The 25 things we never leave home without. Check them off before you hit the road. ★ = available at Tool Forge Supply. Tip: print this page or screenshot it for the trip.
Sleep
- ☐ Air mattress or sleeping pad — measure your bed or cargo area first ★
- ☐ Sleeping bag rated ~10°F below the forecast low ★
- ☐ Pillow from home (it's worth the space)
- ☐ Extra blanket for cold snaps
- ☐ Window screens or sunshades for airflow and privacy
Camp Kitchen
- ☐ Camp stove plus fuel, with a spare canister ★
- ☐ Lighter and a backup fire starter ★
- ☐ Cookware, plates and utensils ★
- ☐ Cooler with reusable ice packs ★
- ☐ Water: about 1 gallon per person, per day
- ☐ Trash bags — pack out everything you bring
Light & Power
- ☐ Lantern for camp ★
- ☐ Headlamp for every person ★
- ☐ Jump starter / power bank ★
- ☐ Charging cables and a 12V car adapter
Comfort & Hygiene
- ☐ Camp chairs ★
- ☐ Camp shower and biodegradable soap ★
- ☐ Quick-dry towel
- ☐ Toilet paper and a small trowel
- ☐ Bug repellent and sunscreen
Safety & Vehicle
- ☐ First aid kit ★
- ☐ Tire gauge or portable inflator
- ☐ Offline maps and a paper backup
- ☐ Knife or multi-tool ★
- ☐ Check campsite rules and fire restrictions
Before You Leave
- Do a test setup in your driveway.
- Charge everything the night before.
- Share your route and return time.
- Crack a window when sleeping in your vehicle — it cuts condensation.
Save on the starred gear: get 10% off the Weekend Starter Kit (truck-bed mattress, lantern and portable shower) with code WEEKENDKIT.