Camping Essentials (22 Things You Might Forget to Bring)

An outdoor excursion without shelter would undoubtedly go awry. Remember to bring the essential part of your journey! The Big Agnes Fly Creek is one of my personal favorite lightweight shelters.

Big Agnes also has lightweight tents designed for 3 and 4 people like the Tiger Wall UL 3 to accommodate larger groups. If you’re transporting a heavy load, you’ll be grateful Big Agnes tents weigh only a small amount.

Sleeping Bag

No matter if you go camping in winter or summer, an excellent sleeping bag is always among your required camping gear. Nights can be chilly and breezy even in summer, but the REI Magma sleeping bag will keep you pleasantly warm.

This bag is perfect for three season use and its included hood guarantees maximum ease and full heat coverage.

Sleeping Pad

Be certain to add an air mattress to your camping checklist, otherwise known as a sleeping pad. Following multiple tests and issues with differing sleeping pad brands, Therm-a-Rest is my preferred choice.

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Backpack

Depending on if you will be hiking or just camping, you can pick one of our quality backpacks for backpacking or a travel knapsack.

Either way, a backpack serves as the foundation for your camping gear essentials and should withstand the test of weight. Osprey is a top-selling backpack manufacturer in the U.S. and a Travel Lemming favorite. In fact, we have a whole review of the Osprey Porter for you to check out!

The Sojourn Porter 46 backpack model includes lockable zippers and comfortable straps, which is important when hiking to a campsite for the night.

Headlamp

You’ll realize you forgot your headlamp as soon as the sun sets. Headlamps are the most necessary camping equipment, so make sure yours is packed before embarking on your epic journey!

The Petzl Actik Core headlamp is a personal favorite thanks to its rechargeable power feature. This lighting device also takes standard batteries, giving extra options in case of an emergency situation.

First Aid Kit

Making sure to bring a small medical supply organizer on your camping trip is important. This basic first aid kit may not have all of the items found in larger, more complete options but it is adequate for a brief trip.

It is invariably prudent to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances that could arise, as possessing a first aid kit guarantees one`s safety and the safety of those around until medical attention can be obtained if needed.

Pillow

Ensure the best night’s sleep possible by bringing a camping pillow. The Nemo pillow is my preferred choice because it compresses down to a highly compact size and takes up barely any room in my backpack.

The air nozzle and inflation features are the best components of this camping pillow because you can blow it up to your desired softness.

Thermos

There`s nothing more satisfying than a hot cup of coffee first thing in the morning straight from your tent. The best way to enjoy staying warm with coffee all day is by keeping it heated in an insulated container.

Hydro Flask containers make great camping gear because they keep liquids hot or cold for extended periods. You can also use them in the summertime to keep your drinking water cool all day long.

Bug Spray

Ensure bug spray is on the camping checklist. Nothing ruins the fun on a camping outing more than bothersome insects.

This chemical-free insect repellent keeps bugs away from you while hiking, setting up camp, or cooking and does not harm your body with heavy toxic substances. Insect covers for the head additionally work effectively in repelling bugs.

Sleeping Bag Liner

Having a sleeping bag liner is essential for your next camping trip if staying outdoors in cold weather. The Sea to Summit model has proven to be very effective for both men and women.

Typically rated to 15-25 degrees Fahrenheit, sleeping bag liners add insulation to your sleeping bag and are well-suited for cold-weather use or individuals feeling the chill.

Daypack

Leave behind your heavy camping equipment in the tent as you venture out to explore your surroundings. The Osprey Daylite is a favored daypack of Travel Lemming.

This pack can be connected with the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46, forming a match made for each other. Get the best value for your money with this Osprey duo.

Camp Chairs

Remember to take along your camp seat for sitting around the fire or relaxing with a good conversation at camp. There are chairs on the market for hundreds of dollars but this Amazon Essentials Camping Seat gets the job done equally.

This comfortable chair that includes a handy cup holder truly is ideal and costs little.

Cooking Camp Stove

Not every campground will have public stoves. You will want to pack your portable cooking equipment just in case yours doesn’t.

At barely over 2 ounces, this heating unit is one of the lightest on the market and takes up almost no backpack area. Carry this heating unit car camping or to the highest point of a tall California mountain summit with no trouble.

Water Filtration Bottle

To avoid potential stomach issues caused by bacteria when camping, use a water filtration system. There’s nothing worse than being sick far from help in the wilderness.

The LifeStraw filter bottle permits you to sieve during each sip and is the best approach to depart no trace. You additionally keep away from single-use plastic by the usage of the progressive generation of the LifeStraw.”

Cooking Utensils

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On the fifth day, make your way back to Mestia while enjoying the stunning scenery along the route and perhaps going on a brief hike. Enjoy a meal with new acquaintances at the superb Nino’s Guesthouse (advance reservations highly recommended as this location is at the epicenter of Mestia’s hiking culture).

This easy-to-pack, BPA-free utensil option makes it simple to remember to bring all three- your spoon, fork, and knife.

Shower Supplies

Showers are the primary priority for most campers on multi-day trips. Be sure to bring your shower shoes, hair cleanser, conditioner, soap, and razor if you are keen on staying clean while camping.

In instances where there aren`t resources for showers available, Wipes from Sea to Summit will be your best friend. Made specifically for multi-day trips, these all-natural wipes will help you feel clean without requiring water or shower equipment.

