Planning a family camping trip sounds like a dream—fresh air, starry nights, toasted marshmallows. But the reality? It often starts with someone saying, “Did we pack the tent poles?” Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned outdoor clan, having a reliable checklist makes all the difference between a smooth adventure and a last-minute dash to the nearest shop.
We’ve put together the ultimate family camping checklist—practical, not overwhelming—so you can focus on fun, not forgotten gear. Let’s get into it.
🏕️ Camping Essentials
These are your non-negotiables. Forget one of these, and you might find yourself improvising with sticks and bin bags.
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Tent (with all parts: poles, pegs, guy lines)
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Groundsheet or footprint
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Sleeping bags (check temperature rating)
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Sleeping mats or airbeds
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Pillows
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Mallet (for tent pegs)
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Camping chairs & table
Tip: Family-size tents with multiple rooms or blackout linings can make a big difference for comfort (especially with little ones). GO Outdoors has a great selection designed with families in mind.
🔥 Cooking & Food
Camping food doesn’t have to mean cold beans. With the right kit, you can whip up everything from pancakes to pasta.
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Camping stove or BBQ
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Gas/fuel
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Cool box or electric cool bag
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Plates, bowls, cups, and cutlery
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Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs, etc.)
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Pan, pot, and kettle
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Washing-up bowl, sponge, & eco-friendly soap
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Bin bags
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Tea towels
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Snacks and pre-prepped meals
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Water bottles and jugs
If you’re upgrading your cooking setup, GO Outdoors offers portable stoves, family cookware sets, and collapsible kitchen stations to keep things tidy.
👕 Clothing & Personal Items
Pack for every weather type—this is the UK, after all.
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Layered clothing (base layers, jumpers, waterproofs)
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Wellies or sturdy shoes
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Socks and spare underwear
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Sleepwear
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Hats and sunglasses
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Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
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Towels
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Wet wipes
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Toilet roll
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Sunscreen and insect repellent
Don’t forget a set of clothes for “just in case” moments (mud puddles, spills, or surprise rainstorms).
🎒 Extras That Make Life Easier
These aren’t strictly essential, but you’ll be glad you brought them.
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Head torches/lanterns
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Extra batteries or power banks
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Blankets for evenings
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String or bungee cords (for hanging clothes or tarps)
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Camping rug or picnic mat
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Foldable storage boxes or crates
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Books, games, or toys for the kids
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First aid kit
GO Outdoors has pre-assembled family camping bundles and fun outdoor games you can add to your trip to keep the kids happy and occupied.
🗺️ For Peace of Mind
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Printed map of the campsite or local area
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Emergency contact info
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Camping pass or booking confirmation
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List of nearby amenities (shops, hospitals, fuel stations)
Bonus Tip: Do a Dry Run
If it’s your first time camping with kids, set up your tent in the garden or living room first. It’ll help you figure out what’s missing—and get everyone excited.
Final Thoughts
Camping as a family can be one of the most rewarding ways to spend time together, unplug, and make memories in the great outdoors. But without a solid checklist, it’s easy to forget the essentials and lose that stress-free vibe.
With this list (and a little help from GO Outdoors for your gear), you’ll be fully prepared to embrace the fun, the fresh air, and maybe even a little mud.
So pack up, head out, and make it a trip to remember—no last-minute dashes, no forgotten sleeping bags, just pure family adventure.
