Camping Gear Checklist
The Ultimate Gear Guide For Comfortable Car Camping
April 23rd, 2024
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A gentle breeze rocking your hammock, the crackling warmth of the fire, the sound of trees swaying in the wind, and the hum of crickets lulling you to sleep — it’s hard to beat the calm that comes with a camping trip. My absolute favorite way to relax and spend time outdoors is a car camping weekend with family and friends at a local state park.
At least once a month during the warm-weather months, I book a nearby campsite to swap the stress of the city for the serenity of a weekend outdoors. On occasion, I also make the time to road trip or fly across the country to more remote campgrounds at national parks or state forests.
Contrary to popular belief, camping (aka sleeping outdoors) can be a very comfortable and relaxing opinion. Sure, you have to master pitching your tent, cooking outdoors without the convenience of a microwave, and, most importantly, investing in reliable and quality gear to make the experience as comfortable and convenient as possible. For those rugged outdoor enthusiasts who are eager to get deep in the backcountry or camp outside of summer, spring, and fall, see our Essential Hiking and Backpacking Accessories list, and our Winter Camping Gear Checklist.
For folks interested in car camping gear, we’ve compiled a go-to gear checklist based on over a decade’s worth of experience camping across the country. We’ve used this gear ranging from state park campgrounds around the Midwest to walk-in sites in national forest areas to some of the country’s most popular national parks like Zion and Glacier National Park.
This car camping list considers the needs of campers of all kinds — from families with kids to folks who love creature comforts to seasoned campers and first-timers. If you want to dial in your car camping kit, read on for gear that’s versatile, durable, reliable, and, most of all, comfortable.
Related: Camping Kitchen Gear Checklist
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Camping Gear Checklist
| CATEGORY | WHAT WE LIKE | |
|---|---|---|
| GEAR FOR YOUR CAMPSITE | ||
| TENT | ||
| REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent | ||
| SLEEPING BAGS | ||
| NEMO Jazz 30 Sleeping Bag |
Writer Erica Zazo enjoying her ENO DoubleNest hammock under the shade of the trees at a local state park campsite in northern Michigan.
Why having the right gear and prep for a camping trip matters
As fun as camping can be, it’s important to consider your safety before heading into nature. Bringing the right gear outdoors will help ensure well-being, especially when inclement weather comes by surprise. Without the right gear, you risk discomfort, injury, and potential health-related emergencies, particularly in more remote environments without quick access to park rangers or safety patrollers.
Quality items in working order, like a sturdy camping tent, waterproof rain gear, a warm and comfortable sleeping bag, proper first aid, and appropriate kitchen supplies like stoves and cookware, are key. Having the right gear allows you to focus on enjoying nature rather than worrying about discomfort or safety — that way you can fully immerse yourself in the camping experience and create lasting memories.
With a seemingly endless list of camping gear, costs can add up quickly. However, it’s essential to head to the campground fully prepared so you can have an enjoyable and safe time in nature. Reminder: You can also rent camping gear or opt for used gear, especially if you only plan to camp one or two times a year. Also, check out our article on how to choose quality used gear and where you can find used gear for sale online.
Repurposing gear you already have in your gear closet can also be helpful when planning a car camping trip. Avid thru-hikers and backcountry enthusiasts, for example, can use their lighter and smaller gear, like backpacking sleeping bags or backpacking sleeping pads. As a bonus, you’ll save on space in your SUV when packing. If you’re only camping with a couple of people, you can use a backpacking tent with a smaller footprint too.
Camping doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. Opt for a sleep system that works for you including a plush sleeping pad and oversized sleeping bag, and level up your tent with creature comforts like a side table, camp blanket, and comfortable camp pillow.
Gear for your Campsite
While car camping requires specific gear to have an enjoyable, comfortable, and safe time outdoors, there may be equipment you have from other outdoor activities like backpacking, hiking, biking, and more that you can substitute. Even everyday household items may make a great substitute to save money, like throw blankets, a standard inflatable air mattress, and folding chairs. If you’re not sure what to bring car camping, here are our favorite staples.
Tent
What to look for: Waterproof and spacious enough for several campers, a rainfly that extends to the base of the tent for full protection
Our choice: REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent
What we liked: Easy to assemble, ample windows and pockets, protective rainfly
What we didn't like: Heavy
This ideal car camping tent offers comfortable and protected shelter at the campground for up to four campers. Large zippered doors on the front and back of the Base Camp 4 make it easy to enter and exit the tent on either side. (For larger groups, we recommend the taller and wider REI Wonderland 6).
A ventilated roof, large mesh windows on the doors, and small triangle vent windows on the sides of the tent allow for fresh air on all sides. It’s packed with pockets, including a door stow pocket, a roof pocket, and several sidewall pockets. Camping with a small group? Check out our top-rated backpacking tents.
View the REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent
Related: read our long-term, in-depth review of one of our favorite dome tents, the Mountain Hardwear Mineral King.