Fire Equipment

Nothing seals the deal on the perfect camping trip in the great outdoors like a campfire. Don’t forget a fire starter, your firewood, and maybe some fire fuel to build the ultimate campfire for roasting marshmallows.

This ignition aid allows the campfire to begin quickly so you can enjoy tales around the roaring fire.

Folding Table

If no picnic table is provided at your campsite, you will be grateful that you prepared excessively by bringing your own collapsible table. The Rock Cloud Portable Furniture is light and takes up minimal area in your automobile.

A camp table is the best place to hang out, play cards, or prepare camp meals, so it`s not wanted to accidentally leave behind.

Binoculars

Becoming acquainted with nature`s intricate ecosystem is easily achieved by packing a quality pair of binoculars on your next camping trip. Strong magnification allows for detailed observations, making the Adasion Binoculars an ideal choice for your trek into the wilderness.

Hammock

While a tent suffices for shelter, a hammock brings recreation. Afternoons resting in the sun will be more pleasant with a hammock`s leisure.

Eno Hammocks are the lightest, most portable hammocks available. They come in single or double sizes, unique hues, and premium materials to guarantee repeated usage.

Sunscreen

If one experiences a lot of sun exposure, then sunburns can occur even in winter. An excellent sunscreen high in Zinc will keep you shielded all day.

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Camping towel

Camping towels are among the most overlooked camping essentials. The Packtowl is a rapidly drying cloth that won’t let you down when you need to dry off. It also compactly packs down exceptionally, making this one of Travel Lemming’s favored camping essentials.

Clothing to Pack for Camping

This quick list details some necessary clothing items for camping: clothing checklist for camping:

• 1-2 pairs of shorts
• 1-2 pairs of pants
• 3-4 pairs of socks
• 1 pair of thick wool socks
• 2-3 short sleeve shirts
• 2-3 long sleeve shirts
• 1 thermal pajama top
• 1 thermal pajama bottom
• 1 ball cap or sunhat
• 1 pair of hiking shoes/boots
• 1 pair of camp sandals or comfortable shoes
• 1 pair of gloves
• 1 scarf or neck gaiter
• 1 down jacket
• 1 rain jacket
• 5 pairs of underwear
• 4-6 t-shirts
• 1 swimsuit

Packing the appropriate clothing layers really helps to ensure comfort on camping trips. The optimal time to camp in a given destination may vary based on the season, but it is always wise to be ready for changing weather conditions, such as rainstorms in summer or very warm temperatures in winter! Be sure to also check out our beach packing listing if beach camping is part of your plans.

Pants

Kuhl protects against environmental elements. Durable, UV-protected hiking pants that can withstand outdoor conditions will be needed.

The Kuhl Freeflex pants can be rolled up easily. The protective quality from the sun in this pair of pants enables hiking and camping under daylight for prolonged periods without requiring application of sunscreen.

Sun Hat

You will want to wear a hat while camping outdoors, especially in summer. This is the best way to prevent heat stroke during your time in nature.

This Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat keeps your head and neck protected from the elements. The cute design is also unisex and suits every adventurer.

Gloves

You will be pleased you brought your “just in case” gloves camping when you wake up shivering. Even during the summer, camping can be chilly in the wee hours of the morning.

The North Face Etip gloves provide just the right degree of heat for any camping season. You can even utilize them as a base layer glove in the winter months.

Rain Jacket

It`s a misconception that waterproof or water-resistant outerwear will keep you completely dry in heavy rain. While they provide protection initially, prolonged exposure will eventually cause clothes to get soaked, which is an unpleasant feeling.

Garments produced from Gore-tex materials are essential if camping during a wet season. This Outdoor Research Aspire jackethas undergone rigorous testing under extreme conditions. It has proved to withstand harsh outdoor situations and won’t let you down on your camping journey.

Hiking Shoes

Whether I’m camping in the Rocky Mountains, or camping close to San Diego, Salomon shoes are my reliable pair of footwear. I’ve tested numerous brands available but these are the most relaxed and best suited for my feet.

Camping Packing Tips

Always Plan For Unexpected Weather

Regardless of where you travel to, being prepared for all weather states can make or break a trip. Plan for unexpected weather by packing extra clothing choices like tank tops and rain jackets, or have a plan-b.

Be sure to always check weather websites before camping to avoid unexpected weather conditions.

Nights Can Be Cool

Unless camping in tropical areas, many destinations experience cooling at night. Be sure your entire group packs sleeping bags rated adequately to avoid awakening shivering in the middle of the night.

See If You Need A Camping Permit

Many American campgrounds demand permits for camping. This is particularly accurate in California’s national parks. Don`t ruin your camping experience by not having the proper permit and getting turned away from your dream campsite.

Check the Fire Regulations Before You Bring the Wood

Recent news underscores wildfires as a significant issue impacting many destinations. Backcountry camping likely prohibits open fires due to regulations.

If you’re set on having a campfire, you should book an official campsite with already-established fire rings, and make sure to stay updated on any regulations.

Leave No Trace

This phrase is a good reminder to leave your campsite as clean as you found it. If you prefer camp cooking, make sure to bring trash bags to discard all your camp kitchen waste.

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FAQs About Camping Gear

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Now that you have the complete list of camping essentials, you are ready to experience the great outdoors! Be sure to also check out the camping locations and tips for California.