Stuck in a camping store and not sure what to pick? Follow this guide on how to choose the right camping equipment to help you stock up your camping setup the right way.
Camping is an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and enjoy the great outdoors.
But, if you’re going to have a comfortable and safe experience, you’ve got to choose the right camping equipment.
Here’s a straightforward guide to help you choose the right gear for your next camping adventure. And trust us when we say that the right gear makes all the difference to your experience.
Understanding Your Camping Type
First of all, the type of camping trip you plan to take significantly influences your gear choices. There are various types of camping, including car camping, backpacking, and base camping.
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- Car Camping: Since you have easy access to your vehicle, you can afford to carry heavier and more extensive gear.
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- Backpacking: Weight and compactness are crucial as you will carry everything on your back. Check out our full backpacking checklist for some ideas on what to bring.
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- Base Camping: This involves setting up a main camp and taking day hikes from there, requiring a balance between portability and comfort.
Understanding your camping type helps narrow down the equipment options and ensures you’re adequately prepared for your adventure.
Tent Selection: The Foundation of Comfort
Choosing the right tent is critical for a successful camping trip. Here’s how to pick the best one:
- Capacity: Consider the number of people and any extra space needed for gear. A two-person tent is comfortable for two, but for added space, a three-person tent might be better.
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- Weather Resistance: Ensure your tent is suitable for the weather conditions. Waterproof tents with sealed seams are essential for rainy weather. For winter camping, a tent with a sturdy frame and good insulation is necessary.
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- Seasonal Use: Tents are categorized as three-season (spring, summer, fall) or four-season (winter). A three-season tent is lightweight and ventilated, ideal for milder conditions. A four-season tent is robust and designed to withstand harsh weather.
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- Weight and Portability: For backpacking, choose a tent that balances weight and durability. Ultralight tents are perfect for minimizing load but might compromise on space and comfort.
We’ve got a detailed guide on how to choose a tent for more helpful tips.
Sleeping Bag: Ensuring a Good Night’s Rest
A good sleeping bag is vital for a restful sleep. It’s also one of the trickiest items to decide on when choosing your camping gear. Here’s how to choose the right one:
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- Temperature Rating: Sleeping bags come with temperature ratings. Select one rated for the lowest temperature you expect. It’s better to be slightly warmer than too cold.
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- Insulation Type: Down insulation is lightweight and compressible, making it ideal for backpacking. Synthetic insulation is bulkier but performs better in wet conditions.
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- Shape and Size: Mummy bags are snug and efficient for warmth, while rectangular bags offer more space but can be draftier. Choose a size that allows for comfortable movement without excessive empty space.
Lightweight Gear: Essential for Mobility
If your camping involves hiking or long treks, lightweight gear is essential. Here’s how to choose it:
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- Tents and Sleeping Bags: Look for those specifically designed for backpacking. They should be lightweight yet durable.
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- Cooking Equipment: Opt for compact, multifunctional cookware and portable stoves. Consider fuel type and efficiency for your cooking setup.
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- Backpacks: Choose a backpack that fits well and distributes weight evenly. Features like padded straps, multiple compartments, and hydration compatibility enhance comfort and convenience.
Check out our ultralight backpacking checklist for some inspiration on what items to choose.
Proper Footwear: Your Connection to the Ground
Footwear is a critical component of your camping gear, and the difference between good and bad footwear can seriously impact your camping trip. Here’s how to select the right pair:
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- Fit and Comfort: Ensure your boots fit well and provide ample support. Try them on with the socks you plan to wear and walk around to check for comfort.
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- Durability and Traction: Look for durable materials and good traction to handle varied terrain. Waterproof boots keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
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- Breathability: For summer hiking, choose boots with breathable materials to prevent overheating.
Cooking Equipment: Efficient Meal Preparation
Preparing meals in nature can be enjoyable with the right equipment. Here’s how to choose your cooking gear:
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- Stoves: Select a portable stove that’s easy to use and fuel-efficient. Canister stoves are convenient and lightweight, while liquid fuel stoves work well in cold temperatures.
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- Cookware: Look for lightweight, durable cookware. Non-stick coatings make cleaning easier. Consider multi-use items like a pot that doubles as a mug.
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- Utensils: Choose compact, lightweight utensils. Foldable or multi-functional tools save space and weight.
Our guide on how to set up a camping kitchen sheds more light on what camping equipment is best, as well as some of our best tips for setting your gear up efficiently.
Sun and Insect Protection: Essential for Comfort
Protecting yourself from the sun and insects is crucial for a pleasant camping experience. Here’s how to choose the right protection:
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- Sunscreen: Opt for broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating. Water-resistant formulas are ideal for active days.
