The Best Budget-Friendly Camping Hacks and Checklist

Building your camping gear collection from scratch can be expensive and overwhelming.

For our first-ever camping trip, I knew that investing in a good tent and good sleeping bags was a non-negotiable. But what about the other items? Kitchenware is expensive enough as is.

I found that everything you need can be found at a great discounted price at the dollar store, without compromising or feeling the need to cut out the essentials.

Kitchen Checklist:

Pro tip: You can always check on the Dollar Tree website first to see what is in stock at what locations beforehand.

2 Bins – One for holding your items and another for washing your dishes

Reusable Spoon and Fork Pack

Reusable Plates Pack

Reusable Bowl Pack

Plastic Cutting Board

1 Metal Knife

Matches

Tongs

Spatula

Scissors

Dawn Soap

Sponges

Oven Mitt

Trash Bags

Rags

Ziplock Bags

Tin Foil

Miscellaneous Checklist:

Tarp

Rope

Clothespins – to hang clothes and rags to dry

More Budget-Friendly Camping Hacks:

Fire Starters – Make them using old toilet paper rolls and stuff them with lint. They are easy to pack, lightweight, and catch fire easily.

Invest in a cast-iron pan – If you are not backpacking, this is a great option for cooking anything from pancakes to steaks with minimal cleaning required.

Look for Enamelware at thrift stores – Enamel is a great alternative to glass or plasticware. It can be hard to find a complete set, but this material for cups, bowls, and plates is a great addition to your camping supplies.

Facebook Marketplace for tents and sleeping bags – Many people get into camping and quickly realize it’s not for them. Facebook and OfferUp are great ways to get high-quality backpacks, tents, chairs, sleeping mats, and more.