Everything is packed, and you are off on a new adventure. But once the tent/trailer is set up, you discover that you forgot a few things. Some of these may not be that critical, but others might force you to make a trip to a store that might not be so nearby. And who wants to leave that comfy lawn chair and run to the store?
Flashlight. Walking to the bathroom at night or checking out that strange noise will be much easier with a flashlight.
Coffee and metal coffee pot. I don’t drink coffee, but if my husband forgot this, he’d be heading to the store before the sun rises. Sugar and cream, anyone?
Prescriptions. If you take any prescription medications, this one can be a tough one to forget. Unfortunately, finding a pharmacy and getting your doctor to put in an emergency refill isn’t a quick fix.
Paper towels or napkins. Everyone needs something to dry their hands or clean up messes. That would be even better if you had old cloth dish rags and towels.
Table cloth. If your campground has wood tables, that’s great. However, if you don’t mind that they are covered with grease, bird poop, and dirt, then maybe this isn’t an essential item. Plastic disposable tablecloths are great.
Dishpan/tub. You will need a place to clean any dishes. A small tub could be used as a bath for a small child and washing dishes.
First Aid Kit. Accidents happen. Having at least bandages and something to clean out the dirt from the wound would be a plus.
Quarters for showers. Maybe you aren’t required to pay for your showers in your state, but we have been for years, at least in some campgrounds. No quarters, no showers.
Matches and newspapers. These would be for starting your cook stove and possibly a fire in your fire pit/ring. Hopefully, you remembered the wood for the fire.
Clean drinking water. At some locations, the water may not be drinkable or may taste different from what you are used to drinking. Bottled water could save you from coming down with something you don’t want.
Salt and Pepper. You can’t bring along all your spices, but the essentials can instantly turn bland food into yummy.
S’mores and Hot Chocolate. These aren’t essential, but they add to the camping experience and happy memories.
Many of the items listed here can be stored in a bin in your garage, labeled camping. That way, they are always ready to go when you are. You might also use a large bin and put items like utensils and dishes in there. Most of these items have a permanent home inside if you have a trailer.
