Packing list for your camping holiday — with a helpful checklist
Whether you’ve camped before or are currently planning your first camping adventure, keeping things organized makes things much easier. After all, when you’re out with your camper, it’s like being away with your own little world on wheels, and to make sure you have everything you need, a good packing list is irreplaceable. There’s nothing worse than being out and about and realizing you’ve forgotten something important.
That’s why we have the key to a smooth and stress-free holiday for you — packing lists for different types of camping holidays. In these, you will find everything from food items that can be good to have, to small but crucial gadgets. In short, these checklists will help you be fully prepared, whether it’s your tenth or first camping trip. That means you have time to focus on the most important part of the trip: getting excited and longing!
1. Packing list for summer camping
During the warm season of the year, road trips are a must, and these require a packing list that is perfectly suited for sunny days and balmy nights. Going out and camping in summer means freedom and endless possibilities, but what do you really need to pack with you for nice days in the sun? From mosquito repellent to swimwear, on this pack list, you’ll find everything you need for your summer adventure.
We want to give you a useful tip right away. If you rent a camper, you should clarify in advance which equipment is already included. That way, you might be able to cross a few things off your packing list and save time, space, and money by not bringing duplicate sets of anything. Lack of space in the camper is something we for sure don’t want to bring.
Documentation and finance
The most important accessories for your camping trip are the documents that you can only access on the road if you remember to bring them. You should therefore check the following points several times well in advance of departure. Also, pay attention to the expiration date of some documents, as you may need to extend them.
- ID card/passport
- Driving licence/international driving licence
- Vehicle documents
- Proof of health insurance
- Vaccination certificate
- Cash (be aware of any foreign currency)
- Secure travel wallet
- EC/credit card
Based on needs:
- Proof of vehicle rental
- Documents for road tolls (e.g. vignette)
- Proof of campsite reservation (can be useful to print if there is no internet abroad)
Vehicle and camping equipment
The following things are important to get you to your destination and to be able to take care of your camping vehicle on site, for example related to water, electricity, and level blocks. You may find yourself having to fix something or make temporary repairs. The equipment below ensures a smooth travel experience, even if unexpected obstacles should appear.
- Navigation device/maps
- Level blocks
- Cable drum and adapter
- Water jug/hose
- Lace/cord/strap
- Duct tape
- Camping lamp
- Camping chairs and tables for outdoor use
- Parasol
- Clothespins and line
- Travel detergent
- Picnic blanket
- Blankets and pillows
- Bedding/sheets
Kitchen
To be able to cook on your camping trip, you need some kitchen utensils. It can also be useful to pack a basic supply of food for the first few days of the trip, so that you are sure you have what you need, then go on to explore local delicacies.
- Cutlery and dishes
- Sharp knife/bread knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
- Can opener/corkscrew
- Cookware/pots
- Salad bowl
- Colander
- Storage box
- Lighter
- Grill
- Camping sink or similar
- Washing-up liquid
- Sponge and dishbrush
- Kitchen towel
- Kitchen paper
- Garbage bags
- Salt, pepper, and sugar
- Vinegar and oil
- Coffee and tea
- Milk/almond milk/cream or similar with a long shelf life
- Noodles/rice
- Canned food, eg peas, beans, corn
- Beverages
Clothing
As we all know, there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes. In order for you to be prepared for all conditions, the packing list for clothes must of course be in place.
- Underwear and socks
- Sleep clothes
- T-shirts and long-sleeved shirts
- Pants and shorts
- Warmer sweater/hoodie/fleece
- Jacket/rain jacket
- Hiking shoes/sneakers
- Flip flops/sandals/slippers
- Cap/sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Backpack
- Handbag
- Laundry bag for dirty laundry
Bathroom
At first glance, the bathroom in a mobile home often seems quite small. What is ultimately all the more surprising is how much room there actually is. Therefore, make sure you have everything you need in the bathroom.
