18 Camping Essentials for People Who Struggle With the Outdoors
Lesley Chen is a California native who writes about travel, health/fitness, and other lifestyle topics. She has a serious case of RBF and exercises mainly to balance out an aggressive candy addiction.
Otterbox Trooper LT 30 Cooler ($300): This 30-quart cooler will keep all your favorite foods and beverages cold (and it keeps ice for up to three days). It has a leakproof seal, thermal insulation, and wide opening. Plus it's water-resistant, comes with a bottle opener, and converts into a backpack to make transport easier.
Rumpl The Original Puffy Blanket ($99): Why leave the comforts of home at home when you can bring it on the road? This packable puffy blanket is warm, waterproof, odor-resistant, and machine-washable.
Camp Chef Everest 2 Burner Stove ($146): Camping food doesn't have to be cold or eaten out of a can. Bring a portable stove that has two powerful 20,000 BTU burners and you can whip up all your favorite foods wherever you are.
Someone Somewhere Malt Everywhere Bag ($135): Rugged enough for the mountains and stylish enough for everyday use, this backpack has it all: 17 secret compartments, a deep water bottle pocket, space for your tablet and notebook, and a place for your passport. Plus, because Someone Somewhere works with artisans in Mexico, each bag features the name of the artisan that made it.
Hydro Flask 32 oz Lightweight Wide Mouth Trail Series ($50): Stay hydrated in style with this water bottle. The innovative stainless steel design means this bottle is 25% lighter than other 32oz bottles.
Intex Prestige Downy Airbed Kit with Hand Held Battery Pump ($40): Give your sleeping surface a little extra cushion with this airbed that comes with a handheld pump (just don't forget to bring batteries).
Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for Four ($80): This scratch-resistant, rust-proof cook set is great for outdoor eating and cooking — it comes with a pot, frying pan, flatware, utensils, trivets, and more. And it conveniently all stacks into one easy-to-carry package.
Patagonia Women's Nano Puff Jacket ($200): Keep the elements off your body with a warm jacket that's made from 100% postconsumer recycled polyester.
Coleman Dome Tent ($100 for a 4-Person Tent): This dome tent has waterproof floors, protected seams, and large windows for ventilation. It has continuous pole sleeves with reportedly cut down setup time to just 10 minutes.
Mystery Ranch In & Out 19L Backpack ($79): Bring an extra bag without the bulk:This durable daypack folds into its own front pocket and is ready for any adventure.
Bottle Bright ($8): Do you remember the last time you really cleaned your reusable water bottle? Us either. Just drop one of these chlorine-free handy tablets in a bottle full of water, wait about 15 minutes, and you'll be germ-free once again.
Darn Tough Vermont Women's Merino Wool Micro Crew Cushion Socks ($21+): There's nothing like a blister to ruin a hike. These lifetime-guaranteed merino wool socks won't slip or bunch, and they'll keep your feet cool all day long.
Patagonia Provisions Organic Fruit + Almond Bars ($27 for a 12-Pack): Make sure you have healthy snacks on hand to ward away hunger. These bars are made with just organic fruit, almonds, seeds, fruit juice and are easy to throw into a pocket or bag.
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter ($30): Even though the likelihood of you not having potable water available is slim, it never helps to be prepared by bringing a personal water filter. And you'll feel like a true outdoor adventurer carrying one.
REPEL Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent ($5): This plant-based, DEET-free spray protects you from bugs for up to six hours and has a lemon eucalyptus scent.
Coleman Portable Camping Quad Chair with 4-Can Cooler ($35): Kick back at your campsite in this foldable chair that has a cushioned back and room to hold four cans, so you'll barely even have to get up.
Stanley Adventure Stainless Steel Happy Hour Shaker ($35): This stainless steel cocktail shaker comes with a juice reamer, jigger, and two glasses. Because happy hour doesn't stop just because you leave the city.
Let us know your camping must haves @BritandCo!
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This post has been updated.
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Lesley Chen is a California native who writes about travel, health/fitness, and other lifestyle topics. She has a serious case of RBF and exercises mainly to balance out an aggressive candy addiction.