Best Camping Gear

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Gerber Bear Grylls Multi-Tool
Test Winner: Gerber Bear Grylls Multi-Tool
Amazon Link
There is truly nothing better than a camping trip, as it is a time for you to get lost in nature and create unforgettable memories with your family and friends.

There is no better experience than sleeping through the night listening to the wild animals from the distance while staying warm and cozy under your sleeping bag. In the morning you can enjoy fixing eggs and bacon over the flame of your camp stove while the kids enjoy a dip in the natural spring waters just below your site.

Now, camping is a great experience but that is only if you pack the essential gear to ensure you have everything you need while experiencing the outdoors. Below we have listed the most essential gear for your camping trip in 2019.

Standout Picks

Columbia River Knife and Tool
You can hang this multi-tool from your key ring or your pack, so when you need it most, it will be there.
Amazon Link
Gerber Bear Grylls Multi-Tool
How often do you need a tool while you’re camping, but by the time you’re finished fumbling through the toolbox you’ve lost your patience and you give up? With a Gerber multi-tool, you will no longer have that problem.
Amazon Link
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
When you’re camping out in the middle of nowhere the last thing you want to do is run out of drinking water, but if you do, you will no longer have a worry with the lifestraw by your side. If there is a natural water source nearby, a lifestraw could be the best thing between life or death.
Camping Cookware Mess Kit
Never again will you be weighed down with all your cooking and eating essentials. With this convenient mess kit, everything is lightweight and packed conveniently together in its own little bag.
Amazon Link
$25.99
Bio Lite Camp Stove
With this handy little gadget, you can burn enough fire to stay warm, boil your water, and charge your cell phone and other tech gear all at the same time.
Amazon Link
Black Diamond ReVolt Headlamp
When you’re tent camping you don’t have the modern facilities that you do when you’re at home, so that means you will have to walk a little way when you need to “go”. It never fails, it will happen in the middle of the night when it’s so dark out that you can’t see your hand in front of your face. With this headlamp, you will no longer be left to find your way in the dark.
Sunland Microfiber Towel
Something you don’t want to forget to take with you on your camping trip is a towel, but it isn’t always easy to fit a bulky towel in your pack. No need for worry because the Sunland microfiber towel is compact and easy to carry.
Amazon Link
Alps Mountaineering Eclipse Table
Just when you think you can’t find enough room for everyone, along comes this convenient camping table with some added features that will entice the whole family.
Amazon Link
$99.99
Mr. Heater BTU Portable Radiant Heater
When you can’t seem to warm up even when you’re next to the fire, this handy little heater will warm you up in no time, and you can use it indoors or out.
Amazon Link
$77.50
Mountain House Food Supply
Forget about those last-minute trips to the grocery store because you forgot to buy something, and long gone are those nights of making sandwiches to take with you the next day. With this food supply, you have everything you need, and you won’t get tired of eating peanut butter and jelly.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Features

You want to pay close attention to the features each accessory offers. Everybody’s situations are different. Some people sleep in tents, others prefer to stay in campers, some hike until they get tired and they crash in the first spot that looks inviting. For these reasons the features matter. You could never use a flame engulfed camp stove inside a camper and only some space heaters can be used indoor and out. You won’t want to carry something in your bag that’s bulky or takes up more room than you have. Know how long you will be using the accessory as well as where, pay close attention to all the features, and ask questions when necessary. You don’t want to be stuck with something not compatible with your needs.

Durability

Nothing could be worse than your gear falling apart on you during your outing, that’s why this is an important factor to pay attention to. Notice what it’s made of and how long it will last. Somethings may only be suitable for one-time use while others might last forever. Notice how things are put together because that can factor in on the length of its life.

Ease of Use

You need to make sure that the accessory is user-friendly because you don’t want to get stuck out in the middle of nowhere fumbling around with something that’s complicated to use. If it’s something you will be using while hiking, look for things that require a one-handed operation. If you need to put it together, do that before you take off on your adventure. The best thing you can do is read all the information that comes with it to be sure you understand the way everything works.

