Organization when camping – The next vacation is coming up.
But how do you plan it?
Whether you’re an experienced camper or a beginner: with good planning, you can start your well-deserved vacation in a more relaxed way.
Creating a packing list will also help you get organized.
This way, you can make sure you have everything you need when camping.
Depending on whether you are traveling with a camper, roof tent or a conventional tent, your packing list and the requirements for stowing your luggage may vary.
The number of fellow travelers and the chosen camping location also have an influence on what you need to take with you.
For example, traveling with children is one of the supreme disciplines of camping.
It also makes sense to take a look at the upcoming weather, plan meals and cooking, and consider the sanitary facilities on site.
Ask yourself questions like: Where can I get rid of my trash?
Do I need a lot of supplies?
Here you will find important tips on how to easily organize your camping trip in advance.
Camping Ratgeber:
Rooftop tent, tent or camper?
– Tip 1
When it comes to camping, there are many ways to spend the night in the great outdoors.
The decision as to whether you want to travel with a camper, a tent or a rooftop tent depends on your individual preferences and needs.
If you like to travel in comfort and want to be protected even in bad weather, a camper van or rooftop tent is a good option.
If you want to experience nature up close and like to move around flexibly, a tent can also be a good choice.
A rooftop tent usually offers you both: lots of flexibility, comfort and the opportunity to sleep in the middle of nature.
No matter which option you choose, it is important to practise driving the vehicle and setting it up at the campsite in advance.
With a motorhome or roof tent in particular, you should familiarize yourself with the dimensions of the vehicle and always have the height and width to hand to avoid bumping into unexpected obstacles.
Do you want to set off with a tent trailer?
Then you should also practice maneuvering, starting, turning and braking to ensure a safe journey.
You should bear these things in mind if you are planning to set off with a roof tent, tent trailer or camper:
- Practice setting up so that it goes faster on the campsite
- Practice driving the vehicle in advance & have measurements ready
- Maneuvering, starting, turning and braking should be practiced
- Ensure safe driving through caution & vigilance
Roof tent: flexible solution with a view
A roof tent offers advantages such as quick set-up, flexibility, protection from the cold and damp ground, a good view of the surroundings, space savings, cost savings compared to a tent or motorhome and no additional vehicle is required.
However, it also has disadvantages such as limited freedom of movement.
Ultimately, choosing the right camping setup depends on individual preferences and needs.
A roof tent has these advantages:
- Roof tent offers quick set-up & flexibility
- Protection against floor cold & moisture
- Good view of the surroundings
- No additional vehicle required
- Space & cost savings
If you would like to get an impression of a roof tent, you can take a look at a popular version of the roof tent here:
Tent: Inexpensive & space-saving
A tent offers advantages such as, depending on the size, spaciousness, low price, easy transportation and versatility compared to a roof tent or motorhome.
However, it also has some disadvantages, such as a longer set-up time and the risk of moisture and cold from below.
If you choose the tent, you have these advantages and disadvantages:
- Tent offers spaciousness depending on size
- Favorable price
- Easy transportation
- Versatility
- Longer set-up time
- Risk of moisture & cold from below
Choosing the right tent depends on individual preferences and needs, so you can view many different versions of the tent here:
Camper: all-round comfort
A camper offers advantages such as comfort, protection, spaciousness, easy handling and independence compared to a rooftop tent or marquee.
However, it also has some disadvantages, such as higher costs or greater dependence on a vehicle.
You can’t set off as flexibly as you can with a roof tent, for example, as you can simply fold it up quickly.
Here you can see the benefits of a camper and the disadvantages:
- Comfort, protection & spaciousness
- Easy handling
- Independence
- Higher costs
- Greater dependence on one vehicle
- Less flexibility
You can find out more about campers here:
Ultimately, it is a question of personal taste as to which type of camping equipment suits you best.
However, it is advisable to consider a few things in advance to make your trip as pleasant and safe as possible.
