Family Camping Essentials: Gear Guide from Tent to Toilet Paper

Introduction: Your Family Camping Checklist

When people ask me what they should bring on a family camping trip, I always tell them it’s a loaded question. The answer depends entirely on where you’re going and how you’re getting there.

There are two primary types of camping experiences you’ll encounter:

Camping Types: Car Camping vs. Deep Woods

Car Camping: This is what most families do. You drive directly to your campsite, which means you can pack your vehicle as full as you want with comfort items and conveniences. Weight and space aren’t major concerns since you’re not carrying everything on your back or in a canoe.

Deep Woods Camping: This is what I typically do – heading into the wilderness with everything packed in a canoe. This style requires packing light and being selective about what you bring.

Today I’m focusing mainly on car camping essentials – the gear that makes family camping comfortable and enjoyable when you can drive right up to your site.

The Importance of Preparation

Before we dive into specific gear, I need to emphasize how crucial preparation is for family camping. I’ve been camping for over 60 years, and I can promise you that proper preparation makes the difference between a memorable adventure and a miserable experience.

One of the first skills you’ll want to develop is reading the weather. Learning to identify cloud formations like ultracirrus clouds (those thin, sheer curtains across the sky) can help you anticipate incoming weather and prepare accordingly.

When you arrive at your campsite, your first job is setting up shelter – which means your tent should be your top priority. I always tell people to set up and test their camping gear at home before heading out, especially if you’ve got a new tent. You don’t want to be figuring out complicated poles in the pouring rain!

Throughout this guide, we’ll cover the essential family camping gear you’ll need, from the absolute must-haves to the comfort items that make outdoor living more enjoyable. Let’s start with the most important piece of gear: your tent.

==Downloadable checklist

TLDR: Family Camping Essentials Guide

The Basics:

Tent: Buy bigger than you think you need (a 4-person tent comfortably fits 2 people). Always choose waterproof, not water-resistant. Set up at home first to practice.
Sleeping: Options include cots (comfortable but bulky), self-inflating pads, or foam pads. Bring sleeping bags rated for colder temperatures than expected.
Seating: Pack chairs for everyone – options range from lightweight ground chairs to comfortable folding camp chairs.

Cooking and Food:

Bring a two-burner stove, even if you plan to cook over fire
Pack cookware that’s campfire-safe or dedicated camping cooksets
Consider a cast iron skillet for amazing campfire flavor
Don’t forget heat-resistant gloves and cooking utensils

Don’t Forget:

Toilet paper! (The most commonly forgotten essential)
First aid kit with basics plus any family medications
Lighting (headlamps and lanterns)
Charging options for devices (solar chargers work well)
Bug protection (including a screen tent if possible)
Fire starting tools and matches

Campsite Expectations:

Most drive-in campsites include a fire pit/ring and picnic table. Facilities vary by location but typically include washrooms and water access nearby.

The key to successful family camping is preparation, flexibility, and embracing the outdoor experience. Test gear before you go, pack for comfort but don’t go overboard, and focus on creating memories rather than perfection.

Setting Up Camp: The Essentials

A. Choosing the Right Tent

Your tent is the most important piece of equipment you’ll bring to camp. It’s your shelter, your home away from home, and your protection against the elements. Selecting the right one can make or break your family camping experience.

Tent Size Recommendations

When it comes to tent sizing, here’s a crucial tip: always go bigger than you think you need. Manufacturers often exaggerate how many people can comfortably fit in a tent.

A 2-person tent is really comfortable for 1 person plus gear
A 4-person tent is ideal for 2 people
A 6-person tent works well for 4 people
An 8-person tent is great for a family of 4-5 with gear

If you have a four-person family, I strongly recommend a six to eight-person tent. Don’t try to squeeze everyone into a tent that technically fits your headcount but leaves no room for moving around or storing your stuff. Remember, you’re car camping—take advantage of that extra space!

Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant

When buying a tent, never settle for “water-resistant.” This is absolutely critical. A water-resistant tent will get you soaked in a real downpour, and you’ll end up rigging tarps over it, which defeats the whole purpose.

