Camp packing list: Don’t leave home without it

Utah is a mecca for camping, with huge mountains and big name parks from one end of the state to the other. If you’re already an outdoor enthusiast, you know what we’re talking about. For those of you who think it might be nice, but consider sleeping outdoors a bit too primitive, we have a solution. KSL Classifieds has a list of all the supplies you need to make your camping trip feel like home, but with a much better view.

Setting up isn’t hard to do

Organizing your campsite will go much smoother if you bring a few tools along. Keep them handy for setting up, quick repairs and cleanup.

• Mallet for tent stakes

• Multitool

• Broom

• Ax for firewood

Sweet dreams are made of this

Yes, the ground is hard. That is a given. Since you can’t pack your bed, build yourself a comfy one.

• Sleeping bag and liner: Choose one rated for the expected temperatures; make it a double if you like to share (or sleep solo in full starfish position)

• Sleeping pad: Inflatable or foam, your hips will thank you

• Inflatable pillow: Easy to pack and carry

• Cot: No bumpy rocks can touch you

• Blanket: Bring an extra, just in case

• Tent: Shelter in a new place

• Tent light: Find your other sock

• Tarp: Keep the tent bottom a little cleaner

• RV, travel or tent trailer: Avoid the ground altogether

Skip to the loo

All the hot cocoa that warmed you up before bed may wake you up in the middle of the night. Be ready to sprint to the nearest outhouse without stumbling over a fellow camper, or a rock.

• Flashlight: Know where you’re stepping, save a squirrel

• Slip-on shoes: Easy on, easy off

• Biodegradable toilet paper: Just in case someone took the last square

• Hand sanitizer or soap sheets: Because you really should

• Tent marker: Find your way back

Climb every mountain

Even if you drove right up to your campsite, part of the whole camping experience is getting out and exploring. Plan a hike, taking along all the essentials so you can explore as long as your feet hold out.

• Backpack

• Water bottle 

• Water filter

• First aid kit: bandages, moleskin patches, antibiotic ointment, pain reliever, bug repellent

• Sunscreen, aloe vera

• Bucket or sun hat

• Extra socks

• Snacks: trail mix, dried fruit, granola bars, jerky

Dinner on my mind

Cooking over a fire works well for some meals, but humans cannot live on hot dogs and s’mores alone. Bring along a mini kitchen, and you can prepare actual meals.

• Camp stove

• Kerosene

• Matches

• Cookware

• Cooking utensils

• Oven mitt

• Seasonings kit

• Camp dishes

• Silverware

• Cups

• Outdoor tablecloth

• Cooler, ice pack

Games people play

Wide open spaces are the perfect place to practice your skills at being civilized — or release your inner varmint. Bring along some games and play at being kind to one another.

• Card games

• Notebook and pen

• Travel games

• Horseshoes, badminton set

• Camp chairs

• Canopy

• Table

• Treats

All night long

End each evening with a little more sugar and a lot more conversation. Tell a story or two, look up at the stars. This is the life.

• Roasting sticks

• Marshmallows

• Spooky stories

• Magical fire color

• Log grabber

• Telescope

What’ll it be? Your own backyard? One of Utah’s many state or national parks? Or just a pretty spot all your own in the mountains or desert? Wherever you choose, use our packing list to enjoy the ultimate camp site. Search KSL Classifieds Outdoors and Sporting category to find all the comforts for your open air home.

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