Guide to Selecting Items Needed for a Camping Trip

Camping is one of the best ways to get away from your busy life in the city and unwind after months of stressful work. It is also a great activity that you can do with your family or friends. It is also a good way to disconnect from your high-tech gadgets and connect more with nature. Whether you want to relax during a getaway or go on an exciting recreational escape with the whole family, you can surely find what you are looking for in the great outdoors. 

However, while camping is indeed a fun activity, you need to plan and prepare for your trip well so that it will be a fun and enjoyable experience. Camping can be done at campgrounds, in the mountains, or on the river. If it is your first time going camping, it can sometimes feel overwhelming or intimidating. But with the right planning and some research, you will be able to prepare and embark on a successful camping trip. [1]  

One of the common questions that beginner campers mostly ask is what are the essential items needed for a camping trip. There are actually a lot of things that you can bring when going on a camping trip. However, not all of them are essential. In fact, some items do not even get used that much and would just take up extra space in your bag. To help you pack your things, we have put together this guide that will assist you in selecting items needed for a camping trip. 

The Essential Items Needed for a Camping Trip

The Essential Items Needed for a Camping Trip

You can go on a camping trip in a lot of state and national parks, at private campgrounds, in the backcountry, or even in your own backyard. Many campsites also include a picnic table, an area to park your car, and a place to pitch your tent. Some may also have shared bathrooms and running water. 

camping gear

One of the best things about camping is needing very little gear to exist outdoors. However, it is also important to have a comfortable, convenient, and homey campsite, especially if you are going to camp with your whole family. For first-time campers, borrowing some camping items or renting them out might be fine. However, as you become a more experienced camper, having your own camping essentials is better, and you can also start to figure out what to bring along to meet your needs. 

If you need help packing your things for your upcoming camping trip, read below to learn more about what you need to bring.

Camping Essentials for Sleeping

two campers setting up a tent

Since you are going to spend the night outdoors, you need to have the essential items that will help you sleep comfortably. Below are the camping essentials for sleeping that you need to have:

1. Tent

A tent is one of the most popular camping essentials that you need to have. It is also very easy to find. Some people choose to sleep in hammocks when camping. [2] However, if you want to ensure that you are going to be safe outdoors in case it rains, owning a tent is a better idea. When looking for a tent, there are a few factors you need to consider. These include the area where you are going to camp and during what seasons. 

In addition to that, you also need to consider the size of the tent you are going to bring, depending on how many people will sleep in it. Below are some examples of tents for camping to help you choose:

  • Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent: This is a dome tent that features a sturdy frame that can withstand 35+ mph winds. It can be set up in just about 10 minutes. It has large windows and a ground vent for superior ventilation. It can fit a maximum of 2 people.
  • UNP Tents 6-Person Double Layer Camping Tent: This tent is made of high-quality polyester. It is 100% waterproof. It has enough room for 6 campers and even lets you stand up when changing clothes. It features electrical access ports that enable you to run a cord from your device in the tent to an outside power source. It has two roof vents for better ventilation. It is also easy to set up and may take just about 3 minutes for two people.
  • Moon Lence 8-Person Family Camping Tent: This tent is made of high-quality polyester that is waterproof. The poles of this tent are made of high-quality fiberglass to ensure stronger tent support. It can fit up to 8 people, making it great for a family camping trip. 

2. Sleeping Bag

If you are expecting the camping nights to be chilly, then bringing a sleeping bag can provide you more comfort. [2] There are different kinds of sleeping bags available in the market today. Some are affordable, but some can be quite expensive, especially if they are rated for cold weather. Below are some examples of sleeping bags to help you pick:

  • REDCAMP Ultra Lightweight Sleeping Bag: If you are going to go camping during the summer season, this lightweight sleeping bag is a great choice. It is made of high-quality and durable fabric that can last for years. It is only 1.5 lbs. and is great for adults up to 6 feet tall. 
  • Coolzon Lightweight Sleeping Bag: This sleeping bag is great for all seasons. It has a compression bag that makes it easy to store and carry. It is a roomy sleeping bag that can cater to both kids and adults. It is waterproof and made of breathable and warm fabric. 
  • Coleman Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag: If you are camping during cold seasons, this is a great choice for a sleeping bag. It is made of 100% polyester and can keep you warm in temperatures as low as 20°F. It also uses hollow polyester insulation for better heat retention with less weight. It is durable and can surely keep you warm during cold camping nights.

