At the moment, I’m more of a car camper so I optimize for utility and comfort, but do consider compact and lightweight items to reduce space in the car and also double for travel for some items. This post is camping specific gear, but check out my travel gear page for clothing and other things also useful for camping.
UPDATE 2024: As I get older and also wanting to spend longer windows of time outdoors, I decided it was time to make some upgrades for both comfort and also cooler weather. I tend to stick to warmer climates and summers, but even summer in the mountains can get into the 30s or 40s. See below some new gear I’ve purchased and used. In particular I’ve become a huge fan of NEMO products. The design and quality make it well worth the money.
If you see anything you like, please use the Amazon links provided, as they are special links for me which help keep this site ad free.
Tip. If you have an REI near you, they are my preferred store for camping gear and travel gear. If you sign up for a membership, you get money back at the beginning of every year to use towards future purchases as well as special member coupons and deals through the year. Great company. Otherwise, you can find tons on Amazon.
$30
Purchased on Kickstarter, now available for pre-order, this is my favorite belt ever! It fits great and despite all the stuff you can fit inside like money or tools, it's still pretty slim lined. The buckle is awesome quality and looks great for casual or even business attire. Also easy to customize the fit once you get it. Made of nylon type material, it's strong and alternative to leather. I just bought the belt by itself, but as you can see, additional tools/supplies can be purchased separately to put into the belt. Perfect for everyday, travel (hide money, docs, keys), camping, or the wilderness.
$110
I've long fantasized about getting a Leatherman and actually having a use for it. The Signal provides some additional travel/camping/outdoors tools I wanted that the more popular Wave offers. I've used other multi-tools before, but the quality of a Leatherman is unparalleled. Love the serrated knife which I use almost everyday, along with the screwdriver, and the tools plus add-ons are fantastic. There are black, silver, and coyote color options.
$430
I primarily camp in a tent and try to avoid cold weather, so for years I never felt a cold weather sleeping bag was necessary. However, I wanted to open up more options to camp in the mountains, where temperatures can dip into the 30s even in the summer. Temperature ratings are typically survival not comfort. So if you've ever wondered why you're cold in a 35 degree sleeping bag in 45 degree weather, the comfort rating is probably closer to 50 degrees. I sleep cold, so I wanted a sleeping bag with a comfort rating of about 30 degrees. I happened upon a stellar deal on this down sleeping bag, otherwise I would've picked up the Nemo Forte 20 which is the same thing but synthetic. Depending on your needs, down is light but you have to keep it dry, plus it's expensive, while synthetic is a bit more versatile and less expensive. The design of the Nemo sleeping bags are stellar, especially for side sleepers, where you get the advantages of the mummy for less space and thus more warmth while still being able to move around. The gills work well for ventilation and leaving the bag unzipped works well even for weather in the 50s/60s overnight. Tip: Going with a Long allows you to keep clothes in the foot so they're not freezing in the morning when you want to put them on, plus can keep your feet warm. I sometimes bring multiple sleeping bags/liners for different climates or layering since I have them. Some of the items below may be out of production, but you can find similar.
$220
$100
$40
$50
$250
Sleeping pads are hugely important for both comfort and insulation to keep you warm from the ground. My fourth sleeping pad now, I found this to be the best balance between comfort and packability (for the car). The combination of air and memory foam is quite comfortable when inflated properly. Admittedly on the larger side for smaller tents, the design allows it to pack up like a large sleeping bag. I found this even more conveniently shaped when packed than my tubular REI pad. It mostly self inflates if you leave it for 15-30 minutes then the included pump sack is great and takes 1-2 pumps depending on your desired level of firmness. I use this when longer solo car camping. I also use the Klymit (non-insulated) in warmer weather and/or if space is a concern since it packs up really small and is lightweight. It's reasonably comfortable for a couple nights. Tip: Inflating slightly less than "full" will result in a less firm feel. Unroll the pad in your tent right away and let self inflate while setting up the rest of camp so you don't have to waste time and breaths pumping it up.
