My Go-To Camping Essentials  


When I first started getting outdoors with my dogs, I went a little heavy on the gear - it is so easy to do with how booming the pet product market is. Overtime I acknowledged the over consumption of dog gear (which I am also guilty of), and really narrowed down the essentials that work for us.


The truth is dog's are actually fairly simple. Most are just happy to be outside, exploring new smells and hanging out with their humans! After a few too many overpacked trips, here is what I have narrowed it down to. Simple, practical and camp tested!


our Core Essentials


  1. Food + Food Bowls - I always bring at least one extra full meal for the dogs! Collapsable bowls also help save space and can also be utilized if we head out into the back country! These are my favorites currently!
  2. Poop Bags - This is obviously always a must, nobody wants to be finding another dogs poop in the campsite. Leave no trace applied to the pups too!
  3. 25 ft Long Line - Gives the dogs a little bit of "freedom" to roam around the campsite, I usually tie them to a near by tree or the picnic table! These ones come in a variety of sizes for a variety of dogs!
  4. Puzzle Toy or Treat Ball - You never know when the rain will roll in, having something like this handy helps keep the dogs occupied in poor weather!
  5. Treats - I always bring more than one kind!
  6. Low reward like beef liver
  7. Medium reward like Zukes rabbit treats
  8. High reward which would be a bully stick
  9. Toys - A few options here is always a good idea! Ripley is a big toys girl, so we usually have a frisbee, tug toy and a water log. Ralph however, would rather chew on something - except sticks - so I bring him Benebones!
  10. Towels - Atleast one per dog! A lot of our campsites are next to lakes, you never know when a dog might need a bath or when muddy paws will need a quick clean.
  11. Raised Dog Bed - Kind of a luxury item, but the dogs do enjoy having somewhere a little special to lay down outdoors!
  12. Spare Collar/Leash - A set of items you don't know you need, until you need them!
  13. Cooling Blanket - Summer months can get really warm, weather we are sitting outside or in somewhere cool for the dogs to rest is always appreciated.


At the end of the day, dogs don’t need much to have a great time outside - they just need you, some fresh air, and the chance to explore. The more we’ve camped together, the more I’ve realized that keeping things simple not only saves space and stress, but also makes the whole experience more enjoyable for all of us.


Now, instead of worrying about packing the perfect setup, I focus on what matters: staying safe, having fun, and making memories.


If you’re just starting out or feel overwhelmed by all the options out there, start small. Pay attention to what your dog actually uses and enjoys and build your kit from there.


Happy Camping!

-Janine