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11 Summer Camping Accessories for Your Next Outdoor Adventure
It's time to become one with nature.
There are two types of people in this world: those who enjoy camping and those who think camping is a form of torture. If you’re part of the former, it’s likely these warmer temps have you itching to make a triumphant return to the wilderness to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of summer.
Of course, no expert camper is ready to explore the great outdoors without an arsenal of tools and gadgets that bring the conveniences of everyday life into the forest. So we’ve gathered 11 of our all-time favorite pieces of camping gear so that you can do so much more than roast s’mores and tell ghost stories around the fire (though these activities are still highly encouraged).
Check out what made the cut below.
1. Rechargeable Hand-Blown Glass Lantern, $80
A lantern is, perhaps, the most quintessential camping item beyond a Swiss Army Knife. You’re going to need a light source to guide you back to your tent at night and, of course, scare off any bears or wolves that are lurking in the shadows. You can also count on its rechargeable battery to last for your entire trip.
2. Camp Melamine Dishes, Dinnerware & Serveware, $35+
This reusable and hard-to-break melamine dining set helps reduce waste, so you can leave the campsite as beautiful as you found it. It's adorably speckled, features a vintage design that will make you feel like eating in the woods is a luxury (not just a means of survival), and was made, quite literally, for camping.
3. Color Pop Enamel Mugs, Set of 4, $60
These enamel mugs are bright, cheery, and fantastic at preventing spills, thanks to their wide rims. They're compatible with ovens, stovetops, grills, and campfires, and they're also dishwasher safe. Cleaning day(s)-old stickiness from hot cocoa and coffee has never been easier.
4. Barebones Living Cowboy 23" Fire Pit & Grill, $55+
Sure, many campsites offer their own fire pits and grills, but there’s no guessing what someone cooked on it before you. Opt for your own pit and grill combo to roast hot dogs, warm hands, or simply show off to the other campers relying on communal appliances.
5. Puffy Outdoor Blanket, $98
Warm summer days can lead to chilly summer nights, and nothing is cozier than a well-insulated blanket. This puffy, outdoor-friendly option can be used to bundle up or as a cushy surface to sit on when no chairs are in sight.
6. Oniva Portable Backpack Cooler, $53
Hydration is key on long, arduous hikes, but so is your beer reward once you get to the campsite. This backpack has you covered on both fronts: It can hold up to a whopping 30 cans with an insulated, water-resistant lining that you can even pile with ice.
7. Stacking Storage Containers, $32+
At any campsite, it's important to store any leftover food in air-tight containers so you don't attract wildlife. This stacking storage set does just the trick. It's also oversized, so you can use the components for under-the-sink or pantry storage at home during the off-season.
8. Stainless Steel Roasting Sticks, $20
Marshmallows, hot dogs, love letters from exes—these stainless steel roasting sticks will help you char whatever your heart desires. Just don’t use them to prick and prod your enemies because they will leave a mark, and you will be subjected to a possible lawsuit.
9. The Get Out A-Frame Tent, $550
Is this the most adorable tent you’ve ever seen? All signs point to yes. Featuring a modern geometric exterior design, the ever-so-humble abode is as functional as it is stylish: waterproof, cozy, portable, and only 15 pounds for easy carrying. It even has a clip to hold your lantern.
10. Yellow Leaf Hammocks, $35+
If you’ve hiked hours to your final destination, you’ll need time to kick up those weary legs and look off into the distance. A hammock is your best option and might even become your best friend. Hand-woven from soft yarn, this orange and aqua dream is cute, compact, and comes for easy hanging. Just find two trees close enough together, set it up, and you're ready to embark on what could possibly go down as the world’s best nap.
11. Handmade Wooden Tree Swing, $150+
We know what you’re probably thinking: Is this necessary? The answer is, simply, yes. It barely takes up space, and you know what makes sipping rosé around a campfire better? Sipping rosé around a campfire while on a swing, that’s what. Embrace your inner child, and make the investment. We promise it will not only be worth it, but you’ll also be the envy of fellow campers.
Written by: Joey Skladany
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