3. Camping Pillow

For a more comfortable sleep, having a pillow is also essential. Bringing a real pillow can take up a lot of space in your bag. Therefore, getting a camping pillow may help save some space. Below are some examples of camping pillows to help you choose:

  • Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow: This camping pillow is made of 100% polyester and cushioned memory foam wrapped in a soft, micro-suede cover. It is lightweight and portable as it can be compressed down into a waterproof sack. 
  • Trekology Ultralight Inflatable Camping Pillow: This camping pillow will surely help you save a lot of space as it is inflatable. It can be folded down to 5×2 inches, which is smaller than a soda can. You can easily carry it in your backpack or pocket when you go camping. 

Camping Essentials for Kitchen

cooking at the campsite

One of the fun things that you can do when you go camping is to cook delicious food and eat them together. However, unlike cooking at home, you can only bring a limited number of cooking items when you go camping. To help you, below are some examples of camping essentials for cooking:

1. Camp Stove and Fuel

Some people may choose to do the manual way of cooking outdoors, which is by using wood and stone. However, if you want to skip that, you can instead bring a portable stove with you. There are many camp stoves that you can buy today which are small and portable enough to carry. Below are some examples to help you choose:

  • CHEF MASTER Portable Butane Stove: This is a high-performance butane stove that is great for cooking and off-site catering. It has a piezo electronic ignition system, which means that you no longer have to use matches to start a fire. It also has a safety stop which will shut down the stove if it senses overheating. It comes with four fuel canisters to help you start cooking when you go camping.
  • Gas One Backpacking Stove with Fuel: This is a backpacking stove that is made with durable aluminum alloy and stainless steel. It can withstand high heat and stay compact and discrete for easy portability. It also lets you control the flame with a control valve. 
  • Seth Mcginn’s Multi Fuel Burner for Outdoor: This is a portable cooktop that provides quiet operation and a compact design. It is compatible with propane and butane fuels. It has an electronic ignition system that eliminates the need for a lighter or matches. It also comes with a convenient carry case, propane hose, and regulator.

2. Pots and Pans

When going on a camping trip, bringing a lot of pots and pans is not advisable as they are heavy and bulky. Generally, all you need to bring is a skillet and a pot, as you can do any type of cooking with those two. [2] But there are also smaller pots and pans for camping that you can buy today. Below are some examples to help you pick:

  • Alocs Camping Cookware: This is a set of camping cookware that is made of lightweight aluminum and food-grade silicone material. It comes with camping pots and pans that have thermally insulated plastic handles to keep your fingers safe from the heat. All of them are lightweight and compact, making them easy to bring on a camping trip.
  • REDCAMP Cookware Mess Kit: This is a cookware set for camping that is lightweight and small enough to fit your camping backpack. It comes with a frying pan, a pot, a pot lid, a ladle, two sporks, a scrub sponge, two bowls, a soup spoon, a tool card, and a polyester bag. 

3. Cooler and Ice Packs

Bringing an excellent cooling solution can make a big difference in how you would feel on a camping trip. This way, you can enjoy some cold drinks even when you are outdoors. Below are some examples of cooler and ice packs for camping to help you choose:

  • Coleman Portable Cooler with Wheels: This is a wheeled cooler box that is ideal for camping trips. It has a telescoping handle and heavy-duty wheels for easy and reliable transport across any terrain. It can hold up to 85 canned drinks and can retain ice for five days at temperatures up to 90°F.
  • OSOCE Backpack Cooler: This is a 35L backpack cooler that can hold up to 35 cans. It is perfect for 5 to 6 people on a camping trip. It can keep your food and drinks cool and fresh for up to 18 hours. 
  • Cooler Shock Reusable Ice Pack: These are durable ice packs that can be placed inside coolers. You just need to fill them up with water and freeze them until they are ready to be used. It is designed to keep food and drinks cold inside coolers for outdoor trips.

4. Plates and Utensils

When going on a camping trip, it is quite tempting to just purchase disposable plates and utensils. While that is a convenient option, it is still better to try and reduce our footprint and produce less waste. [2] Therefore, getting plates and utensils that are made for camping is a great idea. Below are some examples of plates and utensils for camping to help you choose:

  • UCO 4-Piece Camping Mess Kit: This is a set of camping plates and utensils. It comes with a camping plate and a bowl that form an airtight seal when connected. It also comes with a spork with a serrated knife edge on the other side. It is compact and easy to carry when on a camping trip.
  • Wealers Unique Complete Messware Kit: This is a premium set that can be used by 4 people. It comes with four 10-ounce cups, four plates, four bowls, and four cutlery sets. They are all made of high-quality materials, making them durable and can endure the rugged outdoors.

