One of my favorite getaways is camping. Growing up, camping wasn’t anything that my family was into, but when I met my wife, all of that changed. We were young, poor, and were always on the lookout for ways to travel inexpensively. Camping surely fit that bill.
Even though I’m older now, I haven’t outgrown camping. We still prefer camping in State Parks, as they’re typically very inexpensive but offer the opportunity to get away from the daily grind. Sure, some aspects of “roughing it” can be a chore. You’re at the mercy of mother nature, there’s tons to pack, set-up and tear-down can be a PIA, and basic needs like a fire or cooking/doing dishes is far more work than simply eating at a restaurant or ordering room service. I’ve found, that for some odd reason, it is those things that make camping fun, and even a bad camping trip has the potential to create lasting memories.
I know there’s several different levels of camping, from backcountry hammock camping to glamping in an enormous RV. Personally, we’ve never outgrown tent camping. I’m not knocking those who camp with more luxurious accommodations, but it’s just not for me.
I’ve been camping for 30 years, and many of the items on the list below are things that I’ve purchased on Amazon to replace the worn out, tattered items that I’ve used in the past. While I don’t pack each and every item on every camping trip I go on, they’re definitely things that I recommend having in your arsenal of camping gear. In no particular order, here’s my list:
Water Jug
Having fresh water at your campsite for cooking, cleaning, drinking, and fire safety is critical. Sometimes access to water can be a few sites away, and having a collapsible jug that’s lightweight is, I think, the way to go. Collapsible Water Storage
Leatherman
Having a multi-tool can certainly come in handy. Sure, a pocketknife or utility knife will work, but these things are made to last, and I’ll gladly take one of these in my camping gear or tacklebox over pretty much anything else. This one is very reasonable and has just about anything I would ever need. Leatherman Multitool
Flashlight
A handheld flashlight is probably the most basic camping necessity. Whether you’re needing a middle of the night trip to the bathroom or hear a noise outside your tent at night that warrants investigation, it’s a go-to item for sure! I like this one because it is bright, waterproof, has 6 different modes, recharges via USB-C quickly, lasts 36 hours, and can even be used to as a powerbank if your phone is starting to die. Rechargeable Waterproof Flashlight
Headlamp
Hands-Free. Rechargeable. Bright. 8 Modes. 2-Pack Camping Headlamp
Lantern
I own both Rechargeable Lantern and Propane Lanterns. The rechageable ones are great for inside the tent for general illumination. The one I have listed comes in a 2-pack, so you can leave on in the tent and another on the picnic table for illuminating your campsite after dark. If I’m bringing a propane tank (I usually bring a 20lb tank to run both my lantern and grill), I’ll bring this Propane Lantern and Splitter/Tree, and a Propane Hose to connect the tree to the camp stove.
Doormat
I always bring a cheap doormat to help prevent dirt from getting inside my tent. In fact, it’s pretty much always in the back of my car. During Covid, when the lodges of most ski areas were closed and we had to put our boots on at the car, it was a life-saver, giving me something dry to stand on!
Dustpan
Always great to have a small, cheap Dustpan to sweep out your tent at the end of your trip. No matter how careful you try to be, some debris always seems to find its way inside.
Shower Caddy
Pretty self-explanatory, this Shower Caddy is ideal to keep all your personal hygiene needs organized and with you in the shower.
Cooking/Serving/Eating Utensils
This is a great one-stop spot for pretty much everything you’ll need to cook in the woods. There’s nothing worse than realizing you’ve forgotten to bring a can opener or a spatula with you! Its case keeps things organized. Portable Camping Kitchen Utensil Kit
Pots/pans
I used to only have one set of cookware (my good All-Clads), and I’d bring whatever pieces I’d need camping with me. I now have a dedicated set of inexpensive camping pots and pans that I store with my camping gear. If it gets ruined, it’s not the end of the world!
Griddle
Nothing’s better than cooking breakfast in the morning at your campsite. I love my Cast Iron Griddle for cooking my bacon and pancakes. Of course, I’ve found that pre-cooking your bacon prior to leaving home is definitely the way to go. Much less mess, and you don’t have to worry about the bacon grease splattering and attracting animals. The shake and pour pancake batters are amazing! Also reversible, so it’s easy to grill up steaks, burgers, or dogs! Or, if you prefer, a Reversible Nonstick Griddle works great too!
Dutch Oven
Lots of people swear by Dutch Oven cooking while camping. In fact, there are several great cookbooks, and you can make anything from one-pot breakfasts to soups to deserts! I’m just getting going with my dutch oven, and it’s been a fun adventure using it on my recent trips.
Camp Stove
I have just replaced my Coleman 2-Burner Camping Stove after 30 years of use. These things are virtually indestructible! If you’re bringing a 20lb propane tank, they’re way easier to cook on than having to build a fire…
Bug spray
Besides a flashlight, Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent is probably the next most important item. If you really want to show those bugs who’s the boss, 100% DEET may be the way to go.
Sunscreen
I’ve camped on the beach, and getting sunburned while camping is no fun! Whether you’re out on the water, hiking above tree line, or spending time at the beach, this Banana Boat Reef Safe Sport Sunscreen is exactly what you need.
