
Car Camping Checklist
A complete car camping checklist covering shelter, sleep, kitchen, clothing, lighting, safety and comfort items, plus vehicle prep and smart packing tips.
Beginner-friendly camping and hiking guides that cover preparation, safety, skills and checklists. Start here if you are planning your first campsite night or day hike, or want to get more confident on the trail.

A complete car camping checklist covering shelter, sleep, kitchen, clothing, lighting, safety and comfort items, plus vehicle prep and smart packing tips.
Learn how to use a map and compass step by step: compass parts, reading topo maps, declination, orienting a map, taking and…

Learn how to pack a backpack efficiently in three zones, balance heavy gear, keep essentials reachable, waterproof your load and adjust straps…

The Ten Essentials for hiking explained: what each of the ten gear categories does, what a light day hike version looks like…

How to prepare for changing trail weather: read a hiking forecast, pack the right layers, spot warning signs and set a turnaround…

New to hiking? Learn how to pick a beginner trail, what to wear and pack, how to pace yourself, stay safe and…

A practical camping for beginners guide: choose a campground, pack the right gear, set up your tent, cook simple meals, sleep warm…

A first-time camping checklist for beginners: shelter, sleep, kitchen, water, clothing and safety gear, plus what to leave at home and how…

Use this first day hike checklist to plan your route, pack the Ten Essentials, dress in layers and set a turnaround time…