$70
$80
$45
Another upgrade item for me, this pillow packs up so small into itself and the combination of air plus memory foam along with the outer material makes it quite comfortable and just the right size. Fits perfectly into the NEMO sleeping bag hoods.
$27
$369
The best inexpensive tent I've found. Comes in regular and plus sizes. I recommend the plus size because you get extra length for taller people or space at your feet to put your gear if you don't want to leave it outside. Inside is mesh so it's very breathable and the outer rain fly provides excellent protection in heavy rain (I've experienced first hand). Since it extends, you can also put your gear outside but underneath the rain fly if you have dirty/wet things you want to keep outside your tent. Pockets inside for phone, keys, wallet, etc. Really easy to set up. All around magnificent tent I've been using for over 10 years. Note: I have an older version, so the link is to a newer one. Recommend the footprint for added protection and setting up the rain fly first if it's raining.
$40
Up until recently I had never really invested in a really good headlamp, although the benefits are many. Black Diamond is a well known brand for many things, of which are headlamps. I thought I would hate the simple headband design without anything on top of my head, but this is very comfortable, adjustable and less material makes more compact. Different light modes, setting to lock the light from accidentally turning on, and well made.
$9
$24
Great little collapsible lantern with multiple modes including white light and amber light, which is helpful for falling asleep. Charge via USB or solar. Also acts as a power bank. Very versatile lantern I always have hanging in the tent.
$85
Searching for a camp cookware upgrade, I found this gem. Aluminum for lightweight with ceramic coating for healthy nonstick. Be reasonable with them, but pretty strong so far and pretty even cooking with a Pocket Rocket stove and such easy cleanup. Perfect size for needs of 1-2 people. I prefer only ceramic cookware. Tip: There are a couple different versions depending on if/what MSR stove you have. Don't use over a fire. Do your research as there are many options like GSI and Snow Peak for stainless, aluminum, and titanium all with different benefits and tradeoffs. Tip: wrap the pots (and skillet) in bandanas to protect and get a more snug fit. I picked up the GSI Pinnacle wash bag to store in which fits nicely and you can wash the dishes in it. Collapsible utensils and the Pocket Rocket all fit perfectly in the pots for storing.
$60
For my style of cooking, a skillet is essential, so this is a perfect size and nicely complements my ceramic pots. Small or half of a fish fillet, eggs, I'll even sometimes make a can of soup. Fits great. Unfortunately they don't make a lid though probably not necessary. The ceramic pots fit (with a bit of extra space) inside.
$13
Perfect for boiling water or making soup, rice, beans, etc. Can be a bit tough to clean if you burn stuff at the bottom, but otherwise fantastic. Comes with two small cups perfect for making tea or oatmeal, or just dishing out whatever you make in the main cup. The 24 oz. capacity is good for 2 people. Or good to boil water for a meal plus a cup of tea.
$45
Upgraded from my Etekcity $10 similar stove and this one is more stable and better quality. Also includes 3 wind guards for the burner to prevent flame from going on with wind. Tip: Get the piezo lighter so you don't have to worry about matches.
$45
For my needs with the cookset I have, this was a great purchase. I would've preferred silicon to plastic, but works well and is very compact and lightweight. You can buy the items individually, and the items fit well inside camping pots when storing.
$178
I'm a huge fan of Grayl and own multiple water bottles since they keep coming out with improvements. This one in particular is the ultimate. Super lightweight, same excellent purification filter, slim design, and for the outdoors, has some extra features. Since it's titanium, you can use over heat, including fire, to boil water. It has handles to lower into hard to reach water spots.
$9
This is a must if you like to carry a water bottle. A great complement to the Grayl where once you have clean water, you can fill this water bottle up and throw it in your day pack. Collapsable, so as you drink, it gets smaller unlike a plastic water bottle. Easy to store when empty. Never seems to smell from old leftover water (amazing). Just let it air out once in awhile.