Sleeping bags
What to look for: Comfort and warmth, rated for the climate you plan to camp in (e.g., rated for 35-50F for summer camping)
Our choice: NEMO Jazz 30 Sleeping Bag
What we liked: Spacious and soft to the touch
What we didn't like: Expensive
A camping fan favorite, it’s hard to beat the comfort of the NEMO Jazz 30 sleeping bag. This multi-season bag is great for warmer weather above 30 degrees but can keep you warm in colder weather when using a sleeping bag liner (see more on liners below).
The Jazz 30 will be larger and heavier than your standard backpacking sleeping bag but prevails in comfort thanks to a wide-width design and a built-in, ultra-soft bedsheet that’s removable for washing. You also don’t have to worry about sliding around when sleeping. An integrated sleeping pad sleeve locks your sleeping pad in place underneath you for a slip-free night of sleep.
Rated in the top among our Best Camping Sleeping Bag list, this sleeping bag feels more like your duvet comforter at home than a stiff and claustrophobic sleeping bag.
Compare prices of the NEMO Jazz 30 Sleeping Bag
Sleeping pads
What to look for: Plush, adequate size, high R-value and warmth-to-weight ratio
Our choice: NEMO Roamer Sleeping Pad
What we liked: Ultra-soft and comfortable
What we didn't like: Bulky
Sleeping pads, also called sleeping mattresses, come in all shapes, sizes, weights, and warmth ratings. Backpacking sleeping pads are loved for their lightweight and compact design whereas car camping sleeping pads are loved for their comfort.
The standard rule of practice is to seek out a sleeping pad with a high R-value, or the ability for a sleeping pad to resist heat loss to the ground, and warmth-to-weight ratio, especially when sleeping in the shoulder seasons. R-value typically ranges from 1 to 7 with ranges 1 to 2 best for summer conditions and above 4 for winter conditions. When car camping, you won’t need an overly insulated sleeping pad unless you plan to go camping in the winter. Instead, invest in a sleeping pad that’s plush so you can sleep comfortably. Also, since you’ll likely travel to the campground in your car, you can opt for a sleeping pad that’s a bit larger — which means more room for spreading out while snoozing.
Arguably one of the most comfortable sleeping pads on the market, the NEMO Roamer is a heavenly spot to rest your head while sleeping out in nature. Quite honestly, it may even be more comfortable than your bed at home. At 4-inches thick you won’t need to worry about feeling roots, rocks, or uneven ground underneath the Roamer.
A soft, non-slip fabric covering the top of this sleeping mattress helps prevent your sleeping bag from sliding around at night while you move. It also comes in an oversized version, the NEMO Roamer Double, which sleeps two comfortably. Unless you have lungs of steel, you’ll need an electric inflator, like the Exped Widget Pump, to blow up this mattress pad. It’s also important to note that sleeping pads are different for all body types and sleeping preferences. So if the Roamer doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, take a look at our Best Camping Mattresses roundup for other options out there.
Compare prices of the NEMO Roamer Sleeping Pad
Pillows
What to look for: Camp pillows are notoriously uncomfortable — that is if you don’t know which to buy. Ranging from inflatable to foam-filled, camp pillows range widely in comfort and support levels. Some are coated in a synthetic, nylon, or polyester material while others use plush material like fleece.
Our choice: HEST Camp Pillow
What we liked: Ultra-plush and washable cover
What we didn't like: Built-in zipper can be uncomfortable
Catch some serious Zzzs with the HEST Camp Pillow. This memory foam and polyester-filled pillow rivals the memory foam pillow you have on your bed at home. The structure bounces back once you lift your head and the internal foam is resilient to long-term use season after season.
It’s not uncommon for camping pillows to go months, if not years, without being washed (yikes). That’s not the case with the HEST Camp Pillow if you don’t want it to be. An easy-to-remove zippable cover can be removed and washed. The cover is also a dirt-resistant and water-repellant case, helping keep your pillow clean season after season.
This pillow also works wonders while traveling. You won’t see this camp pillow on our Best Backpacking Pillows because of its inability to pack down small enough to fit into your pack. This pillow is much larger than a backpacking pillow but notably smaller than the pillow on your bed, so you’ll still save room when packing it in your car. But trust us: if you plan to go car camping and have the extra space to bring it along, you won’t regret investing in this pillow.
View the HEST Camp Pillow
Hammock
What to look for: Features like built-in bug nets, sturdy and stable frame
Our choice: ENO DoubleNest Hammock
What we liked: Lightweight and comfortable for two
What we didn't like: Straps sold separately
Hammocks make a great spot to relax at the campground. Lightweight and easy to pack, they make a great addition to any camping gear list. If you’re up for sleeping in one overnight, you can do that too. Some hammocks are better for sleeping in than others, like built-in bug nets or a sturdy and stable frame for sleeping on.
There’s a reason the ENO DoubleNest Hammock made our Best Camping Hammocks list. It’s a tried-and-true addition to any gear closet for anyone who wants to create a cozy vibe at the campground. Its 9.5-foot length and extra wide design means both you and a friend or loved one can hang out in this hammock built for two.
This 19-ounce double-person hammock packs up to the size of a softball and quickly unfolds when you’re ready to reuse it. It’s made of a durable, 70-denier nylon taffeta that’s buttery-soft to the touch and is capable of holding up to 400 pounds. You can choose from 30 different color and design choices to suit your personal style.
Its heftier weight makes it a better choice for car camping than backpacking. If you’re looking for lighter-weight styles of hammocks, our Best Ultralight Hammock roundup offers better options for backpacking hammocks.
Compare prices of the ENO DoubleNest Hammock
Camp table
What to look for: Portable, collapsible
Our choice: Dometic GO Compact Camp Table
What we liked: Durable build and stylish design
What we didn't like: Expensive
Camping tables are a wise addition to any campsite. Most state park, national forest, and national park campgrounds include a picnic table, but if you’re camping with a group (and cooking for many mouths) a camp table makes for a great upgrade. They provide extra space for prepping food, eating meals, and hanging out at.
While there are certainly more affordable camp tables out there (we list some of those in our Best Camping Tables roundup), the Dometic GO Compact Camp Table stands out for its stylish design and attention to detail. Outfitted with a bamboo top and aluminum legs, this table is sleek and easy to move around. It’s great for hosting friends for a game of cards or dinner, or prepping and enjoying food at your camp kitchen. You can also switch between three different table heights depending on your intended use: a coffee table, kids' table, or food prep and dining table.
Compare prices of the Dometic GO Compact Camp Table
Camping chairs
What to look for: Lightweight, portable, comfortable, and useful features like cup holders, armrests, and storage pockets
Our choice: REI Co-op Campwell Chair
What we liked: Constructed of breathable mesh, a wide seat, and several large pockets for storing accessories
What we didn't like: Less compact than other chairs
Camp chairs are known for their lightweight design, portability, and (hopefully) comfort. Some camp chairs, like those for backpacking, are compact and ultra-light. Others are fully-featured and plush, like those for car camping. Camp chairs that come with all the bells and whistles will include built-in cup holders, armrests, and storage pockets for added convenience. Some even have the ability to adjust, rock, or recline.
The REI Co-op Campwell Chair comes in handy on especially hot summer days at the campground. Almost entirely mesh, this chair allows airflow on your back and behind while sitting around the campfire. While it may be less ideal on chilly campouts but phenomenal for warmer months, it’s a great choice for its breathability and comfort. While other Best Camping Chairs we’ve featured before are loved for their compact and ultralight design, this one stands out among the pack for car camping specifically.
Its mesh construction doesn’t compromise on durability. REI uses reinforced mesh that will support up to 300 pounds and also stand up to the elements. The mesh fabric dries quickly and also allows airflow so your chair doesn’t blow across the campground after a gust of wind. This chair also has several pockets to choose from, including an oversized drop-down pocket to hold your cell phone, drink, or accessories and a cinch pocket to keep small items protected and secure.
View the REI Co-op Campwell Chair
Camping blanket
What to look for: Comfort, warmth, durability, fire-resistant fabric
Our choice: Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Blanket
What we liked: Ultralight, compact, and flame resistant — so you can wear it by the campfire without fear of crackling embers
What we didn't like: Less warm than other camp blankets
The Best Camping Blankets provide unmatched comfort and warmth. They should also promise to hold up to wear and tear camping season after camping season. Since you’ll likely be using the blanket around the campfire, opt for one with a durable and fire-resistant fabric like wool or blended cotton. Among the most common fabrics used in camping blankets are fleece, known for its softness and insulation, nylon, known for its durability and water resistance, and polyester, known for its quick-drying performance.
A burn hole in a camping blanket is a right of passage if you’re a camper — unless you camp with the Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Blanket. Rumpl designed this durable and compact camping blanket with a proprietary, fire-resistant exterior fabric. It can stand up to a stray spark from the fire while keeping you warm underneath (and safe from rogue embers).
It also comes equipped with a “Cape Clip” that allows you to fasten the blanket around your neck so you can go hands-free while walking around the campsite, cooking meals, sipping your drink, or playing cards. This synthetic-filled blanket is also sustainable. It’s packed with 100% post-consumer recycled NanoLoft fill, an ultra-compressible synthetic down. The entire blanket packs down to the size of a Nalgene in its stuff sack.
Compare prices of the Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Blanket
Sunshade
What to look for: Durability, ease of set-up, lightweight
Our choice: Mountain Hardwear Camp Awn Shelter
What we liked: Durable and secure, even in strong gusts of wind
What we didn't like: Expensive and takes practice to set up efficiently
Camping sunshades offer a place to retreat from the sun and rain while hanging out at the campground. They come in a range of sizes, designs, and materials to fit a number of camping styles and use cases. Sunshades come in various forms for camping, including canopy tents, pop-up shelters, and shade tarps. The best sunshades are durable, lightweight, and easy and efficient to set up.
Stay out of the sun with the lightweight Mountain Hardwear Camp Awn Shelter, perfect for the campground. It can withstand strong gusts of wind, heavy rain, and intense UV rays — keeping you safe, dry, and cool even on the sunniest or rainiest of days. Six mesh corner pockets provide ample storage underneath the awning and grommets at every corner make it possible to pitch the tent from various points, like a tree, car, or pavilion. You can also adjust the height up to 10 feet for more room underneath. Made with thick, 68-denier polyester ripstop and taped, it’s extremely waterproof and durable.
Compare prices of the Mountain Hardwear Camp Awn Shelter
Sleeping bag liners
What to look for: 10 degrees or more added warmth
Our choice: Sea to Summit Reactor Extreme Sleeping Bag Liner
What we liked: Adds up to 14 degrees Fahrenheit to the sleeping bag rating
What we didn't like: Luxury items that are not always needed for car camping
Cold sleepers should opt for a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth in their sleeping bag. Typically made with synthetic material like nylon or polyester, sleeping bag liners can add anywhere up to 10 degrees or more depending on the brand and quality of the material they’re made of. Some sleeping bag liners are designed with thermal properties to provide extra warmth in colder conditions — enhancing the overall temperature rating of your sleeping bag.
Kick cold car camping nights to the curb. The Sea to Summit Reactor Extreme promises to add up to 14 degrees Fahrenheit to your sleeping bag warmth rating. Designed with Sea to Summit’s proprietary Thermolite Pro fabric, it uses innovative infrared technology to provide exceptional warmth compared to other sleeping bag liners on the market.We recommend the Reactor Extreme in our guide to Shoulder Season Backpacking as a way to extend your backpacking kit into cooler temperatures–and it works great for camping, too.
Compare prices of the Sea to Summit Reactor Extreme Sleeping Bag Liner
Campsite food and water
Most state parks, national forests, and national park campgrounds include a picnic table or bench to prepare food hang out at around the campfire. You can upgrade you car camping setup by bringing your own camp chair, camp table, a stove and more.
Cooking outdoors is a vital part of any car camping adventure. It’s arguably one of the most fun elements of car camping too. From setting up a food prep area to actually cooking on an open flame (if you’re up for the challenge), many elements go into preparing delicious food for families and friends at the campsite. For a more detailed list of what to have in your camp kitchen, see our Camping Kitchen Gear Checklist.
Portable stove
What to look for: Easy to light, reliable flame, bst size and shape for your needs, fuel efficiency, heat distribution
Our choice: Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System Camp Stove
What we liked: Large surface area for pots and pans, and easy-to-adjust flame
What we didn't like: Expensive
Portable stoves come in all shapes, sizes, and price points. Depending on the style of cooking you’re doing will determine the size and type of portable stove to purchase. Most car camping stoves connect to a propane tank or fuel canister, and the best ones to use are easy to light and produce a reliable flame to cook over. There are options for bio-fuel or wood-burning camp stoves, but propane-powered stoves are the most simple and reliable to use, in most cases.
Camp stoves use BTU ratings to indicate how much heat the burners can produce — the higher the BTU rating, the more heat and the faster the cooking. That said, cooking performance also varies due to factors like burner design, fuel efficiency, and heat distribution depending on the types of pots and pans you cook with.
The Jetboil Genesis is a compact, two-burner stove system that connects to a standard, 16.4-ounce propane bottle. It boasts a powerful 10,000 BTU heat output, known to boil 2 liters of water in under 10 minutes. Larger burners fit up to two 10-inch pans side by side, allowing you to cook everything from bacon and eggs to pasta and grilled cheeses. The system folds together, making it easy to stow away when not in use and you can transport the Genesis with its included carrying case. It’s also a fraction of the footprint of competitor stoves that offer the same amount of cooking surface area and burn power.
Curious about smaller camp stoves for the backcountry? Our Best Backpacking Stoves roundup covers more portable, compact, and ultralight options for backpacking and thru-hiking.
Compare prices of the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System Camp Stove
Portable camping grill
What to look for: Durability, can connect to various types of fuel canisters, appropriate size for your needs
Our choice: Camp Chef Explorer 14
What we liked: Durable materials, compact size, versatile uses
What we didn't like: Bulkier than a traditional camp stove
We’ve reviewed the Best Portable Camp Stoves for the backcountry, but what about the frontcountry? Spoiler alert: Car camping stoves can be portable too. Designed with foldable legs and collapsible components, portable car camp stoves and grills are great for cooking for larger groups of campers. Look out for camping stoves and grills that are made of durable materials like stainless steel, can connect to various types of fuel canisters, and are sized appropriately for the group size you plan to cook for.
