The Ultimate Summer Camping Checklist

How to Stay Cool While Camping in the Heat

You might be thinking, “I’d love to go camping, but it’s still pretty hot out there.” The good news is there are plenty of ways to stay cool, even in the summer heat.

Tips for Beating the Heat on a Camping Trip:

✔ Choose a shady campsite – Look for spots with natural tree coverage.

✔ Ventilate your tent – Mesh windows and a rainfly that allows airflow help keep your tent from turning into an oven.

✔ Use a silk sleeping bag liner – These are cooler than traditional sleeping bags.

✔ Pack a battery-powered fan – A simple fan can make a huge difference inside your tent.

✔ Take a cool shower – Bring a portable camping shower or take advantage of nearby water sources.

✔ Dress smart – Light-colored, loose-fitting clothes and a wide-brim hat will help protect you from the sun.

✔ Hydrate with juicy fruits – Watermelon, oranges, and grapes help keep you hydrated while hiking.

✔ Soak a washcloth in cold water – Wrap it around your neck for instant cooling relief.

✔ Go for a swim – If there’s a river or lake nearby, take advantage of it to cool off!

And if you really want to beat the heat in style, consider bringing a backup power source to run small fans or cooling devices.

The Ultimate Camping Checklist

General Camping Gear

☐ Tent with footprint, stakes, and mallet/hammer

☐ Ground cloth/tarp

☐ Sleeping bags and sleeping pads

☐ Blankets and pillows

☐ Backpack

☐ Headlamps, flashlights, and extra batteries

☐ Camp table and chairs (if the site doesn’t have them)

☐ Mini-grill or camping stove

☐ Lantern

☐ Clothesline with clips

☐ Toiletries and first-aid kit

☐ Prescription medications

☐ Sunscreen and protective hats

☐ Insect repellant

☐ Lip balm

☐ Rain gear

☐ Extra clothing (socks, underwear, layers)

☐ Hiking boots

☐ Bandanas

☐ Survival knife and multi-tool

☐ Duct tape

☐ Paracord or rope

☐ Saw or ax for cutting firewood

☐ Compass and binoculars

☐ Field guides for plants and wildlife

☐ Whistle

☐ Walkie-talkies

☐ NOAA emergency radio

☐ Disinfectant wipes

☐ Important documents (ID, vehicle registration, camping permits, insurance, etc.)