To keep the lights on, we receive affiliate commissions via some of our links. Our review process.
Camping is one of the best ways to de-stress and enjoy a fun and invigorating vacation. In addition to reconnecting with nature, one of the many great things about camping is after you’ve purchased your camping equipment, it can be a pretty inexpensive vacation, too. Read our camping gear review to find all the items you need.
- Camping Gear List
- Best Sleeping Bag: Coleman North Rim Extreme Weather Sleeping Bag Review
- Best Sleeping Pad: Better Habitat Review
- Best Backpacking Stove: Fire-Maple "Fixed Star 1" Backpacking & Camping Stove Review
- Best Camping Backpack: TETON Sports Explorer 4000 Internal Frame Backpack Review
- Best Camping Chairs: Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair Review
- Best Camping Cot: Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot Review
- Best Camp Stove: Coleman Classic Propane Stove Review
- Best Camping Grill: Texsport Heavy Duty Over Fire Camp Grill Review
- Best Lantern For Camping: Divine LEDs Review
- Best First Aid Kit For Camping: Everlit 250 Piece Emergency Kit Review
- Video: Camping Hacks
- Best Tents For Camping
- Best Coolers For Camping
Camping Gear List
Before you pack your bags, we’ve selected the best camping supplies and reviewed them in detail below so you won’t be left in the dark. Click on the item below to jump to that section, or read on to see them all.
Sleeping Bag | Sleeping Pad | Stove | Backpack | Chair | Cot | Grill | Lantern | First Aid | Tents | Coolers
Best Sleeping Bag: Coleman North Rim Extreme Weather Sleeping Bag Review
The Coleman North Rim Extreme Weather sleeping bag is made of polyester and can be used in the single digits. It compresses down to a smaller size to take up less packing space. We want to note that this bag can be used for backpacking trips, but there are lighter and more compact bags out there.
What ultimately made it our pick for the best sleeping bag was the fact that you can get it for under $75, and it’s a 0-degree bag—that is extremely uncommon.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fits most people up to 6’2″ | Not the best for backpacking |
| Keeps you warm down to 0º F | |
| 5-year limited warranty | |
| Bottom unzips for more ventilation when it’s warmer outside | |
| Machine washable | |
| Comfortable | |
| Comfortable Very inexpensive |
Pricing
Looking for a different style sleeping bag? Check out these other recommended products:
- Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag: TETON Sports TrailHead
- Best Lightweight Sleeping Bag: Outdoor Vitals 3 Season
- Best Two-Person Sleeping Bag: TETON Sports Mammoth
Best Sleeping Pad: Better Habitat Review
We were sent Kids and Single sleeping pads from Better Habitat in exchange for an unbiased review.
These sleeping pads can be used for many purposes, including guest beds, sleepovers for your kid’s friend, or camping pads. They are easy to unroll and comfortable, with 2 inches of memory foam for the Kids version and 3 inches for the Single and Twin versions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1-year warranty | It is not as compact as an air mattress or sleeping pad for backpacking |
| Durable, quality material | |
| Rolls up easily and stores nicely | |
| Waterproof cotton terry cover | |
| Includes a travel bag |
Pricing
- Twin: $159.95
There are also Kid’s and Single sizes available for less money. Click the link above to check pricing.
My Personal Experience With Better Habitat Sleeping Bag
I can’t tell you how often I’ve slept on an air mattress or had a guest sleep on one, only to wake up in the morning with it completely deflated. That is not an issue with these comfortable memory foam sleep pads.
We love how easy it is to transport them since they include travel bags with straps. So whether you’re car camping, staying at your grandparents, or crashing in a hotel but don’t want to splurge on an extra bed, these sleeping pads are easy to throw on your back and head out the door with.
Best Backpacking Stove: Fire-Maple “Fixed Star 1” Backpacking & Camping Stove Review
You can’t beat this portable propane jet burner backpacking stove from Fire-Maple. It is made of aluminum alloy and stainless steel to withstand high temperatures and weight. Includes a 1-liter hard anodized aluminum cooking pot with a stainless steel handle. This stove includes a carrying case so you can toss it in your backpack and hit the trail. It works with most propane canisters except Coleman. Minimizes boiling time and weighs just 18 oz.
