Group and solo trips both have their benefits. Photo: Lee/flickr
Want to plan a camping trip?
As with any adventure, a camping trip will take some thought if you want to have the best and safest possible experience.
The planning involved will differ depending on whether you are embarking on a solo trip or a group outing.
Not quite sure what you need?
No worries. We got you covered!
Let’s go over all of the important aspects about how to plan a camping trip, so that you’re all set for whatever comes your way.
Camping Trip Planning Guide
– Updated 2/9/2020
Table of Contents
How to Plan a Solo Camping Trip
When camping on your own, you will be responsible for all of the items that you need for your adventure. The decision of where to camp is yours; if planning to stay at an established campground, make your reservation ahead of time if possible and learn about the amenities the campground offers. Next, make a list of what you will need for your trip.
What to Pack for a Solo Trip
Everyone’s packing list will look different; what you will want to bring will depend upon where you are going, whether you are staying in an established campground, are backpacking or car camping, how much cooking you plan to do, as well as other considerations.
Let’s start with the basics. You will need:
- A camping tent (your choice of size)
- Tarp or footprint to lay under the tent
- A sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Sleeping pad
- A headlamp, EDC Flashlight, or a lantern – so that you can navigate your campsite in the dark.
If you plan to do any cooking, pack any cookware you need along with a backpacking stove or a two-burner camping stove and the fuel that it requires.
The size of the cooler and the amount of food you bring will depend upon the length of your trip (and your appetite). Depending on your meal plans, a plate, cup and a few utensils may be all you need for your kitchen. Round out your kitchen by bringing a lighter, waterproof matches, and a pocket knife.
Here’s a video that’ll give you some ideas for cooking healthy, quick and easy meals, while camping:
Make sure to bring:
- Soap, for your hands and to clean your cookware and dinnerware
- Some rope for a short clothesline- this will allow for a place to hang clothes to dry.
Other miscellaneous items include:
- A first aid kit
- Bug repellent
- A water purifier
- Your cell phone
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Small camera
- A waterproof jacket
- GPS Tracker (in case you want to camp off the beaten path)
- Clothing that breathes (avoid cotton)
- Folding camping chairs
How to Plan a Group Camping Trip
Plan it right, and your camping trip will be amazing. Photo: Guðmundur Pétursson/flickr
Planning a camping trip with friends involves working together to decide where you want to go, where you will camp and who will bring the items that you need. Once you and your friends come to an agreement on where you will camp, it’s time to co-ordinate your gear.
Decide with your friends on the items that you will need and who will be responsible for bringing each item.
Some groups of friends share in bringing food and cooking meals (as well as other camping items), while in others, each member takes responsibility for themselves. Discuss these things with your friends up front so that you can decide how and what to pack. Make a list and confirm who will be bringing each item.
- Related: The 6 Best Car Camping Tents
- Related: The Best 4 Person Tent For Camping & Backpacking
What to Pack for a Group Trip
Packing for a group trip involves the same items you would bring for a solo adventure, though depending on your group’s arrangement, you may find yourself packing less. For example, one friend may bring everything for the camp kitchen, while you bring the tent and tarp.
For group trips, bring an extra tarp that can be hung over your kitchen area; this way if you experience rain, you and your friends will have a dry place to spend time. Discuss whether there are games or other items each person can bring for the group to use. A hammock, for example, is a popular item that can be enjoyed by members of the group at different times.
Whether enjoying a camping trip on your own or with a group of friends, putting in a little effort toward planning will lead to a smoother experience.