Value

It’s always a bonus to purchase something with multi-functions. If it lasts a long time and made of excellent quality, the price shouldn’t be an issue. Shop wisely and know what you’re getting, and in the end, you will find the value in your stuff.

Top Ten Gear for Camping

1. Columbia River Knife and Tool

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Columbia River Knife and Tool
Amazon Link

You can hang this multi-tool from your key ring or your pack, so when you need it most, it will be there.

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Features
The unique design of this lightweight steel tool will amaze you when you see what it offers. The tip of the tool provides you with a spork, and it’s easy to hold with the easy grip design. There is a flat head screwdriver on one side, hex wrenches in the middle, and the other side offers a bottle opener for when you need it. It probably won’t fit in your pocket but there is a carabiner attached to it, so you can easily hang it from your key ring, pack, or purse.

Durability
It’s lightweight but it is a solid piece of steel. The carabiner is strong, and the tools are durable.

Ease of Use
There is a thumb hole in the middle of the tool for easy gripping while using the spork. You can hold it by the spork end when you want to use the tools, it’s simple. The carabiner is easy to open and close, so you can easily attach it to your pack.

Value
This handy tool is well designed with quality steel making it worth the investment.

Summary
This is a simple unique accessory that won’t break the bank and it will come in handy when you’re in a pinch. It looks cool, it has a lot of functions, and the price is fantastic.

Amazon Link

2. Gerber Bear Grylls Multi-Tool

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Gerber Bear Grylls Multi-Tool
Amazon Link

How often do you need a tool while you’re camping, but by the time you’re finished fumbling through the toolbox you’ve lost your patience and you give up? With a Gerber multi-tool, you will no longer have that problem.

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Features
Loaded with twelve tools and gadgets, you will have everything right at your fingertips with this one. All the tools are spring-loaded and easily accessible from the outside without having to pull the pliers out first. You will appreciate the rubber grip on the handles, so you won’t have to worry about it slipping out of your hand. It stores in a Velcro-enclosed case that hooks on to your belt hoop.

Durability
It’s made with the durability you would expect from a Gerber tool and the spring-loaded feature means longer-lasting use. The pouch is durable, and the Velcro sticks well.

Ease of Use
Since it is spring-loaded, and they pull from the outside, it makes this tool so much easier than most tools like this. It’s easy to open and close the pouch but the divider inside makes it inconvenient for placing the tool in and out of the pouch.

Value
This handy accessory offers all the tools you need right at your fingertips, it’s like having twelve tools for the price of one.

Summary
For a general toolkit, this one offers the most with the best usability options. It’s easy to carry with you and better than rummaging through a toolbox. You should consider adding this to your camping gear.

Amazon Link

3. LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Amazon Link

When you’re camping out in the middle of nowhere the last thing you want to do is run out of drinking water, but if you do, you will no longer have a worry with the lifestraw by your side. If there is a natural water source nearby, a lifestraw could be the best thing between life or death.

Read more

Features
The life straw is designed as a filter when the only water source you have comes from a dirty creek. Much like a thick straw, the life straw is filtered, so you can drink the creek water through the straw and it will be clean as your bottled water would be. The tube is designed with a cap on either end, one to submerge in the water and the other end to drink from. It comes with a convenient lanyard, so it will always be handy when you stumble across an unexpected water source. It isn’t designed to be used in waters containing, salt, chemicals, viruses, or metals because it will only filter through waterborne bacteria and protozoa. This is the perfect accessory for your pack and you should include one in your emergency kit too.

Durability
It is made of quality materials and designed to last for several years. Just because it’s lightweight doesn’t mean it won’t hold up to the test.

Ease of Use
It’s very simple to use, just pop off the caps and submerge it in the water. Hold it in the water for a few minutes before you start to suck the water through the straw. When you’re finished drinking, spit the water back through the water, shake it, then leave the caps open until it dries completely. This straw is not dishwasher safe and you should be sure to read the care instructions carefully before you begin to clean your straw.

