There’s an entire world of gear when it comes to camping equipment, and navigating through it can be just as rigorous as an actual hiking trip. Here are our picks for the best equipment that outdoor enthusiasts will actually use.
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1. NEMO Equipment Inc. Meldr Hammer
Price: $50
From: backcountry.com
When it comes time to put in tent stakes, you’ll thank yourself for bringing this along. It also doubles as a bottle opener, which is sure to come in handy.
2. MSR Elixir Tent: 3-Person 3 Season
Price: $300
From: backcountry.com
For accommodating three people, the Elixir tent is extremely light, saving your group precious pounds when you’re packing for your next backpacking trip.
3. Big Agnes Insulated Tent Comforter
Price: $120
From: backcountry.com
Sleeping bags have been the name of the game for a long time, and the best way to add to that comfort is the Big Agnes Insulated Tent Comforter, which lines the bottom of your tent for extra warmth.
4. Sea To Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Sleeping Pad
Price: $190
From: backcountry.com
Part of camping is getting away from it all, but with this insulated sleeping pad, you don’t need to get away from a comfortable mattress.
Gear Patrol Magazine Subscription
Price: $39
From: store.gearpatrol.com
5. Snow Peak IGT Light Table
Price: $485
From: backcountry.com
There’s not much counter space in the great outdoors, but you can upgrade your campsite’s cooking potential with this durable yet lightweight table.
6. Kelty Mesh Low-Love Seat
Price: $100
From: backcountry.com
Having a place to sit other than the ground makes a campsite feel a bit more civilized, and the more the merrier with the Kelty Mesh loveseat.
8. YETI M30 Hopper Cooler
Price: $300
From: backcountry.com
If you want an ice-cold beer on the latter days of your camping trip, this is your best bet without having to lug in an ice chest.
9. Camp Chef National Parks Cast Iron Set
Price: $79
From: backcountry.com
The only thing that beats cooking in cast-iron over a campfire is doing it with a unique cast-iron set adorned with scenes from the National Parks.
10. Petzl Swift RL Headlamp
Price: $120
From: backcountry.com
If you’ve ever set up camp in the dark, you know how crucial a good headlamp is. This one automatically adjusts brightness and includes a rechargeable battery.
11. Lander Cairn Lantern + Power Bank
Price: $50
From: backcountry.com
Not only does this lantern illuminate your campsite with 300 lumens of LED light, it serves as a power bank so you can recharge your gadgets.
12. Garmin InReach Mini
Price: $350
From: backcountry.com
This device offers GPS maps, weather forecasts, SMS messages and email — and tracks and shares your location in case things get hairy on your next expedition.
13. Powertraveller Harrier 25 Wireless Power Pack
Price: $79
From: backcountry.com
This durable portable charger from Powertraveller can charge your device again and again while resisting moisture, dust and impact damage.
14. Powertraveller Solar Adventurer Charger
Price: $89
From: backcountry.com
If you’re out on the trail for the long haul, this ultralight portable charger can keep your phone juiced while recharging itself via solar power.
