Whether you prefer weeks-long backpacking trips, or cushy car camping weekends, spending your nights outside allows you to explore new places in a unique way.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Camping Checklist
Whether you are planning the maiden voyage in your brand-new tent or are a veteran camper, figuring out what to pack can be tricky. When spending a weekend or longer away from home, it can be tempting to throw in everything and the kitchen sink “just in case!” But part of the beauty of camping lies in enjoying the simplicity of nature. We’ve created a checklist of the essentials, nothing more, nothing less, so you can be prepared for your next camping adventure without being loaded with unnecessary gear.
You can use our list below, or you can download a customizable PDF version to check things off as you finish packing.
Even if you’ve spent countless nights under the stars, it never hurts to reevaluate your camping gear, so you have a solid base to start out the season. Using this list can help you get all your ducks in a row so you can spend less time packing and more time adventuring.
Clothing
Moisture wicking underwear
T-shirts/tank tops
Longsleeved sun shirt
Shorts
Pants
Lightweight jacket/fleece
Warmer jacket for evenings
Sleepwear
Camp shoes/sandals
Hiking shoes or Hiking boots
Wool socks
Gloves
Warm hat/beanie
Sun hat/ball cap
Rain jacket
Sunglasses
Bandana
Swimsuit
Toiletries
Toilet paper
Hand sanitizer
Handsoap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Hairbrush/comb
Quick dry towel
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Insect repellent
Wet wipes
Portable camp shower
Shampoo + conditioner
Deodorant
Sleep Gear
Tent
Ground tarp
Extra tent stakes
Mallet or hammer
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad/mattress
Camping pillow
Camping blanket
Earplugs/eyemask
Entertainment
Hammock
Binoculars
Field guides (plants, birds, insects)
Fishing gear
Water toys (kayak, paddle board, canoe)
Cards, games, frisbee
Instruments
Books
Camp Tools and Miscellaneous
Headlamp + extra batteries
Power bank
Multi tool
Firewood
Saw or axe
Sunshade
Clothesline/paracord
Duct tape
Safety whistle
Camp Kitchen
Camp stove + fuel
Matches or lighter
Camping cookware (frying pan, pot)
Dutch oven
Cooking utensils (spoon, tongs)
Pot holders
Portable coffee maker
Knife
Cutting board
Roasting sticks
Aluminum foil
Plastic baggies
Cups + mugs
Plates + bowls
Eating utensils
Wash bins
Biodegradable soap
Sponge
Paper towels
Bottle opener + can opener
Camp table
Table cloth
Camping chairs
Cooler
Lantern
Water storage jugs
Water bottle
Trash bags
Our testers on the job! We have tested dozens and dozens of tents over the years, from tents best used when car camping to rooftop tents.
Credit: Rob Gaedtke
Camping Gear
If you look at this list and realize you are missing a few items, don’t worry. First, see if you can substitute with something you do have; second, ask if you can borrow from friends or family. If you haven’t had any luck with those options, you can fill out your gaps with some of our recommendations for top camping gear. Even if you have your tried-and-true setup, it’s always fun to check up on the latest and greatest in the outdoor gear world.
Sometimes you need a tent for two, and sometimes you need a tent for 10. No matter your needs, we’re here to help you find the right shelter.
Credit: Clark Tate
Tents
Getting the right tent for any outdoor excursion is a must. A solid tent means you stay dry, warm, and get a good night’s sleep. A tent should suit a lot of your camping needs, and it should last a while. We have loads of tent reviews, including the best camping tents, top rooftop tents, and our best canopy tent picks. Naturally, there’s a considerable price range across genres. Below, you are going to find our best picks in each category.
More than just for sleeping, tents can become the de facto hangout space for the whole fam.
Credit: Rob Gaedtke
Camping Tents
The type of camping tent you need depends, of course, on the type of camping you are planning. Our picks prioritize spacious interiors, great design, easy to set up, durable fabrics, family-friendly, and a good value.
Best Overall Camping Tent
The North Face Wawona 6
Best Bang for Your Buck
REI Co-op Skyward 4
Best 4-Person Tent
MSR Habitude 4
Once installed, rooftop tents require very little setup when you arrive at your campsite.
Credit: Ross Patton
Rooftop Tents
A relative newcomer to the camping world, the design (and comfort) of rooftop tents is getting more dialed each year. Beware of a hasty purchase, however, as you could end up with a tent that doesn’t work like you thought it would, such as a rack that doesn’t quite sync with your vehicle, or a tent that doesn’t fit on your rack. Thankfully, we’ve worked out all the kinks for you in our review of the best rooftop tents.
