9 times out of 10, you’ll only realise what you didn’t pack for your camping trip when you need it most. Consider those days gone, because our camping experts at Outback Equipment have prepared the ultimate camping essentials checklist. From the camping necessities to the ultimate luxuries, we can make sure your camping trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Camping Necessities:

  • Tent Make sure to bring all pegs, poles, and pieces that you’ll need to build it. If it’s been a while since you used it, maybe build it in the backyard, and make sure there’s no broken pieces or torn walls.
  • Bedding That includes whatever sleeping bags, pillows, mattresses, and whatever else you’ll need.
  • Ice box or camping fridge For anything longer than a quick stop-in, you’re going to need an ice box or camping fridge to keep your food hygienic.
  • Lighting Headlamps and flashlights are handy for around the tent, but you’ll probably want some lanterns to light outside before heading to bed.
  • Multi-Tool This is about as important as a tent.
  • Hammer – You’ll need a mallet or hammer to drive your tent pegs into the ground. Or if you want a quick way to secure your tent into sand check out Supa Pegs.
  • Fire blanket and extinguisher Small fires become big fires very, very quickly. Don’t take the risk and not pack fire protection gear.
  • Cooking utensils You’ll need some knives, cutting boards, pots and pans, wooden spoons, and any other regular cooking items you use.
  • Cups and crockery All the plates, cups, bowls, and cutlery you’ll need to enjoy your meals.
  • Toiletries – Try and keep these as biodegradable as possible. Any soap, biodegradable toilet paper, or toothpaste you use should keep the environment as clean as when you found it.
  • Rubbish bags – Whatever you bring, you take with you. That means all rubbish and recycling, which can easily be bagged on the go.
  • Suitable clothing – If you’re anywhere inland, get set for some cold nights. Also, the more quick-dry clothing you can pack, the better. That way, no rain or wash can write off your clothes for the duration of the trip.
  • Water Don’t trust local waterways – there can always be a dead animal upstream tainting the water. Simply fill and bring a jerry can before you take off, and rest easy knowing you’ve got plenty of clean drinking water.
  • Sun protection – That means a hat, sunnies, sunscreen, lip balm, and any other handy sun protection gear you’ve got.
  • All required medications – If you take them daily, make sure you bring them with you.
  • Relevant maps and paths – If you’re camping in a new environment or you’re not quite as experienced, consider this a necessity. You can access maps offline with certain mobile apps, or a GPS. If you are worried about getting lost and not being to open your maps properly you can always invest in a reception booster like a Cel-Fi-Go.
  • Swimwear – If you’re within walking range of a beach, why not use it? You can keep your proper clothes dry and enjoy the beach in your swimwear.
  • Fire starters – A flint or matches can save you the hassle of trying to start a fire yourself. But by the same token, there’s so much more pride and joy to take in a fire you started with your bare hands.
  • Kettle Ideally, something you can heat over the fire. And of course - COFFEE.
  • Insect repellent – At the right time of year, you won’t even need to worry. But at the wrong time of year, you’ll be eaten quicker than cinema lollies.
  • Games and activities – You can play more games than you’d think with just a deck of cards. But for the true experience, avoid electronic devices.
  • Roasting forks – You can either roast marshmallows on sticks over the fire or use a proper roasting fork. One’s definitely more hygienic.
  • Water shoes – If you’re strolling through local streams or using communal showers, you’ll want some thongs or sandals to keep your feet safe.

Ready to leave the busy city behind? Check out our full range of camping accessories on the Outback Equipment website.