$40
My go to for camping/hiking if I want to bring a salad, sandwich, or something with liquid. Seals tight, no leaks. Compressible, taking up little space in your pack, two-in-one containers. Various sizes. Tip: Don't over tighten!
$15
Surprisingly useful not just for camping. Sometimes if I get yogurt or a salad to go it can be tough to find utensils, and even sometimes similarly in an AirBnB or hotel there is a lack of silverware. This is a fork, spoon, and serrated edge that can be used like a knife. Tip: Go for titanium, the plastic ones break easily.
$12
Genius. Tiny, inexpensive, holds enough spices for a weekend (or longer). I bring two on longer trips and it's all I need. Even take when traveling in general to AirBnbs.
$189
Exceptional quality, well designed, extremely comfortable, light even when loaded with hip belt, adjustable for perfect fit, and expandable to fit an extra 10L. Anything over 60L is overkill. Top head pocket with outside and inside pockets, main mid compartment that holds hydration bladder or laptop. Bottom compartment for shoes, sleeping bag, dirty laundry, etc. that can be opened to lengthen main compartment. I used to prefer a small backpack with carry on rolled suitcase, but this is my new preference as it's lighter, more organized, and easier to carry around on non-paved roads. Load this with packing cubes for better organization and easier access.
$5
Handy for starting fires (obviously) and the waterproofing is useful if you get caught in the rain.
$20
The number refers to the number of cans it holds, implying this is mostly for keeping beer cold. I use this more than I thought I would. With an ice pack, you can keep lunch meat and other things cool for about 24 hours, or generally keep things at a cooler temperature. Useful to take for picnics or generally just to store food, utensils, etc. I always bring this with me car camping or road tripping.
$7
Although you can buy toiletries abroad, finding all natural products is sometimes difficult. Bar soap minimizes the need for liquids for flying. Can be used on hair, body, and face. Lasts 1-2 months depending on your usage.
$10
Pretty amazing. Self cleaning, I have never washed it. Dries in less than an hour and never smells. Use it in the shower or to clean off dirt from shoes or pack. It's not soft, it's a bit rough like a loufah. Something you probably wouldn’t think to bring, but I find it very handy.
$55 (varies)
Absolutely perfect for snacks and leftovers when camping, traveling or at home. Made of strong silicone so durable and reusable. Seals up tight.
$16
Very handy for bathroom when there's no toilet paper available, but also useful for bathing, cleaning, and other emergency uses. You do need to add a bit of water to expand.
$160
I don't spend a ton of time sitting around camp, so I kind of view this as a nice to have item since I'm either out on the trail, in my tent, or at the picnic table most of the time. Of course that's at a campground, but this would be great for wilderness camping or overlanding. I picked this up on sale to try it out and it's so comfortable, packs up really small, is very lightweight, and feels stable. Much better for sitting around the fire, and I also use at home to sit around the fire. I can see it also being useful should I ever upgrade to a larger tent to sit inside.
$55
This small well made axe is helpful for chopping up firewood, even store bought. Usually you don't need to do this, but I've found every once in while logs available are too thick or long and it can be nice to have an axe to make smaller. Certainly a nice to have. Note: I personally like something a bit smaller, but if you want a real splitting axe, go at least the next size up.
$82
Actually purchased for home use to cut up firewood, this thing is amazing and packs up small. Much more comfortable and faster than a folding saw in my opinion. A splitting axe is probably more useful for the campground, but when in the backcountry collecting firewood, this would be handy. Tip: Be careful when folding down and also there are a couple different blades depending on your needs.
$48
Heavy duty water container that's reliable and compact for safely storing water for emergencies, outdoor adventures, or camping trips. Multiple spouts for different use cases. Easy to fill and clean. Very versatile but also simple design.