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Over the years, our experts at Field & Stream have tested hundreds of camping products in the field for every outdoor adventure, from backpacking to car camping. To help you put together the perfect camp setup, we’ve compiled our research into this convenient guide featuring 29 of the best camping gear selections we’ve covered. This list includes almost everything you might want (or need) to bring along on your next camping trip.
Best Tents and Shelters
Best Camping Tent: Big Agnes Spicer Peak 6
Best Backpacking Tent: Nemo Dragonfly OSMO
Best Canvas Tent: White Duck Regatta Bell Tent
Best Rooftop Tent: Yakima SkyRise HD
Best Camping Hammock: Sea to Summit Pro Hammock Set
Best Sleeping Gear
Best Sleeping Bag: Nemo Forte Endless Promise
Best Sleeping Bag Liner: Big Agnes Wool Sleeping Bag Liner
Best Camp Blanket: Appalachian Gear Company All-Paca Blanket
Best Sleeping Pad: Nemo Tensor Insulated
Best Air Mattress: Sierra Designs Two-Person Airbed
Best Camping Cot: Alps Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot
Best Coolers and Camp Cooking Gear
Best Cooler: OtterBox Venture 25
Best Water Filter: CNOC Outdoors Vecto and Versa Flow
Best Food Storage: Klean Kanteen Food Box Set
Best Camp Stove: MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe
Best Camp Griddle: Camp Chef Professional Fry Griddle
Best Camp Grill: Primus Profile Dual
Best Camp Chair: Helinox Ultralight Chair
Best Camp Table: KingCamp Bamboo Folding Table
Best Lighting and Tools
Best Camp Storage: Yeti LoadOut GoBox 60
Best Camp Gadget: Decathlon Pressure Solar Camping Shower
and Shower Tent
Best Flashlight: Goal Zero Torch 500 Multi-Use Light
Best Lantern: Goal Zero Lighthouse 600
Best Headlamp: Biolite 330 Rechargeable Headlamp
Best Multitool: Leatherman Wave Plus
Best Camp Shovel: OKOOLCAMP Survival Camping Shovel
Best First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kit Mountain Series Hiking
Solar Generator: Goal Zero Yeti 1500x
Best Camp Accessory: White Duck Wood Carrier
How We Tested Camping Gear
The best camping gear is not an all-inclusive list of things you may want to bring along on your camping trip, and you’ll find items suitable for all types of camping. While we didn’t have the space to include everything for backpacking, car camping, or RV life, we did our best to include a variety of items that you’d use for some or all of those activities. Most of the gear included is also featured in other gear roundups and is ranked as the “best overall” for that specific category.
Since this article includes a wide range of gear, we selected equipment based on previous product testing and gear picks made by Field and Stream writers and editors. When choosing the best camping gear, durability, functionality, and sustainability are considered. Products are subject to change as more product testing is conducted and additional products enter the market, so check back for our most up-to-date recommendations.
Best Tents and Shelters
Finding the best tent or camping shelter depends on intended use, climate, and personal preference. A tight budget can interfere with investing in specific tents that may have the highest functionality and performance. In our many more in-depth tent reviews, we always include a budget pick among our other categories. Regardless of the intended use or frequency of use, a few things always remain: your tent needs to be suitable for the weather conditions, easy to set up, made from durable materials, and has enough room for gear along with a comfortable sleeping space.
Best Camping Tent: Big Agnes Spicer Peak 6
Pros
Interior standing height
Two doors and vestibules
Great ventilation
Sealed seams
Cons
High price point
Footprint sold separately
Ranked in our best camping tents and best family camping tents articles, the Big Agnes Spicer Peak 6 is a spacious, durable tent with ample headroom and superior weather protection.
Full product review: Best camping tents and best family camping tents
Best Backpacking Tent: Nemo Dragonfly OSMO
Pros
Two large vestibules
Ample interior organization
Lightweight and highly portable
Straightforward setup
Bluesign-approved fly & floor materials
Cons
Footprint not included
Price
The Nemo Dragonfly OSMO is featured as the best overall pick for ultralight and backpacking tents because of the poly-nylon ripstop fabric, level of water repellency, and stretch resistance when wet. Plus, the OSMO fabric is made from 100% recycled yarn and is PFAS-free while still meeting flame retardancy without using harmful chemicals.