Hammock / Accessories
Over the past few years, hammock camping has become very popular. They’re lightweight, very portable, and with the addition of a rainfly and bug net they can protect you from just about anything mother nature can throw at you. Honestly, if I was ever able to through-hike the Appalachian Trail, this is exactly what I’d bring with me. While you can buy better set-ups, this 2-Person Hammock with Bug Net, Straps, and Tarp has everything you’ll need, whether you’re planning on spending the night dangling under the stars, or if you’re just looking for a relaxing place to read a book between two trees…
Citronella Candle
Another great item for the picnic table in your campsite is a basic Citronella Candle. I personally recommend using one with a lid in case it rains. It won’t do you any good if there’s a pond of water in your candle. I also like smaller ones like this because it’s only a matter of time before bugs dive-bomb the flame and get frozen in the wax. If you use a large one, you’ll end up with a zoo in your wax!
Tarps
No matter what the weather forecast says before your trip, it’s bound to rain at least once! A basic tarp is cheap insurance. This one is 17′ x 10′ and comes with its own stakes, line, and storage bag.
Paracord
Every Boy Scout knows that having Paracord can be a life-saver. Available in various lengths.
Ratchet / Lashing Straps
I’m a big fan of these Lashing Straps. I keep them in my car at all times, and I’m always using them for something or other. Strapping something down in a trailer, fixing your kayaks or canoe to the roof of your car, whatever. They always seem to come in handy. Even once you’ve arrived at your campsite they can help tie down a tarp or even set up a quick clothesline. If you’re looking for something stronger, ratchet straps are great too, but can sometimes be a hassle if you’re using the wrong length.
Kayak Racks / J Bars
I’ve used these exact Kayak J-Bars to transport my kayaks on my roof. They’re fairly quiet, set up very quickly, and collapse when not in use. The kit contains 4 pieces, for 2 kayaks. If you have larger fishing kayaks, these large sized roof mounts work great!
Kayak front/rear tiedowns / Hood Loops
I love the added piece of mind that these Front / Rear Tie-Down Straps provide, allowing me to secure the front and rear of my kayaks to my car. The hood loops work very well.
Long Grill Lighter
Perfect Long Grill Lighter. I can’t imagine trying to light an older lantern or starting fluid-soaked charcoal.
Easy Up
Great 10′ x 10′ shelter for over your picnic table, small tent, beach, or whever.
Sleeping bag
Sleeping Pad
Sleeping on uneven ground with rocks or roots can be awful, and a roll-up Sleeping Pad can certainly help.
Cot
If you’ve got the room to bring these Coleman Trailhead II Camping Cots for tent camping (as well as room in your tent), they’re fantastic. Not only do they allow for a more comfortable sleep in your tent, but they also free up room by allowing gear to be stored underneath them. They’re also outstanding when you have limited room to sleep guests when they show up at your house for an extended stay.
Inflatable Mattress
Sure, using a Queen Air Mattress in your tent may mean that you’re “glamping,” but, when you wake up refreshed while everyone else has struggled through the night sleeping on the ground, who cares what others think? It inflates in 2 minutes, and includes a storage container.
Comforters
Lately when I’ve been going on last-minute camping weekends with my wife, we’ll leave the sleeping bags at home. We’ll just bring 2 comforters. We throw down some sleeping pads and sleep in between the two layers. They don’t call them “comforters” for nothing! These are relatively inexpensive, so if they get wet, dirty, or ruined, it’s not the end of the world.
Tent
I’ve always been a big fan of Coleman’s Weather Master Tents. I’ve been caught in some pretty nasty rainstorms, and they always do a very good job of staying dry. This 6-person model includes a screen room, which is ideal to throw a couple of camping chairs in and relax while not having to worry about the bugs or weather.
Portable Charger / Solar Charger
This Portable Charger is a game-changer for keeping all your devices charged. Sure, they’re cheaper ones out there, but they can typically only charge one device one time. this thing is ridiculous! I’ve also used a Solar Charger, but they’re very weather-dependent, and don’t work nearly as well when you’re in the woods.
Egg Holder
Pretty self-explanatory, this Travel Egg Container keeps your eggs from scrambling before their time and making a mess of your cooler.
Spice kit
Just because you’re roughing it doesn’t mean that you have to eat bland food. I really like this Stainless Steel Spice Kit.
Cutting board
Safe food-handling practices are incredibly important, even when camping. These Cheap, Flexible, Multi-colored Cutting Boards are a necessity for avoiding cross-contamination.
Water Filtration
LifeStraw is the industry leader. Or, if you prefer, tablets.
Pie Iron
A good Double Pie Iron is a pretty handy thing. Toss in bread, filling, or whatever you feel like, and throw it on the fire. In a few moments, you’ve got a delicious treat. I’ve gotten really inventive coming up with things to cook in this thing…
Camping Chairs
Just your basic Coleman Camping Chair. Cheap, dependable, and great for the campfire, beach, fireworks, or anyplace else you may need to park your butt. If you want comfort (and have the space), nothing beats a Zero Gravity Chair. If you’re lacking space, something smaller like an Ultralight Backpacking Chair works well too.
