There’s nothing like getting out of town and spending time with loved ones in the great outdoors. Between toasting marshmallows and exploring your natural surroundings, camping is a great way to take a break from the daily grind. Though even if you’re a seasoned camper, there are always ways to make your outdoor experience that much better.
We’ve rounded up everything from insect-repellent lights to portable sinks. Besides providing added comfort while you’re out there, these items will inspire you to make camping a year-round activity. Read on to learn more about our recommended camping supplies.
If you need to do a bit of walking to get to your campsite, this collapsible gear tote will keep all your things in place. It holds as much as 140 liters of storage and is built with oversized all-terrain wheels, so no worries about lugging your camping supplies over rocks and roots. The Alpaca Gear Wagon comes with a rain and sun cover for additional protection.
Planning a backpacking trip with multiple camping spots? Get from point A to point B without breaking your back with this lightweight—as in one pound—packable chair. The Helinox Chair Zero includes a carry bag for easy transport.
Glamp it up with a roomy 16-Foot Regatta 360 Tent. Constructed with mesh walls for added ventilation as well as water repellent material, this bell tent fits four to eight people (depending on whether you’re using cots) and includes a tool kit bag, storage bag and galvanized poles. While you’re at it, consider adding the Regatta Bell Tent Awning to your cart so your camping space will stay extra protected during harsh weather.
Not a fan of sleeping on the ground? Get a good night’s rest with this cozy camp cot. Perfect for a large tent, it can hold up to 600 pounds and is built with a coil system to ensure comfort and good support. The cot includes a portable carry bag so you can take it along whether traveling by car or foot. You’ll sleep like a log.
Bug Bite Thing Insect Bite + Sting Suction Tool – Target (2% Cash Back)
Unfortunately, insect bites are a part of camping. The good news is, you can use this nifty device to help alleviate mosquito bites and keep itching at bay. Use the suction tool to extract irritants from bug bites and stings so you can move on with your day—scratch free.
Speaking of blood-sucking critters, this Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Lookout Lantern is designed to keep the pests away from your campsite. The lantern uses heat that disperses insect repellent to deter mosquitoes from your personal space. It provides a 15-foot by 15-foot protection barrier so you can enjoy your time outdoors without the bugs.
When it comes to a trusted brand like Igloo, you know you’re making a good investment. This 70-quart cooler can be wheeled over all kinds of terrain and includes a telescoping handle for easy towing. It’s insulated with THERMECOOL™ foam for extended ice retention, so your food and drink will stay cool all day long. Plus, it comes with tons of features like an interior food basket, cup holders, a butler tray and built-in bottle openers.
Camping with kids? If you’re in an area with no phone reception, these walkie talkies will let you get in touch no matter where you are. The radio device works for a 36-mile range and is also waterproof. Not to mention it’s a good thing to have at hand in case of emergency.
Perfect for lounging at your campsite, these slip-ons from Teva will keep you cozy. Featuring a cushioned foam footbed and a protective coating that repels water, it will help your feet stay nice and toasty even when the temperature drops. They're available in men's, women's and kids' sizes.
There’s nothing wrong with a little friendly competition—keep the family entertained with this fun ladder toss game from L.L.Bean. Constructed from finished New Zealand pine wood, this yard game comes with a carrying case so you can take it anywhere. The set includes game pieces and instructions.
Charge up your devices with this lightweight, foldable solar panel. In addition to being waterproof, it also includes two USB ports and adjustable kickstands so you can get maximum sunlight absorption.
If your campground doesn’t have a working sink nearby, this Karl Home Portable Outdoor Sink Hand Wash Basin is a great alternative. Easy to assemble, it includes a built-in carry handle and rolling wheels, along with a towel rack and soap dispenser.
You can’t go camping without making s’mores. Yet even if you forgot to bring all of the fixings (that is, chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers), this s’more-inspired candy bar from Maeve Chocolate is the perfect stand-in. Or better yet, use it to make your next s’more!
Campfire Stories Deck: Prompts for Igniting Conversation by the Fire – ThriftBooks (up to 3% Cash Back)
Draw inspiration from this Campfire Stories Deck while sitting around the fire. The 50-card deck features storytelling prompts to help get you started—now it’s up to you to transform a generic prompt into a Stephen King-level masterpiece.
by Michelle Harris
Michelle Harris is a copywriter at TopCashback. When she’s not writing about money-saving tips, she enjoys hiking, cooking, and spoiling her chunky cat.