Always check the specifications and make sure your tent says waterproof, not water-resistant. This is especially important when camping with family, as there’s nothing worse than trying to manage cranky, wet kids in the middle of the night.

Setting Up Your Tent at Home First

This tip has saved me countless headaches over decades of camping. Always, always set up your tent at home before your trip. This practice run accomplishes several important things:

Ensures all parts are included and functioning
Helps you learn the setup process without pressure
Identifies any defects or issues before you’re at the campsite
Builds your confidence in setting it up quickly

You never know when you’ll arrive at your campsite with rain clouds looming. Being able to quickly set up your tent can make all the difference.

Tent Placement Tips

When you arrive at your campsite, take time to survey the area before setting up:

Look for level ground with minimal roots and rocks
Don’t chop out tree roots – this damages the trees and ecosystem
Check overhead for dead branches that could fall
Position away from areas where water might collect
Face the door away from prevailing winds if possible

Many tent setup guides tell you to stake down your tent first, but I disagree. Set up the structure first, then position it exactly where you want it, and finally stake it down. This allows you to adjust the placement for the perfect spot.

Tent Features: Screen Porches, Storage

The tent I’ve used for years has some fantastic features worth looking for:

Screen porch: A game-changer for family camping, offering bug-free lounging space and a place to remove muddy shoes before entering the sleeping area
Multiple doors: Makes entering and exiting easier without disturbing others
Storage pockets: Internal pockets keep small items organized and off the floor
Vestibules: Additional covered space for storing gear outside the sleeping area
Weather-resistant seams: Taped or sealed seams prevent water from seeping through stitching

One caution about screen porches: they’re great spaces, but avoid eating in them, especially in bear country. Even crumbs can attract wildlife from chipmunks to larger predators.

check out our review about testing 16 family tent with different features and prices, here.

B. Sleeping Systems

After shelter, your sleeping system is the next most important factor in camping comfort. There are several options depending on your comfort preferences and space constraints.

Cot Options and Considerations

Camp cots offer a luxurious sleeping experience because they get you up off the ground. Benefits include:

Keeps you away from the cold ground
Provides storage space underneath
Often more comfortable for those with back issues
Easier to get in and out of than floor sleeping

The main drawback of cots is their size and bulk. A four-person tent might only comfortably fit two cots with walking space between them. They’re also heavier and take up significant car space, but for car camping, they’re worth considering for comfort.

Sleeping Pad Options

There are several types of sleeping pads to consider:

Self-Inflating Pads: These expedition-style mats (like the North 49 from Costco) are incredibly comfortable. They self-inflate when you open the valve and provide excellent insulation and cushioning. They take up more space than foam pads but less than cots.

Closed-Cell Foam Pads: Like the Thermarest Z-Light Sol, these lightweight pads fold up accordion-style. They have a reflective layer for warmth and are nearly indestructible. They’re my go-to for canoe trips because they’re light and compact, though not as plush as inflatable options.

Air Mattresses: While not mentioned in our discussion, air mattresses are another option for family car camping that provide good comfort but require inflation equipment.

For maximum comfort when car camping, you can even combine systems – place a self-inflating pad on top of a cot for the ultimate outdoor bed!

Sleeping Bag Recommendations

When selecting sleeping bags, temperature rating is crucial:

Don’t trust the ratings on the bag – they’re often optimistic
Choose a bag rated for at least 0°C (32°F) even for summer camping
Temperatures can drop surprisingly low even in July and August
Avoid down-filled bags for family camping – when wet from rain or body moisture, down loses its insulating properties
Synthetic-filled bags maintain warmth even when damp

For car camping, bring extra blankets as backup. Weather can be unpredictable, and it’s better to have too many warm layers than too few.

Pillows

Don’t forget pillows! While you could bring your pillows from home, compact camping pillows like the Thermarest compressible pillow pack down small and fluff up for comfortable sleeping. They take up minimal space in your car and add significant comfort to your camping experience.

