Beginners Guide

Camping Checklist for Beginners

A printable checklist you can use before every trip

Whether you're heading out for a weekend getaway or a week in the mountains, this checklist will help ensure you don't leave the essentials behind.

Final Reminder

Don't stress if you forget something small.

Every camper has left something behind at least once. Most items can be borrowed, replaced, or simply done without. The goal isn't to pack perfectly—it's to get outside and enjoy the experience.

Happy camping!

Rooftop Camping with Kids: Free Family Field Guide (PDF)

Download our free Rooftop Camping with Kids Field Guide. Includes packing checklists, family camping tips, meal ideas, safety advice, printable checklists, and Alberta camping inspiration.

William A. Switzer Provincial Park Camping Guide

Peaceful lakes, quiet forests, and one of Alberta's most relaxing camping destinations. Some camping trips are all about checking famous places off your bucket list. Others remind you why you started camping in the first place. Our weekend at William A. Switzer Provincial Park was one of those

Carson–Pegasus Provincial Park Camping Guide

A relaxing lakeside weekend just a short drive from Edmonton. There are camping trips where you spend every minute chasing the next viewpoint. Then there are trips where you simply slow down. Our weekend at Carson–Pegasus Provincial Park was definitely the second kind. Located about two and a half

Big Knife Provincial Park Camping Guide

One of Alberta's most underrated weekend camping destinations. Before visiting Big Knife Provincial Park, I'll admit something. I'd lived in Alberta for quite a while before I even heard of it. When people talk about camping, conversations usually revolve around Jasper, Banff, or Waterton.