What should I bring camping for the first time?

For your first camping trip, go car camping at a developed campground. Bring the basics, plus a few comforts:

• Shelter/sleep: tent with stakes, rainfly, and footprint/tarp; sleeping bag rated 10–15°F colder than the night forecast; sleeping pad or air mattress; pillow; headlamp
• Food/cooking: cooler with ice; simple stove and fuel; pot/pan, utensils, plates, cups, lighter/matches; trash bag; soap and sponge
• Water: enough drinking water or a 2–5 gallon jug if the site lacks water
• Clothing: layers, warm jacket, rain jacket, closed-toe shoes, extra socks
• Safety/personal: first-aid kit, sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, toiletries

Before you go: set up the tent at home, check the weather, and store food and scented items in your car or a bear locker.