Whether you want to just camp, backpack, fish, or hunt, this is a great stove to have on hand in the Great Outdoors. From boiling water to drink, making fish stew, or brewing up some campfire coffee, this stove is a worthwhile addition to your camping gear.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and lightweight | Fuel can not included |
| Stainless steel heat-proof handle | Pot is not dishwasher safe |
| Includes cooking pot | |
| Insulating neoprene cover | |
| Reduces boiling time by up to 30% | |
| Cooks for 1 – 3 people |
Pricing
Best Camping Backpack: TETON Sports Explorer 4000 Internal Frame Backpack Review
Most camping backpacks set you back a couple hundred dollars—not this one. You can go on a 2-5 day backpacking trip with this adjustable pack. Anyone from 5’1″ to 6’4″ can wear this 65-liter pack.
There are pockets, pouches, loops, and straps for your gear to fit into or hang from. The back has padding and airflow to make for a comfortable fit. Perfect for a long day hike or an overnight trip.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Limited lifetime warranty | No bladder included |
| Waterproof zippers | |
| Fits up to a 3-liter bladder | |
| Numerous pockets, pouches, loops and straps | |
| Fits various heights |
Pricing
Best Camping Chairs: Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair Review
Having a good chair to sit back in and enjoy the view is essential when you’re camping. It must be durable with all the packing and unpacking you’ll do with your gear. If you plan on fishing, birdwatching, crafting, or even sitting around the campfire, you want a sturdy chair that is comfortable, and that will not cause back or leg pain.
This chair can hold up to 800 pounds and has two mesh cup holders and a padded back and seat. Plus, it comes in over 10 color options. The carrying case and handles make it easy for even kids to carry. The downside? The fabric has no air vents so that you may sweat in this chair.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Weight capacity 800 pounds | Not the most breathable fabric |
| 2 cup holders | Some people do not like the hard plastic parts of the frame |
| Padded back and seat | |
| Foldable design and included carry bag | |
| Dimensions: 38″ x 20″ x 38″ |
Pricing
Best Camping Cot: Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot Review
The Coleman cot is sturdy, and it fits up to 6’6″ people and up to 300 pounds. There are hundreds of reviews raving about the comfort, size, and dimensions of this cot, and we couldn’t help but choose it as the best cot for camping. It comes with a comfy mattress pad, bringing the comfort of home to your tent. Plus, it is elevated off the ground, keeping campers away from critters that crawl in the tent.
The unfolded dimensions are 80″ x 30″ x 15″, and the folded dimensions are 39.6″ x 30.7″ x 5.5″. Also comes in a standard size, which is 69″ x 25″ x 15″ when unfolded.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fits heights up to 6’6″ | Is heavy to carry around |
| Weight capacity 300 pounds | |
| 1 year limited warranty | |
| Thick, comfortable foam mattress | |
| Folds and fits inside most car trunks |
Pricing
Our Personal Experience With The Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot
I am a lifelong explorer of the outdoors. Camping is an activity I did as a kid, and then embraced with my own children. We have camped all over the deserts and mountains of the Southwest. Over the years sleeping the ground became impossible for me due to back pain. So, I purchased several cots to try. The Coleman cot is my top pick due to it’s durability. When laying on it I never feel like it is going to break or buckle.
Without the pad it is not as comfortable, but with a mattress, the cot makes for a truly supportive place to bunk. Since purchasing I have had far less pain and discomfort than when sleeping on the ground. It is heavy, and takes up room when packing, but it is well worth the effort. Placing two cots side by side makes a cozy double sleeper spot as well. This cot is a must have for any camping trip I make.
