Camping Solo: A Packing List for the Great Outdoors

Camping solo is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. It’s just you, the wilderness, and the peace that comes with stepping away from the daily grind. But an adventure like this calls for some thoughtful planning; after all, you’re heading out on into the middle of nowhere, so it requires some extra preparation. Get equipped for your camping getaway with this complete packing list that will set you up to tackle this upcoming adventure by yourself.

Campsite Essentials

How you set up your campsite will play a major role in your camping trip. This spot will be your sleeping area, so you’ll want to make it feel like a cozy little outdoor home. Start with shelter: a durable, waterproof tent is essential to keep you dry if it rains. While some solo campers like two-person tents, they can feel cramped for lounging during downtime. If you don’t mind carrying a larger tent, it’s worth investing in for the extra space and added comfort. Next, focus on what you’ll need inside for a nice sleep. A good sleeping bag and mat are crucial; don’t forget a pillow, either. Some other additions that will be helpful include a small light inside the tent and a lamp outside, in case the campfire doesn’t get going. Lastly, try to bring a camping chair so you can relax outside without being confined to the tent.

Camping Clothes

You've got your site all set up; now you need to start packing your clothes. Try not to overthink it with your apparel; organize some bits for all types of weather because you never know what Mother Nature will have in store. For warmth, a waterproof jacket, hiking pants, wool socks, a hat, sunglasses, and gloves should cover most conditions. Consider packing thermal layers for some extra heat if you’re concerned about chilly mornings. A sturdy pair of shoes is key, especially for taking on rough terrain on your way to the site. Invest in a good pair of hiking boots made for the outdoors. It’s also a good idea to bring a second pair of comfortable shoes for downtime so you won’t have to stick with the damp boots from your daytime adventures. Even if you don't bring extra shoes, some sandals or flip-flops should do the trick.

Cooking Utensils

After a long day outside, you'll appreciate nothing more than a solid meal. Each camper’s kitchen setup may vary: some prefer the simplicity of recyclable barbecues, while others enjoy creating a full-fledged outdoor cooking area equipped with utensils from a camping store. If you’re leaning toward a simpler approach, a recyclable barbecue is a popular choice, but you can also opt for a classic campfire. Just be sure to check local regulations regarding open flames, as restrictions may apply in certain areas. Pack some tongs for flipping your food and some plates, and you’ll be good to go. For those looking to create a more elaborate cooking setup, you'll want to bring a portable stove with fuel and a kitchen kit complete with pots, pans, plates, and some knives and forks. So that you don’t miss out on your morning caffeine fix, pack some coffee, or if you really want to go fancy, a pour-over set will be a nice touch.

Food

What’s a meal prep area without any food? It’s advisable to plan your meals in advance and gather all the necessary ingredients to avoid any hassle during your trip. Remember, breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so don’t skip it! Simple options like oatmeal, fruit, or sandwiches work well. For lunch and dinner, you might want something more substantial, such as eggs, pasta, rice pouches, or potatoes. The carnivores among us will want to satisfy their cravings one way or another. Just be cautious with meat, as it can spoil quickly. Be sure to consume it fast if you're keen on bringing it, or else you might get sick. Staying hydrated is crucial on a camping trip, especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking. Bring a reusable water bottle and consider having a backup supply for emergencies. Fortunately, if there’s a clean river source nearby, you should be able to refill whenever you need.

Toiletries

Multi-day camping trips can get pretty messy, so take some toiletries to help you stay clean. Just think about all the germs you'll encounter while sleeping outdoors; it's quite yucky when you think about it. Shower gel, shampoo, hand wash, hand sanitizer, and baby wipes will help you stay fresh. Don't forget to pack a towel or two to dry off after a dip or shower. And, of course, toilet paper is a must because it's not like you can just pop into the supermarket whenever you need to go. A few other handy items include sunscreen to protect your skin, bug spray to keep pesky insects at bay, and deodorant so you don't totally smell.

First-Aid Kit

Safety should always be your top priority when camping, especially since you’ll be on your own and responsible for your own well-being. You can find first-aid kits at any drugstore, but be sure to choose one that includes all the essentials. Look for a kit with bandages for cuts, tweezers, pain relievers, antibacterial ointments, antiseptic wipes, duct tape, disposable gloves, and a pair of scissors. Sometimes, it’s easier to build your own kit by purchasing the items individually, so you get what you need without any unnecessary extras that won’t be useful in an emergency.

Start Packing for Your Solo Camping Adventure With This Guide

Camping solo is a pure adventure; it's not for everyone, but for those who do it, it's like a drug that pulls them in and makes them want more and more. Follow this full solo camping packing list to prepare for your outdoor trip. Best of all, if you enjoy the experience, many of these items you purchase can be used over and over again, so it's a long-term investment.