- Travel hair dryer
- Towels
- Toilet paper
- Hairbrush/comb
- Hair band
- Nail care set
- Earplugs
- Shaver
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hand soap
- Shower gel and shampoo
- Deo
- Lip balm/makeup
- Sunscreen
- Sanitary products
- Contraceptive
- Contact lenses
- Shower bag/toiletry bag for the shared bathroom at campsites
Travel Pharmacy
A well-equipped first aid kit is definitely one of the most important pieces of equipment in your camper. Of course, you can’t prepare for every eventuality, but when you travel, even a small scratch can become a real problem if you can’t take care of it. Well-thought-out basic equipment helps you treat minor aches and pains and get right back to your next adventure.
- First aid box
- Band-Aid
- Wound healing ointment
- Disinfectant spray
- Motion sickness tablets
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Mosquito repellent
- Medicines for diarrhea
- Fever thermometer
- Allergy meds
- Other personal medications
Other
What would a camping trip be without vacation photos and memories, full of everything from things you spontaneously do on a rainy day to a planned favorite activity? The vacation consists of both excursions and relaxation — and for both of these purposes, you may need a few things listed below. Remember though to only pack what you might actually need.
- Mobile phone with charger
- Camera with extra battery/charger
- Tablet/reading tablet with charger
- Headphones
- Binoculars
- Flashlight
- Books and magazines
- Notepad and pen
- Card games/board games
- Travel guide
- Blanket
- Diving goggles/snorkel
- Frisbee/Beach volleyball/Badminton set/etc.
- Umbrella
Extra tips:
A valuable piece of advice for your camping trip is related to the transportation of luggage, especially if you are picking up your camper in another city or even flying to another country and picking it up there. It is good to avoid using bulky packing boxes or suitcases to transport your luggage and instead use foldable boxes or suitcases. After unpacking them, you can store them in a particularly space-saving way without having to waste valuable storage space.
2. Packing list for winter camping
As you can probably imagine, winter offers a fascinating backdrop for adventure. Winter camping is no longer as uncommon as before, as camping during this time of the year promises unforgettable experiences. The combination of snow-covered landscapes, cozy evenings in the camping vehicle, and the opportunity to experience nature in its winter splendor make winter camping something very special. But before you set off, there is of course a lot to plan. Preparing for a winter trip requires a special packing list. You need the right equipment to protect yourself from the cold and to make your motorhome winter-ready and safe.
As a basis for your packing list, you can use the above-mentioned items for your summer camping, but remove typical summer items such as swimwear, the umbrella, and the beach volleyball. We will now show you what you should not forget instead.
Vehicle Equipment
- Ice scraper/broom
- Snow shovel
- Snow chains
- Frost protection/lock indicator
- Disc protection
- Starter cables
- To do: Check the operation of the auxiliary heater in advance
Clothing
- Underpants, undershirts, etc.
- Woolen socks or similar
- Gloves, hat/beanie, and scarf
- Thermal pants and winter jacket
- Winter shoes
- Footwear studs
Other
- Candles
- Heating blanket
- Hot water bottle
- Thermos
- Toboggan/sled
- Skis, boots, and helmet
3. Packing list for camping with children
For families, a camping trip is often high on the holiday wish list. When you are away with the little ones, you can explore new places from another perspective and create memories that will last a lifetime. To make sure you think of everything for the kids, you can use the summer or winter packing list as a base and add the following items.
Documentation
- Children’s passports
- Children’s vaccination certificate
Vehicle Equipment
- Highchair
- Buggy/pram
- Evening lamp
Clothing
- Rubber boots
- Rain gear
- Bath diaper
- UV protective clothing
Bathroom
- Children’s shampoo and shower soap
- Children’s toothbrush and toothpaste
- Wet wipes
- Special medicines for children
Kitchen
- Children’s mug/bottle
- Children’s crockery and cutlery
- Baby food
Other
- Audiobooks for children
- Cuddly toy(s)
- Pacifier
- Arm puffs
- Sand toys
- Board games/card games for children
- Colored pencils and drawing pads
Extra tip:
An empty notepad is a good thing to pack with children, as it allows them to write down their experiences every day and revisit them for remembrance at home. In addition, you can be as creative as you like, and not just limit yourself to writing. For example, you can cut and paste everything from flyers from attractions and tickets, to fine leaves from a walk in the forest. Maybe you can even find a way to press the leaves with your child in the camper. Only the imagination sets limits, and the final result is a fantastic travel diary with lots of beautiful memories.
