18 must-have accessories for your camping trip

Whether you are planning a great hike up a mountain or a quiet stay by a stream, camping can be made even more enjoyable with the right camping accessories.

If you’ve been camping before, you have a pretty good idea of what you’ll need, but take a look at this guide to make sure you've packed these eight essentials.

18 must-have accessories for your camping trip

Use this checklist to remind yourself what camping accessories you need to pack.

1. Hat and a bandana

These will help keep the hot sun off your face and protect you from a nasty sunburn.

2. Sunglasses

A good pair of polarized sunglasses can make a big difference, especially if you're out on the water for the day.

3. Water-resistant watch

Take a digital vacation as much as possible and go old school by using a watch instead of your phone to tell the time.

4. Waterproof gloves

Camping can be rough on your hands, especially if you are kayaking, climbing or canoeing. A good pair of gloves will prevent blisters and chaffing.

5. Hand warmers

If it gets cold, slip some hand warmers into your pockets or gloves. You’ll be glad you have them.

6. A good book

Take advantage of the fact that you are far away from your TV and computer and grab that book you’ve been meaning to read. When you’re camping you’ll actually have time to read it.

7. A map and compass

You probably know where you are going, but just in case you don’t, or your phone battery dies, it's always good to have a map on hand.

8. Travel towel

Nobody likes to drip dry. A small, quick-dry towel is an essential luxury.

9. Day pack

If you aren’t planning to stay at your campsite all the time, bring a daypack for short hikes. This way you won’t have to lug all your gear around.

10. A high-quality tent

Get a tent that’s comfortable and waterproof. Remember, your tent is hopefully going to come with you on many future camping trips, so find a good one that you’re happy with. A light tent is a huge advantage when you have so many other things to carry to your campsite. Tents come in many shapes and sizes, and have a huge range in price. Do a little bit of research and find one that meets all of your camping requirements.

11. Rope

You should always bring rope as it has multiple uses, but if you're camping for a few days, a good clothesline will help you stay fresh while out in the bush.

12. Head-mounted flashlight

A flashlight is obviously a must-have, but a headlamp will keep your hands free so you can see around camp and read that great book you brought.

13. A sleeping pad

If you have room, a sleeping pad will help you get a good night’s sleep. Look for an insulated one if the nights are getting cooler.

14. Baby wipes

There are a ton of uses and will help you keep your water for essential uses.

15. Fire starter kit

These kits are a winner if you run into an emergency, and come in handy on an evening when you're not in the mood to start your own fire from scratch.

16. First aid kit

This is something you should always have on hand. Even the best survivalists in the world will tell you that the unexpected can happen. Be prepared and keep one in your bag just in case.

17. Pocket knife

Bring one with multiple tools to save space in your bag. Things like little scissors and a corkscrew can come in handy on your adventure.

18. Raincoat

A raincoat is very necessary for camping because the weather is quite changeable.

These little extras may not seem like much, but they can make a big difference when you are out in the wilderness. Before you head out, it never hurts to write out a checklist to remind yourself what camping accessories you need to pack.


Post time: Mar-01-2021