Planning to camp with your significant other for the first time?
There’s no better place to bond with your partner than out in the wild, away from the busy city life.
If you want to make it an unforgettable experience, make sure to plan your trip in advance.
But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. In this article, I’ll share with you everything you need to know to make the best of your camping trip.
Let’s jump straight in!
Couples Camping Checklist
Preparation is a must. You don’t want to arrive at the campsite only to realize you haven’t packed some of the essentials. Of course, some items will change, depending on where and when you’re going.
Download Couples Camping Checklist
Specific Items for Couples
- Picnic blanket
- LED string lights
- Hammock
- Wine glasses
- Decorative pillows
- Music/Bluetooth speaker
- Chocolate
- Contraception (if needed)
Sleeping
- A 4 Person Tent (or bigger)
- Footprint
- Tent stakes
- Tarp
- A Double sleeping bag
- Air mattress for couples
- Sheets
- Blankets
- Pillows
Romantic Lighting
- Battery-powered Tea lights
- Candles
- String lights
- Lanterns
- Glass jar luminaries
- Spare batteries
- Battery charger
Camping Gear
- Backpack
- Flashlight or headlamp
- First aid kit
- Tent repair kit
- Paracord
- Air pump
- Multitool
- Axe or hatchet
- Emergency blanket
- Camping Shovel
- Mallet or Hammer
Camp Kitchen
- Camping table
- Camping chairs
- Gas stove
- Fuel
- Cooking kit
- Utensils
- Cutting board
- Dish detergent and sponge
- Aluminum foil
- Paper towel
- Cooking oil
Food & Beverages
- Cooler(s)
- Bags of ice
- Water filter or purifier
- Water containers
- Food containers
- Plates and bowls
- Mugs
- Cutlery
- Tablecloth
- Bottle opener
- Trash bags
- Collapsible Trash Can
Clothing & Footwear
- Underwear
- Inner layer
- Nightwear
- Hiking boots or shoes
- Socks
- Pants/shorts
- T-shirts
- Sweatshirts
- Waterproof jacket
- Insulated shell
- Sandals or flip flops
- Swimwear (during warmer months)
- Cold weather protection (during colder months)
- Sunglasses
- Bags for dirty and clean clothes
Toiletries
- Biodegradable soap
- Biodegradable toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Sunscreen
- Feminine products
- Portable shower
- Insect repellent
- Microfiber towel
Entertainment
- Maps and guides
- Portable speaker
- Camera or polaroid
- Action camera
- Instruments
- Outdoor games like badminton or volleyball
- Cards and board games
- Surfing gear (if near the beach)
- Fishing (if near water)
Additional Items
- Solar power bank
- Chargers
- Bear spray
- Duct tape
- Working gloves
- Notepad
- Umbrella
Printable Couples Camping Checklist
Planning Tips for a Romantic Couples Camping Trip
Every successful trip starts with planning. Here are some tips on how you can make it an even more fun and memorable experience.
Glamp it Up
Who said you can’t enjoy a luxurious date on a camping trip? We can all safely admit that even the tiniest details can affect the mood.
I must admit, a sleeping bag doesn’t exactly give off a romantic vibe. But those nice sheets you’ve stored for special guests – well, now it’s time to use them (unless it is too cold).
The same goes for pillows. If storage space is not an issue, you can bring a couple of decorating pillows as well, to make your little nook even comfier.
Turn Off Your Devices
Unless you’re checking the weather or the map, there’s really no reason you should be looking at your phone.
You went camping to bond with each other, so focus on that – other people can wait.
Reserve a Campsite Away that Backs Up to the Wilderness (Away from Other Campers)
Let’s be honest – there’s nothing romantic about a crowded campground. Simply too much noise and too little privacy.
But why would you do that, if there are countless amazing locations across the country where you can be away from other campers.
Whether you want the views of the ocean, desert, mountains or fields, there’s something for everyone’s taste.
Check the Weather and Make Sure You Are Prepared
Don’t let the weather spoil your camping trip – get ahead of it. By that, I mean check the weather days in advance, so that you can change your plans if necessary.
In the case of bad weather, it’s always better to take a rain check, than to spend your entire trip inside the tent.
Make Your Favorite Meals Together
There’s simply something different about cooking outdoors. And it only gets better when you have a faithful assistant in the shape of your significant other.
Like with any camping trip, you should plan your meals in advance. For instance, chop and wash your veggies at home.
That way, you won’t have to shed tears in from of your hubby from cutting an onion. And in the case of bulky veggies, like cauliflower, preparing also saves you space.
Of course, don’t forget to end the meal with something sweet. And what’s better than marshmallows roasted on the campfire?
Romantic Activities to Spice Up Your Trip
And now the real question – what to do on a romantic camping trip?
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here are some cool activities that are guaranteed to spice up the mood.
Stargazing
If the night is clear, then there’s nothing more romantic you could do than stargazing. Find a nice spot to lay down your blanket or hang a hammock.
You can get a map of the night sky and try to find the constellations or download one of many great stargazing apps. And don’t forget to bring your drinks.
If your tent has a clear mesh roof or removable rainfly, then you can stargaze from within your tent itself.
Truth or Dare
Is there a better way to get to know your significant other better than through a good ol’ game of truth or dare?
You get to ask the most interesting questions, and the best thing about it – you get truthful answers. Or, you get to dare your significant other to something you both will laugh about.
Sunset Picnic
No matter the location, the best scenery is going to be at sunset.
So pack up a blanket and some snacks, and head out to find a perfect spot for panoramic views.
A Multi-Course Meal
Just because you’re out in the wilderness doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a nice romantic dinner. And I’m not just talking about campfire barbecue.
There are tons of ways you can make a memorable date with multiple courses.
Cold appetizers like salami bites or stuffed peppers are easy to prepare and can be served at room temperature.
For the main course, go with something that’s easy on the gut, like chicken or fish. If you don’t already know, ask your date about food allergies, so that you can avoid dangerous ingredients.
Oh, and don’t forget the wine. Red wine is always a good choice, as you can drink it without refrigerating it first.
Of course, if there’s enough room in your portable fridge, you can chill it down a bit to make it even more enjoyable.
Breakfast in Bed
Well, that’s more of breakfast in a tent, but you get my point.
There’s no better way to start the day than to nibble on the breakfast your partner has awoken you up with. Pancakes, toasts, eggs… Any meal can be romantic.
Dance Around the Campsite
Undisputedly, going to a dance is one of the best ways to spend a date.
You can bring a portable speaker and bust the moves to your favorite songs, or play an instrument and add your own touch.
Moonlight Hike
If you’ve never tried hiking at night before, this is the perfect time for that! Don’t worry, you can easily find your way around on a clear night.
Compared to bright sun rays, moonlight creates a much more whimsical atmosphere. Plus, there’s less chance of encountering other hikers.
Reminiscing
Reliving old memories is almost as exciting as creating them was. You’re up for a good session of laughing and, who knows, it might cause you to tear up as well.
Skinny-Dipping
As you probably know, skinny dipping is illegal in most public places in the US. But that’s what makes it so exciting!
If there’s a secluded pond or a lake nearby, definitely check this activity out on your list. Just remember to come when there’s no one nearby.
To Sum Things Up
From what to bring to what to do, this article has covered everything you need to know prior to your romantic camping trip with your significant other.
Remember to have fun and take things easy.
Now go, make memories together!