There are few things more relaxing and energizing than a peaceful camping trip. Sometimes, we just need to get away from the grind of life in the city and escape to the tranquil quiet of the great outdoors. The endless open sky, the wistful breeze through the trees and the adventure of it all are what keeps us coming back to sleep under the stars. But camping isn’t something we suggest on a whim. Far from it. A successful camping trip requires an assortment of gear and tools, without which, any weekend away can quickly turn into a nightmare. Luckily, all of our essential pieces of camping gear below are built to last, and once you’ve made the investment can be used endlessly. So get out and enjoy the forest for the trees knowing you have everything you need to make your next camping trip the best one ever.
1. Fiskars X7 Hatchet
Best for: Throwing up a shelter
When out in the woods, a trusty hatchet is one of your most necessary tools. Hatchets are useful for clearing brush, chopping wood, making kindling, throwing up a shelter, or anything else that becomes necessary. Which is why you need a hatchet tough enough for heavy use. The Fiskars X7 hatchet is used by millions of campers around the world who appreciate it’s durability and strength. Perfectly weighted, this 14 inch hatchet features a non slip grip, holster, and specially sharpened edge that produces superior contact and cuts. If you need a hatchet for your next camping trip, look no further than the Fiskars X7.
2. Bear Bowl Folding Lightweight Cook Pot
Best for: Ease and convenience
As seen on Shark Tank! At the end of a long day on the trail, nothing beats a hot meal. And this cooking pot is the ultimate piece of camping gear for meal preparation thanks to its unique folding design. The Bear Bowl instantly opens up into a sturdy and durable pot for cooking soups, stews, or dessert. Its aluminium base plate effortlessly transfer heat from any source so your campfire meals cook fast. And when done, simply unfold the pot and scrape it clean before packing its flat design in your pack. As if that wasn’t enough, the convenient handle is made of 15 feet of paracord for survival situations. No other camping pot compares!
3. Abco Tech Sleeping Bag
Best for: Sweet dreams under the stars
The importance of a quality sleeping bag during a camping trip cannot be underestimated. Just ask anybody who’s spent a bone chilling cold night on a thin bag and you’ll see why. This sleeping bag from Abco checks all the boxes on what you should be looking for in your personal sleeping bag. Waterproof and tested for temperatures down to 20 degrees, you can trust this bag to keep you toasty and warm as you slumber. It’s also machine washable and lightweight which makes it convenient both on and off the trail.
4. Coleman Sundome 4-Person Tent
Best for: Comfortable privacy
Coleman is well-known for their dependable and high quality camping gear. Especially their tents which are some of the most popular on the market. Coleman’s 4 person Sundome tent is ruggedly built to last inverted seams, waterproof floors and a wind resistant frame to get you through the worst of nights. Most importantly, setup is quick and easy so you can spend more time enjoying nature, and less time fighting instructions. With room for 4, the Sundome is ideal for both families and pets thanks to its cavernous design. A great tent for beginners and experienced hikers alike!
5. LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Best For: Personal survival gear
The award-winning LifeStraw is an essential piece of life saving hiking gear no one should go without. Safely filter out 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria straight from the source as easily as drinking water through a straw. Rugged lightweight design is easy to carry with no batteries or moving parts. The LifeStraw is not only one of the most essential pieces of camping gear, it’s survival gear as well. Simple to use, and always ready in case you ever need it. The LifeStraw is a must.
6. Image Portable LED Camping Lantern
Best for: Nature’s calling at 2am
Two amazing tools in one! This portable LED lantern also hides a powerful fan to keep things cool during hot days and nights. The bright LEDs have the power to light up your campsite or tent when the sun sets and the fan is a lifesaver when the air grows stale and warm. Hang this lantern from the top of your tent and use both modes simultaneously thanks to the built-in hook. Or turn the light into a stable platform to arc the fan anywhere you need a cool breeze. Small enough to carry by hand or fit in any bag, a lantern is a must have for dark nights in the woods. Don’t leave home without it!
7. Soluser Portable Solar Charger External Backup Battery Pack
Best For: Unlimited energy
Now this makes sense! Never run out of juice again with this rugged and water-resistant solar-powered battery. Two USB ports allow for dual charging of devices like phones, tablets, and other electronic devices while it’s built in LED flashlight illuminates the darkness. Keep your phones, camera or GPS, charged while camping out. The Soluser is a must have for family camp outs, especially with children who love their gadgets.
8. Reebow Tactical Gear First Aid Kit
Best for: The unexpected
If you are out camping and didn’t pack a first aid kit, you don’t belong out in the wilderness. It’s a fact, but when out camping, accidents happen. And with the nearest hospital or urgent care hundreds if not thousands of miles away, nobody is going to be able to come to your aid when you need it most. First aid kits like the Reebow Tactical are not just essential pieces of camping gear, they are mandatory. This well designed kit has over 115 pieces of medical supplies in a small lightweight bag. Easily stored under a car seat or in your backpack, this kit has everything you need to enjoy the woods with full piece of mind.
9. Teton Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack
Best for: Remote campsites
Few pieces of camping gear are as essential as a quality backpack. Your “ruck” not only needs the carrying capacity to haul everything you need to camp, it also needs to be durable enough to withstand the abuse of the great outdoors while comfortably carrying pounds of gear without killing your shoulders. Few things have ruined a great camping trip faster than a cheap backpack. Which is why the Teton Sports Scout 3400 if our choice backpack for when we want to get away. The rugged internal frame provides support for long hikes and the hefty shoulder straps are more than capable of carrying the load. The back is lined with external pouches for gear and the hidden Rainfly tarp can be pulled out to help keep things dry when the weather gets wet. The built-in sleeping bag compartment is a lifesaver and the camel-back pouch is to stay hydrated is a smart addition. You can literally carry everything you need in the Scout and when it comes to camping backpacks, what more can you ask for?
10. Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boot
Best for: Hikes off the beaten path
As essential as a good backpack is for saving your shoulders, a good pair of boots are essential to save your feet. For more than 40 years, Timberland has been a leader in hiking footwear, and their latest boot is no exception. Made of high quality leather with a rubber lugged sole for superior traction, the White Ledge keeps your foot dry and comfortable through all types of terrain. Happy feet make happy campers. You can’t go wrong with this Timbelrand, the only boot you’ll ever need.