Pack Lists
How to Pack for Camp: A Simple Guide for a Successful Trip
Packing for camp can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time campers or families new to the experience. The good news is that packing well does not mean packing more. With a bit of planning and a thoughtful approach, you can arrive at camp prepared, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the adventure.
Start With the Right Bag
Choose a sturdy backpack or duffel bag that is easy to carry and fits the type of camp you are attending. Everything should fit into one main bag, with a smaller daypack for activities. Label all bags clearly, as camps often have many campers with similar gear.
Pack Clothing for Layers and Weather
Canadian weather can change quickly, so layering is key. Bring comfortable clothes for daytime activities, a warm layer for cooler evenings, and a rain jacket just in case. Pack enough socks and underwear for each day, plus one extra set. Avoid overpacking by choosing clothing that can be mixed and reused. Always include sleepwear and sturdy footwear suitable for outdoor activities.
Prepare Your Sleeping Gear
A good night’s sleep makes camp more enjoyable. Pack a sleeping bag appropriate for the season, along with a sleeping pad or air mattress if allowed. A small pillow or pillowcase filled with clothes can add comfort without taking up much space.
Don’t Forget Eating and Drinking Essentials
Most camps require campers to bring their own mess kit, cutlery, and reusable water bottle. A camp mug is helpful for hot drinks, and a labelled container can keep snacks organized if snacks are permitted. Staying hydrated is especially important during active days.
Include Personal Care and Health Items
Pack basic toiletries such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and towel. Sunscreen and insect repellent are must-haves for outdoor camps. Any personal medications should be clearly labelled and handled according to camp guidelines.
Add the Essentials for Camp Life
Items like a flashlight or headlamp, extra batteries, a hat, and sunscreen are often used daily. A whistle, notebook, and pencil can also be useful depending on the camp program. Leave valuables and electronics at home unless they are specifically approved.
Pack Smart and Stay Organized
Use smaller bags or stuff sacks to keep items organized inside your main bag. Roll clothes instead of folding to save space. Before leaving, review the camp packing list and double-check that everything is labelled.
Packing for camp is about being prepared without bringing unnecessary extras. When you pack thoughtfully, you spend less time worrying about gear and more time enjoying the friendships, activities, and memories that camp has to offer.
Winter Camping Packing List (Canada)
Clothing (Layering Is Key)
☐ Winter jacket (insulated and waterproof)
☐ Snow pants or insulated winter pants
☐ Base layers (thermal top and bottom)
☐ Mid-layer sweater or fleece
☐ Extra warm socks (wool or thermal, 2–3 pairs)
☐ Waterproof winter boots
☐ Warm hat / toque
☐ Neck warmer or scarf
☐ Insulated gloves or mittens
☐ Extra pair of gloves or mittens
☐ Indoor shoes or camp slippers
☐ Pajamas (warm, non-cotton if possible)
Sleeping Gear
☐ Winter-rated sleeping bag
☐ Sleeping bag liner or extra blanket
☐ Insulated sleeping pad (very important)
☐ Pillow (optional)
Food & Eating Gear
☐ Mess kit (plate, bowl, cup)
☐ Cutlery
☐ Refillable water bottle (wide-mouth preferred)
☐ Thermos (for hot drinks)
☐ Snacks (easy to eat in cold weather)
☐ Camp mug
Personal & Camp Gear
☐ Backpack or duffel bag
☐ Daypack
☐ Headlamp or flashlight
☐ Extra batteries
☐ Pocketknife (if permitted)
☐ Sitting pad or small foam pad
☐ Whistle
☐ Sunscreen (yes, even in winter)
☐ Lip balm with SPF
☐ Hand warmers (optional)
Personal Care
☐ Toothbrush
☐ Toothpaste
☐ Face cloth
☐ Small towel
☐ Personal medications (labelled)
☐ Tissues
☐ Hand sanitizer
Optional / Weather-Dependent
☐ Snowshoes or traction cleats (if required)
☐ Ski goggles or sunglasses
☐ Notebook and pencil
☐ Camera
☐ Playing cards or small game
☐ Camp chair (if allowed)
Do Not Bring
✗ Electronics (unless approved)
✗ Cotton clothing (jeans, cotton hoodies)
✗ Aerosol sprays
✗ Scented food in sleeping area
Winter Camping Tips
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Dress in layers and avoid cotton
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Keep spare clothing dry
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Eat regularly and stay hydrated
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Always change into dry clothes before sleeping
☀️ Summer Camp Packing List (Scouting)
👕 Clothing
☐ T-shirts or lightweight tops
☐ Shorts and/or lightweight pants
☐ Long-sleeve shirt (sun and bug protection)
☐ Underwear
☐ Socks (enough for each day, plus one extra)
☐ Sleepwear
☐ Warm layer (sweater or hoodie for evenings)
☐ Rain jacket or poncho
☐ Sturdy shoes or hikers
☐ Sandals or camp shoes
☐ Hat
🏕️ Sleeping Gear
☐ Sleeping bag (summer-rated)
☐ Sleeping pad or air mattress (if permitted)
☐ Pillow or pillowcase (optional)
🍽️ Eating Gear
☐ Mess kit (plate, bowl, cup)
☐ Cutlery
☐ Reusable water bottle
☐ Camp mug
☐ Snacks (if permitted and labelled)
🎒 Personal & Camp Gear
☐ Backpack or duffel bag
☐ Daypack
☐ Headlamp or flashlight
☐ Extra batteries
☐ Whistle
☐ Sunscreen
☐ Insect repellent
☐ Pocketknife (if permitted and age-appropriate)
☐ Notebook and pencil
🧼 Personal Care
☐ Toothbrush
☐ Toothpaste
☐ Soap and shampoo
☐ Towel
☐ Swimsuit
☐ Personal medications (labelled and given to leader if required)
🚫 Do Not Bring
✗ Electronics unless approved
✗ Valuables
✗ Aerosol sprays
✗ Food in sleeping area
✅ Scout Tip
Label everything, drink plenty of water, and clean up after yourself. A prepared Scout helps make camp better for everyone.