Packing list & stowage: Preparation – Tip 2
Start by dividing your packing list into things you’ve already packed, things you still need to pack and things you still need to buy.
This way you’ll have a clear idea of what you already have and what you still need to get.
Also remember not to exceed the maximum permissible weight of your vehicle.
Also make sure that you don’t fill the water tank completely full, as this can make the vehicle too heavy and cost more fuel.
Stow in the car or van
Once you have created your packing list, you should think about the best way to pack your equipment to save space.
You should also make sure that you don’t pack too much, as this can weigh down your camping trip.
Pack your equipment carefully and think about the best way to stack and stow your items.
Also use the space in your vehicle or trailer to store extra gear and supplies.
With a storage system like this, you can keep everything organized: Wall Organizer.
Finally, be prepared for unforeseen events.
Bring extra clothing, blankets and tarps to keep you warm and dry in the rain or cold.
Also be prepared for it to get dark by bringing a flashlight or camping lamp.
Tip!
You can find an LED camping lamp here.
With these six simple steps, you can make packing your things a little more relaxed:
- Create a packing list
- Pay attention to the gross vehicle weight rating of your vehicle
- Space-saving packing of equipment
- Stacking & stowing objects
- Bring extra clothing, blankets & tarpaulins
- Pack a flashlight or camping lamp
With careful planning and a comprehensive packing list, you can ensure that your camping trip will be enjoyable and safe.
You can find out here what you could put on your packing list:
Fellow travelers: Organize family & friends – Tip 3
It is particularly important to coordinate well with your fellow travelers in order to enjoy a smooth vacation.
It is advisable to sit down together in advance to discuss important things such as the departure time and meeting point.
You should also clarify who is packing what to ensure that nothing is forgotten.
It can be helpful here to draw up a packing list on which everyone writes down what they are bringing.
Camping is often about spending time together and enjoying nature.
Therefore, the seating arrangements in the vehicle should also be well planned.
You should consider who gets along well and who might need a little more privacy.
You should also consider who likes to sit by the window and who is in charge of navigation.
It can also be useful to clarify in advance who will take on which tasks when it comes to setting up at the campsite.
Children can also help with many tasks.
With these points on your checklist, the whole planning process with family and friends will also be more relaxed and hopefully there won’t be any arguments:
- Discuss departure time & meeting point before the camping trip
- Create a packing list so that nothing is forgotten
- Plan seating arrangements in the vehicle well
- Who likes to sit by the window, who needs more privacy?
- Who takes over navigation & set-up at the campsite?
- Children can also help with tasks
Choosing a campsite & pitch – Tip 4
In principle, wild camping is not permitted in Germany.
However, you are allowed to take a short break to restore your fitness to drive.
However, you should not unpack any camping chairs or the barbecue.
Find out in advance where you are allowed to stand and take a break along the way.
Otherwise, you can also sleep at a campsite.
Not wild camping?
Then the campsite is better!
If you want to stay at a campsite, you should book in advance to make sure you get a pitch.
Choosing the right camping location and pitch can make the difference between a pleasant camping experience and a bad one.
If you can choose a site in advance, look for a shady site that is not too close to sanitary facilities.
A quiet or secluded site is ideal if you’re looking for relaxation, but bear in mind that the internet may be worse there.
Check what facilities there are on the campsite and nearby, such as shopping facilities or doctors’ surgeries, to make sure you have everything you need.
Check the rules at the campsite and the laws in the country you are camping in to avoid any problems.
You should research and plan these things in advance:
- Reservation of a pitch on a campsite
- Is wild camping allowed?
What are the rules? - Pitch (shade, sanitary facilities & internet if required)
- Infrastructure near the campsite
- Rules & laws on campsite / land
Tip!
You can read more about the right campsite here: Campsite.
And here you can find a selection of popular camping locations in Europe: Camping Places Wiki.
Drive: How to get to the campsite!
