20 Essentials for Backyard Camping This Summer
Imagine spending a night under the stars with all the amenities of home just steps away. Backyard campouts might be the fave summer pastime of our youth, but we find no reason we can’t do it as adults too. You could go all-out with the tent or simply set up a bunch of sleeping bags under the night sky. Just make sure you have a pile of comfy outdoor pillows and plenty of snacks. Complete the setup with a variety of fun activities, from cute DIY projects to a fancy outdoor movie projector. Before you send out the invites, check out these summertime essentials for your next backyard campout.
1. LinenWorld Boho Blanket ($27+): Create a cozy atmosphere with a woven boho blanket. This tribal-inspired pattern feels on point for both the wilderness or the backyard.
2. Smash Mallow Mint Chocolate Chip Marshmallows ($4): When it comes to s’mores, we firmly adhere to the “go big or go home” philosophy. These delectable ‘mallows will help you get there this summer.
3. Coleman Mini Flashlight ($12): Don’t forget to have a few flashlights around to complete the scene. This option is both stylish and packing-friendly.
4. Freaker USA Bottle Insulator ($15): Keep those cold ones cold with this colorful cozy that puts your favorite brew on display in *all* the right ways.
5. Coco Design Company Hand-Painted Ukulele ($139+): You’ll be singing “Kumbaya” in style with this decorative and easy-to-play ukulele.
6. Coleman Utopia Breeze Beach Sling Chair ($35): Complete your outdoor space with this must-have deck chair featuring a vibrant fabric sling. The simple design makes it easy to fold up and relocate to wherever the camp party is.
7. True Fabrications Stainless Steel Camping Mug ($14): The camping experience wouldn’t be complete without a mug — and a few laughs.
8. Finn & Taylor Woven Bracelet ($24): Reminisce about those summer camp days with a color-blocked woven bracelet. Better yet, buy two and share one with your camping BFF.
9. Poler The Two-Man Tent ($200): Whether you’re going on an actual trip into nature or just venturing a little past the patio, this tent is pretty much as cool as it gets.
10. UO_TUNE_IN Hex Splash-Proof Speaker ($69): You gotta have some tunes for all that late-night camp fun. This wireless speaker will withstand the elements to keep you groovin’ through the evening.
11. YETI Tundra Roadie Cooler ($200): Bear-resistant if you’re taking it to the backwoods, stylishly hued if you’re keeping it on the deck. And the heavy-duty insulation will keep your drinks frosty cold.
12. MPowered Luci Pro Series: Outdoor Inflatable Solar Light ($35): Your flashlight just got a tech-y upgrade with this inflatable solar light that runs off of USB charge or — yes, you guessed it — the sun.
13. Lockhart Outdoor Floor Pillow ($99): Spread out the sleeping bags and throw a few of these floor pillows around for a truly luxurious outdoor setup.
14. UST 30-Day Duro Lantern ($35): A durable, mint-green lantern makes a stylish accent for your outdoor space and will come in handy after the sun goes down on any backyard campout.
15. Cost Plus World Market Mini Charcoal Grill ($13): This adorable mini grill is perfect for cooking up a classic camp meal, from corn on the cob to burgers.
16. Igloo 64 oz. Legacy Growler ($32): Make sure you have a refreshing liquid to reach for every time. Since this pick has a vacuum insulated body and a leak-proof lid, your beverage will stay as good as when you first put it in.
17. Coleman Montrose Sleeping Bag ($27): Settle in for a night of storytelling and tent-side shadow puppets in your own cozy sleeping bag.
18. Project 62 Enamel Tray ($25): Tote goodies from inside to your campsite with an on-trend serving tray. The rimmed design is key for catching spills along the way.
19. Fjällraven Kanken Mini Backpack ($70): Keep essentials close with a stylish pack that holds everything from an extra sweatshirt to your stash of late-night sweets.
20. Ban.do I Was Told There Would Be Wine Water Bottle ($20): Bring a bottle along with you that tells others how you *really* feel about the whole camping thing.
Did we miss any camping essentials? Let us know @BritandCo!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
(With additional reporting by Kalie Eyman and Sarah Koller)
