We’ve spent a lot more time indoors and at home than we’ve probably ever had these past couple of years. So, it’s not surprising that we’re itching to spend time in nature as the warm weather hits. Even if camping has never crossed your mind in previous years, we’re collectively now dreaming about sleeping under the stars and leaving #WFH life behind. Luckily, if you’re thinking camping is all about roughing it out in the shivering cold with a can of baked beans, camping culture has become a lot more stylish. Whether you’re a seasoned camping pro or new to glamping, here are the necessities to pack, plus the gear that will elevate your experience.
Camping Necessities
Whether you have plans to camp it old school in a tent or try the more accommodating van camping trend, you’ll need some necessities to ensure you can enjoy your time in the great outdoors. Use this list as a handy camping guide and keep in mind your specific campsite location as you pack.
- Tent (or a van, camper, etc.)
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping bag pad
- Pillow
- Flashlight
- Lantern
- Batteries
- Camping table (if your campsite doesn’t offer a picnic table)
- Firewood for cooking and campfire
- Camp chair
- Tools for setting up your tent
- Camping stovetop or accessories for cooking over an open fire
- Cups and mugs
- Dishware, utensils, and napkins
- A sharp knife
- Tablecloth
- Water
- Trash bags
- Cooler
- Portable pots and pans
In addition to these items, you might want a bottle opener, can opener, Swiss Army Knife, and other items required for specific plans (such as skewers for roasting marshmallows!).
Below are our top picks for stylish accessories to take your experience up a notch.
Barebones Living LED Rechargeable Railroad Lantern
A camping lantern is a must-have as it will allow you to remain hands-free (without a flashlight) while lighting up your campsite or tent once the sun goes down. We love this vintage-inspired railroad lantern from Barebones Living because not only is it stylish, but it’s also functional with a rechargeable battery. Plus, it has a dimmer so you can create your ideal ambiance.
Parks Project Shrooms Packable Camp Chair
Mushrooms are one of the most popular trends and this camping chair understands the assignment. We love its compact and portable design, stylish nature-inspired print, and purchasing it gives back to nature with Parks Project’s mission to support thriving national parks.
Kammok Roo Double Printed Camping Hammock
While a hammock isn’t a necessity, it can make soaking in nature a lot more relaxing. This one has a fun ‘70s-inspired pattern, is durable, and is designed for everywhere from a backyard to a campsite.
Chillbo® Shwaggins Inflatable Lounger
If you’re planning to hang around a campfire while you camp, you’ll want to get comfy. This inflatable lounger is the ultimate camping comfort, plus it has pockets for storing books, sunscreen, bug spray, and other lounge-worthy necessities. It also packs down into a carry bag, making it a highly functional multipurpose camping item.
Romanstile 100% Waterproof PVC Tablecloth
A tablecloth while camping isn’t just a frivolous decor item — it’ll help keep your cooking and dining area clean (and critters at bay). We love this one because it has a stylish pattern and it’s completely waterproof and washable, so you can easily clean up between meals.
Bamboo Blue Design Inc. Non-Stick Portable Cooking Pots and Pan Set
This portable set includes a pot, frying pan, and kettle that are non-stick and all pack down nicely for transportation.
Zak Designs Confetti Melamine Dinnerware Set
Ditch the paper plates and bowls and opt for something more eco-friendly and chic. We love this melamine set because it’s reusable and durable — helping to create less waste while basking in nature. It comes with four dinner plates, four salad plates, and four bowls for all of your camp food needs.
W&P Porter Utensil Set
Similar to dishware, there’s no need to bring plastic utensils on a camping trip when this reusable utensil set exists. This set comes with a sturdy knife, fork, and spoon, plus a silicone carrying case to keep everything together.
Fingercraft Oversized Dinner Napkins
Paper napkins are also out. Instead, we recommend investing in some cotton napkins to use while you camp (and throw in the wash when you get home). To make them your own, you can add fun phrases with embroidery, or try tie-dying or dip-dying them with fabric dye.
Comfify Speckled Campfire Style Mugs
Mugs are a must for that morning cup of joe (or tea!) when camping. These enamel-inspired mugs go with your camping theme and come in a variety of colors so that everyone knows which mug is theirs.
Stanley Classic Pour Over Set
Speaking of coffee, if instant coffee isn’t your thing (even when camping), you don’t have to sacrifice a quality brew while outdoors. Made for on-the-go,
Igloo Retro Family 36 Quart Cooler
A cooler is on the camping necessities list for all of your food, snacks, and drinks. This one has a fun, retro vibe while keeping it functional with its size and capacity to hold everything you’ll need for a camping trip.
Urban Outfitters Silky Neck Scarf
It wouldn’t be camp style without a chic necktie. Swap out a classic bandana for this stylish and silky scarf. It comes in tons of fun prints and is long enough to braid into your hair, or pull your strands up, too.
Lack of Color Holiday Floral Bucket Hat
If you’re camping, you’re likely getting up close and personal with the sun. In addition to SPF, protecting your skin with a hat is a must. We love an oversized bucket hat like this floral one. It’s made of a cotton canvas, has a relaxed feel, and features an oversized brim for added sun protection.
Tory Burch Propionate Aviator Sunglasses
Keep things shady with a pair of trendy aviator sunglasses. We love this high-quality pair that features retro orange-colored lenses to protect your eyes.
Loeffler Randall Maisie Leopard Sport Sandal
If you’re packing sandals for your camping trip, make sure they secure around your feet with heel straps for added safety. These leopard print sandals are comfortable with a stylish and sporty appeal.
Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack
While this isn’t roomy enough for a backpacking camping trip, it’s great for keeping your hands free when you’re exploring the outdoors near your campsite. It’s durable, lightweight, and has just enough space to hold necessities like water, snacks, and sunscreen.
Vans Traveler Fanny Pack
For short trips away from your campsite, we recommend a fanny pack to house your smaller essentials. This one has an adjustable strap so you can wear it across your waist or over your chest like a crossbody bag.
Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets
Tired of that classic DEET smell from traditional mosquito sprays? Place one of these mosquito repellent bracelets around your wrist instead. They are made with essential oils that naturally repel mosquitos, waterproof, and are comparable to bug spray.
Paul Smith Pink ‘Happy’ Ribbed Socks
Camping is a great excuse to invest in some fun socks for your hiking boots or to keep your toes warm at night. These hot pink socks feel very Y2K and put a smile on our faces.
Lululemon Nulux Gathered Headband
Camping hairstyles are a conversation for another time, but the accessories certainly belong on this list. We love this headband because it stays intact, it’s quick-drying and sweat-wicking, and it has a funky scrunchie-like texture.
Sketchers Women's Relaxed Fit Trego Rocky Mountain Boots
If you’re in the market for a new pair of hiking boots, we are obsessed with this cute and comfortable pair. They’re made with an Air Cooled Memory Foam insole and keep your feet and ankles protected while trekking through nature.
Sunday Riley Light Hearted Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen
More time out in nature means more exposure to UV rays. Since you’re likely packing light and not bringing your full skincare routine, make sure to remember one item: SPF. Our lightweight, antioxidant-rich sunscreen protects skin from the elements and blends in easily for mid-hike reapplications.
YouSwim Eva One-Piece Swimsuit
For campsites near a lake or river, you’ll want to pack a swimsuit. This one-piece is simple yet stylish, comes in eco-friendly packaging, and flatters all body types.
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