Value
This is an extremely inexpensive gadget that will last for several years. It’s lightweight, hassle-free, easy to use, and worth every dime spent. There is no better value than life itself, and when it comes to this straw, it is the cheapest lifesaver you will ever buy.

Summary
This is a must-have for any camping or hiking trip. It can be kept in the glove box of your car in case of an emergency and you should always have one of these nifty little lifesavers in your emergency kit because you never know when a disaster could strike, leaving you without safe water resources.

4. Camping Cookware Mess Kit

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$25.99
Camping Cookware Mess Kit
Amazon Link

Never again will you be weighed down with all your cooking and eating essentials. With this convenient mess kit, everything is lightweight and packed conveniently together in its own little bag.

Read more

Features
This nifty little set will sufficiently feed two people. It features a pot with a lid, a frying pan, two small bowls, a collapsible spork, a wooden cooking spatula, a soup ladle, a sponge, and a recipe book. It conveniently stores within itself and clasps shut. The clasps double as handles for the pans. When packed together, it fits nicely in a drawstring bag and can be hung from your pack. The pots are the perfect size to fit over a camping stove and are not recommended for use over a campfire. It is available in gray with a sporty bright green trim or you can choose solid black, the choice is yours.

Durability
The pots and spork are made of thin aluminum, but they will surprise you with their durability. The bowls are made of strong plastic and the spatula is wooden. The pot handles are secure with heavy rivets and the carrying bag provides a durable bottom with heavy seams. This kit is proof that size doesn’t matter when it comes to endurance.

Ease of Use
Not only is this kit easy to carry but it’s also easy to use. The clasps fold out easily to form handles on the pots, the spork and ladle fold down and open up with ease, and when you’re finished, you can simply wash them up and pack them back together. It’s so simple it almost seems to good to be true.

Value
This kit will save you a lot of money because everything comes in one easy package. No more piecing together what you need and trying to find the right bag for them to fit. For the price, this kit will pay for itself before your first camping trip is complete.

Summary
It’s easy to see why this should be one of your choices when it comes to camping gear. You need to eat and this one has everything you need, so why not add this to your collection of camping gear?

Amazon Link
$25.99

5. Bio Lite Camp Stove

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Bio Lite Camp Stove
Amazon Link

With this handy little gadget, you can burn enough fire to stay warm, boil your water, and charge your cell phone and other tech gear all at the same time.

Read more

Features
A must-have at any campsite, this little stove will burn clean and doesn’t leave soot and ash all over you and your gear like a normal fire would do. Keep feeding it dry twigs and sticks and it will stay lit for a long time. The heat is the source of power to the USB port that’s built-in to the side, so the more powerful the fire, the better the charge. Not only will it charge your phone and keep you warm, but you can boil water within minutes. It gives off just the right amount of heat and it’s quiet, so you will never disturb others around you.

Durability
This stove is built sturdy and will last a long time when operated properly. It’s tough and will take a beating from sticks, twigs, and other debris without an issue. It acts as an incinerator so there is no worry about it getting clogged and breaking down.

Ease of Use
Very easy to use, make sure the wood and twigs you choose to use are dry or you will find that you will have nothing but a smoky mess. Keep feeding the stove and you will have long-lasting heat and energy. Plug your charger into the USB on the side of the stove while you warm up or cook your meal, and in no time, you will have a charged phone, how fast it charges will depend on how fast and how long the stove is burning.

Value
This stove serves the purpose of many uses, therefore it’s as though you’re getting several products for the price of one, that’s not only a bargain but also a lot of value.

Summary
On a cold night, you will be happy to have this little stove. Sure, you will probably have your campfire, but it can’t do all the things this one can do. You should also consider adding this little camp stove to your emergency kit. This could be a great blessing after a natural disaster.

Amazon Link

6. Black Diamond ReVolt Headlamp

Black Diamond ReVolt Headlamp
Amazon Link

When you’re tent camping you don’t have the modern facilities that you do when you’re at home, so that means you will have to walk a little way when you need to “go”. It never fails, it will happen in the middle of the night when it’s so dark out that you can’t see your hand in front of your face. With this headlamp, you will no longer be left to find your way in the dark.