Full product review: best ultralight tents and best 2-person backpacking tents
Best Canvas Tent: White Duck Regatta Bell Tent
Pros
Roomy interior with standing room
Excellent ventilation
Water- and mold-resistant
Highly packable for the size
Relatively simple setup
Mallet included
Cons
Heavy
More expensive
Ground tarp sold separately
The White Duck Regatta Tent is one of their most popular designs that can fit up to four people, is easy to set up for the size, and is highly durable in a variety of weather conditions.
Full White Duck brand review: best tent brands
Best Rooftop Tent: Yakima SkyRise HD
Pros
Easy assembly
Weatherproof
Quiet in the wind
Cons
Must mount on crossbars
Featured in our best rooftop tents article, the Yakima SkyRise HD is an excellent softshell tent option with easy installation, combined with the lightweight design, making it a perfect tent for weekenders or those who will need to frequently take the tent on and off their vehicle.
Full product review: best rooftop tents
Best Camping Hammock: Sea to Summit Pro Hammock Set
Pros
Easy setup
Versatile
Lightweight
Affordable
Cons
Only compatible with branded suspension system
Bug net and tarp sold separately
Featured in our best camping hammocks article, the Sea to Summit Pro Hammock Set has the right feel, durability, and price while providing a reliable hammock camping experience.
Full product review: best camping hammocks
Best Sleeping Gear of 2023
Get the most comfortable night’s sleep no matter where you camp with the best sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and other necessary sleep system gear items. While you likely don’t need one of each featured below, a variety of options are included to ensure that no matter the type of camping you enjoy, we’ve found a recommendation that fits your needs. Across the board, we seek out highly durable and functional products designed by some of the most sustainable brands.
Best Sleeping Bag: Nemo Forte Endless Promise
Pros
Bluesign-approved fabric
Available in both regular and long sizing (fits up to 6-foot-6 adult)
Made from recycled materials
100% recyclable
Comfortable for side sleepers
Synthetic insulation continues to insulate when wet
Cons
Price
Synthetic insulation makes it heavier and larger to pack down
An upgrade to Nemo’s classic Forte sleeping bag, they’ve introduced the Forte Endless Promise, made from 100% recycled materials and completely recyclable when you’re done using it.
Best Sleeping Bag Liner: Big Agnes Wool Sleeping Bag Liner
Pros
Made from mostly natural materials
Snaps open and closed on the side
Mummy-style liner
Hooks on hood and foot to attach to sleeping bag
Cons
Same design is also available in cotton and fleece, but those fabrics do not perform as well and are much heavier
Featured in our best sleeping bag liner article, the Big Agnes Wool Sleeping Bag Liner is a durable wool liner suited for a variety of temperatures and conditions.
Full product review: best sleeping bag liners
Best Camp Blanket: Appalachian Gear Company All-Paca Blanket
Pros
Soft, cozy feel
Made in the USA
Packs down relatively small
Unique stitching prevents runs in the fabric
Made from natural materials
Cons
Works for short backpacking trips, but is not the most packable
Featured in our best outdoor blanket article, the All-Paca Blanket is lighter than most wool blankets and has a better feel and functionality than synthetic fabric blends.
Full product review best camping blankets
Best Sleeping Pad: Nemo Tensor Insulated
Featured in our best sleeping pad article, the Nemo Tensor Insulated is an ultralight and packable design ideal for trails of any length and difficulty level.
Full product review: best sleeping pads for camping
Pros
Cons
– Available in several sizes– Ultralight design– Pump sack included– Easy to inflate and deflate– Packable size– Nemo Lifetime Warranty
– Price– Not the most durable
The Nemo Tensor Sleeping Pad (middle) during testing for the best sleeping pad article – Meg Carney
Best Air Mattress: Sierra Designs Two-Person Airbed
Featured in our best air mattress article, the Sierra Designs Two-Person Airbed is durable, comfortable, and budget-friendly.
Full product review: best air mattresses for camping
Pros
Cons
– Made from durable TPU materials– Battery-operated pump to inflateand deflate– Built-in headrest to eliminate needfor pillows
– Smaller than aqueen mattress
Best Camping Cot: Alps Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot
Featured in our best camping cot article, the ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot is lightweight, portable, and a great all-around cot for camping.