Best Hardshell Rooftop Tent
Roofnest Sparrow EYE
Best Softshell Rooftop Tent
Thule Approach M
An enclosed canopy tent placed over a picnic table can help keep out the sun and bugs while you enjoy your meals.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Canopy Tents
Canopy tents are slowly finding their way into the camper’s kit. It’s fair to say that, when erected, they quickly become the kitchen and dining room in most campsites, for good reason. A canopy tent fulfills a variety of purposes, too: good for the park and the beach. Have a good sense of how you intend to use yours, since some are designed for commercial use (think farmer’s markets), and others are best for carrying around, such as those intended for camping and the beach. See our top canopy tent review for the full comparison of products.
Best Camping Canopy
Clam Outdoors Quick-Set Escape
Starting with the proper equipment is key to cooking a great camp dinner.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Camping Kitchen
The little things always matter, especially when it comes to food. Our testers have gone to great lengths to bring you the best camping kitchen setup around. We divulge on the best camping cookware, top camping stoves, and yes, even a comparison of camping tables. When you have a good setup, you can cook the best food, in the quickest amount of time, with the least amount of fuss. Be discerning, however, as there is a lot of variety out there, and having a good sense of how you intend to use your kit will make all the difference.
With adjustable windscreens, the Cascade can accommodate larger pots or provide more or less wind protection.
Credit: Jared Ross
Camping Stoves
Camping stoves range from your standard double burner to those with legs so it can stand on its own. Not to be confused with a backpacking stove, a camping stove is the kind you use when car camping, or you are, at least, nearby the car. Why? They are hefty and not built for backpacking. Time to boil and wind resistance is key to a good camping stove, along with a host of other metrics we tested to help you find the best camping stove on the market.
Best Overall Camping Stove
Camp Chef Everest 2X
Best Bang for the Buck
Gas One GS-3000
Grilled meats, veggies, and other food items are a staple of camping cuisine, and a portable grill can take your meals to the next level.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Portable Grills
An excellent choice for the park or the campsite, take your camping kitchen to the next level with a portable grill. Do your homework, as some of these grills run on gas, while others need charcoal. It all depends on what you are going to use it for. To learn more, take a dive into our research on the top-rated portable grills.
Best Overall Portable Grill
Weber Traveler
Best Bang for Your Buck
Cuisinart Grillster
Cast iron is a durable and long-lasting option for your camp cookware.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Camping Cookware
Crucial considerations to any future set of the best camping cookware are: what is it made out of and what types of bells and whistles does it have that I don’t know about? Reason being, there are some creative differences in what was traditionally just referred to as just “pots and pans.”
Best Cookware for Car Camping
Stanley Even-Heat Camp Pro
Best Two-Person Backpacking Cookset
GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Dualist HS
A portable camping table provides some much-appreciated order (and some height) to your camp kitchen.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Camping Tables
Tired of using your camping stove on the ground? Yep, you sure are. Let’s be honest, camping tables are not an essential item to sleep in the woods, but they sure make life easier when you do, and they are handy for more than just cooking. When scrolling through the table options, take special note of stability and portability, key features to the top camping tables we’ve tested.
Best Overall Camping Table
Lifetime 4-Foot Fold-In-Half Adjustable
Best Overall Roll-Top Table
Camp Time Roll-A-Table
Camping chairs come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the standout options share many of the same features.
Credit: Jack Cramer
Camping Chairs
The sheer diversity in shape and construction of today’s camping chairs is bewildering. But don’t be fooled; there are clear stand-outs. The top camping chairs are comfortable, portable, and they last a few seasons.
Best Overall Camping Chair
ALPS Mountaineering King Kong
Best Bang for Your Buck
REI Co-op Skyward
For a day at the beach, or a week in the woods, you’ll need a cooler to keep the snacks and beverages fresh.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Coolers
More so than just about any other camping item, coolers have undergone a not-so-silent revolution. Insulation technology has gotten much better, and so has the average price of a cooler. But you don’t need to break the bank. Figure out what exactly you need your cooler for, and let our testing guide you. We have comparison reviews of the best soft coolers available and the best powered coolers out there. Be discerning, as there is lots of innovation (and price range) in each type.
Whether you need it for a day at the beach or a week in the woods, a well-insulated cooler keeps snacks and beverages fresh.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Hard Coolers
In this category, we are talking about the best-of-the-best, old-school coolers, good for the campground, back of the truck, or park barbeque. They can be hoisted up with ease, function as seats, and will most likely keep ice for a few days. But this doesn’t mean the best coolers for camping are all the same. They aren’t. Read on for our top picks.
Best Cooler for Most
ORCA 58 Quart
Best Wheeled Cooler
Yeti Roadie 48
Soft coolers are great for day trips and picnic outings.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Soft Coolers
Think portability when you think of soft coolers. These are great, of course, for camping, but also for taking to the park, beach, or a friend’s house. Soft coolers don’t hold as much as a standard cooler, but, again, they make up for it when you are on the move. See our review of top soft coolers from our veteran testers.
Best Overall Soft Cooler
AO Coolers 24 Pack Canvas Cooler
Best Premium Soft Cooler
Engel HD30
If you have access to power and you need things to stay seriously cool for a longer period of time, a powered cooler is a good option to consider.
Credit: Maggie Brandenburg
Powered Coolers
A powered cooler is as it sounds—it needs to be plugged in. They are excellent for road trips, as you can plug them into your car’s DC outlet. Though they are more expensive than other cooler types, they can double as mini-fridges. Below are our favorite powered coolers we have tested.
Best Overall Powered Cooler
Dometic CFX3 45
Best Bang for Your Buck
Costway 54
One of our testers on the job! It’s a rough life, we know. The key to our reviews is that we compare all items against each other, all the while creating unique ways to test them.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Camp Bedding
The fear of not getting a good night’s sleep can keep some people from camping. But, be not worried, we can help you find your comfiest self: we have comprehensive reviews for the best camping sleeping bags. A good night’s sleep doesn’t stop there, however, as we have compiled reviews of the best camping pillows and best blankets for camping.
There is a wide variety of sleeping bags to choose from depending on the climate, length, and style of your camping trip.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Sleeping Bags
Right up there alongside your tent, a sleeping bag is all-important when sleeping outside. Prices vary a ton, and the same goes for quality. In general, you need to figure out how warm of a bag you need, what material is ideal, and your budget. A top quality sleeping bag should last a long time.
Best Heavy-Duty Camping Sleeping Bag
ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood
Best Budget Camping Sleeping Bag
Coleman Brazos
A good camping pillow can help you get the good night’s rest you need to tackle adventures in the coming day.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Camping Pillows
You really need to stop lugging around your bedroom pillow on camping ventures. Grab yourself one of our favorite camping pillows, would ya! They pack light, you can get them dirty, and you can stuff them in your backpacking pack as well since most are light and extremely compressible.
Best Overall Camping Pillow
NEMO Fillo
Impressive Bang for the Buck
Therm-a-Rest Compressible
Camping blankets are perfect for enjoying early morning sunshine or cozying up in front of the fire.
Credit: Maggie Brandenburg
Camping Blankets
Camping blankets are as good for sleeping as they are for wrapping around yourself on those chilly mornings. But make sure you make a good decision before you ditch the sleeping bag, if that’s what you’re thinking, as camping blankets tend not to be as warm as their zippered counterparts. But in general, the best camping blankets are excellent to drape over anyone and anything—pets included—for extra cold-weather assurance.
Best Overall Camping Blanket
Kammok Firebelly
Best Bang for the Buck
Kelty Biggie
When you don’t have to worry about weight, you can bring an extra cushy camping mattress for sleeping, lounging, or reading maps.
Credit: Laurel Hunter
Mattresses
A camping mattress isn’t just for camping; it’s great for when you have visitors or are sleeping in the back of your car. These mattresses take that old foam-rolled pad to the next level. Most of the top camping mattresses are inflatable, and some are big enough for two. Consider the size of your tent, and packed-down size, in case you intend to use it when backpacking.
Best Overall Camping Mattress
Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D
Best Bang for the Buck
REI Co-op Camp Dreamer XL
Good for more than just sleeping on, a camping cot can be a nice spot to hang out on those early beach mornings.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Cots
Bigger and arguably more comfortable than a comparable sleeping pad or blow-up camping mattress, a camping cot definitely has its place, especially for side sleepers… and those times when sleeping off the ground is a good thing. Think spiders. We field tested and outlined our favorite camping cots.
