This list is for anyone planning hikes or overnight camping trips in the great outdoors. These are the exact items that make my trips smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. All products are ones I’ve personally used (or are close alternatives I’d trust...
Sections
3
Camping must haves
Hiking Essentials
Safety Extras
Camping must haves
These are the essentials I always pack for camping—gear that makes the outdoors more comfortable, safe, and fun. From reliable basics to little comforts, this list is all about making your camping trips easier and more enjoyable.
Always size up for camping, the tents are generally smaller than they seem/claim
2 Person Tent
Rated 20°F or lower for shoulder season. It makes sleeping comfortable in a tent or a car
Lightweight Sleeping Bag for Camping & Hiking
Your back will thank you the next day. Super easy to inflate.
KLYMIT STATIC V Lightweight Sleeping Pad
Small but effective. Very convenient to carry and use. Just needs a propane that you can get from Walmart or any grocery store.
Camping Stove
As the name suggests - lightweight. Perfect for those backpacking trips too.
Lightweight cookware and utensils
Take just a tiny amount and you're good. Best part - this is good for the environment too.
Biodegradable Soap
Make all (not all but you get it) water drinkable
Gravity Water Filter
For seeing in the night when caming/bagpacking
Headlamps
To prevent bears from getting to you! Always make sure to store your food in a bear safe bag/cannister for your safety
Bear Cannister or Food Hanging Kit
Hiking Essentials
These are the must-have items I always take on a hike—gear that keeps you comfortable, prepared, and ready to enjoy the trail to the fullest
Lightweight and convenient! This makes for a perfect day pack for short hikes
Backpack
The Ultimate trail guide. Essential for hiking with no network, checking trail conditions, reviews by recent hikers, trail details. I cannot recommend having this enough.
AllTrails: Trail Guides & Maps for Hiking, Camping, and Running
Lightweight and effective during the hikes which are exposed
Sunscreen
Stylish with UV protection
Sunglasses
Base Layer for when you go hiking in spring or where the nights are cold.
Thermal Base Layer for Cold Weather
I swear by this one. The quality is top notch!
Columbia Full Zip Fleece
Waterproof shell for when it rains or you go near waterfalls
Rain Jacket
Breathable fabric and awesome colors with sun protection. Helpful in protecting from bugs too!
UPF 50+ Sun Protection Hoodie SPF
In case you slip in a waterfall or it rains! An extra pair goes a long way.
Extra Socks
For better support on your knees. Using hiking poles provide better trail navigation and faster recovery
Lightweight Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Trekking Poles
You need to have this for a multi day hiking/camping trip.
1.5-3L BPA-Free Leak Proof Water Bladder
Safety Extras
A few extra items that help you stay safe and confident outdoors—because being prepared makes every adventure more enjoyable.
Always, always, always carry a kit with you and hope you never have to use it. Just like having an insurance.
Protect Life Survival First Aid Kit
Just in case. Hope to never use it.
Skin Blister Kit
Organic is good for the earth. Better than applying chemicals.
Organic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets
This is a great powerbank, I personally have been using it for the last 3 years.
Anker Power Bank (PowerCore 10K)
Leave no-trace. This is foldable which makes it super light to carry.
Pop-Up Recycling Can
Best purchase for sitting by any lake, outdoor spot we like!
Camping Chair
For early season or snow patches. They will make hiking in snow 100x easier. No slipping.
