These Are the Camping Essentials You Need for Your Next Adventure (2024)

Fueled by a collective craving for fresh air, overnight camping trips have emerged as a popular summer activity during coronavirus times. But stocking up on the best camping essentials might not feel like second nature if your weekends used to involve more bar-hopping than cliff diving. Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t turn into someone who’s as much at home in a tent as you are huddled on your couch rewatching Bring It On. Camping is a naturally socially distanced pursuit, and with a solid checklist, you can enjoy the great outdoors in all its glory (and all its fickle weather patterns).

Campsite closures and travel restrictions may have thrown off peak-summer getaways, but milder temps and lush foliage are headed our way—early fall is arguably the best time for a newbie to book a campsite and head out. From bucket hats and bug spray to tents and sleeping bags, shop the 34 best camping essentials for a successful weekend outdoors.

Overnight Campsite Essentials

If your last camping experience was in grade school, you’ll probably need to start from scratch. Nonnegotiables for overnight stays include a tent plus sleeping bag, flashlight with extra batteries, foldable chairs, and a fire starter. The below pieces serve as a framework for any adventure you have in mind—and will ensure that you spend your days in nature (slightly) cushioned and comfortable.

Cooking Supplies

It’s not a *true* camping experience if you aren’t preparing your own food—and investing in camp-friendly cooking supplies like a hefty cooler and travel utensils means you can certainly survive a few days sans takeout. Campsites often have a coal fire pit with a grill top handy—all you need to do is start the fire and bring your own pots and pans. If this isn’t your first rodeo, you may want a solution that cooks food a bit more evenly, and the Camp Chef Portable Stove is an affordable option that will make campside dining a breeze.

Other than the sense of accomplishment, the best part about making your own meals is that it’s more sustainable—just don’t forget to compost or recycle your waste! Plus, the majority of your buys can actually be reused for future outdoor pursuits—patio grills included.

Tiny (but Mighty) Staples

Tents, lanterns, and coolers are no-brainers for overnight camp excursions, but don’t overlook the small stuff. Compact essentials like breathable face masks, hand sanitizer, a first-aid kit, and extra towels will ensure a safe, fun, and anxiety-free trip.

Staying Busy

Queen of Camp ’Fits

Even if you tend to prioritize style at all times, practicality should be your main concern when prepping for a camping trip. In addition to long-sleeve sweaters for chilly mornings and nights, you’ll want to bring along versatile pieces, like a pair of bike shorts, a crop top, and do-it-all dad sandals that you can wear comfortably all day long.

Bugs, Be Gone

As wonderful as it is to breathe fresh air, camping anywhere near water can only mean one thing: mosquitoes. Protect your precious limbs from middle-of-the-night bug bites by packing the real camping essentials: DEET-free bug spray, a net hat, and a genius bite suction tool that extracts the poison from under your skin before it can turn into a giant welt.