The first day of spring is rapidly approaching which means it's time to start planning a trip (or two!). And I might be bias but there's nothing like packing up the car and getting some fresh air in good 'ole mother nature. Whether you're a seasoned camping vet or new to the game, what you bring (or forget to bring) really does determine whether or not you'll ever want to sleep under the stars again.
But don't worry, we've got you covered! Welcome to camping 101 where we've rounded up camping essentials perfect for beginners to pros alike. We've also tapped some outdoor experts to get their tips, tricks and million-dollar advice on how to maximize your time spent outside.
From top-rated editor tents to camping-friendly outfits, keep reading to see our favorite picks you should consider packing if you plan on camping anytime soon. Happy trails!
Expert advice for beginner campers
Planning your camping trip
Bryan Rogala, an avid outdoor enthusiast and the founder of Mountain Standard Creative, tells beginners the first things to consider when planning a camping trip are where you’d like to visit, what activities you plan on doing during your stay, and the weather forecast.
"Camping can mean different things to different people," says Rogala. "Some folks are comfortable sleeping in a tent, but it might make more sense for another person to toss an air mattress in the back of their vehicle, or to rent a camper/RV."
Backcountry expert Chris Durant also loves to remind people, “The biggest step is making the decision that you’re doing it. We all have to start somewhere and it’s a process you’ll become more familiar with over time.” He also urges beginners to ask questions as no question is a stupid question when it comes to camping.
Packing for your camping trip
If you're a newbie when it comes to spending nights outside, packing can be extremely overwhelming. Between gear, food, clothes, and other necessities, it's easy to get bogged down by all the details.
Outdoor expert Heather Balogh Rochfort has great advice for this by saying, "If it’s your first-ever camping trip, don’t try to be a hero. Start with the basic gear to make sure you’re comfortable but not overwhelmed: a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad will cover you for sleeping."
"Then, consider your food situation. If you’re planning on cooking at camp like most campers do, you’ll want to consider a stove and fuel, along with dishes, food and water, and possibly a cooler depending on what you choose to bring. But ultimately, don’t overcomplicate the situation," adds Rochfort.
Sleeping during your camping trip
"One of the most important things while camping in the backcountry or camping in general is your sleep," also says Durant. Again, our experts advise investing in a good "sleep system."
"Over the years, I’ve found a lot of people get turned off from camping because they don’t sleep well — with the gear available today, there’s no reason for a bad night’s sleep at camp, and you don’t have to spend a fortune, either," says Rogala.
Our experts also recommended bringing a pair or two of earplugs or using a white noise app if you're scared of any noises that make occur at night; we're looking at you, wildlife!
Expert-approved camping essentials
For water filtration: Sawyer Products Squeeze Water Filtration System
Removes and destroys: Protozoa and Bacteria | Dimensions: 2" x 5"; 11" x 6" | Weight: 3 oz.
Durant highly recommends having a water filter on hand when camping. His trusty Sawyer Squeeze has lasted last forever and has never caused problems. "These filters can screw on a water bottle making things easy for you while you’re camping," says Durant.
"You don’t need water just for drinking it, but you use it a lot more than you think when camping. A lot of campers eat dehydrated meals, and water goes fast. Having a water filter allows you to filter clean water and can be used to cook with so you can eat when hungry."
A rechargeable glow: BioLite Alpenglow Multicolor USB Lantern
Average run time: 5 hours on high and 200 hours on low | Dimensions: 3.8" x 5.4" | Weight: 13.8 oz.
"You need light at camp, but be sure to get a rechargeable option like the AlpenGlow. It has tons of options from bright white to party colors and sunset ambience, and you can even illuminate one side of the lantern and not the other, in case one of you wants to read in the tent before bedtime," says Rochfort.
No stakes required: MSR Elixir 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent
Material: 70-denier coated nylon | Floor dimensions: 84” x 50” | Weight: 6 lbs. | Capacity: 2-person
Durant says this MSR is not only dependable but easy to setup, which is great for beginners who are just getting started. “This is a free-standing tent meaning you don’t need stakes to pitch it. It has two big doors made out of mesh that you’re able to gaze at the stars or catch that sunrise or sunset. This is a two person tent and can fit you, your partner, your dog and all your gear in the tent on a clear day or night.”
