Carcamping has easily become ONE of my favorite things to do. I can’t explain it but it’s something that grounds and relaxes me in a completely different way. These are my essentials that I need for a comfortable and enjoyable car camping experience. It might be different for you, but these are things that I bring with me all the time.
One of the things I wasn’t expecting from car camping is how much it has increased my confidence. It has also helped me not be so reactive and emotional. For example, on my trip to the Upper Peninsula water spilled all over my sleeping bag. Normally I would be super upset and hard on myself. That night I simply took everything out of my car, wiped everything down and luckily it dried enough by the time I went to sleep. Plus there is just something about being able to set up camp by myself.
WHY THESE ARE MY CAR CAMPING ESSENTIALS
These are the 10 essentials I bring with me anytime I head out for an overnight car camp. For me, it’s about being prepared but comfortable. Some of the times are for emergency situations while others are essential items to help avoid injuries, dehydration, or overall care. Some of these items are things I always leave in my car. I am all about simplicity and intention.
- SET UP – I love my car, but it is not premade the best for camping. I love the set up I have now. It’s easy to get in and out of my car and gives me some storage space as well. I got green 4 inch foam that i put on top of the set up. Followed by sleeping bag and pillows.
- COMFORT ITEM – For me, it’s night socks or slippers. It’s not my shower sandals or my shoes I’ve worn all day. I will pack either fuzzy slip ons or socks. It’s something different. I didn’t think this was a big deal until I went on a trip without something. Now It’s probably one of the first things I pack.
- FIRST AID KIT & REPAIR TOOLS- I have a small first aid kit that I got from Walmart, I think. I have one that I keep in my car all the time. I love my repair tool because it can do 17 different things. I have also seen a lot of people put duck tape on their list, but I don’t carry duck tape. I haven’t had the need to have it.
- LIGHT SOURCE – I have multiple light sources. During the spring, I put lights around the inside of my car. They are from Target that I got at Christmas for the tree. These lights are great because it’s battery operated so I can turn them on and off as I need. I do have a headlamp that I have used a few times while camping.
- FOOD, SNACKS & DRINKS – My favorite is uncrustables – the pb and honey. Meat & cheese trays are a close second.
- BOOKS – I really try not to use my phone or iPad. I have thought about getting a kindle, BUT to me it’s the same as my iPad. Plus, I like to write and annotate in my books. (MY BOOKS not books I borrow) There will always be something about holding on to a book.
THE OBVIOUS CAMPING ESSENTIALS
- clothes
- sleeping bag + pillows
PRECAMPING ESSENTIALS
- RESERVATIONS – depending on the time of year you might need a reservation. Here is a list of places I use to find a place to stay.