Good to know
To find out which campsites are particularly suitable for families with children, we have written articles about family camping. Here you will find a great selection of many regions and campsites in Europe.
4. Packing list for camping with your dog
If you want to spend your holiday with your four-legged friend, a camping trip is a good option. You then get a road trip with your furry friend, with the camping vehicle as a safe base. This means your dog can travel stress-free and get used to its home on four wheels. In order to make your holiday as wonderful as possible, it is important to prepare well.
The packing list for a camping trip with a dog is about more than just bringing supplies and equipment. It should contain the items that provide comfort and security for your faithful companion. We will now show you what you should pack for your dog.
Important things for the dog
- Pet passport/vaccination certificate (check the requirements in the country of travel)
- Car cage or seat belt
- Bed/pillow
- Food bowl and water bowl
- Leash
- Favorite toy
- Dog waste bags
- Food and water
- Muzzle (check travel country requirements)
Extra tip:
When it comes to documents, such as your dog’s passport or vaccination certificate, each travel country has its own rules. Therefore, find out about your dog’s entry requirements early so that you have enough time for vet visits and applications.
5. Useful tips and other info
When you pack for a camping trip, we want to send you some extra important tips so that you can start your holiday as relaxed and optimally prepared as possible.
Weather conditions
Just before you leave, take a look at the weather report for your destination and adjust the clothes you pack as needed — warmer clothes, more rain-resistant clothes, or extra swimwear if needed. You can then avoid taking an unnecessary amount of packing with you, which saves space.
Space optimization
There are many practical organizational systems for one’s packing, such as packing cubes. These are also suitable for the built-in cupboards in the camper to create order and use the space in the best possible way. Hanging, foldable fabric shelves are also perfect for organizing your luggage in the motorhome. They are light and take up hardly any space when folded, but then turn into real space savers in the camper. You may google “hanging storage” online to explore good options and see if this smart solution could be something for you!
Weight
It is important to bring only the most important packing, not only because of the limited capacity in terms of space in the camping vehicle, but also because of the weight limits. For a mobile home and car plus caravan, the permitted total weight must not exceed 3,500 kg for a B driving license. You must then add up the curb weight, the weight of all passengers, and the luggage you are loading.
Make sure to distribute the weight in the camper evenly. This is important to ensure the stability of the vehicle while driving. Also, find out about specific rules for weight and type of load that apply to your motorhome. The individual models may differ.
Documents and certificates
Many countries have their own rules for which documents you must bring, both for the people traveling in the camper and for the vehicle itself. In order not to lose track, you must prepare for each trip and check the applicable regulations. You can find out which documents you need for your trip either on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website or at Auto Club Europe (ESS).
Plan well in advance
This whole article kind of hinges on the importance of starting to plan early, but it deserves its own point. That said, while spontaneous trips can be great, we advise you to start planning your trip as early as possible so you don’t find yourself in a time crunch before you go and fail to fix all important documents, accessories, and more. You may need several weeks or months of preparation to obtain the necessary documents, reserve the camper or campsites, plan the route, and finally pack. So, start your preparations well in advance, also so that you have more time to look forward to it in the end.
6. Camping checklist to download
So that you always have your checklist at hand when you pack, we have compiled everything clearly in a checklist for your camping holiday that you can download.
Packing list for camping trips
To make sure you don't forget anything important when packing for your camping trip, we have collected all the important points in this practical and free checklist.
7. Conclusion about packing list for camping holidays
As you can now see, proper preparation plays an important role when planning your camping holiday. A well-organized packing list makes all the difference between a smooth adventure and unexpected challenges. It offers a structured guide adapted to different travel conditions, whether for sunny summer trips, winter camping trips, or family holidays with children and pets. Once you start using a packing and checklist, it’s hard to get by without one. It acts as a reliable safety net so that you don’t forget anything important.
The idea is that these tips and tricks on everything from weather conditions to optimal use of the space in the motorhome should ultimately give you a stress-free and uncomplicated start to your camping holiday. By planning well, having all the necessary documents prepared, and choosing the right equipment, you have more time for what is important — to look forward to, and enjoy, an unforgettable trip.
Your ride to adventure. Rent it.