First Aid Kit
You shouldn’t ever leave home without a Travel First Aid Kit.
Tent Stakes
Let’s face it. Just about every tent you’ll ever buy comes with Tent Stakes that are crap. These are much, much better.
Yeti Water Bottle
I don’t go anywhere without my 26oz Yeti Rambler. The thing is so well insulated that it’ll keep ice in my drinks for over 24 hours. Of course, some people swear by Stanley. Those are good too, but I like the fact that the Yeti Rambler fits right into the side drink pocket of my backpack like a glove.
Cooler
Not sure if you can see a trend yet, but I really do think that Coleman is a great brand, and this Coleman Cooler lives up to the hype. They’re available in several different sizes. If you’ve got the cash, the Yeti Coolers are definitely next-level, and will keep things cold for an incredible amount of time.
Ice Packs
Not only do I freeze prior to camping whatever food I can to help keep my food safe, I will also bring some of these Ice Packs along. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve just filled my cooler with ice, just to have it melt and ruin my food in a huge puddle.
Power Inverter
I have to admit, this Power Inverter is the one item on this list that I do not yet own. I do my best not to have a need for anything that’s 110V AC while camping, but not everybody can live without some things. I get it, and I won’t judge.
Dish towels
It’s nice to have a dedicated set of Dish Towels to take camping. These are cheap, dark colored, and can be multi-purposed to use as potholders, trivets, or anything else that may require a buffer between you and something hot.
Tang
Sometimes the water in your campsite just doesn’t taste as good as the water you’re used to, and you need to doctor it up a bit. Tang is one of those items that I don’t ever buy at home, but I like to bring it with camping. It’s also great substitute for OJ in the morning for breakfast. Sometimes I’ll heat up a pot of water and drink it warm.
Tea
I am typically more of a coffee drinker, but I can live with a good cup of tea, which is far easier to make while camping. Just because you’re camping doesn’t mean that you need to drink cheap tea. Harney and Sons Paris is my ultimate favorite.
Ziplock bags
OK, so these Storage Bags aren’t really Ziplock brand. When camping, I typically buy cheaper gallon bags to bring along. Sometimes the size may be overkill, but they’re great to store things like wet bathing suits, dishwashing supplies, or anything else that may get damp.
Sun Hat
Dry Bags
I didn’t really get into using these Dry Bags until I started using them while boating. Now, I keep some of my camping gear in them that I don’t ever want to get wet. It’s incredibly cheap insurance!
Waterproof Cellphone Case
I originally purchased these Pelican Waterproof Phone Pouches a few years ago to use during a cruise to Bermuda. Now I use them all the time! I was always terrified of fumbling my phone and dropping it while on my kayak. Now, I don’t have to worry about it! Great for underwater, the beach, boat, or anyplace your phone may be subject to the elements. There are tons of brands available for these, but Pelican is a brand that I trust my expensive phone with. They’re pretty much the best available, and they float!
Two-Way Radio
Not sure if I really need to talk much about these Two-Way Radios, as they have many uses. Plus, kids love playing with them…
Weather Radio
I’m definitely a weather geek, and I always have my eye to the sky. This basic Weather Radio certainly can come in handy if you’re wanting to stay abreast of the latest weather hazards that may be headed your way.
Backpack
Even though I only have one back, I own two backpacks. My Hiking Backpack is large and has all of the bells and whistles I need, but my North Face Backpack is great for day-trips, excursions, beach, or whatever!
CamelBak Hydration Bladder
Toss this CamelBak 3-Liter Water Reservoir into your hiking backpack, and you’re good to go another 5 miles, at least! LOL
Dude Wipes
Water Shoes
These Water Shoes have saved me more times that I’d like to count. They’re great at rocky shores, or anyplace you might stick your feet where you’re unsure of what you may be stepping on. Better than being barefoot, for sure!
Duct tape
Duct Tape has 1000 uses. When camping, you never know what pickles you’ll need to MacGyver your way out of.
Binder Clips
Clothespin? Chip Clip? Bread Tie? You’ll never know the possibilities unless you bring a few Binder Clips along with you on your next trip.
Poncho/Raincoat
I’ve been caught without my Columbia Rain Jacket more times than I’d like to admit, which is a shame because it’s lightweight and very packable. Good thing I’ve had a Poncho with me for just such times…
Aluminum Foil
Reynolds Wrap Aluminum Foil is another camping must-have. I can’t imagine cooking on a campfire without it! Wrap potatoes (or anything else for that matter) and chuck them on the coals. Makes clean-up easy!
Scrubbie
And, if you didn’t use foil above, you may need to put in a little elbow grease cleaning up your pots, pans, and utensils after every meal. That’s what these 3M Scotch Brite Heavy Duty Sponges are for.
Phew! You’ve made it to the end of my list! Hopefully this has covered just about everything, but if you can think of anything else that I may have missed, please let me know in the comments! Oh, I should probably mention that the Amazon links featured in this post are Affiliate Links, which means that I will make a small commission on each item purchased, at no additional cost to you. It helps off-set the costs of producing this website. Thanks!
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