Full product review: best camping cots
Pros
Cons
– Lightweight– Folds up small– Great weight capacity
– Setup takes several minutes
Best Coolers and Camp Cooking Gear
The camp kitchen you choose depends on the type of camping you enjoy, but many items are versatile enough to work well for car camping, backpacking, or your next hunting trip. Some items featured are likely best suited for car camping. Still, regardless of the application, the items chosen for the best camp kitchen accessories are all selected based on previous gear articles and product testing.
Best Cooler: OtterBox Venture 25
Featured in our best cooler article, OtterBox’s Venture 25 is a well-constructed, versatile accessory designed to make your trip more enjoyable by keeping food fresh.
Full product review: best coolers for camping
Pros
Cons
– Lightweight for its size– Strong latch system for keeping food cold– Accessories are perfect for camping trips
– Carry handles are slightly bulky– Small for extended trips
Best Water Filter: CNOC Outdoors Vecto and Versa Flow
Featured in our best backpacking water filter review, the Versa Flow is a functional and versatile standalone filter that can be used as a gravity filter or squeeze filter. When used as a gravity filter, we recommend pairing it with the CNOC Outdoor Vecto bags.
Full product review: best backpacking water filters
Pros
Cons
– Lightweight system– Durable CNOC bags– Versatile filter application– Clear window to see when cleaning is needed– Affordable price
– Needs to be backflushed often for best flow rate
Testing the CNOC Vecto and Versa Flow bikepacking in Montana – Meg Carney
Best Food Storage: Klean Kanteen Food Box Set
The Klean Kanteen Food Box Set is a durable and plastic-free way to store food for a picnic, camping trip, or daily lunch.
Pros
Cons
– Leakproof seal and snap lock– Stainless steel materials– Three container sizes– Extremely durable– Nice aesthetic
– Can’t see what’s insidewithout opening– Price
Klean Kanteen Food Box Set – Meg Carney
Best Camp Stove: MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe
Featured in our best camp stove article, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is a dependable and compact stove with quick boil time and simmering capabilities.
Full product review: best backpacking stoves
Pros
Cons
– Lightweight, compact design – Simmer doesn’t burn food while cooking– Easy to use – Built-in pressure regulator – Works well in the wind
– Piezo ignitor is somewhat unreliable
Best Camp Griddle: Camp Chef Professional Fry Griddle
Featured in our best camping griddles article, the Camp Chef Professional Fry Griddle has a large cooking surface to accommodate gourmet camp cooking.
Full product review: best camping griddles
Pros
Cons
– Grease drain for easy cleaning– Heat diffuser plates ensure even cooking– Compatible with propane stoves– Seasoned finish for non-stick cooking
– Heavy to move– Seasoning must be maintained to keep a non-stick surface
Best Camp Grill: Primus Profile Dual
Featured in our best camp grill article, the Primus Profile Dual is a super convenient grill and burner system in a small package.
Full product review: **best camping grills
Pros
Cons
– Affordable– Lightweight and portable– Versatile – grill and cooktop
– Small grill surface area
Best Camp Furniture
Only featuring a camp chair and table, the best camp furniture section may take some time to build up as more product testing and new articles are published. These particular products were chosen based on their functionality and durability. They aren’t necessarily the best budget options but are highly recommended after using the products for several months.
Best Camp Chair: Helinox Chair Two Ultralight, High-Back
Utilizing many classic Helinox chair designs, their Ultralight High-Back chair is convenient, compact, and an incredibly comfortable camp chair that suits most body types.
Pros
Cons
– Lightweight– Durable– 5-year warranty– Comfortable, tall chair back– Adjustable headrest– Packs down small for the seat size
– Price– Difficult to put together
Best Camp Table: KingCamp Bamboo Folding Table
The KingCamp Bamboo Folding Table is a compact, easy-to-assemble camp table perfect for 1-2 people.
More camp table options: best camping tables
Pros
Cons
– Compact design– Easy to set up– Adjustable height– Durable materials– Great for car camping
– Price– Small for more than 2 people– Not tall enough to stand andcook at
Best Camp Lighting and Tools
While we could have left the list with the products above, we felt several camp accessories were worth mentioning. From camp storage to lighting, we did our best to include various products that have enhanced our outdoor experiences.
Best Camp Storage: Yeti LoadOut GoBox 60
The Yeti LoadOut GoBox 60 is available in three sizes and is optimized for outdoor gear storage. Although you can use any plastic bin for storage, the Yeti GoBox is one of the few storage containers that ensure that your equipment is dry and secure in all conditions.