Cozy sans mattress: NEMO Roamer Sleeping Pad, XL Wide
Material: 75-denier polyester | Pad thickness: 4 in. | Weight: 5 lbs. 8 oz. | Packed Size: 10" x 16"
If Rochfort is splurging one thing, it's most likely a sleeping pad. "A good one will help you sleep better and keep you warm at night (since sleeping pads insulate you from the ground). The Roamer has been my go-to pad for years thanks to its extra width and cushioning that makes you feel like you’re on a mattress." Rochfort even added that she uses this at home for guests instead of an air mattress; talk about a two-for-one.
Splurge for safety: Garmin inReach Mini 2
Batteries: Rechargeable internal lithium ion | Average battery life: Up to 14 days | Waterproof: Yes | Weight: 3.5 oz.
A must-have for those venturing into the backcountry, Durant cannot recommend the Garmin inReach Mini 2 enough. This device allows you to send texts and your location to loved ones as well as emergency personnel, and it even stores trail maps for remote hiking and camping.
Editor-approved products for camping
Goodbye, bugs: Bug Soother Spray
Volume: 4 oz. | Active ingredients: Soybean oil, cedarwood oil, peppermint, thyme oil, citronella oil, geranium oil, lemongrass oil, clove oil
"Bugs. Flies. Gnats. Mosquitoes- you name it, Bug Soother keeps it away," raves associate editor Sierra Hoeger about this pest repellant. "This is such an underrated product that my family has been using for YEARS to combat pests when spending a long time outdoors."
Cheers to the outdoors: Stanley Aluminum Insulated GO Wine Tumbler
Colors: 13 | Weight: 8.1 oz. | Volume: 10 oz.
There's arguably no better place to enjoy a cold beverage than camping. “If there’s one thing my grandma and I have in common, it’s our love for wine. And not to sound like a millennial, but sometimes that’s exactly what the doctor ordered for a cure to surviving a family camping weekend," says Hoeger.
Don't worry about rain: Frelaxy Dry Bag 3-Pack
Material: 210T tear resistant polyester | Dimensions: 14.17" x 2.91" x 2.2" | Weight: 9.9 oz.
Social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo is a big fan of these dry bags. "I hate not having my clothes organized on trips and these dry bags are perfect to keep anything you need dry and secure, which happens often when camping!"
On-the-go pillow: NEMO Fillo Backpacking and Camping Pillow
Fill: Luxury foam | Dimensions: 17 x 11 x4 in. | Weight: 9.2 oz.
Hoeger is a huge fan of this pillow saying, "This pillow has found its way on road trips, in the bunkbeds in the camper, in the hammock, you name it! It’s easy to refill with air when it’s running low and is actually comfortable. Plus, its size makes it easy to deflate and fold down to fit into a suitcase or backpack."
Yes, chef: Coleman 2-Burner Propane Stove
Fuel type: Propane | Dimensions: 22.5 x 5 x 14.5 in. | Weight: 11.9 lbs. | Warranty: 3 years
Senior social media editor Kate McCarthy loves this propane stove for camping, ski days on the mountain and everything in-between. "I can confidently say this is the best item I’ve ever purchased for camping, because it’s also great for the outdoors in general. It’s extremely easy to use and super basic, but gets the job done." Our experts also love this stove by saying you can't go wrong with this pick.
"Great for year-round snoozing": Mountain Equipment Company Centaurus -9C Sleeping Bag
Material: 30-denier ripstop nylon | Insulation type: Synthetic | Temperature can withstand: -9°C | Weight: 3.28 lbs.
Did someone say mummy-core? This pick from MEC uses quick-drying synthetic insulation that's great for year-round snoozing. Trying this for the first time on a recent trip, it's safe to say that I'll be using this sleeping bag for all my foreseeable ventures. Better yet, it's also on sale right now!
4-in-1 option: Kelty Discovery Basecamp Bundle
Material: 68-denier coated nylon | Floor dimensions: 97" x 79" | Weight: Total 20 lbs. for bundle | Capacity: 4-person
If you're looking for a one-and-done purchase to get outside ASAP, McCarthy can't recommend this bundle enough. "I bought this bundle years ago and it was perfect for a beginner camper and took a lot of the pressure off. It comes with a tent, two sleeping bags, and two sleeping pads."
Best camping tents, according to editors
Editor-approved pick: Coleman Sundome Camping Tent
Material: Polyester | Floor Dimensions: 108 x 84 in. | Weight: 10 lbs. | Capacity: 4-person
If you prefer a more traditional tent design and need more room, invest in this Shop TODAY-approved tent. The bestseller comes with a waterproof rainfly and is designed for spring, summer and fall camping. The frame is built to survive winds of up to 35 miles per hour. Inside, there are storage pockets and a handy hook for hanging a lantern or flashlight. It comes in three colors and four sizes: 2-person, 3-person, 4-person and 6-person.
