Pop Up Camping Checklist for Packing

We’re about ready to leave for our Epic camping trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. I can’t wait!

We’re stopping at St. Ignace first where we’ll watch Fourth of July fireworks over the Mackinac Bridge. Then we’re visiting Mackinac Island and Sault Ste. Marie. Next we’re headed over to Pictured Rocks National Lake Shore. After that, if we’re not tired of living with each other in a tiny camper for nine days, we’re headed to the Keweenaw Peninsula. Yes, we have so many peninsulas here that we have peninsulas on our peninsulas.

“If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you.” That’s the state motto. Makes sense, huh?

I have day dreamy imaginations of walking along sandy beaches, listening to waves lap the shore, sleeping in the pop-up in the woods and watching bears frolic (From a very, very far distance. Note to self: pack shotgun.) while we hold hands around the campfire and sing Kumbayah. (I need to look that up, because I don’t remember all the words.)

If I’ve learned anything, it’s that organization is the key to making your camping dreams come true. Or at least to avoiding a stop at every Walmart along your route for forgotten supplies. I went in search of a packing list for pop-up camping. A lot of lists out there were for tent camping, and it’s a little different. (Like less civilized. Sorry, I require a bed that is above ground and bug level.) Then there we a few lists that just weren’t comprehensive enough. (I’ve reached that age that if it isn’t on the list I won’t remember it.) And there were a few lists that included everything and the kitchen sink. (I don’t have room for all of that stuff in my camper if we want to be able to actually sleep in it.)

So, I made my own pop up camping checklist for packing. I think it’s pretty comprehensive. I left off some things on other lists like “Telescope for Stargazing.” That’s a bit much, don’t you think? And there are probably a few things on my list you don’t use. Like the little porta-potty. When you have kids you’ll do anything to avoid long, multiple walks through the cold night to the bathroom. But I think it’s a pretty good list, so I’m sharing it with you.

You can download a PDF to print out by clicking on the image the below. Also, look it over and let me know if there’s anything else you think should be added to the list. And happy camping!