For cooking for larger groups at the campsite, Camp Chef makes a wide variety of larger, portable camp stoves for cooking outdoors. Masters in their craft, Camp Chef uses durable and rugged materials to design best-in-class stoves, including the Camp Chef Explorer 14. This two-burner stove stands at just under 2.5 feet tall, making it easy to tend to food without needing extra table space. You can connect the Explorer 14 to a large, 20-pound propane tank if you’re cooking for the masses or over long periods. Camp Chef also designed several compatible grills and griddles, and even a pizza oven, that sits on top of the stove. Camp pizza, anyone?
Compare prices of the Camp Chef Explorer 14
Fuel
What to look for: Efficiency, portability, ease of use
Our choice: Ignik Gas Growler 3.8
What we liked: Larger size for group and family camping
What we didn't like: Pricier than smaller canisters
Common forms of camping fuel include propane, butane, and biofuel. Each type of fuel comes with its own advantages in terms of portability, efficiency, and ease of use. We typically stick with propane when car camping for its efficiency, affordability, and portability. Most propane canisters are compatible with standard camp stove fuel connections.
The Ignik Gas Growler 3.8 is a refillable propane tank for your outdoor kitchen. It’s nearly 4x the capacity of a standard, single-use propane tank (1 pound green bottles) and is refillable for future use at the campground. Similar to a standard propane tank you’d buy at the gas station or convenience store, the Ignik Gas Growler has comfortable handles for carrying. It also features extra durable rubber edging to stay put when you set it down, even on slick surfaces.
View the Ignik Gas Growler 3.8
Camping cookware
What to look for: Durable materials (stainless steel, titanium, etc.), light weight
Our choice: MSR Fusion Ceramic 2-Pot Set
What we liked: Ultralight and durable
What we didn't like: Does not include skillet in set
Pots, pans, and skillets are essential items for your camp kitchen. It’s generally recommended you buy lightweight cookware when camping so it’s easier to transport to and from the campground. If you’re on a budget, you can shop for used pots and pans at the thrift store. However, investing in a solid set of cookware for your camping gear kit means you won’t have to replace them down the road unlike your used pots and pans that eventually will reach their breaking point.
Cast iron, stainless steel, ceramic, aluminum, and titanium are common materials camp kitchen cookware is made of — ranging from heaviest to lightest. Always wash your cookware with biodegradable soap after every use, with the exception of cast iron, so that they remain long lasting.
The high-quality, PFAS-free MSR Fusion Ceramic 2-Pot Set is compact, nonstick, and ultralight. Made with MSR’s proprietary Fusion ceramic material, it deters food from sticking to the bottom of the pan and is extremely lightweight, which means easier flipping, frying, and sautéeing. If you need a skillet for frying bacon, eggs, pancakes, and more, we also recommend the MSR Quick Skillet.
Compare prices of the MSR Fusion Ceramic 2-Pot Set
Camp cooking utensils
You don’t have to eat off paper plates at the campground. Go with a more environmentally friendly option and buy reusable camp cook utensils, plates, bowls and cups. We love HydroFlask brand, including its line of HydroFlask Camp Utensils which blow a traditional spork out of the water. They’re high-quality and durable, and have a great weight to them. But if you’re a traditionalist, the UCO Utility Spork is a great choice.
View the HydroFlask Camp Utensils
Camping Dishware
Plates, bowls and cups run the gamut. You can go with a classic Coleman 24-Piece Enamel Dinnerware Set, which accommodates feeding groups of four or you can get boujie and buy the HydroFlask Camp Bundle, campsite-ready dining set for two that includes heavy-duty metal plates, bowls, cups, and utensils.
View the Coleman 24-Piece Enamel Dinnerware Set
Camp cooler with ice
What to look for: Insulation quality, reliability, handles, and features like a drain spout or interior racks .
Our choice: RTIC 52 Quart Cooler
What we liked: Fully featured, including food storage racks, reusable ice pack, and bottle opener
What we didn't like: Smaller than other coolers on the market
No one wants a leaky cooler that won’t keep your ice frozen for long periods of time. When choosing a cooler, consider insulation quality and thickness to reliably store and preserve your food efficiently and reliably. Features like comfortable handles, a drain spout, and interior racks are a bonus too.
Coolers can be more than just a chamber for keeping food cold — the RTIC 52 Quart Cooler comes with several food storage racks to keep your food from getting soggy in melted ice and a set of reusable ice packs. You can store a large bag of ice in this cooler for 24 hours or more without it freezing. There are certainly longer-lasting coolers on the market that keep ice cold for days upon days at the campground, but this cooler is a great option if you want something a little more affordable and with some fun features, like the ability to easily crack a cold one.
Compare prices of the RTIC 52 Quart Cooler
Water jug
What to look for: Large capacity
Our choice: GSI Outdoors Folding Water Cube
What we liked: Affordable and practical
What we didn't like: Difficult to dry out
It makes all the difference having a portable water jug to keep a stash of water at your campsite. Instead of filling up bottle after bottle, a larger capacity water jug makes sure you have plenty of water to stay hydrated and cook with at the campsite. Choose a large enough size for your group and needs. We recommend containers and jugs around five gallons.
Th 5-gallon GSI Outdoors Folding Water Cube collapsible jug is lightweight and easy to carry to and from the water spigot at the campground. It can hold 20 liters of water. When done, simply compress it down and store it away. An ergonomic tap opens and closes with ease, allowing you to control water flow. It’s great for washing hands, cleaning dishes, and refilling water bottles without the hassle of trekking to and from the tap.
View the GSI Outdoors Folding Water Cube
Portable coffee maker
What to look for: Portability and ease of use
Our choice: Jetboil Flash Java Kit Cooking System
What we liked: Multi-use coffee maker and lightweight camp stove
What we didn't like: Difficult to clean
Like your french press at home but built for the campsite, the Jetboil Flash Java Kit includes everything you need to make several cups of coffee outdoors. The all-in-one stove and coffee french press boils two cups of water in a minute and a half. We added this coffee maker to our Best Camping Coffee Makers list for its ease of use, packability, and versatility for not only making coffee but cooking food in the backcountry too. Using this stove is as simple as adding water, steeping your coffee, and pressing a hot pot of brew.
Compare prices of the Jetboil Flash Java Kit Cooking System
Lighting and tools
Keep your campsite illuminated and in working order with lighting and tools fit for nature.
Headlamp
What to look for: Brightness levels, beam distance, adjustable light modes, durability, battery life, weight
Our choice: Petzl Tikka Headlamp
What we liked: Affordable and rechargeable
What we didn't like: Heavier than other headlamps you can find
Consider factors like brightness levels, beam distance, and adjustable light modes to make sure the headlamp you buy meets your needs and expectations. If recharging capability is important to you, opt for a headlamp with a rechargeable battery or cable input to juice it back up to full charge. Durability, battery life, weight, and price point all play a role in determining the best headlamp for you.
Our Best Headlamps guide is proof there are plenty of options to choose from. But the Petzl Tikka Headlamp stands out for its affordability, recharging capability, and its relatively lightweight design. If you’re looking for a headlamp that won’t break the bank but comes with all the features (and more) you want in a light, this is a great pick. You can toggle between red light, white light, and various levels of intensity. It also has a glow-in-the-dark light so you can see it in your tent in total darkness.
View the Petzl Tikka Headlamp
Camping lantern
What to look for: Portability, light adjustability
Our choice: BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern
What we liked: Several lighting options, including a multi-color mode that turns your campsite into an instant party
What we didn't like: Expensive
Ideal for campers who want a convenient and fun way to light up the campsite, the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 is one of the coolest lanterns out there. It’s portable, rechargeable, and customizable — allowing you to choose your desired ambiance. Numerous light modes illuminate between warm ambient light, blended multicolors, and flickering lantern. It also glows a bright, white LED for times you need bright light or warmer tones that you can dim over a range of intensities. Match your mood to your surroundings with this long-lasting light that holds battery over 10 hours. Browse more camping lights in our Best Lanterns and Camping Lights guide.
View the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern
Spare batteries
Packing spare batteries for items like headlamps, lanterns, and battery-powered electronics and accessories is a smart move when car camping. You can buy rechargeable batteries if you want to minimize your footprint and chemical waste that comes with discarded batteries.
Multi-tool
What to look for: Includes several features like a knife, screwdriver, can opener, scissors, etc.
Our choice: Swiss Army Camper Knife
What we liked: Compact and affordable
What we didn't like: Fewer features than other multi-tools on the market
A multi-tool is a “jack of all tools” and provides you everything you might need to fix, mend, or address broken items or quick tasks out in nature. Opt for a multi-tool that includes several features, like a knife, screwdriver, wine opener, can opener, small pair of scissors, and more.
Looking for a simple multi-tool that will get multiple tasks done at the campground? Look no further than the classic Swiss Army Knife. It can save you in a pinch if you forget your wine or can opener and it can also save the day if you need to sharpen a fallen tree branch for a smores stick. They don’t call it the Swiss Army Knife for nothing after all.
View the Swiss Army Camper Knife
Basic repair kit
A basic camping repair kit should contain essential tools and supplies to address common equipment issues and emergencies while camping including duct tape, a multi tool, super glue, extra tent stakes repair parts, and zip ties.
Clothing and personal items
Camping in different climates requires different types of clothing. The time of year you camp will also determine the types of clothes and personal items you should bring along to stay comfortable and be prepared for whatever the adventure throws your way.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Weather will determine the types of clothing, and fabrics, you need. Choose clothing made from moisture-wicking and quick-drying materials like polyester or merino wool for base layers. When camping in colder weather, fleece, down, and high-quality synthetic materials can provide warmth. Always check the weather too before you camp to make sure it’s important to bring rain gear along like a rain shell jacket or rain pants. It’s wise to pack rain gear, even if you don’t think it will rain…you never know.
Layers for various temperatures
Ensuring the right layering system is crucial for staying warm, dry, and comfortable while camping. Layering properly also makes sure you stay warm and comfortable while sleeping at night. Look for layers that will help insulate you while you sleep, wick moisture when you sweat, and dry quickly after absorbing water. Our Best Tested Base Layers roundup provides sound advice for layering in all types of weather.
Rain gear
What to look for: Waterproofing, comfort, quality materials
Our choice: MEC x AQUANATOR Rain Pants and MEC x AQUANATOR Rain Jacket
What we liked: Spacious but not baggy
What we didn't like: No ventilation zips
Using high-quality rain gear can keep the body dry and help you maintain temperature, even in cold and damp conditions. Having sound rain gear can even help you stave off hypothermia in the most extreme conditions. It can also simply help you have a more enjoyable car camping experience, even in un-ideal weather. And while more expensive, rain gear made from high-performance fabric like Gore-Tex not only provides waterproofing but breathability too.
Stay dry in wet weather ranging from drizzle to downpours. You can easily pull the MEC x AQUANATOR Rain Pants and Jacket over your pants, a long sleeve or hoodie, or any other layers you plan to wear underneath. They’re easy to put on and remove, plus they’re reliable and they come in at a reasonable price point too. For more rain gear options check out our Best Lightweight Rain Jackets roundup.
View the MEC x AQUANATOR
Camp shoes
What to look for: Comfort, light weight
Our choice: Merrell Hydro Moc
What we liked: Super light and comfortable
What we didn't like: Not easy to slip on
Simply put: having a comfortable camp shoe to kick it around the campsite is a game-changer.
We love camp shoes. Take a look at our Best Camp Shoe guide if you don’t believe us. One of our top favorites are the Merrell Hydro Moc shoes. They’re super lightweight, affordable, quick drying, and great for a simple pair of campground kicks. Completely made of utlralight and squishy foam, you might even forget they’re on your feet.
Compare prices of the Merrell Hydro Moc
Men's
Women's
Bug protection
What to look for: Effective protection
Our choice: PARA’KITO Roll-on Gel Mosquito Repellent
What we liked: All natural
What we didn't like: Small amount
We always recommend opting for non-toxic bug protection and spray. DEET is sometimes required in situations when bugs and ticks can get overwhelming, but in the frontcountry at a campground, you can opt for a greener option to aerosol cans and chemical-heavy bug repellant.
A roll-on bug repellent that smells great and keeps bugs at bay. Para’kito uses a blend of natural, essential oils that fend off insects, mosquitos, and bugs. It’s DEET free and the oils act as a natural barrier to you and the bugs that want to bite you. It’s extremely portable and really easy to use: just undo the cap, roll on your skin, and put the cap back on. No spraying required.
View the PARA’KITO Roll-on Gel Mosquito Repellent
Hygiene in the camp
It’s crucial to consider hygiene while camping for your personal health, your comfort, and the comfort of those around you (aka avoid being “the smelly friend”). Keeping yourself clean outdoors isn’t hard with the right gear. Washing your hands to prevent spreading bacteria, flossing and brushing your teeth, and washing your body in a reasonable timeframe are just a few of the ways you can stay clean at camp.
Camp shower
What to look for: Portability, ease-of-use
Our choice: NEMO Helio Pressure Shower
What we liked: Powerful water pressure
What we didn't like: Expensive
Most campgrounds at state parks, national parks, and private campgrounds have access to showers and restrooms on-site. If you choose to camp at a rustic campground or a desert campground, facilities may be limited. Bringing a portable shower, especially when there are no lakes, rivers, or streams to jump in, can offer a way to stay fresh while camping. Camp showers each operate differently: some use gravity to their advantage, some use a pressurized foot pump, and some use electric power for pressure.
We’ve shared the Best Camping Showers before but one of our favorites is the NEMO Helio Pressure Shower. Rather than using gravity, this foot-powered shower builds pressure by pumping air into the water chamber. That’s great for times you’re car camping and don’t have access to a tree or tall spot to hang your shower. This convenient, compact, and lightweight portable shower is an idea for families with kids, washing dishes, and cleaning yourself off in the backcountry with limited access to modern amenities.
Compare prices of the NEMO Helio Pressure Shower
Personal hygiene items
Even outdoors, personal hygiene is important. Essential items include biodegradable soap, biodegradable toothpaste, and hand sanitizer for keeping your hands clean from bacteria when water is out of close reach.
Toothbrush and toothpaste
A regular old toothbrush works great at the campground. However, it’s important to opt for biodegradable toothpaste, especially if you don’t have a bathroom sink to spit into. Avoid discarding toothpaste and wastewater directly onto plants or wildlife habitats as it can harm them. Add a swig of water to your mouth before spitting out your toothpaste. Also try to spray instead of streaming what you spit out onto the ground, which helps disseminate the waste water.
Biodegradable soap
Biodegradable soap breaks down more naturally outdoors than the traditional perfume-based soap you may use at home in your shower or in your kitchen sink to wash dishes. By using biodegradable soap, you can minimize your impact on the environment around you.
