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    Camping checklist – What do you really need when camping?

    October 14, 2025

    Cozy camping in the mountains

    Introduction

    Whether you're traveling by motorhome, campervan, or caravan – good preparation makes the difference between chaos and relaxation. To ensure you don't forget anything on your next camping trip, we've compiled a clear camping packing list – from important documents to the right equipment.

    Of course, a lot depends on where you're traveling: Are you going to the sea, the mountains, or northern Europe? Depending on your destination and the time of year, you'll need different things – and you can easily plan exactly that in the CampPilot app: route, pitches, campsites, and even local supply stations.

    Here's your handy camping checklist – with everything you really need:

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    🗂️ Papers & Documents

    Before you start, check that all important documents are on board:

    • ID card/passport
    • driver's license (international driver's license if applicable)
    • vehicle registration/insurance card
    • international health insurance/EHIC
    • credit card & some cash
    • ADAC or camping club card
    • vignettes and toll documents
    • documents for the dog (EU pet passport
    • proof of vaccination)

    Tip: Make digital copies of all important documents and save them on your smartphone or in the cloud – in case something gets lost.

    💊 Medications & Travel Pharmacy

    A small first-aid kit belongs in every vehicle. Adapt it individually depending on the destination and climate:

    • Painkillers
    • plasters
    • disinfectant spray
    • thermometer
    • electrolytes
    • insect repellent & mosquito spray
    • tick repellent for dog and human
    • remedies for diarrhea or travel sickness
    • personal medications (with prescription copy if necessary)

    💡 Tip: Insect repellent is especially important in southern countries – tick repellent, on the other hand, is crucial in Scandinavia.

    🧴 Hygiene products

    Even when you're on the go, you want to feel comfortable. So pack:

    • Toothbrush
    • toothpaste
    • shower gel
    • shampoo
    • sunscreen & after-sun lotion
    • toilet paper (an extra roll never hurts)
    • wet wipes & disinfectant
    • microfiber towels (they dry quickly)
    • hand wash for clothes
    • cleaning supplies & small household items

    🧰 Household goods & camping equipment

    The little things are often the most important when camping:

    • Pocket knife & scissors
    • candles
    • lighter or matches
    • flashlight or outdoor lamp
    • outdoor string lights 🌟
    • dish soap
    • dish sponge
    • brush
    • garbage bags & clothesline
    • duct tape
    • small shovel
    • watering can or canister
    • adapters for gas & water connection
    Tip: Check in advance what connections your destination has – this will save you unnecessary luggage.

    🍳 Kitchen & Catering

    Eating on the go is often the best part of the day! With this basic equipment, you're ready for anything:

    • Pots
    • pans
    • cutlery
    • plates
    • bowls
    • cutting board & sharp knife
    • corkscrew
    • can & bottle opener
    • washing-up bowl or collapsible bowl
    • basic foodstuffs & spices
    • snacks & drinks
    • cooler or refrigerator
    • grill & accessories
    Tip: Plan meals with regional products – this saves space and supports local markets.

    🌳 For outdoors

    Outside is your second living room:

    • Camping table & chairs
    • grill or camping stove
    • work gloves (for setting up tents or chopping firewood)
    • air mattress or hammock
    • yoga mat for stretching or relaxation 🧘‍♀️
    • mosquito net & spray
    • spirit level – to ensure your camper is level
    • earplugs – for quiet nights
    • even in noisy campsites
    Photo by @freepik
    Photo by @freepik

    ⚡ Electronics & Power Supply

    Essential for modern camping:
    • Chargers & power bank
    • extension cords & cable reel
    • CEE power cable & adapter
    • smartphone
    • tablet
    • GPS
    • internet router / camping Wi-Fi
    • spare batteries
    • flashlight

    👕 Clothing, Bedding & Comfort

    Less is more – but doing it right is crucial:
    • Comfortable clothing and shoes
    • fleece jacket or sweater
    • swimwear and rain jacket
    • bed linen
    • blankets
    • pillows
    • fitted sheets and sleeping bags
    • extra towels

    🐾 Extras for safety & pets

    Safety and well-being are just as important as adventure:

    • Gas detector & smoke alarm
    • camera or GPS tracker for the vehicle
    • first aid kit
    • dog food
    • water bowl & leash
    • muzzle (mandatory on some ferries)
    • travel documents & vaccination certificate for pets

    🌅 Conclusion – Travel well prepared

    Whether it's a weekend trip or a big European tour – with this packing list you'll be perfectly prepared.

    Keep it simple, stay flexible – and enjoy the freedom on wheels. 🚐💨

    Published on October 14, 2025