Essential Tent and Sleeping Gear Recommendations

Tents:

Woods™ 6-Person Tent at Costco
Coleman Cabin Tent with Instant Setup
REI Co-op Base Camp 6 Tent

Sleeping Systems:

Sleeping Bags:

Pillows:

Essential Extras and Safety

When you’re planning a family camping trip, it’s the small but crucial items that often get overlooked. These “essential extras” can make the difference between a smooth outdoor adventure and a challenging ordeal. Let’s cover the items that experienced campers never leave home without.

Toilet Paper: Don’t Forget It!

It might seem obvious, but forgetting toilet paper is one of the most common—and unpleasant—camping mistakes. There’s truly nothing worse than realizing you’ve forgotten this basic necessity when nature calls.

Bring at least one roll per person for a weekend trip
Store in a waterproof bag or container to protect from moisture
Consider bringing a travel bidet as a backup option
Pack a small trowel if camping in areas without facilities
Remember biodegradable TP if you’ll be burying waste

As I always say, “Wiping with leaves is not fun. Not fun at all.” This might be the most important item on your checklist—don’t leave home without it!

Fire Starting Tools

Even if your campsite has a fire pit, you’ll need reliable ways to start and maintain a fire:

Waterproof matches or lighters (bring multiple options)
Fire starter cubes or homemade starters (cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly work well)
Small hatchet for splitting kindling (if permitted)
Newspaper or cardboard for tinder
Fire gloves for safely arranging logs

Always plan on bringing your own firewood rather than scavenging at the campsite. There’s rarely enough dry, dead wood available, especially at popular campgrounds. Many parks also prohibit gathering wood to protect the ecosystem. Check local regulations about bringing in outside firewood, as some areas restrict this to prevent the spread of invasive species.

First Aid Kit

A properly stocked first aid kit is non-negotiable for family camping:

Basic supplies (bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, medical tape)
Tweezers and small scissors
Pain relievers appropriate for all family members
Antihistamines for allergic reactions
Insect bite treatment
Blister treatment supplies
Any prescription medications your family needs

Consider taking a basic wilderness first aid course if you camp regularly. Knowledge of how to handle common outdoor injuries is just as important as having the supplies.

Day Pack for Hiking

Even if your main gear stays at the campsite, you’ll want a day pack for excursions:

Bring a pack with comfortable shoulder straps
Look for models with waist belts for better weight distribution
Internal or external water bottle pockets are essential
Small interior pockets help organize items
Swiss Army packs from Costco are a good option

If your pack isn’t waterproof (most aren’t), line it with a garbage bag before packing your gear. This simple hack keeps everything dry even in surprise downpours.

Bug Protection: Screen Tents

In many camping areas, insects can make or break your experience. A screen tent provides a bug-free zone for eating, playing games, or just relaxing:

Creates a secondary living space beyond your sleeping tent
Provides shelter during light rain while still being outside
Most models set up almost as easily as regular tents
Look for models with full zippered doors and reinforced corners
Some include floor material, which helps keep crawling insects out

At around $150-200 from retailers like Costco or Canadian Tire, a screen tent is one of the best investments for family camping comfort, especially for longer trips. Having this bug-free zone makes mealtime more enjoyable and gives everyone a place to escape when the mosquitoes are particularly fierce.

Optional: Pop-Up Tent for Kids

If you have children, consider bringing a small pop-up tent as an additional space:

Sets up instantly—literally pops into shape when unpacked
Gives kids their own space for playing or quiet time
Can serve as extra sleeping space for older children
Provides a place to store toys and games
Packs down into a flat disc that takes minimal car space

Pop-up tents often have a floor material, which helps protect kids from ticks, ants, and ground moisture. They create a designated kids’ zone at the campsite, which can be a sanity-saver for parents.

Additional Safety Considerations

Beyond the essential extras mentioned above, keep these safety points in mind:

Weather awareness: Learn basic cloud formations to anticipate weather changes
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage is crucial in bear country
Emergency communication: Consider a whistle for each family member
Navigation tools: Bring maps and compass even if you have GPS devices
Water purification: Carry tablets or a filter even if you bring water

When camping with family, it’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. The small weight of these safety items is more than justified by the peace of mind they provide.

Essential Safety and Extra Gear Recommendations

Toilet Paper and Sanitation:

Fire Starting Tools:

First Aid Kits:

Day Packs:

Bug Protection:

Pop-Up Tents for Kids:

==Downloadable checklist

Campsite Expectations

When planning your first family camping adventure, it helps to know what to expect when you arrive at your destination. Most established campgrounds offer similar amenities, though they can vary depending on whether you’re at a provincial park, national park, or private campground.

Typical Campsite Features: Fire Pits, Picnic Tables

Upon arrival at a typical campsite, you’ll usually find:

Fire Pits

Most established campsites include a designated fire pit or ring:

Usually constructed with a metal ring or stones to contain the fire
Sometimes includes a grill grate for cooking
In some parks, you’ll find two types of fire pits – a standard open pit and an enclosed “fireplace” style for use during partial fire bans
Always check fire regulations before your trip – seasonal restrictions are common

Fire pits are typically positioned a safe distance from where you’ll set up your tent. This helps prevent sparks from damaging your gear and keeps smoke from filling your sleeping area.

Picnic Tables

The humble picnic table is a campsite essential:

Almost every car camping site includes at least one sturdy picnic table
Serves as your dining table, food prep area, game surface, and general gathering spot
Usually made of wood or sometimes metal/concrete in high-use areas
May be anchored to the ground or movable
Consider bringing a lightweight tablecloth for easier cleanup

The picnic table becomes the center of your camp kitchen and social area. Its importance can’t be overstated – it’s where you’ll prepare meals, eat together, play cards during rainy days, and plan your adventures.

Other Common Campsite Features

Depending on the campground, you might also find:

Parking pad – a designated area to park your vehicle
Tent pad – a level, sometimes graveled area designated for tent setup
Water access – some sites have water taps nearby, while others require a walk to a central water station
Electrical hookups – available at some campgrounds for an additional fee
Food storage lockers – common in areas with active wildlife
Privacy barriers – some sites have natural vegetation or constructed barriers between sites

Campground Facilities

Beyond your individual site, most campgrounds offer shared facilities:

Washroom buildings with toilets and sometimes showers
Garbage and recycling stations
Water fill stations
Information boards with park rules, emergency contacts, and local wildlife information
Playground areas in family-oriented campgrounds
Ranger or warden stations for assistance

When booking your campsite, check whether the campground is “unserviced” (no hookups), “partially serviced” (some amenities like water or electricity), or “fully serviced” (water, electricity, and sometimes sewer hookups).

Enjoy Your Trip!

After over 60 years of camping experience, I can tell you there’s nothing quite like family camping to create lasting memories and connect with nature. The preparation might seem overwhelming at first, but once you’re sitting around the campfire with your loved ones, staring up at stars you can’t see from the city, it’s all worth it.

Remember these final tips for maximum enjoyment:

Be flexible – weather and other factors may change your plans
Engage kids in camp tasks so they feel invested in the experience
Take time to notice nature – from cloud formations to wildlife signs
Keep your first few trips simple until you learn what works for your family
Leave your campsite better than you found it
Capture memories but don’t stay glued to screens
Embrace the small mishaps – they often become favorite stories later

Family camping builds resilience, creates connection, and offers a break from our technology-saturated lives. The skills and experiences you gain will serve your family well beyond the campsite.

So pack your gear, remember that toilet paper, and head out for your adventure. The wilderness is waiting, and there’s nothing in the world like camping. Oh seriously, happy camping, eh? There’s nothing in the world like it.

Recommended Campgrounds for Family Camping

For Beginners:

Ontario Parks Car Camping
Parks Canada Frontcountry Camping
KOA Campgrounds (Private campgrounds with excellent facilities)

Campsite Booking Resources:

Apps for Campsite Finding:

==Downloadable checklist