Pros
Cons
– IP65 and IP67 dustproof andwaterproof ratings– Can be bearproofed with locks– Large storage capacity– Available in three sizes, butthe 60 is the largest
– Price– Lid latch is prone to failure
Yeti LoadOut GoBox – Meg Carney
Best Camp Gadget: Decathlon Pressure Solar Camping Shower
Featured in our best camping gadgets article, the Decathlon Pressure Solar Camp Shower works for personal hygiene but is also great for spraying down muddy gear, washing pets, and cleaning boats
Full product review: best camping gadgets
Pros
Cons
– Packable– No batteries or electricity needed– Convenient– Easy to use
– Limited to 10L
Best Flashlight: Goal Zero Torch 500 Multi-Use Light
Featured in our best flashlight article, the Goal Zero Torch is a versatile light that works well for outdoor activities as well as projects at home.
Full product review: best flashlight
Pros
Cons
– Spotlight and floodlight modes– Built-in solar panel to recharge– IP67 waterproof rating– Charge small devices like phones
– The outer casing isn’t the most durable
Best Lantern: Goal Zero Lighthouse 600
Featured in our best camping lantern article, the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 is a versatile lighting option that works well for camping, home projects, work, or emergencies.
Full product review: best camping lanterns
Pros
Cons
– 3 ways to recharge– Can charge small accessories– Variety of brightness and light settings– Versatile set-up options
– Questions about durability– Solar panel sold separately
Best Headlamp: Biolite 330 Rechargeable Headlamp
Featured in our best headlamp article, the Biolite 330 has a sleek low design, doesn’t bounce, and has ideal features for hiking.
Full product review: best headlamps
Pros
Cons
– No bounce design– Integrated battery indicator – Moisture-wicking band fabric– Rechargable– Several lighting settings
– The power button can be difficult toaccess (especially wearing gloves)
Best Multitool: Leatherman Wave Plus
Featured in our best multitool for backpacking article, The Leatherman Wave Plus contains 18 tools that are compact and versatile, and it remains one of Leatherman’s most popular products.
Full product review: best multitools for backpacking
Pros
Cons
– Includes serrated and straight-edge blades– Made in the USA– Tools lock into place– Can access tools with one hand– Sheath included
– Pocket clip sold separately– Expensive
Best Camp Shovel: OKOOLCAMP Survival Camping Shovel
Featured in our best camp shovel article, the OKOOLCAMP Survival Camping Shovel is a versatile multifunctional shovel excellent for camping and travel.
Full product review: best camping shovels
Pros
Cons
– Durable materials – Versatile features– Three-year warranty – Adjustable handle length
– Too large and heavyfor backpacking
Best First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kit Mountain Series Hiking
Featured in our best first aid article, the Adventure Medical Kit Mountain Series Hiking is simple yet effective and provides all of the essentials.
Pros
Cons
– Relatively compact– Easy-to-use book– Affordable– Great organization
– No CPR mask– Limited trauma supplies– Not good for big groups
Best Solar Generator: Goal Zero Yeti 1500x
Featured in our best solar generator article, the Goal Zero Yeti 1500x prepares you for home blackouts and off-grid travel with the ability to run tools, refrigerators, and keep all your devices charged.
Full product review: best solar generators
Pros
Cons
– Power multiple devices with 7 different port options– Convenient carrying handles for portability – Customizable energy storage system – Easy-to-read LED display
– May be too large for some people’s travel needs
Best Camp Accessory: White Duck Canvas Firewood Log Carrier
Pros
Made from durable, industrial-strength canvas
Highly functional
Foldable, collapsible design
Cons
Handle could be more comfortable
While it isn’t necessary, the White Duck log carrier is an affordable and convenient camp accessory that makes campfire wood collection a breeze.
Using the White Duck Rectangle Canvas Firewood Log Carrier in Washington – Meg Carney
How to Choose Camping Gear
Having the right camping equipment is a big part of the camping experience. It can seem overwhelming to build a camp gear setup from zero. The good news is that you don’t need to buy everything at once, and you don’t need to buy everything new. Several used gear retailers offer better prices on gently used gear. Renting is also an option if you don’t want to invest in equipment just yet.