Best Overall Camping Cot
Coleman Pack-Away Cot
Best Bang For The Buck
KingCamp Folding Deluxe
Ultralight Starter is the perfect name for this hammock because it is extremely lightweight but not the lightest. And it is narrower than many but not quite as narrow as the most ultralight options which means the comfort is more forgiving of less experienced hammockers.
Credit: Elizabeth and Adam Paashaus
Camp Accessories
Assuming you’ve got the big-ticket items figured out, such as a good handle on the best tents and best sleeping bags for camping, now is the time to think about the other stuff. Pocket knives and multi tools are good for the kitchen and making spears for the kids, and a camp shower is a sure bet when there’s no river nearby. Lastly, don’t forget the best first aid kit with all the essentials. Below is a hand-curated selection where you can see the best pocket knives and the best hammocks for camping.
Our testers have bought and tested more headlamps than we can count over the years. We take great pride in that fact. Our comprehensive comparison of headlamps is the best you are going to find. Anywhere.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Camp Lighting
Lanterns and headlamps have a lot of range. No pun intended. Over the past few decades, batteries have gotten better and lights have gotten brighter, all the more reason to take the time to figure out exactly what kind of campsite lighting you want. Whether you are looking for the best headlamps for camping or the best lanterns, we’ve put hundreds through a battery of tests over the years. Below you are going to find the best we’ve come across. As you are looking around for the perfect lighting setup, follow this advice from our testers: “we recommend you think about how it might perform when things go wrong.”
Best Headlamp for General Purpose Use
Petzl Tikkina
Best for Stunning Performance
Zebralight H600w Mk IV
Best Overall Lantern
Goal Zero Lighthouse 600
Best Bang for the Buck
Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma
A pocket knife can come in handy for anything from sharpening your roasting stick to preparing campsite charcuterie.
Credit: Jediah Porter
Pocket Knives and Multi-tools
Whether you are fishing, cutting salami, or your kiddo is whittling a spear, a pocket knife is arguably the most versatile piece of gear on any camping trip. The best pocket knives have durable blades, bomber construction, and fold up easily. A multi-tool is another one of those things that seem to have endless uses, so why not keep one stashed in that tub of camping gear? The best multi-tools have loads of features and are sturdy and affordable.
Best Overall Pocket Knife
Benchmade Mini Barrage 585
High Performance Heritage Design
Benchmade 15031-2 North Fork
Best Overall Multi-Tool
Leatherman ARC
Best Overall Multi-Tool for Everyday Carry
Leatherman Skeletool CX
A hammock is the perfect place for a post-hike siesta.
Credit: Elizabeth Paashaus
Hammocks
We welcome the addition of hammocks to the line-up of modern camping. They are great for an afternoon siesta, lounging, reading, and even sleeping, if you can handle it. If you’re on a budget, and who isn’t, check out our budget hammock review. As for the best hammocks for camping, venture below.
Best Deal for Camping
Gold Armour Camping
If you plan to split your own wood for evening campfire sessions, an axe is a must, and the blunt end can double as a mallet for hammering down tent stakes.
Credit: Clark Tate
Camp Axes
Whether you are erecting a lean-to in the Alaskan wilderness or splitting some deadwood in the mountains of Virginia, a good camp axe should split with efficiency, swing with precision, and have a durable blade. Our top top camping axe picks below.
Best All-Around Axe
Fiskars Chopping Axe
Best Multi-Use Axe for Experienced Users
Gransfors Bruks Small Forest
Let’s be honest, a camping shower is not a necessity. But that doesn’t mean you don’t need one. When there’s no river or lake, cooling off and cleaning up is oh so nice. There is a big range of quality, and cost, in this category, but, rest assured our testers have got all that figured out.
Credit: Maggie Brandenburg
Camp Showers
Like with most camping gear, finding the best shower for camping should be undertaken with care. Some strap to the top of the car, while others are great for washing dishes and helping clean off the mud your dog rolled in for an hour. There are a lot of options, so choose wisely!
Best Shower for Road Tripping
Yakima RoadShower
Best Shower for Camping
NEMO Helio Pressure Shower
Hope for the best and prepare for the worst; it never hurts to have fully stocked first aid kit on hand.
Credit: Ben Applebaum-Bauch
First Aid Kits
The first aid kits we tested come in all shapes and sizes. Some of these are great for the home and car, while others are compact enough to warrant a spot on a camping or backpacking trip.
