As you already know, a lot of thought goes into planning a family vacation. There's the research phase to decide where to go, budget concerns, time management constraints, pre-trip preparations – and then there's the packing. Planning a family vacation doesn't have to be a logistical nightmare. Use this list as a general guideline of what to bring, and as a reminder of overlooked items. Feel free to modify it to fit your needs. And more importantly, wherever your travels take you, have a satisfying and memorable family trip.
Author:
Kathy Pilney
Family Camping Front-Country Gear List
Tip: Using preassembled totes with an item checklist taped to the lid of each is an easy way to save on prep time for yearly trips. Make notes on the checklist to replace items that you've used up.
Linen Tote
Item
Notes or tips
Extra blanket for cooler weather, or ground cover
Tablecloth
Washcloths
Swim towels
Pillows/pillowcases
Dish towels, dish cloths, scouring pad
Pot holders/oven mitts
Toilet paper, paper towels
Dishware Tote
Item
Notes or tips
Coffee percolator
Large stockpot for boiling food and dishwater
Saucepans and skillets
Tip: Use old pans that need to be replaced, or purchase them at a garage sale or second-hand store specifically for camping use.
Griddle
Metal colander
Tip: You can also nestle it inside the stockpot and use it as a steamer.
Silverware assortment (plastic or metal) and steak knives
Dishware assortment to include bowls and plates
Food storage containers
Beverage cups, coffee mugs
Corn holders
Skewers (for kabobs and S'mores)
Cutting board
Washtubs for washing/rinsing dishes
Spatula
Cheese grater
Measuring cups
Can opener
Butter dish
Tongs
Dry Storage Tote
Item
Notes or tips
Propane, fuel
Matches
Cooking spray or oil
Spices, condiments, sugar
Chip clips
Dish soap
Plastic baggies
Twist ties
Garbage bags
Imperishable foods: noodles/rice, canned foods, jar of sauces, mixes, etc.
Beverages: hot coco, coffee, tea bags, powdered drink mixes
S'more ingredients: graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate
Cooking coals
Foil, Saran™ wrap
Wet wipes/antibacterial hand soap
Camping Gear
Item
Notes or tips
Family-size tent
Sleeping bags, sleeping pads, air mattresses, cots
Stove
Cooler, blue ice block
Large water jug
Lantern, mantle, flashlight
Camp chairs
Ax, saw
First-aid kit
Binoculars, camera
Two-way radios
Tarp
Daypacks, fanny packs
Gear for activities; fishing, hiking, swimming, athletic wear
Duffel bag of clothes and personal items per person
Rain gear, umbrellas, waterproof boots
Fun gear: playing cards, board games, radio, puzzles, books
Extra blanket for cooler weather, or ground cover
