Checklist for the perfectly prepared camper

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert outdoorsman, camping list will help ensure you don’t leave anything behind.

Collect your ideas by writing them out on a board (chalk or dry erase), then jot things down as they come to you. This way the whole family can put in their two cents.

Categories can be broken down into groups: kitchen and meals; clothing; personal items; camping gear; games; safety and miscellaneous.

• Once you’ve completed a list, save a copy on the computer. You can update it, print it and use it again.

Kitchen

• Portable camp stove and fuel
• Utensils and cutlery (cups, plates, bowls)
• Campfire skillet
• Tub for dishwashing
• Detergent and dishcloth
• Food storage container
• Cooler, ice, resealable bags
• Oven mitts

Meals

• Water-very important!
• Depending on your trip, you may want to check out food supplies at your local hunting and fishing store. High-protein snacks, freeze-dried meals, and dehydrated foods are ideal for camping excursions. (Canadian Tire, Sports Expert, Bass Pro Shops).
• Otherwise, plan simple meals that require little preparation, and stock up on snacks.
• Count the number of breakfasts, lunches, and dinners you’ll need to prepare for and include basic seasonings (salt, pepper, and butter).

Clothing

• Warm clothes (for cool evenings)
• Raincoat
• Socks and underwear
• Fast drying clothes you can layer
• Swimsuit
• Hat; cap; mosquito head net

Tip: blues, reds (and variations of orange and pink) tend to attract mosquitoes. Unless want you want to invite itchy bug bites, go with light coloured clothing in shades of green, khaki, beige and white.

Personal Items

• Sunglasses
• Watch or phone with an alarm (campers wake up early!)
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Citronella soap (lemongrass is a natural and effective pest repellent)
• Towels
• Razors
• Hygienic paper and tissues

Safety

• First aid kit
• Anti-histamines in case of against an allergic reaction
• Sunscreen and moisturizer
• Bug repellent
• Flares
• GPS system
• Flashlights

Camping equipment

• Tent
• Sleeping bags and pillows
• Mattress (if needed)
• Small heater
• Lantern
• Matches or lighter
• Kindling
• Portable stereo
• Survival knife or a camping saw
• Backpack
• Canteen

Games

• There’s a wide range of games and activities depending on what you’re up for.
• Pack a deck of cards, a pair of dice or a board game just for the fun of it; it's guaranteed to liven up an evening or a rainy day.

Miscellaneous

• Camera
• Replacement batteries
• Rope and clothes pins
• Garbage bags
• A good attitude!