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Features
This light adjusts comfortably to your head, so you can walk around hands-free without a standard flashlight being in your way. It will stretch large enough to fit over a helmet or hat and will size small enough for your head. It is equipped with various modes and intensities to choose from, including a red LED light and a strobe light, so no matter where you are you will have the perfect light. There is a lock switch mode as well to lock it off while traveling. It comes with two rechargeable batteries and a low battery indicator, but you have the option of using regular batteries if you prefer. It’s lightweight and comfortable, the only downfall is that there is no padding on the housing and it does rub on the forehead. This light is available in five different color choices for your own personal taste.

Durability
It’s lightweight, yet durable. The stretch strap is strong and adjustable and will secure safely on your head. Although it’s not fully waterproof, it is water resistant and could possibly withstand a light rain shower.

Ease of Use
This headlamp is easy to operate with the one-button control on top. Use the button to scroll through the modes until you get the intensity you desire. When the batteries need to be changed just switch the battery house open and pop them out. If you have rechargeable batteries the light comes with a USB cord and you can plug it right into the side of the lamp.

Value
Your safety is invaluable and having this light, you will stay safe and secure. The price you pay for this one is a small amount compared to your life.

Summary
With this handy headlamp, you will no longer stumble through the wilderness trying to find your way in the middle of the night when nature calls. This lamp can also be used to see the fire pit in the dark and you can use the strobe light in a rescue situation if the need arises. Use it for camping, climbing, backpacking, or at home, the uses are endless.

7. Sunland Microfiber Towel

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Sunland Microfiber Towel
Amazon Link

Something you don’t want to forget to take with you on your camping trip is a towel, but it isn’t always easy to fit a bulky towel in your pack. No need for worry because the Sunland microfiber towel is compact and easy to carry.

Read more

Features
This soft microfiber towel folds down so small that you would never believe it’s full-size. It’s thicker than what you would expect from microfiber plus it’s compact, lightweight, and extremely effective. It makes a great bath or beach towel and with this towel, your hair will dry in no time. It stores conveniently in a zippered mesh bag, it’s available in a variety of sizes and colors, so there is one for everyone in your family.

Durability
It is made of better quality than most microfiber towels, so it will last quite a long time. The mesh bag is comparable to others, but it serves the purpose of securing the towel just like it should.

Ease of Use
This is simple, pull it out of the bag, unfold it, use it, and when it’s dry you can fold it again and place it back in the bag. It air dries quickly in the sun, and when you get home, you can throw them in the machine for a fresh use next time.

Value
The convenience and quality of this towel speak for itself when it comes to value.

Summary
You can see how this towel can save you the headache of packing. It’s so convenient to throw in your pack or attach it to your bag, either way, it’s so simple to take with you. As a bonus, it will soak up the water like magic. With the value and convenience of this towel, you can’t go wrong.

Amazon Link

8. Alps Mountaineering Eclipse Table

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$99.99
Alps Mountaineering Eclipse Table
Amazon Link

Just when you think you can’t find enough room for everyone, along comes this convenient camping table with some added features that will entice the whole family.

Read more

Features
This handy little thing folds up and stores away in its bag just like a camp chair, in fact, it provides the same cloth canvas-like material the chairs do. It adjusts and secures with four straps located on each of the four corners. The clever design offers two levels; the second level provides four beverage holders, so you can free up space on the top level. It also keeps the drinks out of the way of spills, leaves, and debris. The top can be used for eating, working, or playing games. There is even a convenient storage pouch with compartments on the side for keeping other necessities safe and out of the way. It’s available in a plain khaki color or you can choose the one with the checkerboard design on the top, that one even comes with checkers. Unlike the plain khaki, this one is designed with a zipper pouch on the side for keeping the checkers secure.

Durability
It provides a durable material made to last for years when it’s treated properly. It stands sturdy, the straps are made of good quality, and it won’t rip or tear. The drink holders are made of heavy mesh and held securely with plastic trim.

Ease of Use
It only takes a few seconds to set it up. It folds up and opens with ease. The four heavy straps adjust securely keeping both the legs and the top secure. It can be dusted off or washed with a house when it gets dirty. When you’re ready to stow it away, just loosen the straps, fold it, and put it back in the bag.

Value
This table is a space saver, it’s made with quality to hold up for years, overall, this is a great investment for the money.

Summary
Knowing you have this table in your camper sure does eliminate the pressure of not having enough room for everything and everybody. It’s compact and lightweight enough that you can take it anyplace with you. Use it while you camp or set it up at home for the back-yard BBQ, no matter what you use it for, you will not be disappointed.

Amazon Link
$99.99

9. Mr. Heater BTU Portable Radiant Heater

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$77.50
Mr. Heater BTU Portable Radiant Heater
Amazon Link

When you can’t seem to warm up even when you’re next to the fire, this handy little heater will warm you up in no time, and you can use it indoors or out.

Read more

Features
You can take this heater in the tent with you and it will keep you warm while you sleep. It operates on a one-pound propane tank that easily connects to it, so be sure you have ventilation when using it indoors. It can run off a larger propane tank, but it will require a separate hose connection. It’s sufficient and quiet, so it won’t keep you awake all night. It also features an auto-shutoff in case it gets tipped over and it will also detect if the oxygen is low or the pilot light goes off. It’s lightweight and the handle folds down, so you can easily store it.

Durability
The surface is made of durable porcelain and the heavy-duty coil wires on the outside will protect the heating elements on the inside. For such a simple design, this space heater will last a long time.

Ease of Use
The one-pound take easily locks into place as the connection will swivel outward making it simple to connect, or you can purchase the designated propane hose to connect a larger tank. Once the tank is connected it will light much like a gas grill. There is a switch that will ignite the pilot light and in then you can turn the controller where you want it for the heat. It will heat up to 200-square feet and you should be certain there is plenty of air ventilation indoors when operating the heater. If you plan to use this heater in altitudes above seven-thousand feet, it probably won’t work like you would expect it to.

Value
It might seem a bit pricey, but there is a lot of heat in comfort in this little unit, so in the long run, it’s worth the price for your comfort.

Summary
This is a safe space heater with hours of warmth at your side. It’s not only great for camping but it could also be used for ice fishing, hunting, or on the patio at home. If you are a hobbyist and enjoy time in the garage, it will keep you warm there too. You might think about carrying this with you even when it’s warm, because it gets cool at night, especially under the trees and near the water.

Amazon Link
$77.50

10. Mountain House Food Supply

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Mountain House Food Supply
Amazon Link

Forget about those last-minute trips to the grocery store because you forgot to buy something, and long gone are those nights of making sandwiches to take with you the next day. With this food supply, you have everything you need, and you won’t get tired of eating peanut butter and jelly.

Read more

Features
This food supply will feed two people for five days and despite its name, you don’t have to save it for emergencies only. It works wonders on a camping trip offering three good meals a day. They are made with the same ingredients that you would use in your own kitchen, so you know they taste good. They are a cinch to prepare and easy to carry. There is a total of thirty-seven servings in this package all in their own individual pouch.

Durability
Each package is securely sealed, so there is no worry of spills or access to critters. When stored in a cool dry place, they will last for several years on the shelf.

Ease of Use
These meals are quick and easy to prepare. Just boil the water, add it to the package, stir it, seal it, allow it to set for approximately ten minutes and you have your meal. You can eat it straight from the pouch, or easily pour it into your dishes. It’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat.

Value
When you compare the work and money you spend preparing your meals versus this food supply, it’s a no-brainer the value in it.

Summary
With everything else you need to prepare for your trip, why not make this a priority on your list? You’ve come to the conclusion the simple preparation and delicious taste from these meals, so you can’t go wrong with this in your plan. The shelf life is long-lasting, so stock up on these and keep them for your emergency kits or make it a quick meal at home on occasion.

Amazon Link

Sources