A camping box is a large, sturdy, weatherproof box in which you can store the majority of your essential camping gear. The idea is that you can keep the important items together so that when you want to go camping, all you have to do is grab the box and go.
A camping box could be a generic large plastic storage container or something actually designed for the task. The important thing is that it is sturdy and largely weatherproof.
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The size of a camping box is important.
It needs to be large enough to hold your stuff, but not so large you can’t easily move it around or store it in your garage. I actually keep two camping boxes…one for the heavier gear and one for non-perishable foods, cooking, and eating supplies. They both sit on a shelf in my garage next to my tent and pop-up shelter.
Some people go all out on their camping “kitchen” box, also known as a “chuck” box and build one specifically for their needs. That is an excellent idea, but to get started, a good sized plastic storage bin or a “footlocker” style box will do just fine.
What all do I need to bring?
It can be a constant battle to keep from packing too much for a family camping trip. Many of these items aren’t essential. You could do without them. But they are items that are really handy to have on hand.
You know how it is, the one time you decide not to pack a certain item is the time you wish you had.
Build your own list of items to keep in your camping box and add to it or subtract from it over time. The following list is a good starting point. As I mentioned, I have one specifically for “food” related items. Obviously, I would pack the necessary food items right before the trip, but all of the cooking and eating-related supplies I keep in the box and ready to go.
My list of 24 Items to keep in your camping box.
- Extension cord and power strip – when camping with electricity.
- Hatchet or Saw – for firewood prep.
- Flashlight/Lantern – I recommend a solar rechargeable lantern instead of fuel or battery powered.
- Work Gloves – great for general camp needs and handling hot items.
- Extra tarp – An extra 10’ tarp is extremely handy when you need some shade or protection from the wind or rain.
- Duct tape – because you can fix just about anything with it, at least temporarily.
- Rope or paracord – for hanging, repairing, staking, etc.
- Matches/lighter
- Toilet Paper – it never hurts to have an emergency supply.
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Roll of paper towels
- Wet wipes – great for cleaning hands when running water isn’t available.
- Coffee Maker – This is a must for me. I recommend a small version with a metal carafe for most camping situations.
- Pots/pans – for cooking.
- Aluminum foil – for making foil meals, covering a dirty grill, etc.
- Cooking and eating utensils
- Paper plates, bowls, cups
- Hot pad or mitten – for handling hot items.
- Cooking Spray
- Can opener
- Dishwashing liquid/washcloth
- Trash bags
- Non-perishable food items for the trip (canned or boxed foods, chips, bread, etc.)
What would you add to this list? What would you remove?