5. Mugs and Water Bottles

Camping also involves hiking and other activities. Therefore, staying hydrated is very important. Bringing your reliable mugs and water bottles when camping is also essential. Pick those that are easy to carry and durable enough for outdoor use. Below are some examples of mugs and water bottles for camping to help you pick:

  • Nalgene Sustain Tritan Water Bottle: This water bottle is made with material derived from 50% plastic waste, making it a sustainable option. It is a durable water bottle that is perfect for camping and other outdoor adventures. It is also suitable for both warm and cold drinks. 
  • Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle: This water bottle is compact and perfect for camping as it is collapsible. It is tough enough to survive drops due to its flexible and shatterproof silicone body. It is also leakproof and made of 100% food-grade materials. 
  • SUNWILL Vacuum Insulated Mug: This is a double-walled vacuum-insulated mug that can keep drinks hot for three hours and cold for nine hours. It is also sweatproof and does not produce any condensation. It has an eco-friendly lid that is BPA-free and spillproof. It has a comfortable handle, making it a great camping mug. 

Essential Items for the Campsite

friends bonding at a campsite

Since you are going to stay at the campsite and bond with your family or friends, there are also essential items that you need in order to make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Below are some of them:

1. Camping Chairs

When you go camping, you need to find a relaxing space to sit and bond with your friends and family. You can definitely sit on the ground if that’s what you prefer. But for a more comfortable experience, you can also bring some camping chairs with you. These chairs are mostly foldable and lightweight, making them easy to carry. Below are some examples to help you choose:

  • OUTDOOR LIVING SUNTIME Portable Camping Chair: This chair features a wide bucket moon shape with an ergonomic design. It provides a large area of seating, making it comfortable to use outdoors. It has a stable frame and can hold up to 250 lbs. It can be opened and folded in seconds and also come with a storage bag. 
  • ONIVA Fusion Camping Chair: This camping chair is also foldable, making it ideal for bringing on a camping trip. It has a comfortable padded wide seat and backrest, and it can hold up to 350 lbs. It also comes with a fold-out side table with expandable shelves. It also has a detachable insulated cooler on the other side, making it an ideal camping chair to bring. 

2. Camping Table

It is also essential to bring a table on a camping trip so that you can have a safe spot to place the food and drinks you will be eating. It would be great if you could find a lightweight table that can be folded to save space and for easy carrying, as well. Below are some examples of camping tables to help you pick:

  • Moon Lence Camping Table: This is a small camping table that can hold up to 60 lbs. It is lightweight and portable, making it great for outdoor adventures like camping. It has an aluminum slat table top that can be rolled up, and its legs are foldable, making it easy to carry. It has the perfect height for snacks and drinks while relaxing on your camping chairs.
  • Monsiter QE Portable Camping Table: This is an easy-to-fold camping table that comes with a carrying bag, making it very portable for camping. It is made of high-quality and waterproof canvas and an aluminum frame. It can hold up to 55 lbs. It also has anti-slip rubber feet so that it can stay sturdy and give you a flat tabletop while camping. 

3. Camping Lights

Since you will be spending the night in the woods, mountains, and other outdoor places, it is very important to bring light sources. These can include headlamps, flashlights, and lanterns. Do not forget to bring extra batteries or fuel, too. Below are some examples of camping lights to help you choose:

  • EverBrite 2-in-1 Mini Lanterns and Flashlights: This has a 2-in-1 design as it can be a flashlight and a lantern. It is only 4 inches tall but can light up brightly. Its beam can reach a distance of 99 feet or 30 meters. It can be hung from a tent, carry it with you, or let stand on a flat surface.
  • Vont LED Camping Lantern: This lantern is equipped with 30 super-bright LEDs. It can cut through 360° of darkness even on stormy nights. It has a collapsible design that reduces or increases the light as you collapse or expand it.
  • Energizer LED Headlamp PRO: This headlamp features durable construction that withstands a 1-meter drop test. It also has a shatterproof lens and a water-resistant IPX4-rated body. It has seven light moves, providing you optimal lighting for any situation. 

Essential Clothing and Footwear for Camping

two campers in the forest

Aside from the things you are going to use when you go camping, you also need to plan what you are going to wear. Since you are going to embark on an outdoor adventure, it is essential to pick clothes that are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and lightweight. You also need to wear shoes that are made for outdoor trails like hiking for more comfort. If you are going to camp during rainy or cold weather, it is also essential to bring rainwear, gloves, and a hat. 

1. Moisture-Wicking Clothes

It is essential to wear moisture-wicking clothes when camping as these can dry easily, and some can also help protect you from the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Below are a few examples of moisture-wicking clothes:

  • Dry-Fit Moisture-Wicking Long Sleeve T-Shirt: This t-shirt is made of 90% polyester and 10% spandex. It is quick-drying, ultra-soft, and has a soft feel that can keep you comfortable. It also has UPF 50+, which provides protection from harmful UV rays.
  • Heatuff Moisture-Wicking Socks: These are ankle socks that are soft, elastic, and breathable. They can prevent blisters and slipping down, making them great for outdoor adventures like hiking and camping.
  • Seamaid Quick Dry Hiking Pants: These pants are lightweight, water-resistant, sun-proof, and scratch-resistant, making them great for camping. It has an elastic waistband and lots of pockets to store small essential items.

