Pack It Like a Pro: Must-Have Camping Gear for Comfort and Adventure!

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Once a year for the past seven years I pack up the kids and head to Scout Land for Fall Family Campling. Northeast Georgia Council | 101 (nega-bsa.org). This year will be no different, there’s something so magical about the excitement that builds as our family camping weekend approaches—it’s becoming a beloved tradition. The kids can hardly wait, knowing it’s a weekend filled with delicious campfire meals, fun times with friends, and council-planned activities that bring everyone together. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, creating memories we’ll treasure for years to come. Each trip adds a new chapter to our family’s outdoor story, and every year we look forward to the fresh experiences and unforgettable moments around the campfire.

For first-time campers, however, it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about what to pack or how to prepare, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this blog, we’ll walk through all the essentials you’ll need to bring to ensure your camping trip is both comfortable and fun. From setting up the perfect tent to staying cozy at night and keeping the bugs away, we’ll address all those “what ifs” and help ease your worries, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure with your family. Let’s turn that first-time camper anxiety into excitement!

Tent Time

• Importance: Your tent is your primary shelter and the key to staying safe from the elements. I prefer to camp in the fall and the spring for milder weather and less bugs. Since we are all weather campers we need a sturdy, weather-resistant tent provides protection against rain, wind, and insects.
• What to Look For: Consider the size (how many people it can sleep then divide that in half), ease of setup, and water resistance. Look for tents with good ventilation and a rainfly for added protection. A two-person tent will comfortably sleep 1 person and their personal belongings. If your child is on the Troop level, they will be instructed to get a “footlocker” to keep their belongings. The link below for the 2 person tent is the very same one I bought my son. Currently I use the 4 person tent (link below) when my daughter and I go camping because we prefer to sleep on cots.
  • 8 person: https://amzn.to/486iTJp
  • 6 person: https://amzn.to/3BHYeiu
  • 4 person: https://amzn.to/3NqWU6k
  • 2 person https://amzn.to/3Ns4MEM
  • 1 person: https://amzn.to/3UcfT8m (this is a hammock)
• Comparison Tip: Larger tents are great for family camping but may be heavier to carry on backpacking trips. Smaller, lightweight tents (https://amzn.to/3A4s6oT)are better for solo or duo trips where portability matters.
• ABSOLUTLY NO Pentagon Shaped tents SMH it takes more that 3 adults to get it set up.

Ground Cover – Foot Prints

• Importance: A ground cover (like a footprint) helps protect the bottom of your tent from wear and tear, moisture, and sharp objects like rocks or sticks.
• What to Look For: Choose one slightly smaller than the base of your tent to prevent water from pooling underneath. You can also cu to size.
• Comparison Tip: Some tents come with a specific footprint. If yours doesn’t, a simple tarp can do the job, but be mindful of weight if you’re hiking.

Tarp- pe Dem

• Importance: A tarp is one of the most versatile camping items. It can be used as extra protection over your tent, a groundsheet, or even as a quick shelter for cooking or sitting areas. Yes you can get one from Home Depot, but Amazon has it cheaper and a Scout if Thrifty https://amzn.to/3UagEiv Be sure to cut to the size of your tent.
• What to Look For: A durable, waterproof tarp with reinforced grommets for easy setup.
• Comparison Tip: Tarps come in various sizes. Larger tarps are great for communal spaces, while smaller ones are perfect for extra rain cover over your tent.

Sleeping Bags

• Importance: Your sleeping bag is your main source of warmth during the night. It’s essential for a good night’s sleep in cooler temperatures.
• What to Look For: Choose based on temperature rating, insulation type (down vs. synthetic), and weight. For colder climates, opt for a bag with a lower temperature rating.
• A more in depth look at sleeping bags in another blog post.

Pads or Mattresses

• Importance: Adds comfort and insulation from the cold ground.
• What to Look For: Foam pads are lightweight and durable, while inflatable mattresses offer more comfort. https://amzn.to/489I1Pm
• Comparison Tip: For backpacking, foam pads are great for portability; for comfort camping, an inflatable mattress might be a better fit. https://amzn.to/3Y6hKgm

Toiletries

• Importance: Keep clean and refreshed while outdoors.
• What to Look For: Pack travel-sized items like toothbrushes, biodegradable soap, and a quick-dry towel. full size body wipes https://amzn.to/3BKPS9T
• Comparison Tip: Keeping toiletries in a waterproof bag prevents spills and keeps them organized. https://amzn.to/4f5NYim

Sunscreen

• Importance: Protects your skin from harmful UV rays.
• What to Look For: Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
• Comparison Tip: Remember to reapply, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.

Bug Spray

• Importance: Keeps biting insects at bay, preventing discomfort and potential illness. https://amzn.to/401NuWv
• What to Look For: A spray with DEET or other proven insect repellents.
• Comparison Tip: Consider natural alternatives if you prefer a more eco-friendly option, but ensure it’s effective for your area.

Camp Chair

• Importance: A must for relaxing around the campfire.
• What to Look For: Lightweight, foldable, and durable options that are easy to carry. https://amzn.to/3BNQQCs
• Comparison Tip: Look for chairs with cup holders for added

lashlight & Headlamp

• Importance: Provides essential lighting at night for safety and convenience. https://amzn.to/4f6XpOQ
• What to Look For: LED options with long battery life.
• Comparison Tip: A headlamp https://amzn.to/3BMdVFA is hands-free and perfect for nighttime tasks, while a flashlight is handy for general use.

And there you have it—whether you’re camping in the balmy summer sun or braving a chilly fall night, the right sleeping bag will have you snoozing like a hibernating bear in no time. I have some other must haves on my personal list like HotHands https://amzn.to/3A2dcQ8 to make the experience as comfortable as possible.

Pack smart, stay toasty, and may your only shivers be from excitement. Happy camping!