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It happens often: The first campers head into the wilderness with one scene and one sleeping bag, ready for a few days of relaxing outside. And then, within a few hours, they realize that they are very bored. From kitchen supplies to warm sleeping gear to bug spray, there's a lot to remember when packing for a camping trip. It may seem daunting at first, but don't worry: It's totally manageable and gets exponentially easier with each trip.
Camping Equipment Checklist for Beginners
If you're planning your first or second camping trip, we're here to help. Below is a complete checklist of camping gear for beginners including everything you need scene, camp kitchen and wardrobe. We've included links to our top picks for each item — all available from trusted brands with an average rating of at least 4/5 stars.
Camping equipment
The most important part of your camping trip is, of course, the campsite. If you are buying one scene, always vent to the side of too big instead of too small, and be sure to pick one that's easy to set up if you're new to tent setup. As for your sleeping arrangement, find one sleeping bag corresponding to the lowest night temperature at your destination. Summer sleeping bags are good for 30°F and above, three-season sleeping bags are for 15°F to 30°F, and winter sleeping bags are for 15°F and colder. ONE sleeping pad and pillow is also necessary, and camping chairs make a huge upgrade for mornings and evenings relaxing by the fire.
Scene: Big Agnes Bunk House 6 Tent, $489.99
Sleeping bag: The North Face Wawona Bed 20 Sleeping Bag, $78
Sleeping pillow: NEMO Quasar 3D Insulated Sleeping Pad, $119.99
Camping pillow: NEMO Fillo Camping Pillow, $33.74
Lamp: Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 Lantern & USB Power Hub, $69.99
Camping chairs: Helinox Savanna Chair, $164.96
Natural Bug Spray: Murphy's Naturals Insect Repellent Spray (2-pack), $19.98
Tools & Personal Equipment
An easy way to be more prepared is to invest in a few basic tools, starting with a reliable multi-tool. Tanner it's really the only name in this category, so pick one up if you don't already have one. You will also need one projector, a first aid kit and duct tape (this comes in handy shockingly often). Also, be sure to find out if firewood is available. if not, bring one ax get yours.
Multitool: Leatherman Wave+, $119.99
Projector: Black Diamond Astro 300 Projector, $19.95
Ax: Hults Bruk Almike All Purpose Hatchet, $154
Tape: The Original Duck Brand Duct Tape, $7.95
First aid box: All Purpose First Aid Only Emergency Kit, $16.46
Camping Duffel: NEMO Double Haul 55L Convertible Duffel & Tote, $134.96
Food, Water & Cooking Supplies
Kitchen supplies are sometimes neglected by novice campers and hungry campers are not happy. Be sure to pick one up portable stove or grillas well as a pot and/or pana cooking knife, and serving utensils. Also, perhaps most importantly, a large, reliable one refrigerator.
Stove or Grill: Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 Stove, $209.99
Refrigerator: Yeti Roadie 60, $450
University/University: TOAKS titanium pot with pan, $54.95
Utensils: UCO Utility Spork 3-in-1 Combo (4-pack), $10.99
Knife: Camp Chef Deluxe Knife Set, $69.99
cups: Coleman 12oz Coffee Mug, $9.24
Water filter: LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Outdoor clothing
As with most outdoor activities, layers are the name of the game when figuring out your camping wardrobe. Even if you're camping in the summer, be sure to pack thermal underwear and a warm jacket, as well as regular outdoor clothing and shoes. Mornings and evenings out in the wild are beautiful, but they are also colder than most beginners realize.
Long Sleeve T-Shirt:
Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie for Men, $74
Women's Free Fly Women's Bamboo Shade Hood II, $74
Mountaineering shoes: In Cloudhorizon Waterproof Hiking Shoes, $189.99
Woolen Socks: Darn Tough Critter Club Micro Crew Lightweight Socks, $24
Thermal underwear:
Men's Smartwool Merino Baselayer Top, $115 / Down, $90
Women's Smartwool Merino Baselayer Top, $115 / Down, $115
Warm jacket:
Patagonia Men's Sweater, $279
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