Ultimate Camping Gear Checklist: What to Pack

The best camping trips are the sum of the unexpected. Those magical destinations you stumble on by chance, and the stories that come from things not going exactly to plan. That’s the beauty of camping, it has a way of surprising you. But, every seasoned camper will tell you: fail to plan, and plan to fail. 

Packing the right gear in your kit is your safeguard to ensuring those hiccups become part of the adventure, not a devastating setback that ruins the holiday. Preparation is what gives you the freedom to enjoy those serendipitous moments. And that starts with packing the essential camping gear. 

Camping Gear Essentials

Your camp set-up is your home away from home, and at the top of your camping gear list should be your shelter. Get the basics right, and you’ll be enjoying a restful sleep under the stars at the end of every day out in the elements. 

Your shelter and sleeping essentials should include:

• Tent or swag: The base of your shelter, and your retreat from the conditions. 
• Guy ropes: They lock your shelter down when the wind picks up or the rain sets in.  Tiegear STEADFAST guy ropes  are made to keep you grounded. 
• Pegs: Solid anchoring is a non-negotiable, on sand, clay or grassy terrain. Pack  Tiegear STEADFAST pegs  and you’ll have absolute peace of mind.
• Screen springs: Whether rough weather is expected or it hits you by surprise, having  screen springs  in your kit will keep pegs from pulling loose in high winds.
• Sleeping bag and mat: You want warmth and comfort, even when you’re roughing it. Look for lightweight down gear for luxury that doesn’t take up precious packing volume. 
• Ground mat:  Easy enough to squeeze into your gear kit, and a handy way to keep your camp clean, mud and sand-free. 

What to Pack for Camping Meals

Camp cuisine can be as simple or as elaborate as your palate demands, but leave the fancy appliances at home. Camp meals call for basic, reliable gear that packs down easily and doesn’t wrestle for storage. You can opt for purpose-made, durable camping dinnerware, or take the sustainable route and dedicate your old sets from home to the camping bag.  

Every camp kitchen will need:

• Portable stove or BBQ
• Gas canisters
• Cookware (pots, pans, utensils)
• Collapsible table or bench
• Insulated cooler (esky, chilly bin, or portable fridge)
• Reusable water bottles
• Food containers

Looking for meal inspiration? Check out this two-pot Mezze Maniche Alla Vodka recipe.

Safety and Navigation

Even the most experienced campers get caught out on this. Safety and navigation equipment is a must-have, not a nice-to-have, in your camping gear kit. 

• First aid kit: Essential camping gear for each and every adventure.
• Torch or headlamp: Don’t forget to keep spare batteries handy, too.
• Navigation tools: A backup if your phone dies. Look for a GPS or an old-school compass and map.
• Weather protection: In Australia, that means sunscreen, hats, UPF clothing, rain gear, and insect repellent.
• Rope, straps and ties: Important for keeping gear safe and secure. You’ll use  Tiegear ratchets  or  LINX bungee straps  more than you think. 

Camp Creature Comforts

Small comforts can feel extra luxurious, whether you’re totally remote and off-grid or toughing it out at the holiday park. If you have the space for the coffee machine, by all means, pack it. But if weight is a consideration, stick to camping gear essentials: 

• Camping Chairs: Don’t make the mistake of leaving these behind.  Tiegear camp chairs are lightweight, packable, and supremely comfortable. If you don’t take your own, you’ll be playing musical chairs for the spare one. 
• Collapsible steps: A simple, yet game-changing necessity. A  BOOST collapsible step helps you reach rooftop racks safely, set up shelters or hammocks - and doubles as a camp chair if you forget yours (see above point).
• Awning walls: They add privacy and protection, extending the usable, covered space of your campsite, blocking out the sun, the rain, and the neighbours. 
• Lighting: Late-night toilet trips can be a serious hazard. Navigate your site while avoiding the guy ropes, and enhance the ambience of camp, with light-up wire, string lights or lanterns.  

Clothing and Personal Gear

Pack for the conditions, not just the season. “What do I need for camping?” - layers and options. Just not too many. 

• Layered clothing. Think breathable, waterproof, zip-off, warm.
• Hiking boots or sturdy shoes.
• A pair of thongs or slide-on sandals. 
• Swimmers and towels if you’re near water.
• Personal hygiene items – toothbrush, biodegradable soap, toilet paper.
• Dry bags for electronics or valuables, if you’re bringing any. 

Your Camping Gear List Extras

The bonus options. Not your must-have, essential camping gear basics, but the bits and pieces that will make your trip a whole lot easier. 

• Multi-tool or pocket knife
• Portable power bank or solar charger
• Spare tarp
• Fishing gear or outdoor toys
• A good book and a deck of cards
• A waterproof bag  to pack it all into

Our Final Tips Before You Head Out

A great camping trip is equal parts freedom and preparation. Nothing will cut a holiday short faster than being caught off guard when the weather turns, or when the site you booked is a landslide of mush or sand. 

Whether it’s dirt roads, river crossings, red dusty outback plains, or a powered, beachfront base, running your eyes over your camping gear list before you hit the road will make all the difference when you reach your destination. 

Tiegear’s range is tough, compact and functional, made for the adventures you plan for, and many of those you don’t. When you’re deciding what to pack for your next camping trip, lean on the Tiegear camping essentials range and set yourself up for an outdoor adventure you’ll remember for all the right reasons.