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Beginner Friendly Camping Items
17
items If I were camping for the first time and needed gear that didn't break the bank, this is what I would buy again. I have purchased all of these items over the past 9 years and these are my first-hand recommendations from personal use.
Sections
2
Tent and Sleeping Essentials
Campsite Essentials
Tent and Sleeping Essentials
Love this blanket. Bought it a couple years ago and it's become my new favorite for sitting around a camp fire. It folds small and it's light. Good for backpacking. It also doubles as my travel blanket for long flights.
KingCamp Down Camping Blanket - Lightweight & Water Resistant
For the price, this tent performs just as well as the more expensive brands. It's my go-to tent for car camping and backpacking. It's super light. It's kept me dry (with footprint) during downpours and the tent fly is a great windbreaker.
Clostnature Lightweight Backpacking Tent
A good footprint helps protect the bottom of your tent from being damaged by rocks and other debris. Bought this from the same company I purchased my tent.
Clostnature Heavy Duty Tent Footprint Tarp
Can't stress enough how valuable quality tent stakes are. These have gotten me through many windy nights.
ABCCANOPY 11" Tent Stakes 10 Pcs Orange
I use this for every camping trip. Small enough to pack light for short distance backpacking, or trips where you need to hike to your campsite.
Vaverto Camping Memory Foam Travel Pillow
This is my go to sleeping pad for backpacking when I need to pack light.
Outdoorsman Lab Ultralight Inflatable Sleeping Pad
My FAVORITE sleeping pad when I'm car camping. So comfy.
KAMUI 2 Inch Self Inflating Camping Pad
This is my go to sleeping bag for warm weather. It compresses well and is good for backpacking during the summer. Personally, I haven't found it suitable for under 55 degrees farhenheit.
ECOOPRO Warm Weather Sleeping Bag - Waterproof, Lightweight, Compact
To stake your tent, you'll need a lightweight hammer. This shouldn't break the bank. Here's an affordable option.
Neiko 02846A 1 LB Dead Blow Hammer Neon
Campsite Essentials
Bought these in 2019 and they haven't failed me yet
Foxelli LED Headlamp Flashlight for Adults & Kids
This is my primary camping chair for all of my trips. I have also done short distance backpacking with it (under 3 miles to campsite).
Hikero High Back Camping Chair, 440 lbs, Black
Titanium is the go-to for camping cookware and eating utensils. It's the lightest and most durable material. This is my everyday camping cup for hot and cold drinks.
COOK'N'ESCAPE 375ml Titanium Camping Mug
Bought these 6 years ago and they're essential on every camping trip. Super lightweight and durable
OUTXE Titanium Flatware Knife Fork Spoon Set
I bought the 2 pack and I bring both of them on my camping trips. I like to hang one at the top of my tent and use the other for walking around. What I love about these is that they can be a lantern, flashlight, or SOS signal. Two ways to charge - ba...
2 Pack Rechargeable LED Camping Lanterns
Next best thing if your campsite doesn't have a shower.
Nurture XL Ultra Thick Body Wipes for Adults with Aloe No Rinse - 40 Pack | Extra Large disposable washcloths offer waterless bathing shower towels designed for senior healthcare, elderly or bedridden
I'm not the best cook on camping trips. My jetboil gets me through. It heats up water and you can use it for anything that rehydrates (ramen, Mac and cheese, dehydrated food). Don't forget to buy the fuel.
Jetboil Flash Portable Fast Boil Stove for Camping and Backpacking with 1-Step Auto Ignition, Propane/Isobutane Burner with Cooking Cup
The best dehydrated food brand. I've tried almost all of their meals and they're so tasty. I like to buy packs of tuna from the grocery soree for an extra protein boost.
Backpacker's Pantry Lasagna | 1-Pack | 29g Protein | 620 Cal | Vegetarian, Nut Free | Made in the USA | Freeze Dried Meal & Camping Food