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The Best Camping Gear & Essentials (Tested + Worth Packing)
15
items My top camping gear picks that make trips easier, more comfortable, and more fun — from shelter and sleep systems to tools and kitchen essentials. Tested on real camping excursions.
Sections
3
Shelter & Sleep
Kitchen & Cookware
Tools & Multi-Use Items
Shelter & Sleep
Our fav tent for our many camping excursions
Elixir 3 Tent - 3-Person
WHY I USE THIS: Keeps gear organized and protected from the elements. WHAT IT SOLVES: Messy campsites and hard-to-find gear. BEST FOR: Multi-day trips or families. SKIP IF: You prefer minimalist packing.
Base Camp Gear Box—L
WHY I USE THIS: Classic foam pad that’s durable and cushioned. WHAT IT SOLVES: Hard, cold ground that ruins sleep. BEST FOR: All kinds of campsites. SKIP IF: You only car camp with an air mattress.
RidgeRest Classic Closed-Cell Foam Pad | Therm-a-Rest
WHY I USE THIS: Makes sitting around the fire cozy. WHAT IT SOLVES: Hard or uneven ground seating. BEST FOR: Relaxing after hikes. SKIP IF: You only backpack light.
Camp Chairs
WHY I USE THIS: Adds real pillow comfort without bulky packing. WHAT IT SOLVES: Neck soreness from improvised pillow solutions. BEST FOR: All campers—especially car/van campers. SKIP IF: You prefer to bring your home pillow.
Sea to Summit Inflatable Camping Pillows | Lifetime Guarantee
WHY I USE THIS: Keeps you warm and cozy even when temps drop. WHAT IT SOLVES: Cold nights and stiff bag discomfort. BEST FOR: 3-season or 4-season trips. SKIP IF: You camp in summer only.
Sleeping Bags
Kitchen & Cookware
Extremely easy to use and packs down pretty small
Triton Camp Stove
Perfect for your morning coffee or evening adult beverage
Rambler Insulated Tumbler - 887 ml
LOVE this portable burner. 100% a must have for any trip that requires light packing
PocketRocket DLX
WHY I USE THIS: Light, durable, and perfect for camping meals. WHAT IT SOLVES: Makes eating outdoors easy and clean. BEST FOR: Anyone cooking at camp. SKIP IF: You bring disposable utensils.
Camp Cutlery Spoon, Fork & Knife Set
WHY I USE THIS: Space-saving pots and pans for campsite cooking. WHAT IT SOLVES: Hard-to-cook meals when gear is bulky. BEST FOR: Camping with meal planning. SKIP IF: You only boil water.
Camping Cookware & Campfire Cooking Kits
WHY I USE THIS: Keeps food and drinks cold for days. WHAT IT SOLVES: Warm perishables and melted ice. BEST FOR: Car camping or families. SKIP IF: You don’t bring perishables.
Hard Coolers: Tundra & Roadie Ice Chests
Tools & Multi-Use Items
Love this multi tool especially if packing light for backcountry camping
Charge+ Multi-tool
WHY I USE THIS: Combines knife, saw, screwdrivers, bottle opener, and more. WHAT IT SOLVES: Every small repair or unexpected need at camp. BEST FOR: All campsites and trips. SKIP IF: You already carry a full toolbox.
MultiTool
WHY I USE THIS: Lighting for pre-sunset and night activities. WHAT IT SOLVES: Darkness after nightfall. BEST FOR: All campers — essential. SKIP IF: You use phone flashlights.
Headlamps for Hiking and Camping