2. Sturdy Shoes

Camping trips also sometimes include a short hike going to the campsite. Therefore, wearing sturdy shoes that are made for the trail is also important to provide you with a more comfortable experience. Below are some examples of shoes for camping:

3. Hat

Wearing a hat when camping is also ideal, especially during hot sunny days or even during cold winter days. You just need to find the right type of hat that will match the season. These can help protect your head from outdoor elements while you enjoy getting close to nature. Below are a few examples of hats that you can use for camping:

  • Home Prefer Outdoor Sun Hat: This hat is made of polyester, mesh, and nylon. It has a wide brim and mesh vents for cooling airflow through the crown. It also features a moisture-wicking sweatband and an adjustable chin strap. It has UPF 50+ for ultimate sun protection. 
  • Botack Duck Down Trapper Hat: If you are going camping during the winter season, wearing a warm duck-down hat is also a good idea. This one is warm and lightweight and is made of 90% duck down. It is also waterproof and windproof, keeping you protected from cold wind. You can also pull up the ear flap of this hat to make it a normal winter hat. 

Essential Health & Hygiene Items for Camping

woman placing a first aid kit inside a bag

When spending time in the great outdoors, you should not forget to think about your health and hygiene. Below are the essential health and hygiene items that you should not forget to bring on your camping trip:

1. First Aid Kit

It is very important to bring a first aid kit whenever you are camping. No one knows what might happen while you are at the campsite. Therefore, you need to be prepared in case an accident or emergency occurs. Below are a few examples of first aid kits to help you choose:

  • Protect Life First Aid Kit for Camping: This first aid kit is equipped to fit your needs for a large variety of injuries that might occur while you are camping. It includes band-aids, a CPR mask, a blanket, a tourniquet, and more. These are all placed in a durable and compact pouch that you can easily bring in your backpack. 
  • Coleman All-Purpose Mini First Aid Kit: This is a mini first aid kit that is perfect for outdoor adventures. It offers commonly used essentials for minor emergencies, such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and antibiotic ointment. It also includes razor blades, safety pins, and more. All of these are inside a reusable crush-proof metal tin case.

2. Toiletry Kit

You shouldn’t forget to bring your toiletry items with you when you go camping. These include your toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, cream, lotion, and more. Below are some examples of toiletry kits that you can bring when you go camping:

  • Convenience Kits Premium Assembled Travel Kit: This is a travel kit for men that contains all of the essential travel-sized toiletries and accessories. It includes grooming, hygiene, and oral care products. It is also best to bring on camping trips as it has all you need for your hygiene.
  • Generic Toiletry Convenience Kit: This convenience kit is great for short stays away from home, such as camping. It is for men and women. It contains shampoo, conditioner, moisturizing cream, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, Q tips, mouthwash, comb, shaver, shaving cream, Anvil, Tylenol, Wipes, tweezers, nail clippers, and more. 

3. Insect Repellent

Bringing some insect repellent is also essential when camping. It’s because there might be mosquitoes and other types of insects outdoors that might bite you and cause rashes and other issues. To prevent these, using insect-repellent creams, sprays, and devices are needed. Below are a few examples to help you pick:

  • Repel 100 Insect Repellent Spray: This insect repellent spray can help create a barrier against mosquitoes and other insects that you might encounter outdoors. It can provide protection for up to 10 hours. It has a compact size that is perfect for travel and outdoor adventures.
  • Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets: These are insect-repellent bracelets that are made with essential oils. They are waterproof and can help keep away pesky mosquitoes while you are camping.

Conclusion

There are indeed a lot of items that you can bring when you go on a camping trip. However, it is also essential to weigh their importance for the trip and decide whether you really need each of them. It can be challenging to pack for a camping trip for the first time. But when you get to experience camping, you will, later on, learn more about the best things that you should always bring and the things that you can do without. We hope this post helped you learn more about selecting items needed for a camping trip. 

References

[1] Leslie, K. O. A. B. (n.d.). Beginner’s Guide to Camping. Koa.com. Retrieved November 25, 2022, from https://koa.com/blog/a-beginners-guide-to-camping-for-the-first-time/ 

[2] The Stoke Fam, E. (2022, October 24). What to bring camping (a beginners guide to the essentials). The Stoke Fam. Retrieved November 25, 2022, from https://thestokefam.com/what-to-bring-camping/

[3] REI, E. (n.d.). Camping Essentials Checklist: Rei Co-op. REI. Retrieved November 25, 2022, from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/family-camping-checklist.html