Camping essentials for your next holiday

A list of camping essentials for your campsite set up, tools, clothing and toiletries for a happy camper.

What on earth do you need to ensure your camping trip is as comfortable as possible? Don’t worry, we’ve made packing that little bit easier with a list of camping essentials so you can be a happy camper.

Camping is the perfect opportunity to get back to nature and take a break from our sometimes stressful lives. It’s a chance to unplug our devices, spend quality time with loved ones and nurture the soul in the great outdoors.

However, the task of packing can sometimes be a little stressful. The family is excited and the countdown has begun, but what on earth do you need to ensure your camping trip is as comfortable as possible? Don’t worry, we’ve made packing that little bit easier with a list of camping essentials so you can be a happy camper.

1. Campsite Setup

The perfect setup will ensure your camping trip is a comfortable one. When considering what kind of setup you would like, think about how many people you are camping with, the weather, and caravan park facilities. You will need a tent that comfortably fits everyone with sufficient bedding that’s appropriate for the climate.

• Tent
• Camp mattress or stretcher
• Pillow
• Sleeping bag
• Torch, lanterns, or headlight (don’t forget batteries if needed)
• Camp chairs
• Camp table
• Camping gazebo (if you have space)

2. Camp Kitchen

Preparing meals whilst camping is part of the fun. Before packing, check out what kind of cooking facilities are at the campsite. Most Tasman Holiday Parks caravan parks have camp kitchens, barbeque areas and some have fire pits to throw a few spuds in or roast marshmallows.

• Camp BBQ or gas stove (if needed)
• Esky or camp fridge
• Food storage cupboard or container
• Lighter or matches
• Cooking pots and frypans
• Cooking utensils
• Cutlery
• Can opener
• Bottle opener
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Plates, bowls, cups, and mugs
• Water bottles
• Washing up items – sink, sponge, tea towel and biodegradable dishwashing liquid

3. Toiletries

Going camping means giving up some of the luxuries of home. That doesn’t mean we go completely wild compromising our hygiene. Pack these items to ensure you still look, smell, and feel as fresh as a daisy.

• Toilet paper
• Hand sanitiser and soap
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush and hair ties
• Moisturiser
• Sunscreen
• Biodegradable body wash or soap
• Lip balm
• Insect repellent
• First aid kit
• Earplugs (for those pesky snorers)
• Prescription medication

4. Clothing

When packing clothing it all depends on where you are going and what time of year. If you are going somewhere cold think about clothing that you can layer to keep you warm. For warmer climates, shorts and t-shirts are perfect with a jumper for cooler nights.

As you will be spending most of your time outdoors, pack clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty and that you can wear multiple times. Don’t forget, if you’re planning to venture into civilisation for a meal or drink, pack an appropriate outfit.

• Underwear/bras
• Socks
• Pyjamas
• Appropriate footwear
• Cold weather – long pants, long sleeve and short sleeve t-shirts, jumpers, coats, beanies, gloves and scarf
• Warmer weather – T-shirts, shorts or skirts, dresses, light-weight pants, swimwear, and long-sleeved shirts for sun protection
• Hat

5. Toolkit

It’s important to be prepared whilst camping. How frustrating would it be to turn up to your campsite, pull out the tent to set up only to realise you haven’t packed a mallet to hammer in the tent pegs. Just as frustrating would be your air mattress being damaged and not having the tools to fix it.

• Mallet or hammer
• Tent repair kits
• Mattress repair kit
• Duct tape
• Pocket knife
• Small broom and dustpan
• Rope (to tie down tents on those windy days)

Now that you have the essentials covered, you can work out how much more room you have in the car for those luxury items. The final step in your camping planning? Choosing the perfect campsite. Discover our range of sites in Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia, Tasmania and South Island and North Island, New Zealand. Happy camping!