Camping doesn’t have to mean frizzy hair, freezing nights, or giving up your skincare. If you’re like me — someone who loves the outdoors but also lives for creature comforts — you know the secret is all in how you pack. Whether you’re heading to a lakeside campground or deep into the backcountry, knowing how to pack your camping bag makes all the difference.
Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned my packing list to balance practicality with that soft, earthy, outdoorsy aesthetic I love. And yes, you can absolutely hike all day and still wake up glowing the next morning. So here’s exactly how I pack my camping bag — without sacrificing function or the vibe.
🎒 Picking the Right Backpack for Camping
Let’s start with the most important piece of gear: the backpack. Knowing how to pack your camping bag begins with choosing the right one.
Don’t just go for what’s cute (though a neutral beige or sage green is ✨chef’s kiss✨). Functionality comes first, because carrying everything on your back for hours isn’t a joke. Look for:
- Shoulder and hip padding – This is essential. It distributes weight and keeps your spine and shoulders from hating you.
- Hip straps – They take the load off your shoulders. Trust me.
- Adjustable chest strap – Keeps the pack stable when you’re on uneven terrain.
- Waterproof material or rain cover – You never want your clothes or skincare to get soaked.
- Multiple compartments – Easy access to your SPF, snacks, bug spray, and phone.
I love This one because of the hip strap with a extra handy pocket https://amzn.to/3F5GXSH and this one is a great little bag to stick in said pocket https://amzn.to/4kuINLJ
When I first started camping, I brought a too-small, non-supportive backpack and ended up regretting every step. Now, I’ve found one that holds everything, feels light on my body, and still looks cute hanging off the back of a canoe.
đź‘• What to Wear: Camping Clothes That Still Feel Cute
Let’s be real — most camping outfits are either super technical or borderline pajama. But I’ve learned how to pack my camping bag with clothes that are functional and feel like me: a coastal, feminine twist on classic outdoorswear.
Here’s what’s always in my bag:
- Henley (wool or linen blend): A go-to layering top that keeps me warm at night but still feels breathable during the day.
- Lightweight hiking pants: Preferably quick-dry, with a flattering fit. Great for protecting your legs from bugs and brush. These are great lightweight options https://amzn.to/3Zv45kh
- Flowy shorts: Ideal for campsite lounging or warm hikes. Mine are neutral-toned and double as pajamas. https://amzn.to/4mtadU7 (Lot’s of fun colours!)
- Tanks with built-in bras: For hot days or sleeping. They’re supportive and take up no space. http://71li3omjTsL._AC_SX569_
- Wool socks: These are everything. They wick moisture and keep your feet warm even if your boots get wet. I hate when my socks fall down so I love these high ankle ones https://amzn.to/3SQA2Qg
- Good hiking boots: You want something waterproof with ankle support and good grip. This ones from columbia come in every colour combo you can imagine https://amzn.to/4kwCYxq
- Birkenstock-style sandals: Perfect for short walks, river dips, or letting your feet breathe post-hike. Free to check this out in my shop https://coast2closet.com/shop-my-closet/
🧺 Pro tip: Choose a natural, muted color palette so everything can mix and match — plus it looks aesthetic in photos.
Knowing how to pack your camping bag with the right layers means you’re ready for rain, shine, or surprise cold fronts without feeling like you’re hauling your entire closet.
🧴 Skincare While Camping? Absolutely.
Some people will tell you to leave your skincare at home when you camp. I say: false. If your skin’s sensitive like mine — eczema-prone, dry patches, redness — you know neglecting it for even 24 hours is a mistake.
So here’s how I pack my camping skincare bag to stay glowy in the woods:
- Micellar water + reusable makeup cloth: Easy, mess-free cleansing without needing a sink. Black ones like these are good for hiding foundation stains https://amzn.to/43aMlNv
- Glow Recipe Invisible Sunscreen: This one disappears into your skin, feels weightless, and won’t clog your pores.
- Glow Recipe SPF Powder: Ideal for reapplying SPF throughout the day — especially if you’re sweating or wearing makeup.
- Rosehip oil or a rich moisturizer: I bring one small bottle of oil to seal in hydration overnight.
- Vaseline: A do-it-all hero — I use it on lips, lashes, brows, cuticles, bug bites, and even as a highlighter.
Everything fits into a small, waterproof pouch so it’s protected from leaks and rain. Learning how to pack your camping bag with just enough skincare means you stay comfy and radiant without overdoing it.
🛠️ Extras That Make Camping More Comfortable
You could survive without these… but why would you? These extras are all about keeping you dry, cozy, and a little spoiled (in the best way).
- Waterproof dry bag: For clothes, tech, or anything you want to protect from a sudden downpour (or a fall from the Canoe) https://amzn.to/45mmh3d
- Bug spray: Don’t skip it. Just don’t.
- Yeti mug or travel thermos: Keeps drinks warm for hours. There’s nothing like tea at sunrise or instant coffee during golden hour. The new colours of the Yeti Mugs are giving me life https://amzn.to/44VV3k5
- Owala water bottle: Leak-proof, insulated, and aesthetic. Feel Free to check mine out. https://coast2closet.com/shop-my-closet/
- Claw clip + mini brush: Even messy buns can be cute.
- Headlamp or mini lantern: So underrated — it makes changing or journaling at night way easier.
- Journal + pen: I always end up writing when I’m away from WiFi.
These are the small, thoughtful items that make camping more than just “roughing it.” Once you’ve figured out how to pack your camping bag to include both essentials and comforts, you’ll actually look forward to your next trip.
🥾 Easy Camping Meals & Snacks I Always Pack
I love cute camp food moments, but I’m also not hauling a full cooler across a hike. Everything I bring is lightweight, easy to prep, and actually good.
Here’s what’s always in my camp food bag:
- Beef jerky: High protein, super satisfying.
- Just-add-water dehydrated meals: Honestly? Some of these are surprisingly delicious.
- Instant coffee: I bring oat milk or creamer packets if I’m feeling extra.
- Dried fruit: Strawberries, apricots, banana chips — sweet, no mess, no waste.
- Rice cakes + nut butter: High energy and easy to toss in a baggie.
- Protein bars: Always reliable and filling.
Knowing how to pack your camping bag with real food (not just granola) makes the whole trip way more enjoyable. Food is part of the experience, not just fuel.
🏞️ The Vibe Check: Camping, But Make It Coastal
At the end of the day, camping should feel good. You’re out in nature, unplugging, reconnecting — but that doesn’t mean you can’t still feel like yourself. When you know how to pack your camping bag the right way, you give yourself the freedom to explore comfortably and confidently.
I’m here for morning hikes with SPF powder and shell earrings. For cozy nights in oversized Henleys. For sunrise coffee in a cute mug by the lake. This isn’t about being high-maintenance — it’s about making camping a soft, grounding, feel-good experience.
💡 TL;DR — What I Pack Every Time
- Supportive, waterproof backpack
- Hiking boots + Birkenstocks
- Wool socks, Henley, hiking pants, and flowy shorts
- Glow Recipe SPF + micellar water
- Dry bag, bug spray, water bottle, Yeti mug
- Snacks, instant meals, coffee
- Shell jewelry and journaling essentials for the vibes