What to Pack for Camping and Outdoor Trips

Wondering what to pack for camping and outdoor trips? Start with the essentials that keep you comfortable, prepared and organised, including weather-appropriate clothing, food and water, shelter, lighting, sun and insect protection, basic first aid and personal hygiene items. Compact cleaning products can also be useful when access to running water or showers is limited. The best packing list depends on where you are going, how long you will be away and the conditions you expect.

Here is a practical camping and outdoor packing checklist to help you prepare.

1. Pack for Changing Weather

New Zealand weather can change quickly, especially when you are spending the day outdoors, so clothing should be one of your first considerations.

Pack lightweight layers that can be added or removed as conditions change. Depending on the season and destination, this may include:

• Comfortable base layers

• Warm jumper or fleece

• Waterproof jacket

• Spare socks

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sun hat

• Warm hat for cooler conditions

Check the weather forecast before you leave, but still allow for unexpected changes.

For overnight camping, pack an extra set of dry clothes separately so you have something comfortable to change into if your daytime clothing gets wet.

2. Bring Enough Food and Water

Carry enough drinking water for the length of your trip, plus extra where practical.

If you are camping overnight, plan simple meals and snacks that are easy to prepare and store. Fruit, snack bars, sandwiches and other portable foods can also work well for day trips.

If fresh fruit is part of your outdoor snack pack, TERRA Fruit Cleaning Wipes provide a compact option for cleaning fruit while travelling.

Keep food sealed securely and store rubbish separately until it can be disposed of properly.

3. Prepare for Sun and Insects

Even on cooler days, outdoor trips can mean spending several hours exposed to the elements.

Pack suitable sun protection, including protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen appropriate for your needs.

Insects can also become part of the experience around campsites, walking tracks and outdoor picnic areas.

TERRA Insect Repellent Wipes come in travel-ready sachets designed for activities such as camping and hiking. TERRA also has Kids Insect Repellent Wipes for families wanting a product designed specifically for children.

Compact sachets can be particularly practical because you can pack only the number you expect to need.

4. Pack Personal Hygiene Essentials

Access to showers and running water can be limited when camping, so include a few personal hygiene basics.

Your kit might include:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Hand sanitiser

• Toilet paper

• Small towel

• Rubbish bags

• Personal toiletries

• Cleaning wipes

TERRA Camping Wipes are individually sealed and designed for full-body cleaning when showers or water are not readily available.

You can also pack TERRA Travel Refresh Wipes for quick freshening up during long drives, hikes or day trips.

There is no need to bring every type of wipe. Choose the products that match your activities and how long you will be away.

5. Keep Outdoor Cooking Simple

If you plan to cook at your campsite, organise your cooking essentials before leaving home.

Depending on your setup, you may need:

• Portable cooking equipment

• Plates and utensils

• Reusable cups

• Food storage containers

• Rubbish bags

• Cleaning supplies

TERRA Dishwashing Wipes are designed to work without running water, which can make them useful for outdoor cooking, camping and travel.

Always follow the rules for the campsite or outdoor area you are visiting when cooking or disposing of waste.

6. Add Safety and Practical Essentials

A few basic items can make a big difference when you are away from home.

Consider packing:

• First-aid kit

• Torch or headlamp

• Fully charged phone

• Portable power bank

• Map or downloaded directions

• Emergency contact details

• Any regular medication

• Rubbish bags

For longer trips, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

Quick Camping and Outdoor Packing Checklist

Before leaving, check that you have suitable clothing, food, water, sun and insect protection, personal hygiene products, first-aid supplies, lighting, phone essentials and any camping equipment required for your trip.

A good outdoor packing list is not about bringing as much as possible. Think about your destination, expected weather and access to facilities, then choose compact products that solve practical problems. Keeping the essentials organised can help make camping, hiking and outdoor trips simpler and more comfortable.