Here's Your Definitive Check List For Your Next Camping Adventure (2024)

These days, sleeping in the woods doesn't mean completely roughing it. Whether you're interested in glamping in a National Park, camping on a beach, or pitching a tent in a forest, the right camping gear (gadgets, accessories, and more!) are guaranteed to make your next outdoor adventure that much more enjoyable.

Need more incentive to spend some time in the great outdoors? Doing so will do your body (and mind!) a lot of good, according to science. You can actually quiet the part of your brain that's responsible for overthinking by spending time in nature, per research published by PNAS

Below you'll find everything you need to feel like a badass while you hit the trails, the beach, or the countryside to spend some quality time communing with Mother Nature—from tents you can totally pitch by yourself, to sleeping bags, lanterns, and all the other outdoor camping gear that'll make your next adventure all the more great!

✎ EdSig

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Not a fan of laying your head down on the ground? No biggie. Try this compression pillow on for size. It expands easily when unpacked, has valves so you can adjust the inflation level, and comes with the softest pillowcase for a spa-like experience, even while out in the woods.

This ultra portable mattress pad can literally roll up to fit in your pocket, yet it doesn't sacrifice an ounce of comfort when it's time to lie down after a long day in the backcountry. It's also designed in a way that minimizes heat loss, so you can stay cozy all during your night under the stars.

Meet the aptly-named Venture Pal: It's a durable, lightweight pack that's carefully crafted to be travel-friendly. From the contoured shoulder and hip straps to the adjustable back panel suspension, it's the perfect multi-day adventure partner.

With simple setup (yes, even if you've never put up a tent before) and plenty of room for two, this is an easy pick for surviving a weekend in the woods. And don't worry about getting caught in the rain. Thanks to its weatherproof material, this tent will keep you dry.

Washing your hands or the dishes can be a pain if you're out trying to get in touch with nature, but this portable sink makes it convenient. You can fill it up with water, and use the foot pump to get a stream going up top. P.S. this fancy schmancy sink comes with a soap dispenser and towel holder, too.

This "smart" rechargeable headlamp automatically adjusts brightness to whatever you need in the moment. It's a game-changer for evening hikes and midnight bathroom runs when nature calls.

Can't find a water source to take a quick shower? These minimally-scented wipes will do the trick, and keep you feeling fresh and clean. The container's resealable, so the wipes won't go dry before you're able to use each one.

Country Living editors share everything you need to cook up and plan an amazing outdoor adventure in this full-color, beautifully-crafted keepsake book. It includes 100+ recipes and ideas for camping, picnics, porch parties, and more. Add these to the camping menu (you can't fuel your day with s'mores alone, as much as ya want to).

Whether you're in the backyard or backwoods, this lantern will help you stay free from mosquitos—no sprays, DEET, or open flames required. It offers 15 feet of protection, using naturally-occurring repellents found in plants.

This down-filled sleeping bag is the perfect companion when you're really missing your bed. It's made with warm and fluffy goose down that's almost comparable to the comfort you get from sleeping on a mattress.

If you're camping as a couple, this fit-for-two sleeping bag will seriously up the cozy factor. Bonus: The side zipper makes it easy to sit up for fireside cuddling. The bag can also be used as two separate sleeping bags, if needed.

Whether you're tailgating, skiing, canoeing, or camping, this is one of the best flasks for outdoor happy hours, thanks to it's easy no-slip silicone grip and wide mouth for easy filling, pouring, and sipping.

A fan-favorite of backpackers, this lightweight stove won't weigh you down or make your stomach grumble at camp (it boils a liter of water in just 3.5 minutes!). Since it weighs less than three ounces, it's super easy to pack.

I don’t want to sound overly sensational because I get it—it’s freeze-dried food. But time and time again, I've been surprised by how satisfying these "just-add-water meals" can be. Hey, ya never know when hunger's gonna strike.

While we're on the topic of food, do yourself a favor and bring these on your next backpacking trip. Skip the trail mix and bars for something a little more luxe even when outdoors. This almond butter snack can be eaten alone straight from the pouch, or spread on your favorite bread or crackers.

Looking to step up your campsite cooking game? This double burner is one of the most powerful—yet impressively portable—compact stoves around. The kit includes a cooking stove, two aluminum non-stick pots, a stainless steel cup, and utensils.

Turn this soft cooler into a mini-fridge on your next car camping trip. Just add a little ice, and it'll keep your food and drinks cold and fresh for up to three days. Don't worry any mess. It's leakproof!

Don't want to jump in the lake, but also don't want to just wipe down with wet towels? This shower bag's your solution. It can carry up to five gallons of water, and heat it up in just three hours using natural sunlight.

Trying to travel light? This multi-use pot with a heat-resistant lid and cup is the perfect size for all your solo (or duo) backpacking needs.

Pliers. Saw. Fire starter. Whistle. Oh, and 15 other useful tools, wrapped up into one pocket-sized package. Beginner camping gear win!