The type of camping gear you need depends on the camping you enjoy. If you’re searching for tips and gear lists online, you may notice that some lists seem to include everything and the kitchen sink to get outside. The truth is, you don’t need that much gear to enjoy camping, and once you have the essentials, you can start to add a few more things to make the experience more comfortable and personable.
Camping Essentials Checklist
As mentioned above, the type of camping you’re doing can influence the gear needed. For instance, many developed campgrounds have water fill-up stations and bathrooms available. For backpacking or boondocking, you may need to pack water or bring a filtration system to collect water as you go.
Camping Essentials
Tent (+ footprint and stakes)
Sleeping pad
Sleeping bag
Camping pillow
Camp chairs
Camp table (if no picnic table)
Illumination (flashlights, lanterns, headlamp)
Multi-tool
First aid kit
Saw or axe
Stove + fuel
Cooking pots + pans
Cooking and eating utensils
Plates, bowls, cups, and mugs
Cutting board + knives
Cooler + ice
Water container + bottles
Water filter (if there is no access to potable water)
Camp sink + dishwashing items
Trash/recycling bags or bins
Matches or lighter
Optional Camping Items
To some campers, these items might be essential. In any case, consider bringing these for a higher level of comfort while camping. Other equipment like sleeping bag liners are seasonally dependent, and navigation tools may be necessary for backpacking but not camping in a campground.
Optional Camping Items
Firewood (bought or collected near camp)
Hammock
Sunshade or screen house
Tablecloth + clips/tape
Camp rug
Clothesline
Mallet for tent stakes
Broom + dustpan
Cots
Sleeping bag liner
Firestarter
Dry bags, stuff sacks, or storage containers
Solar and portable power
If you’re camping with dogs, don’t forget to bring equipment for them. For example, dogs benefit from sleeping on a pad; some breeds may need a sleeping bag or blanket to stay warm. Many campgrounds also require that dogs be on leashes, so setting up a runner in camp or having a long line to allow the dog to roam within camp may be necessary.
Although many of us may be camping on a lake to go fishing or in an area to hike, we may have downtime in camp. Depending on the activities you enjoy outdoors, consider what necessary gear-wise to do those things is.
Leisure Items
Books or reading material
Puzzle books
Cards or board games
Binoculars
Field guides (plants, birds, stars, etc.)
Journal
Art supplies
Games + toys
Music player with headphones
Guitar
Playing music while in camp should only be considered if you’re relatively isolated from other campers; otherwise, you may disturb their experience. For more on outdoor etiquette, be sure to read up on the seven leave no trace principles.
FAQs
Q: What are the big 3 for camping?
The big three for camping include your backpack, sleep system, and shelter. They’re called this because they are often the biggest and heaviest items necessary.
Q: What is the golden rule of camping?
The golden rule of camping, or any outdoor recreation, is to leave the area better than you found it. That generally means packing out everything you bring and picking up any trash you find along the way. Always follow leave no trace principles during camping ventures.
Q: How do I organize camping gear?
Having storage containers, bins, and bags to keep camping gear all in one place and make packing/unpacking a breeze is ideal. Our recommended storage container is the Yeti LoadOut GoBox, especially since it is waterproof and can be bear-proofed with locks. Still, other clear plastic containers work just as well for organizational purposes and come at a lower cost.
Q: Can I fly with camping gear?
Yes, you can fly with most camping gear. Any gear that could be considered a weapon needs to be in checked luggage. Camp stoves can also be packed into checked bags as long as they do not contain any fuel or fuel vapors. Always consult your airline’s restrictions and TSA packing guidelines to ensure you pack appropriately.
Q: How do I clean my camping gear?
Most camping gear items have specific cleaning needs, and consulting manufacturer guidelines for cleaning, care, and general maintenance is advised. Get more detailed information in our detailed guides on how to clean tents, wash backpacks, and flush water filters.
Final Thoughts
The best camping gear is the gear that keeps you safe, dry and warm, and helps you enjoy your camping experience. Backpacking, car camping, RVing, spike camps, and overlanding all require some diversity in equipment, but several mainstays apply to all categories. If you’re just starting, it helps to get to know the type of camping you enjoy most so you can find the best camping gear for your specific needs. Having a friend or mentor that already has gear is a good way to see what may work for you. Renting camping equipment is also a great way to test out products if that’s available in the area you’re camping. Lastly, consider buying used gear. Many large retailers like REI, North Face, and Patagonia offer used gear at a discounted price
Why Trust Us
For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.