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- Insect Repellent: Choose a repellent that is effective against local pests. DEET-based repellents are strong, but natural alternatives like oil of lemon eucalyptus can be effective too.
Lighting: Navigating the Dark
Proper lighting is essential for nighttime activities, and the difference between a good and bad torch or camping lantern is massive. Here’s how to choose your lighting equipment:
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- Headlamps: These are versatile and keep your hands free. Look for adjustable brightness and a comfortable fit. We’d advise getting LED headlamps when possible.
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- Lanterns: LED lanterns are efficient and provide good area lighting. Rechargeable options reduce the need for spare batteries.
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- Batteries: Carry spare batteries or a portable charger to ensure your lights stay powered.
Water Purification: Ensuring Safe Hydration
Access to clean water is vital for camping in many remote areas. Here’s how to choose the best purification method:
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- Filters: Portable water filters remove bacteria and protozoa. They are quick and effective for most backcountry water sources.
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- Purification Tablets: Lightweight and easy to use, tablets are a good backup. They require some wait time to be effective.
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- UV Purifiers: These are fast and effective against a wide range of pathogens but require batteries.
Clothing: Adapting to Changing Weather
Choosing the right clothes can completely enhance your camping experience. Here’s how to choose the right clothing for going camping:
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- Layering System: Use a base layer for moisture-wicking, a middle layer for insulation, and an outer layer for protection against wind and rain. This system allows you to adjust to changing temperatures.
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- Materials: Choose synthetic or wool materials for better moisture management and insulation. Avoid cotton as it retains moisture.
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- Versatility: Pack clothes that can serve multiple purposes. Convertible pants and zip-off sleeves are practical for varying conditions.
Check out our complete guide on what to wear camping for more details.
Navigation: Exploring with Confidence
If you’re going camping somewhere remote, then navigating the wilderness requires reliable tools. Here’s how to choose your navigation aids:
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- Maps and Compass: A detailed map and a reliable compass are essential. Learn how to use them before your trip.
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- GPS Devices: These are useful but shouldn’t replace traditional navigation tools. Ensure it has a long battery life and is pre-loaded with maps of your area.
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- Route Planning: Plan your route in advance, considering the terrain, distance, and potential hazards. Familiarize yourself with key landmarks.
First Aid Kit: Preparing for Emergencies
A well-stocked first aid kit is crucial for any camping gear list. Here’s how to choose and pack it:
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- Basic Supplies: Include bandages, antiseptics, painkillers, tweezers, and any personal medications. Customize your kit based on the specific needs of your group.
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- Instruction Manual: A first aid manual can be invaluable in an emergency. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures.
Waste Management: Respecting Nature
Proper waste management is part of responsible camping. Here’s how to handle it:
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- Rubbish Bags: Bring durable bags to pack out all trash. Separate bags for recyclables can help reduce your environmental impact.
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- Human Waste: Use portable toilets or follow Leave No Trace principles for disposing of human waste. Ensure you’re at least 200 feet away from water sources.
Practice with Equipment: Ensuring Functionality
Before your trip, practice using all your equipment. Here’s why and how:
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- Tent Setup: Set up your tent at home to ensure you know how it works and have all the necessary parts.
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- Cooking Gear: Test your stove and cookware to familiarise yourself with their operation and address any issues.
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- Emergency Drills: Practice first aid procedures and navigation skills. This preparation can be critical in a real emergency.
Adapting to Terrain: Tailoring Your Gear
Different terrains require specific gear. Here’s how to adapt:
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- Snow Camping: For snowy conditions, you’ll need a four-season tent, snow stakes, and additional insulation.
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- Desert Camping: In the desert, prioritise sun protection, lightweight clothing, and extra water storage.
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- Forest Camping: For dense forests, insect protection, sturdy boots, and a reliable map are crucial.
Environmental Respect: Leaving No Trace
Caring for the environment is a key part of camping. Here’s how to minimise your impact:
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- Follow Regulations: Adhere to local rules and guidelines to protect natural habitats.
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- Portable Stoves: Use portable stoves instead of campfires to reduce fire risk and environmental impact.
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- Clean-Up Activities: Participate in or initiate clean-up activities to leave your campsite better than you found it.
Additional Tips for a Successful Camping Trip
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- Weather Check: Monitor the weather forecast before and during your trip to prepare for unexpected changes.
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- Emergency Plan: Share your itinerary with a trusted person and establish check-in times.
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- Comfort Items: Bring small items that enhance comfort, like a camping pillow or a hammock, for relaxation.
Summary
By carefully selecting your camping gear based on these considerations, you’ll be well-prepared for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable outdoor adventure.
Looking for more tips to help you start camping on the right foot? Check out our complete beginner camping guide for everything you need to know before you go.