Best camping bedding, according to editors
Award-winning selection: Coleman Brazos Sleeping Bag
Material: Polyester | Insulation type: Synthetic | Temperature: 30°F | Weight: 4 lbs.
Winner of best budget sleeping bag in Shop TODAY's 2023 Travel Awards, Coleman is a staple brand for those with and without outdoor experience. Making high-quality products for customers with a low-budget, we were super excited to share that this sleeping bag lived up to that reputation per our reviewers.
Partnership editor Lauren Witonsky noted how cushioned the bag was and even said that “you could get away without a sleeping pad if it was warm enough outside/in the tent.”
Gift-worthy: Nomadix Puffer Blanket
Material: 100% Postconsumer recycled polyester | Insulation type: Synthetic | Dimensions: 74 x 55 in. | Weight: 2 lbs.
Made with post-consumer recycled materials, the Nomadix Puffer Blanket’s convenient snaps make this the perfect stargazing blanket or even a minimalist sleeping bag for warmer temps. I've even personally gifted a few of these blankets to friends and family and it's safe to say they were some happy campers.
Adjustable for warmth: REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag
Material: Recycled polyester | Insulation type: Synthetic | Temperature: 20°F | Weight: 5 lbs. 5 oz.
Another winner from our 2023 Travel Awards, you can use this sleeping bag when truly soaking in the outdoors, whether you’re car camping or sleeping under the stars. With polyester as its main fabric, this sleeping bag is stain-resistant, easy to clean and includes strings to cinch areas like the hood to trap warmth in.
Best camping clothes, according to editors
Your feet will thank you: Smartwool Everyday Barnsley Sweater Crew Socks
Sizes: S-XL | Colors: 4 | Material: 68% merino wool, 11% nylon, 20% recycled nylon
No matter the season, merino wool is always a great idea and no one does it better than Smartwool. I've used the brand's socks for years (and most recently their apparel) during my recent outdoor trips and time and time again, I'm impressed.
Prepare for downpours: Quince Weatherproof Short Rain Jacket
Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 3 | Material: 55% polyester, 45% recycled polyester
You can’t control the weather but you can control if you’re prepared or not for inclement weather. It’s always smart to have a rain coat tucked away in your backpack and this 2023 Travel Awards winner from Quince is the best of the best.
Must-have camping shorts: Patagonia Baggies Shorts
Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 10 | Material: NetPlus postconsumer recycled nylon faille
Perfect for hiking, water sports or just hanging out around the fire, these shorts are easy to clean and most importantly, comfortable. Hoeger highly, highly recommends snagging a pair of these before your next adventure.
"Extremely comfortable": Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Sizes: 5-10.5 | Colors: 3 | Material: Pigskin leather and recycled mesh | Weight: 1 lb. 13 oz.
Whenever you’re spending time outside, shoes will make or break your trip. Thankfully, Merrell cracked the code on designing a hiking boot that is breathable, extremely comfortable for long periods of time and even environmentally friendly. This pair impressed multiple editors on our team thus taking home the gold from our 2023 Travel Awards.
Simple to pack: Stio Women's Pinion Down Hooded Jacket
Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 5 | Fill: 800 RDS-certified down insulation | Material: 100% recycled nylon
While it might be summer, you'd be surprised how cold it can get at higher elevations. This down jacket from Stio is a personal favorite of mine since it's extremely packable and will keep you nice and toasty, no matter the season.
Best camping cooking essentials, according to editors
Simple to wipe down: Coleman Premium Vinyl Tablecloth
Material: Vinyl | Weight: 0.65 lbs.| Dimensions: 54" x 84"
A really good tablecloth is such an underrated camping necessity. "Nearly every campsite comes with a picnic table, and if you’re anything like my family, that’s where a majority of your time is spent, whether you’re eating, making s’mores or playing games! One that’s easy to wipe down or wash when it’s all said and done is key, because it can be reused every summer," explains Hoeger.
Hydration station: GSI Outdoors Water Cube
Capacity: 5.3 gal. | Dimensions: 10.5" x 10.5" x 2.5" | BPA Free: Yes
Holding over five gallons of water, this Travel Awards winner is a reusable, foldable water cube from GSIOutdoors can help you beat dehydration. This product is a must-have if you’re in an area without accessible fresh water. You can also easily use this to wash your dishes after a home-made campfire dinner.
