Tips for Camping Storage & Packing
Whether you’re heading out for a quick overnight or a multi-day backcountry adventure, staying organized makes all the difference. At Slate Spaces, we’re all about creating simple, sustainable systems—and that includes how you pack and store your camping gear. Thoughtful organization helps you spend less time packing and more time enjoying the great outdoors (which, lucky for us, is right in our backyard).
Here are our top tips for packing like a pro and storing your gear so it’s always ready for your next adventure.
Packing for Camping: Stay Ready, Stress-Free
1. Start with a Master Packing List
Create a digital checklist or keep a laminated version with your gear. Break it down into categories—cooking, sleeping, clothing, tools—so you’re not starting from scratch every time. Bonus: share it with your camping crew to avoid overpacking duplicates.
2. Sort Gear Into Clear Bins or Bags
Use stackable, clear bins or zippered pouches to organize by function (think: “camp kitchen,” “sleep setup,” “first aid + safety”). Not only does this help with car Tetris, but it also makes unpacking at your site a breeze.
3. Pack with Accessibility in Mind
Place frequently used items—like bug spray, headlamps, and snacks—at the top of bins or in an easy-access tote. Store sleeping bags and other bulky, once-a-day items deeper in your trunk or cargo space.
4. Roll Your Clothes, Use Packing Cubes
Rolling saves space and keeps things visible. Use small pouches or cubes to sort outfits, socks, rain gear, etc.—especially helpful when sharing space in a tent or trailer.
5. Label Everything
Use waterproof labels or a chalk marker to note bin contents. This makes it easier to find what you need and helps everyone pitch in when packing up.
6. Keep Essentials Pre-Packed
Keep your toiletry kit, first aid supplies, and kitchen basics always ready to go. After each trip, replenish what you used so it’s grab-and-go next time.
Storing Your Camping Gear at Home
1. Clean + Dry Before You Store
Air out tents, tarps, and sleeping bags. Wipe down cookware, tools, and water containers. Dry everything completely to prevent mold and mildew—your future self will thank you.
2. Go Vertical
Use wall hooks, pegboards, or vertical shelving in your garage, mudroom, or storage space. Hanging chairs, backpacks, lanterns, and cords keeps them accessible and off the floor.
3. Group by Category, Not by Trip
Organize gear into bins or zones: sleep, cook, wear, play, repair. This makes it easier to pack based on the type or length of trip—and avoids having to dig through a random “misc” bin.
4. Vacuum-Seal Soft Items
If space is tight, vacuum-seal seasonal items like sleeping bags or spare clothing. This keeps things compact and protected when not in use.
5. Create a Dedicated Camping Zone
Even a small shelf or closet section works. Keeping all your gear in one place reduces stress and saves time when packing (or dreaming up your next trip).
6. Keep a Replenish List
Tape a running checklist inside your gear bin or on your storage shelf. Note what needs replacing or restocking—propane, batteries, baby wipes—so you’re always adventure-ready.
Final Tip: Don’t Overthink It—Just Start Small
You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect system to get organized. A couple of labeled bins and a dedicated gear spot can go a long way in reducing stress and making your next trip smoother.
Looking for help setting up your own gear zone or tackling your storage room? We’d love to help. Slate Spaces offers custom organizing solutions across Vancouver, Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton and beyond.
Want help getting your gear organized? Contact us for a free consultation.