Need a camping checklist for your up coming camping trip? Here you will find the perfect checklist for camping in a pop-up camper that is sure to keep you forgetting a thing!
We use this camping checklist when packing up our pop up camper, however it would be a great checklist for any camping trip!
What are pop up campers good for?
Pop up campers are basically a tent-camper hybrid. You get some of the luxuries of a camper combined with the light weight and smaller advantages of a tent. This makes them perfect for couples and small families who want something easy to pull but also want to be a little more comfortable. We even use our Toyota Sienna Van to pull our pop up with no problem!
What are the disadvantages of a pop up camper?
Like with many things in life, with all advantages, come disadvantages. Having a camper that is easy to pull and tow behind, even a mini van, has a major set back. The set up. Just like a tent, a pop up camper requires a bit more set up than a traditional camper.
Another downfall to a pop up camper is that while it does have some storage, it has significantly less than a regular camper. On the other hand, if you are upgrading from a tent, you will be extremely happy with the amount of storage you will gain compared to a tent.
What does a pop up camper have inside?
The interior features of a pop-up camper can vary depending on the make, model, and size, but here are some common elements you might find inside:
- Sleeping Area: Pop-up campers typically have slide out or fold-out beds.
- Dinette: Many pop-up campers have a dining area that you can convert into a bed. If you have a baby or young toddler, a pack-n-play fits perfectly where the table sits.
- Kitchenette: Pop-up campers often feature a small kitchenette with a sink, countertop space, and sometimes a two-burner stove. Some models might even include a small refrigerator.
- Storage: Storage space is essential in a pop-up camper. You’ll typically find cabinets, drawers, and compartments where you can store clothing, kitchen supplies, and other camping gear.
- Bathroom Facilities: While not all pop-up campers have bathroom facilities, some may include a portable toilet or a wet bath with a small shower, toilet, and sink.
- Cabinetry and Shelving: Built-in cabinetry and shelving are common in pop-up campers to help you organize your belongings.
- Curtains or Privacy Screens: Privacy curtains or screens might be provided to partition different areas of the camper for sleeping or changing.
- Electrical Outlets and Lighting: Many pop-up campers are equipped with electrical outlets and lighting fixtures.
- Heating and Cooling: Most newer models will included a way to cool and heat your space.
- Water System: Most pop-up campers have a basic water system with a freshwater tank, sink, and faucet.
What should I pack in my pop up camper?
Remember, the key to successful packing is balance. Pack efficiently, considering the available space in your pop-up camper, and prioritize items based on your needs and preferences. As you gain experience camping in your pop-up camper, you’ll likely refine your packing list to suit your specific camping style.
Where do you put your clothes in a pop up camper?
Right now, when we go camping, we keep our clothes in a duffle bag. When we are awake we keep the duffle bag at the foot of our bed. When we are asleep we put them on a bench and move them back in the morning. I have thought about packing our clothes in plastic drawers, and while it is appealing to have a drawer style set up, I like having a bag that I can move around easily according to where I need the space at the time.
Can you keep food in a pop up camper?
While you are camping, we most definitely keep food in our camper. We use a of couple hanging organizers over our kitchen area to store food. Keep in mind that you want to be more careful than usual in how you store your food to keep from attracting pests. It is not recommended to keep food in your camper when it is in storage. Pop up campers are notorious for attracting mice over the winter even if they don’t contain food.
Categories for packing:
- Camper setup
- Must-Have Tools
- Outdoor gear
- Kitchen Gear
- Miscellaneous
- Kitchen Supplies
- Fridge/cooler
- Pantry
- Bathroom items
- Bedroom items
- Baby Gear
- Kids items
My favorite pop up camper must haves:
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Portable Toilet
They no longer sell the same toilet that we use in our pop up camper, but honestly if I was to buy again this is what I would pick! I love that it has the toilet paper holder on the side. Having a camper toilet is perfect to use during the nights. It is especially helpful if you are potty training a child too!
Collapsible Broom/Mop
Having a broom and a mop while camping can really make a huge difference. I like to sweep out the camper each night before getting ready for bed. Keeps out feet clean and from tracking dirt into our bed. You never know when you’ll need to mop something up either. Having a collapsible mop/broom combo makes it easy to store under one of the bench seats.
Hanging storage
Making the most of vertical space in your camper is really the best way to maximize your storage. We use these for our pantry storage above the sink.
Collapsible Dish Drainer
Even though I typically use paper plates when we are camping, you are going to end up with a few dishes from making meals. Having a drying rack to place clean dishes is a game changer. I love having the collapsible kind to save on space when packing.
3-in-1 Cooking Station
This item was a gift from my dad and it is the best little kitchen addition for a pop-up camper. It is a must have for a small family. It’s perfect for cooking, mini casseroles, biscuits, bacon, sausage, and of course your coffee! It may not be big enough for a larger family, but if you are just starting out, I can’t recommend this item enough!
Free Printable Camping Checklist for Pop-up Camper
Find the free printable camping checklist below. It has a black checklist so that you can customize to your personal needs, but also includes my detailed packing list to help you make sure you don’t forget to add something to your own list! Happy packing and happy camping!
If you are a checklist person like me, I know you will love my cleaning checklist too! It’s super realistic and easy to follow! Be sure to check it out!
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