–Danielle DeGroot, writer for Safe Smart Living and camping enthusiast
Best Camp Stove: Coleman Classic Propane Stove Review
When you go camping, you want to be one with nature. That means cooking outside and enjoying every bit of the outdoors. This Coleman camping stove pays for itself and lasts a long time with proper care. You only need a suitable propane canister and a flat spot to set things up. Perfect for picnic tables or fireside cooking.
We all know how expensive eating out can be, but for about $50, you can have this stove, and it will make meals on meals on meals. Now, that’s an excellent investment for your camping gear list.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 3-year limited warranty | Replacement parts a be hard to find |
| Wind block panels shield burners | |
| 2 burners fit a 12″ and 10″ pan at the same time | |
| Easy to clean |
Pricing
Our Personal Experience With The Coleman Classic Propane Stove
I have owned a couple of these camping stoves. The first one I had lasted about 15 years. It is easy to use and works reliably just about every time. I have cooked hundreds of meals on this stove. The windbreak panel makes it easy to use even in windy, wet weather. In fact, the stove did not break. We misplaced the pressure regulator. I have repurchased the same stove myself and as a gift for another person due to the ease of use and reliability.
–Danielle DeGroot, writer for Safe Smart Living and camping enthusiast
Best Camping Grill: Texsport Heavy Duty Over Fire Camp Grill Review
If you’re camping and planning on cooking, why not take advantage of your campfire? This grilling rack sets over the campfire, so you don’t have to worry about propane, and instead, you can use the fire to cook your food.
This rack is durable enough to hold cast iron pans and comes in various sizes, so you’re bound to find one that will fit over your campfire. It also folds up easily for travel.
Tip: If you want to cook hotdogs or hamburgers directly on the grill, we suggest covering it with aluminum foil first.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Folds up | The paint may chip off |
| Sturdy | Some have rusted over time |
| Cook food in a pan or directly on the grill |
Pricing
Best Lantern For Camping: Divine LEDs Review
There are no buttons for this one, which is interesting because instead, you pull the lantern “apart,” and the LEDs turn on. They offer a significant amount of light. The handles make it easy to carry, and I’ve even tied mine to my hammock. These are also perfect for around-the-house use, in the basement, as nightlights, and even to do auto repairs as they fit right under the hood.
I personally own this camping lantern from Divine LEDs and love it. It collapses to only 5 inches tall, which makes it easy to pack.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 10-year warranty | None found |
| Long battery life | |
| Very bright | |
| Compact |
Pricing
Best First Aid Kit For Camping: Everlit 250 Piece Emergency Kit Review
No one should ever take on the outdoor world without a first aid kit. This is especially true when camping, where there are multiple opportunities for injuries like burns, scrapes, cuts, and more. The Everlit kit includes 250 pieces of equipment and first aid gear to help in an emergency. It comes in a Mole EMT pouch that is water resistant. First aid supplies are some of the best camping gear for families to have on hand.
The Everlit kit includes everything needed to offer first aid to minor camping injuries, as well as emergency gear such as glow sticks, a multi-tool, and a rain poncho. With this kit, you will be prepared for when the unexpected hits. Restock with your supplies as needed. This is also a great place to keep any necessary medication campers need.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 250 quality supplies | Multi-tool and flashlight are small |
| First-aid and emergency gear | Does not include antihistamines or painkillers |
| Weatherproof Molle pouch | |
| Compact and easy to carry | |
| Designed by survival experts |
Pricing
Video: Camping Hacks
Make your next camping trip easier by implementing some of these camping hacks.
Best Tents For Camping
In addition to camping gear, if you’re looking for the best tent to take on your camping trip, check out our in-depth reviews of tents.
Best Coolers For Camping
We’ve reviewed some of the best coolers for various occasions, including camping. Read our best cooler comparison article to see which will keep your food and drinks cold for days. For those who may need to replenish drinking water on the go, there are many backpacking water filter systems that are easy to use. If you seek more adventurous outdoor excursions, learn more in our in-depth reviews of adventure travel companies.
Which piece of camping equipment has changed your life for the better? Let us know in the comments!
Tagged With:
