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Writer's pictureRyan Oswald

The Ultimate Camping Gear Guide: What I Bring and Why

Sleeping bag view mountain lake sunrise open tent camping

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. These recommendations are based on my personal experiences and I genuinely believe in them.


Introduction


Camping is more than just an escape into the wilderness; it’s a rejuvenating experience that can refresh your mind and body, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare without the right gear. The quality of your sleep and food can make or break your trip. As I gear up for an exciting adventure in New Mexico, I want to share with you the essential gear I bring along to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.


Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, this guide will help you pack like a pro, with gear that’s been tried and tested to enhance your experience.


Sleep Like a Pro: Essential Gear for Restful Nights Outdoors


When it comes to camping, sleep is king. A good night’s sleep is crucial for enjoying your camping adventure. Without it, even the most beautiful surroundings can feel like a challenge. Here’s a list of gear I rely on to make sure I get my beauty sleep while camping.


Cot: ALPS Mountaineering Cot


This was the biggest game changer when it came to sleeping well while camping! If there’s one thing I wish I had added to my camping arsenal sooner, it would definitely be a cot. Sleeping off the ground can make a world of difference. The ALPS Mountaineering Cot I use is a bit tricky to set up but extremely durable and comfortable. Pair it with an insulated air mattress for a cozy night’s sleep.


Mattress Pad: Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad


Insulation from the cold ground is key to staying warm through the night. The Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad offers excellent insulation, preventing the cold from sapping your body heat. For added comfort, I place an extra pad underneath.


Kelty 2 Person Tent


The Kelty 2 Person Tent is the perfect size for one person, with enough room for your favorite four-legged friend. I’ve used many tents, but this one stands out due to its thoughtful pocket design and its ability to hold up in various conditions. It’s my go-to for reliability and comfort.


Heavy Duty Stakes and Hammer


Not staking your tent properly is the first step to a night seeming like you’re sleeping in a potato chip bag. And those thin metal or plastic stakes are never up to the job if the ground hasn’t been recently tilled. These stakes have secured my tent to the hardest of grounds in the windiest of conditions. Heavy Duty Stakes and Hammer.


Marmot Zero Degree Sleeping Bag


Choosing the right sleeping bag is critical. My Marmot Zero Degree Sleeping Bag is rated for 0°F, but in practice, I find it comfortable down to about 10°F. Remember to add 10-15 degrees to the advertised temperature rating when deciding on your bag, to ensure warmth. If you don’t need one for the super cold, I like their 30-degree bag, which is perfect for about 45°F - 55°F. If it’s warmer, I just unzip it and use it like a blanket.


Pillow Case: Bring Your Own or Improvise


Bringing a pillow from home can make your nights infinitely better. If you’re short on space, buy a cheap pillow at your last supply stop or stuff a hoodie or blanket into a pillowcase and it’s still better than those inflatable camping pillows. It’s a simple trick that can significantly improve your comfort.


Essential Must Have Camping Gear Sleeping Bag Tent Cot Mountain House

Camping Cuisine Essentials for Your Camping Adventure


Having the right food ensures you stay energized and ready for whatever nature throws at you, but it’s the last thing I ever feel like spending time preparing on an adventure. I always go for the easy-to-prepare meals and have a stash of my favorite snacks at all times.


Mountain House Meals


For dinner, I rely on Mountain House freeze-dried meals, particularly the Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo, Chili Mac, and Lasagna with Meat Sauce. They’re easy to prepare and taste great after a long day of hiking. While I’m not a big breakfast eater, I bring Oats and Blueberries to start my day with the right calories.


Snacks: The Most Crucial Food Category


Snacks are essential for keeping energy levels up between meals. I stock up on Kinder Bueno Minis, Roland Strawberry Tartlets, Clif Bars, and Goldfish Crackers before heading out. A few cans of Celsius Energy Drink also come in handy for a midday boost.


MSR Gas PocketRocket & Small Pot


For cooking, I use the MSR Gas PocketRocket stove, paired with a small pot. It’s lightweight, efficient, and perfect for boiling water or cooking simple meals.


Refillable Water Bottle & Liquid IV


Staying hydrated is crucial, and I carry a Refillable Bottle along with Liquid IV for hydration. The bottle is durable and easy to refill, making it perfect for backcountry trips.


Indispensable Camping Gear You Can’t Go Without


Aside from sleep and food, there are a few other essentials I never leave home without.


Jackery & Solar Panels


Keeping your devices charged is always a challenge. The Jackery can power almost anything and gives you the peace of mind to not have to ration electricity. Being able to pull out my MacBook and watch some downloaded Netflix before bed always makes my trips better.


Headlamp: Petzl Rechargeable Lithium Battery Headlamp


Lighting is critical when camping, and the Petzl Rechargeable Lithium Battery Headlamp is my top choice. Unlike traditional batteries, lithium batteries maintain maximum brightness even as they run low, which is a huge plus during extended trips.


Battery Bank: Anker Portable Charger


Keeping your devices charged in the backcountry is important, especially if you’re using your phone for navigation. I bring an Anker Portable Charger as a backup power source. It’s compact but has enough juice to keep my devices running for days.


NEMO Stargaze Reclining Camp Chair


A comfortable camping chair is a necessity. “Finding a rock or stump” is just not comfortable. Having a NEMO Stargaze Reclining Camp Chair to kick back next to the campfire and stare up at the stars makes the experience exponentially better.


Camping Dri-Fit Towel


A quick-drying towel is a must, and the Camping Dri-Fit Towel fits the bill perfectly. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and dries quickly, making it ideal for camping.


Rain Jacket


Weather can be unpredictable, so a good Columbia Rain Jacket is essential. It keeps you dry and warm during sudden downpours, which can happen frequently in certain areas.


Pocket Knife: Swiss Army Knife & Sheathed Knife


A reliable knife is indispensable. I carry both a Swiss Army Knife for its versatility and a KA-BAR sheathed knife for heavier tasks. From cutting rope to preparing food, a good knife always comes in handy.


Aquaphor


In dry climates, chapped lips and cracked skin can be a problem. I always bring Aquaphor to soothe and heal any dryness or minor cuts. It’s a lifesaver in harsh conditions.


Bear Mace


I tend to find myself in bear country quite a bit, but I’ve always found comfort in having Bear Mace around when I am in any wilderness area. If it’s good enough to stop a bear, hopefully it’s good enough to stop anything else! A little tip: I recommend using it at least once in your backyard so that if you ever need to use it, your first time won’t be in a high-stress situation.


Conclusion


Packing the right gear is essential for a successful camping trip. From prioritizing sleep to ensuring you have enough food and the right tools, every item I’ve listed contributes to a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a two-week adventure, make sure your gear is up to the task.

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