Camp towel
What to look for: Quick-dry, lightweight, wicking fabric
Our choice: PackTowl Personal Towel
What we liked: Compact, lightweight and very quick drying
What we didn't like: Very thin
Quick-dry and compact camp towels come in handy in the front and backcountry. They come in all sizes, so choose the best size for you depending on your specific needs. Camp towels are typically lightweight and made of a wicking fabric that dries rapidly after use. They also make great kitchen accessories for drying dishes or removing water from your tent, gear, and other camping items after a rainstorm.
PackTowel is a lightweight and impressively compact microfiber towel for camping, travel, and
Outdoor adventures. It’s soft to the touch and dries efficiently, even after it gets totally soaked after a shower or in the rain. The microfiber polyester PackTowel is constructed with can absorb up to 4x its weight and dries up to 70 percent faster than a traditional cotton towel.
Compare prices of the PackTowl Personal Towel
Trowel/portable toilet
If you’re car camping on remote land, like in a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) area, you may need to bring a portable toilet or waste bag with you. We’ve shared some of the Best Portable Toilets and Waste Bags before and you’ll also want to make sure to pack a trowel to dig a hole if you’re toiletless. Pack out all toilet paper and feminine products, as they can wreak havoc on the environment, especially in highly visited parks and public lands.
Navigating minor dirt roads to get to campsites, like this one in Mojave National Preserve, can provide some navigational challenges, especially in areas without cell reception.
Navigation and safety
When you're camping and not hiking far, you'll still want to stay safe with navigation and safety essentials, including maps and a compass, a fully-stocked first aid kit, and bear spray. Navigation for car camping also plays a big role in finding your campsite when you’re camping off the grid without cell service.
Map and compass
Always prepare for your camping trip by printing out our buying maps in advance for the campground or park you plan to visit. Maps are very important when you have an inkling you’ll lose cell service to where you’ll travel. A compass can also serve as a smart backup should you find yourself lost and need to navigate your way back on track.
First aid kit
Buy a pre-made first aid kit or build your own. No matter if you buy a kit or opt for DIY, every first aid kit should include essential items like bandaids in various sizes, sterile gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, scissors, hydrocortisone cream, antihistamines for allergic reactions, and pain relievers Check out our guide on Outdoor Items for an Emergency Preparedness Kit for more ideas.
Bear spray
In areas prone to bear activity, pack bear spray. It’s always better to play it safe rather than sorry. You’ll be thankful you have an option for fending off bears should you come in contact with one, especially if they’re showing signs of aggression. However, note that bear spray is not legal in all places (notably, some national parks) so check before you go.
The Trelino composting toilet allows you to easily pack out your waste.
Leave No Trace principles
National non-profit and environmental organization Leave No Trace advocates for the protection and conservation of our wild spaces. Their set of 10 essential "Leave No Trace" principles are a code of outdoor ethics by which hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts can follow to minimize their impact on the natural environment. You can learn more about Leave No Trace in our Beginner Camping and Beginner Hiking guides.
Some of the core principles include:
Waste disposal
Always pack out your trash and litter — including waste you find while enjoying the outdoors. This includes human waste, pop cans, wrappers, plastic bottles, and any other trash you may find on the trail. The same goes for leaving the campground better than you found it.
Camp on durable surfaces
Keep your tent in-bounds of designated campsite areas to minimize your impact on fragile ecosystems and landscapes. Doing so helps avoid trampling on vegetation and disturbing wildlife and their natural habitat.
Be considerate of other users (i.e. speakers, noise, etc.)
Respect others by keeping noise to a minimum, like loud speakers, yelling, and talking loudly late at night at the campground. Also, give the right of way to other hikers and outdoor enthusiasts on the trail. Practicing mindfulness outdoors goes a long way.
Minimize campfire impacts
Always put your campfire out once you’re done using it and always follow campground regulations and fire bans — particularly when you’re camping in areas prone to wildfire risk. It's also essential to only burn fires inside designated campfire rings.
Respect wildlife
Watch wildlife from a safe distance, store food properly at your campsite, and respect the natural habitat of plants and animals wherever you adventure.
About the author / why you should trust us
Erica Zazo is a long-time freelance writer and gear reviewer who has covered outdoor products and adventure travel for more than a decade. She’s reviewed products for numerous outdoor and travel publications, including Backpacker Magazine, CNN Underscored, Popular Mechanics, GearJunkie, and more, educating readers about what they need to know to get outdoors safely and enjoyably. I’m an expert in all things outdoor adventure and have spent countless days in nature testing the best gear along the way.
An avid camper who values creature comforts—even in the backcountry. She knows what to look for in products to make sure you stay safe and comfortable along the way. With roots in the Midwest, she spends most of the warm-weather months adventuring on the weekends to local campgrounds, and regional trails, and even venturing out on Lake Michigan on her stand-up paddle board. Follow Erica’s adventures on Instagram at @onecurioustrvlr and read her stories at her online portfolio.
See more on Erica's author page.