– Tip 5
When you have finally found your campsite, you still have to drive there.
To arrive as stress-free as possible, you should plan your journey accordingly.
Especially if you are new to camping, it is advisable to plan your route in advance and not set off spontaneously.
Check the route to find scenic routes, for example, and avoid freeways if you prefer to take a leisurely drive and enjoy the scenery.
It also makes sense to have small change with you to pay for parking, toilets at rest areas, water or tolls abroad.
Careful planning of your journey can help you arrive at your dream destination relaxed and fully enjoy your camping trip.
With these four steps, the trip will be a success:
- Planning your journey to the campsite for a stress-free trip
- Plan your route in advance, especially as a beginner
- Prefer scenic routes & avoid highways
- Have small change ready for fees & tolls
Tip!
You can also play games with friends and family so that you don’t get bored on the trip.
You can find ideas for this under: Game ideas for the car journey.
Weather: Planning between sun & rain – Tip 6
If you’re planning a camping trip, it’s important to keep an eye on the weather.
Bad weather can dampen your mood and spoil your camping experience.
Check the weather forecast for the period you will be away.
For example, if you have planned a hike or a bike tour, make sure the weather is suitable for this.
But you should also keep an eye on the weather for your stay at the campsite.
If it rains a lot, you should make sure that your tent or roof tent is waterproof.
Even if the weather forecast looks good, the weather can change quickly.
Therefore, pack clothing that is suitable for all weather conditions.
A rain jacket, warm clothing and sun protection should always be included.
Here is a quick overview:
- Check the weather before your camping trip
- Prepare for unexpected weather
- Choose the right period for your camping trip
- Plan activities that are independent of the weather
Summer to winter: Note the season
Depending on the region, certain seasons may be more suitable for camping than others.
In the summer months, the weather is often warmer, but also full of tourists.
In spring and fall, the weather can be a little cooler, but also quieter at the campsites.
You can find out what you should consider when camping depending on the season here:
Activities: So your vacation doesn’t fall through!
If you can’t control the weather, you should plan activities that are not dependent on the weather.
Reading a good book, playing a board game or simply spending time with the family can be fun even in bad weather.
Here you will find everything you need to know about camping in the rain, including exciting activities and our great overview of camping activities:
Food & cooking: What you should take with you!
– Tip 7
Meal planning is an important part of a successful family camping trip.
Start by considering the food preferences and needs of each family member and then make a list of the ingredients you will need.
Don’t forget to think about the spices, oils and other cooking utensils you’ll need to prepare your meals.
You can find some initial inspiration here: Shelf-stable food.
To make sure you have enough food, you should plan the number of meals and snacks you will need during your camping trip.
It can be helpful to choose simple meals that are easy to prepare and don’t take too much time.
Also remember not to pack too much food as you may have limited space inside.
You can also use a cool box for cooling, but beware: it’s not as big as your fridge at home!
You can also find different sizes of cool boxes in our store: cool box 35L, cool box 50L and cool box with compressor 40L.
Steps to the right lunch, breakfast or dinner.
Here you’ll find step-by-step tips for planning your meals so that you can relax and cook at the campsite:
- Create a list of required ingredients, spices & cooking utensils
- Plan the number of meals & snacks
- Choose simple, easy-to-prepare meals
- Cooling food in a cool box
Cooking: Camping stove, grill and co.
Finally, you should also consider how you will prepare your meals.
If you are staying at a campsite, you can use the cooking facilities available there, such as barbecue areas or fire pits, if there are any.
You can also bring a rocket stove or a gas stove.
Make sure you have the necessary fuel and cooking utensils to prepare your meals.
Take these options into account when planning:
- Use existing cooking facilities
- Bring portable camping stoves
- Care for fuels & cooking utensils
You can find out everything you need to know about the various cooking appliances you can use on the campsite here:
Sanitary facilities: Showers & toilets at the campsite – Tip 8
When you go camping, it is important that you also take care of the hygiene and cleanliness of the sanitary facilities.