On-the-go sipping: LifeStraw Sip
Removes and destroys: Protozoa and bacteria | Weight: 3 oz. | Dimensions: 10" x 0.5" x 0.5" | BPA Free: Yes
Great for those backpacking, this straw will allow you to drink from remotely any water source, no matter how dirty it may appear. It's well worth the price to stay hydrated on the go. I'm a huge fan of all things LifeStraw so adding this to my backpacking bag was a no-brainer.
Stays cold for hours: Hydro Flask 24 oz. Wide Mouth with Flex Straw Cap
Colors: 13 | Volume: 24 oz. | Weight: 1.5 lbs. | Dimensions: 11.89" x 3.23" x 3.19"
Hydro Flask is a long-time favorite of many editors on our team and for good reason. This bottle is leakproof, insulated, will keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours and dishwasher safe. I've used (and slightly abused) my Hydro on many trips for over six years and she's still standing strong.
Cooking like the pros: Camp Chef Explorer 14 Two-Burner Stove
Fuel type: Liquefied petroleum gas | Dimensions: 34" x 14" x 29" | Weight: 36 lbs. | Warranty: 1-year
I also highly recommend any cooking equipment from Camp Chef since they make everything you need to eat like kings and queens when spending time outside. Ideal for car camping, this stove has over 9,000 five-star reviews with one saying, "We got this and we couldn’t be happier. We are away camping and that’s why we decided to get this. It’s compact, sturdy and the perfect size and works so very well. Super easy to use and put together!"
Keeping food cool: Yeti Roadie 15 Hard Cooler
Colors: 7 | Dimensions: 16.9" x 11.2" x 14" | Capacity: 22 cans or 16 lbs. of ice | Warranty: 5-year
If you're planning on cooking up a grade-A meal outside, you'll need a cooler... no one does it better than YETI, speaking from personal experience. This new launch includes a comfortable 10-inch shoulder strap for easy carrying to and from the campsite. And moms, this cooler carries seven bottles of wine horizontally, just saying!
Other camping essentials
Hands-free light: Black Diamond Equipment Astro 300 LED Headlamp
Colors: 4 | Batteries: 3 AAA alkaline (included) | Weight: 2.65 oz. | Dimensions: 4" x 3" x 2"
Chances are you can't see in the dark and this no frills headlamp will come in handy more than you think. I highly recommend going with a headlamp versus a phone light or flashlight so you can see hands-free, and this pick Black Diamond will get the job done.
Keep your tech charged: OtterBox Performance Fast Charge Power Bank 15,000 mAh
Battery capacity: 55.5 watt hours | Dimensions: 5.55" x 2.87" x 0.87" | Weight: 13.4 ounces
While it's always nice to unplug when spending time outside, sometimes you just need an extra charge. I've used this device to charge my phone, Kindle, lanterns, you name it while camping. It includes both USB-A and USB-C ports.
Comfort on the campground: Kelty Low Loveseat
Colors: 2 | Material: 600-denier polyester | Dimensions: 44" x 31.5" x 23.5" | Weight: 15 lbs. 6 oz.
Every camp site needs a little comfort and that's exact what this loveseat provides. Trust me, I've spent my fair share of hours relaxing in one. Not to mention, it also includes a padded roll-tote storage bag that's perfect for any four-legged friends.
How we choose
While choosing the best camping essentials out there, we asked experts for their recommended products and included editor picks from seasoned campers on the team.
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products and sales out there. We use our own personal experiences with products and brands to make shopping easier for our readers.
Meet the experts
- Chris Durant is an outdoor digital creator. Growing up in Washington state, he has spent the better part of his life exploring the backcountry by thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail and other long-term trails.
- Heather Balogh Rochfort is an award-winning journalist and author who specializes in the outdoor industry. Growing up in Colorado, she's a firm believer that fresh air doesn't cures everything, but a little sunshine and dirt sure go a long way towards a better day.
- Bryan Rogala is the founder of Mountain Standard Creative who has lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, for the past decade. Working in the outdoor industry for over 10 years now, he's an avid mountain biker, skier, horseback rider and bowhunter in his free time.
- Our top picks
- Expert advice for beginner campers
- Expert-approved camping essentials
- Editor-approved products for camping
- Best camping tents, according to editors
- Best camping bedding, according to editors
- Best camping clothes, according to editors
- Best camping cooking essentials, according to editors
- Other camping essentials
- Frequently asked questions
- How we choose
- Meet the experts