Best Kit Overall
Surviveware Small
Best Value for Home Use
Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose
Our researchers in the wild. In this instance, testing hiking poles. The MSR Dynalock is a great option for any hiking excursion, like this one to Hawaii.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Hiking Activities
Hiking and camping go hand in hand. Hit the trails during the day, circle the fire at night. It’s the way life ought to be. Thankfully, we have a small arsenal of comparative hiking gear reviews to help you find what you need, same with our favorite camping gear. And, if you are looking for a best-of-the-best sampler for all things hiking, check out our best hiking gear listicle, where we list the top items, just like we are doing here. Everything we review we have bought at the store, then tested rigorously over months.
Between our entire team of testers, we have experience with just about every piece of gear you need to enjoy your weekend off-grid.
Credit: Brian Martin
Why Trust GearLab
At GearLab, we know how important it is to have high-quality and reliable camping gear so you can get outside and enjoy yourself without having to worry about your equipment. Our team of outdoor enthusiasts are experts in their respective fields and have spent over a decade testing the latest camping gear on the market. After extensive research, we purchase the top products on the market and put them through rigorous side-by-side testing. To make an unbiased evaluation, we create metrics and rate each product based on how they perform during a series of tests.
We are lucky to have a huge team of outdoor experts who, over the last decade, have researched and tested camping gear of all types. Our camping products review team includes Jason Wanlass, who spends as much time as he can camping and hiking outdoors, and led our reviews of camping tents, sleeping bags, cots, and more. Mary Witlacil is an expert camping chef who led our reviews of camping stoves, backpacking stoves, camping coffee, and other gear like women’s hiking shoes. Ben Applebaum-Bauch has been testing camping gear for OutdoorGearLab for six years. He has a decade of professional experience in the outdoor industry. He brings an extensive knowledge of camping gear to this review. Maggie Nichols brings 15 years of professional guiding experience to her reviews of camping coolers, chairs, blankets, and more.
Organizing your camp supplies into bins can make them easier to manage and transport, bonus points if the bin is clear so you can see what’s inside.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Packing Tips
The amount of gear you need for a weekend in the outdoors can quickly add up, but remember, everything has to fit comfortably in your vehicle on the way to and from your campsite. To make sure you’re not over (or under) packing, we recommend customizing your checklist so that you know you are only bringing the things that you need. Secondly, we recommend gathering all your supplies in a staging area so you can organize them and check things off your list as you go. When you’re ready to start loading, place heavier items like kitchen gear and tents on the bottom and load lighter things like bedding and food on top.
If you take multiple camping trips per season, it can be nice to have dedicated “camping bins” where you store your gear. Using clear bins and labeling what’s inside is a great way to keep everything organized at your campsite and is convenient for at-home storage when you’re not using your gear. Be sure to restock your bins with supplies like paper towels and biodegradable soap at the beginning of every season so that when you take off for a weekend away, you can throw your prepacked bins in the back and know that you have your essentials ready to go.
Long pants and study shoes can protect your legs and feet through whatever adventures you find yourself on.
Credit: Trish Matheny
When packing your clothing, you probably need less than you think you do. Tailor your clothing to the activities you have planned, and check the weather before you go.
Golden Rules of Camping
When you embark on your camping trip, remember you are using a shared space. With this in mind, there are a few courtesy habits that can help keep nature accessible and enjoyable for everyone. First, leave no trace. Whether you are setting up at a lakeside KOA, or hoofing your way into the backcountry, remember to pack out what you pack in; ensure that your trash is properly disposed of, clean up after pets, and leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. Second, be aware of the local wildlife in your area. Keeping nature enjoyable is important for everyone, including our furry friends. Never approach or try to touch wild animals, and remember to store your food in bearproof containers whenever you leave your campsite.
To quote Smokey the Bear, “ Only you can prevent wildfires.” If you plan to cozy up by the fire after setting up camp, check local fire restrictions before you leave home; some states have seasonal fire bans depending on the amount of precipitation and time of year. If you do have a campfire, build it smart and safe. Never leave your fire unattended, keep it small, and always have a jug of water closeby. Use local firewood, and when you are done, make sure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving your campsite.
Camping can be a great way to unplug and connect with friends, family, and nature.
Credit: Rob Gaedtke
Our Intention
We trust this list of the best camping gear was helpful. Every one of our recommendations above is the result of thousands of hours of comparative testing. That is our promise and guarantee. Whether they are sleeping under the stars or zipping and unzipping tents, our testers are taking note of the things that matter.
Thanks.
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