How to Pack for a 3-Day Camping Trip (Without Trashing the Planet)

We go camping to connect with nature, but ironically, the gear and food we bring often end up harming the very environments we are trying to enjoy. Between single-use plastic water bottles, disposable plates, and chemical-heavy soaps that wash into rivers, a simple weekend trip can leave a surprisingly toxic footprint.

If you are heading out for a long weekend, you don't need a mountain of cheap, throwaway gear. An eco friendly 3 day camping packing list is all about bringing less stuff, but making sure the stuff you do bring is reusable, durable, and safe for local wildlife.

Here is a breakdown of what to pack to ensure you leave no trace.

The Zero-Waste Camp Kitchen

The kitchen is where most camping waste happens. Skip the paper plates and plastic cutlery. You only need a few solid items for three days.

• Reusable mess kit: Bring a steel or hard-plastic plate, bowl, and spork from home.
• Silicone storage bags: Instead of Ziplocs, use Stasher bags for trail mix, sandwiches, and leftover food. They wash easily and last for years.
• A large refillable water jug: Instead of buying a 24-pack of plastic water bottles, bring one 5-gallon jug to keep at the campsite, and refill your personal metal water bottle from it.
• Fabric napkins or rags: Paper towels take up a lot of space and create unnecessary trash. A few dark-colored cotton rags work perfectly for wiping down gear and cleaning hands.

Planet-Safe Personal Care

What you wash off your body ends up in the soil and local streams. For a short 3-day trip, keep grooming incredibly simple.

• Biodegradable castile soap: Dr. Bronner's or similar brands. You can use this for washing your hands, cleaning your camp dishes, and even brushing your teeth if you are brave. Note: Even biodegradable soap should be used at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams.
• Bamboo toothbrush and toothpaste tablets: Say goodbye to plastic tubes.
• Mineral sunscreen: Avoid chemical sunscreens that contain oxybenzone, which is highly toxic to aquatic life. Look for zinc oxide-based options.
• Natural bug repellant: Look for eucalyptus or cedarwood oil sprays rather than heavy DEET chemicals, which can persist in the environment.

Core Gear & Shelter

Borrow gear if you can. If you must buy, buy quality items that won't end up in a landfill after one season.

• Solar-powered lantern or power bank: Stop buying disposable batteries. A small solar lantern charges during the day and lights your tent at night.
• Reusable silicone matchbox: Or a good quality flint/steel striker. Disposable lighters end up polluting trails.
• Your tent, sleeping bag, and pad: (Obviously!)