selection of t-shirts, pants, and a sweater or fleece for cool nights.
- A rain jacket: essential, even under bright sunshine, because you never know.
- A swimsuit for days at the pool or the beach.
- Shoes: you’ll need two pairs—a pair of sneakers or hiking boots for your excursions, and sandals for moving comfortably around the campsite.
- A basic toiletry kit is, of course, a classic: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and towel, plus sunscreen.
- A cap and sunglasses to protect yourself.
- Insect repellent is also an essential ally.
Leisure Gear for Outdoor Fun
Camping is, above all, about relaxation and enjoyment. There are so many activities to choose from!
- Card games, a frisbee, or a ball can keep the whole family entertained.
- A hammock is a wonderful addition for a quiet reading moment under the trees.
- Toys: children will be happy to bring one or two of their favorite toys, a few storybooks, and a whistle to make themselves heard.
For an active holiday, don’t forget:
- A bike (with helmets and a lock)
- Fishing rods or water sports equipment
Many destinations feature stunning landscapes. For example, Campasun, with its campsites in the South of France, offers an ideal setting for leisure activities, often including swimming pools, pétanque courts, or tennis courts. Indeed, preparing for your camping holiday is not just about the gear—it’s also about exploring the activities and opportunities offered by your destination.
Before You Leave: Final Checks to Make
Good preparation doesn’t stop with your backpack. We’ve all had that little worry of forgetting something at home. Here’s a final checklist to make sure you leave with peace of mind:
- Turn off all electrical appliances
- Turn off all electrical appliances
- Turn off the gas and check the windows.
- Empty your refrigerator.
- Leave a spare house key with a neighbor or a friend.
- Gather your documents in a folder: ID card or passport, driver’s license, and health insurance card.
- Bring cash and check which payment methods are accepted at the campsite.
- Pay your outstanding bills and arrange to have your mail collected.
There you go! Everything is in order. Your camping checklist is complete. Ready to tick every box before heading out on your adventure? Discover high-quality pitches at Campasun, campsites in the South of France, and book the getaway that suits you best!
