Written by the fiancée
Car camping can be comfortable, fun, and safe if you’ve got the right gear and necessities to enjoy the outdoors.
As a female, my “necessities” are quite bit different from what my partner needs when we are camping together.
Through our many trips I’ve learned a few things about what necessities are needed on my ends as a woman when we are car camping.
So here's my go-to packing list below:
Solid but minimal skincare:
Travel size cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. All packed into one makeup bag so it's easy to grab during my nighttime routine.
Toiletries
If you are going camping for more than a couple of days and you need to be living on the road or the mountain - a shower is a must. Bring along non-toxic body wash/shampoo and use any gallon-sized water jug with holes punched into the cap (or bottom), turn it upside down, and enjoy a makeshift shower!
Pro tip: Use your partner as the the shower (jug) holder!
Fanny pack (or a crossover bag)
To hold all your to-go items (small trash bag/plastic bag, pad/tampon, toilet paper, sunscreen, sunnies, etc.) and to clip on your bear spray as needed!
Clothing
I like to bring some lightweight full length pants to ensure I’m guarded from any bugs or plants. Make sure to bring a hat so you are also protected from the sun! Depending on the activities you have planned, it may also make sense for you to bring some hiking boots or even a wader!
Activities
If you’re a girlie (like myself) that likes to chill and hang out while you’re on a camping trip and want to forego the hunting or fishing-like activities - bring a book, yarn, paint, or anything that will allow you to enjoy some of your favorite hobbies in the beautiful outdoors.
Organization
This is something that is easily overlooked. It can be tempting to toss everything into your car and hit the road, but spending a little time organizing your gear will pay major dividends in the long-run.
I highly recommend having some type of storage bag or system that you can use to compartmentalize your goods. Bonus points if it can fit underneath your sleeping platform!
The Hele Box is a really great option for girls who want a sleeping platform and storage system that's all bundled into one! The best part about it (from my perspective) is how light it is!
The sleeping platform is easy to set up myself (no power tools or muscle needed), and the case it comes in have adjustable dividers so I can organize my clothes, blankets, cookware, etc.
Safety
Bring a bear spray and clip it onto your waist / fanny pack if you can. My fiancé and I go camping together but we often enjoy different types of activities. While we are separated, I make sure that I have some safety measures for myself.
For a general packing list, check out the ultimate car camping checklist here!
Stay safe and hele on out for your next adventure (: