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Whether you’re a regular camper who knows all the best camping sites or an absolute newbie, you might be looking forward to the spring, when being active and outside finally becomes appealing again.
Camping’s a favourite pastime for many, not least because it’s easy to do on a budget.
It’s also a great family activity, and is perfect for getting outdoors.
Having grown up with three younger brothers, camping was often on the cards for us – memories of toasting marshmallows over a barbecue and moist tent walls are core parts of our childhood.
As I’ve grown older, I’ve found myself seeking the best equipment to eradicate the downsides of camping – cramped tents, sleeping on gravel – in favour of better quality gear.
With my brother (begrudgingly) in tow, I set out to test some of the best camping gear on the market, to share the top essentials you should buy for your next trip.
Travel writer Erin took the camping essentials for a spin, testing them out
The best camping essentials 2026, at a glance How we test
We put all of our products through a rigorous testing process and travel essentials are no different. From personal item bags and carry-ons to power banks and passport wallets, we test every product for at least a week (usually longer), and use them in real camping scenarios for practical, trial-based testing. In some instances, our product testing experts will reference products they’ve been using for years.
The sleeping bag from Fjällräven was warm and cosy while still being lightweight
From testing if a personal item bag easily fits under the seat on a plane to if a travel pillow is supportive enough to hold your neck upright for a full in-flight nap, we’ve put it all to the test.
You can read more about how we test travel accessories on our dedicated page.
The best travel essentials 2026, tested and reviewed Vango Halo 300Product SpecsCapacity3 peopleWeight3.99kg
Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks
I’ll admit, despite being a keen camper, putting up a tent is often a struggle for me. Luckily, this one was nice and simple, and although easiest to set up with two people, could be done alone if need be.
It’s spacious and comfortable, and is a great option for a group trip.
A key benefit is the fact it has two doors, on opposite sides – making it super easy for sneaking out while your tent mates are sleeping!
Fjällräven Keb Three Seasons Sleeping BagWhat we love
ComfortThe best I’ve tried
WarmLightweight and warm all night in the spring, summer and autumn in temperate climates
Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks
Fjällräven is best known for its fabulous backpacks, but that should change – this sleeping bag is the comfiest I’ve ever tried.
It’s easy to zip yourself up to stay warm, but the biggest perk is how soft and padded it feels, without being too heavy.
Vango Shangri-La II 15 Grande Sleeping Mat
Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks
Sleeping mats while camping are essential for ensuring a comfortable stay.
This one, while on the pricier side, is a great investment, in particular for any camping fanatics looking to upgrade their trips.
Osprey Kestrel 48
Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks
I backpacked through Morocco carrying everything I brought with me in this bag, and it never once failed me.
It’s spacious, easy to carry, has comfortable straps and plenty of compartments – perfect for any camping or hiking trip.
5. Best camping head torch: Biolite 500Biolite 500
Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks
As a recreational runner working in a classic 9-5, it can be difficult to find motivation to run after work during the long winter evenings, made worse by the need to run in the dark.
This was the first time I tried using a head torch, and it changed the whole run entirely. I was no longer limited to the busy streets.
Even with no streetlights, the torch was able to give me complete visibility, whilst also providing the option to adjust power to avoid blinding those around me.
It is super easy to charge, just like charging a phone, and easily fits in my pocket. Overall I liked it, it worked well, it fit on my head nicely (didn’t slip or fall off), and has really good brightness – meaning it would be perfect for a camping trip, especially if you’re surrounded by darkness!
OEX Ultralight Chair
Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks
A camping chair is an absolute essential, and this high-quality option is great.
Not only is it extremely comfortable and lightweight, making it easy to carry around, but it won’t break the bank either.
Perfect for perching in the sun, pint in hand.
OEX Heiro Solo Stove
Reviewed by Erin Deborah Waks
This is a great lightweight stove for whipping up a delicious meal while camping a good high-tech investment if you go camping a lot. The 600ml pot is large enough to fully submerge a food pouch, warm soups, drinks and more.
It fits directly onto a gas canister and comes with plenty of features to help you get the most efficient and safest flame possible while out and about. It’s the perfect size for solo camping adventures without weighing you down.
Anker High-Power Multi-Device ChargingProduct SpecsBattery capacity25,000mAhDimensions15.7cm x 5.4cm x 4.9cmWeight594.21 g
Reviewed by Genie Harrison
While slightly bulky and heavy, this is probably the best portable charger I’ve ever used.
You can charge multiple devices at a time with the two in-device cables (one of which is extendable), and the power source permits multiple charges over the course of several days, meaning that for short haul trips, you wouldn’t even need to take an adaptor.
The device is also powerful enough to recharge a laptop to full power in under 90 minutes.
Our verdict
Our ultimate guide to the key equipment you need to go camping includes the basics as well as some elevated luxuries to ensure your trip runs as smoothly as possible.
If you’re on a budget, start with a simple one-night trip with just a tent and sleeping bag – ideally in the spring, when you won’t have extreme weather to contend with.
For more experienced campers, some of the items on our list could be game-changers – a decent backpack like the Osprey Kestrel or an impressive sleeping mat like the Vango Shangri-La might make all the difference.
Why trust us
Our team of travel writers and editors has been testing products and writing reviews for many years, covering a wide range of products. With a focus on travel equipment, we provide expertise on what travellers need on their journeys.
Our reviews are honest, impartial and based on real-world testing. We take into consideration all budgets and lifestyles when reviewing products to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed buying decision.
FAQs What essentials do you need to go camping?
If you’re keen to get started, the basics you need simple: a tent, sleeping gear and lighting.
You will also want to make sure you have food – but if purchasing a camping stove feels a step too far, you could start out with cold food such as sandwiches.
Clothing is important too – you’ll want sturdy, waterproof shoes as well as layers of clothing to stay warm. Take a look at our roundup of the best thermals for some excellent tried and tested picks for the cold weather.
What are the 7 C’s of camping?
The 7 C’s of camping are designed to make sure you cover all your bases.
They are cover, cooking, comfort, clothing, cleanliness, care, and communication.
If you are prepared for each category, you’re ready for your next trip.
What is the most forgotten item when camping?
If you’ve got your core equipment, you’re all set – but plenty of small items can easily be forgotten on a camping trip.
The most forgotten camping items are small essentials such as a lighter or matches, or a torch.
But plenty of even the most experienced campers might forget essential personal items such as toothbrushes and toothpaste.
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