When camping, you should therefore always make sure that the sanitary facilities are clean.
A hand washing station with soap and water is also very important to ensure proper hand hygiene.
You could use a water canister with soap dispenser for this – these are even available in two sizes: 10L water canister and 20L water canister.
You should also always have a towel with you so that you can dry off after washing.
It is advisable to take a small towel or even a microfiber cloth with you, which dries quickly and takes up little space in your luggage.
Of course, you can always use the facilities on site, but if you are traveling in the great outdoors or cannot use them, you will find many tips here on what you need to plan for hygiene and sanitation in the outdoor area: Showers when camping and roof tent toilet.
You should pay attention to these points when it comes to sanitary facilities and hygiene:
- Planning the camping trip should also include sanitary facilities
- Clean sanitary facilities are important when camping
- Pack toilet paper, hand wash station with soap & water & towels
- A small towel or microfiber cloth works well for drying off
Collect waste & protect the environment – Tip 9
One important thing you can do to protect and preserve the environment is to ensure that your campsite remains clean and tidy.
To do this, you should bring bin bags to dispose of your garbage.
If you simply leave waste in the wild, it can even attract animals.
You should collect garbage in a sealed container and dispose of it later in a designated place.
Plan where and how you will collect it.
For example, you can also find practical bin bag holders in the store: Special bag holders.
It is also important to keep the sanitary facilities clean.
Avoid flushing waste such as toiletries or leftover food down the toilet, as this can pollute the sewage systems.
Instead, dispose of this waste in the garbage cans provided or see how you can dispose of it elsewhere beforehand.
Whether it’s the sanitary facilities or the pitch, make sure that you leave the place for others as you would like to find it.
Keep your campsite clean and tidy!
Quickly for the checklist, this is what you should pay attention to when it comes to garbage:
- Keep the campsite clean
- Do not leave waste in nature
- Bring garbage bags
- Collect waste in a sealed container
- Dispose of waste in the designated place
- Planning waste disposal
- Keep sanitary facilities clean
- Do not flush toiletries or leftover food down the toilet
Safety: Avoid & prepare for emergencies – Tip 10
When planning a camping vacation, it’s important to make sure in advance that you have everything you need and that everything works.
Good preparation can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable camping trip.
Also put together an emergency kit and memorize relevant emergency numbers, such as ambulance, police and fire department.
You can learn everything you need to know about emergency preparation here: Emergency kit for camping.
Quick and easy – you should pay attention to this!
- Checking the equipment
- Ensure functionality
- Putting together an emergency kit
- Note down important emergency numbers
Preventing vehicle damage: better beforehand
Start by checking your vehicle.
Check the battery, tire pressure and oil level.
If you have a motorhome or caravan, also check the gas bottles and water connections.
If something is wrong, have it repaired before you set off.
It’s better to take time to fix problems than to be caught out on the road or at camp.
Use these tips to get your vehicle ready for the road:
- Vehicle check before departure
- Check battery, tire pressure & oil level
- Checking gas cylinders & water connections on campers
- Repairs should be carried out before departure
Checking the equipment: fewer nasty surprises
Next, check your camping equipment.
Take a look at your tent, sleeping bags and sleeping mats.
Make sure everything is clean and in good condition.
If you have cooking utensils and dishes, check that everything is complete and that nothing is damaged.
If you need to replace anything, you should do this before the camping trip so that you are not surprised along the way.
You can find out what accessories are important here: Camping accessories.
What you should consider for your equipment:
- Take a look at your tent, sleeping bags & sleeping mats
- Make sure everything is clean & in good condition
- Check cooking utensils & dishes
- Make sure that everything is complete & nothing is damaged
- Get a replacement before the camping trip
Have fun – Bonus tip
Have fun!
Don’t forget that camping is a great opportunity to relax, enjoy nature and create memories with friends and family.