Guided Car Camping Trip Packing List

So you’ve decided to join us for a car camping trip, great choice! It’s one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to enjoy time outdoors while still getting the full camping experience.

Your guide will take care of camp setup, meals, shared gear, and all the logistics so you can relax and enjoy the trip. You’ll just need to bring your own clothing, sleeping bag, and personal items. Sleeping bags, pads, and chairs are available to rent or purchase if needed.

Your Sleep System & Camp Comfort

  • ☐ Sleeping bag* (lightweight, & rated for expected low temps — ask us if unsure)
  • ☐ Sleeping pad or inflatable mattress*
  • ☐ Lightweight camping chair* (optional)

Clothing – Daytime

  • ☐ Sun hat and sunglasses
  • ☐ Neck warmer or buff (stay warm in rain, or soak to cool off in heat)
  • ☐ Lightweight t-shirt or long sleeve (synthetic/merino)
  • ☐ Sports bra and underwear
  • ☐ Rain jacket
  • ☐ Hiking pants (layer with long underwear early season)
  • ☐ Wool/synthetic socks (quick-dry are best)
  • ☐ Hiking boots/shoes

Clothing – Evenings

  • ☐ Toque/knit hat
  • ☐ T-shirt
  • ☐ Sweater or fleece (thicker in cooler seasons)
  • ☐ Long underwear
  • ☐ Sweatpants/track pants
  • ☐ Wool socks (extra pairs always welcome)
  • ☐ Lightweight site shoes (Croc’s or slip-ons work great)
  • ☐ Extra underwear

Note: The list includes what you’ll wear on day one (daytime clothing), so no need to double up. Bring clothing that’s lightweight, loose-fitting, and quick-drying. Given that this is a car-camping trip, feel free to bring additional outfits to ensure you and your group are comfortable and cozy the whole time. 

Optional Extras 

  • ☐ Small stuff sack (to keep phone, wallet, meds handy)
  • ☐ 1L Water bottle (Nalgene)
  • ☐ Headlamp/Flashlight
  • ☐ Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • ☐ Sunscreen & insect repellent
  • ☐ Pillow or Pillowcase (stuff clothes inside = instant pillow)
  • ☐ Feminine hygiene products
  • ☐ Quick-dry towel
  • ☐ Power bank/solar charger
  • ☐ Notebook and pencil
  • ☐ Spare cash (just in case)
  • ☐ Camera
  • ☐ Binoculars
  • ☐ Playing cards

What Not to Bring

  • ☐ Denim clothing (heavy and stays wet forever)
  • ☐ Dark-colored clothing (bug magnet)
  • ☐ Brand-new boots/shoes (hello, blisters)
  • ☐ Perfume, cologne, scented lotions/soaps (also a bug magnet)
  • ☐ Glass bottles or cans (transfer alcohol to plastic if bringing any)
  • ☐ Speakers (nobody came for a forest rave)
  • ☐ Expensive jewelry (leave it at home)

Additional Exclusions

  • ☐ Transportation to and from the meeting point
  • ☐ Breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day
  • ☐ Additional vehicle parking permits
  • ☐ Optional guide gratuities