If you are new to camping or are an experienced camper, you will probably be worried about forgetting something. It will happen, but I find the best way to avoid forgetting is to make a list. You might alter this list depending on what kind of camping trip you are planning. If you are driving, you can take a lot more, but if you are backpacking, then you are more limited. Be sure to check out things about the campsite. Does it have running water? Are you going into bear country? Will you be in tick territory? Will you need rain gear?

Try to be thorough and err on the side of caution. It is better to have more than not enough. Items that should be packed on every trip would be; matches, toilet paper, a flashlight and rain gear. Other items such as fishing tackle, playing cards/games or binoculars, probably depend on your destination.

One of the things, I keep always stocked and ready is a large container with: toilet paper, wet wipes, bug spray, sunblock, matches or lighter, dish soap, bar of soap, plastic dishes and utensils, a multi-tool and a flashlight.

Clothing is another essential (these items can change according to individuals or the place and duration of the trip. But these are necessary items for everyone: pants, shorts, shirts, underwear, shoes/boots, socks, belt, jacket/coat, gloves (even during the summer), swimming suits, hat and pj's.

Personal items would include: toothbrush/toothpaste, soap/shampoo, mirror, comb/brush, deodorant, washcloth and a towel.

Other miscellaneous items would include: sunglasses, prescriptions medicines, prescription glasses/contacts and a watch/alarm clock.

If you are in a trailer or RV, you might not need all the items listed, but this is more for tent campers. Here are most the items you will want:

• tent, tent fly, poles, stakes and ropes (make sure you know how to put your tent up
• hammer or hatchet
• ground cloth (if it rains you can keep your tent nice and dry)
• sleeping bags
• ground pads, mattresses/cots
• pillows
• tarp
• lanterns
• folding chairs, stools, table
• extension cords (if you are at a camp that has electric hookups)
• ice chest
• water jugs
• camping shower
• ax, hatchet, shovel
• broom
  

You might want to keep these items for food, cooking and cleanup in another large plastic tub (I like to have a set of these that I only use for camping, so I always have them in the container):

• grill, cooking
• skillet, pots and pans
• carving/cutting knives
• spatula, tongs, serving fork and spoon
• can opener
• measuring cups and spoons
• aluminum foil
• scouring pads
• zip-loc bags
• garbage bags
• dish towels
• oven mitt/pot holder
  

Have on hand a tool kit that includes:

• a hammer
• screwdrivers
• pliers and wrenches
• repair items such as duct tape, wire, nylon twine, super glue and rope

Don't forget a First-Aid kit! You can buy these already boxed together, but if you are putting your own together, here are some of the essentials:

• Band-Aids
• gauze pads
• adhesive tape
• aspirin/tylenol/ibuprofen
• tweezers
• needle
• moleskin
• single-edge razor blade
• antacid
• ace bandage
• diarrhea medication
• cold medication
• bandages
• thermometer
• sting kill swabs
• eye drops
• cortisone cream (anti-itch)
• antihistamine (ie. Benadryl)
  

If you are planning extracurricular activities, then make a list for those specifics; field guides, binoculars, fishing tackle, hunter gear, bikes, kayaks, etc. If you are going to leave the campsite, then a day pack or fanny pack are a good addition.

Finally, here are a few things that will keep everyone comfortable and entertained; books, camera and film, a radio, playing cards, your journal, art supplies, board games, hammock and camp lights.

These are just suggestions. Make you own list for your own needs. But don't forget to pack carefully. It can make the difference in an enjoyable camping experience or a frustrating one.