6 ways to level up your campsite

There are countless reviews and opinions to be found about what to pack — and what not to pack — on your next camping trip. Whether you’re embarking on a casual weekend getaway or a multi-day excursion, the right gear can make or break your campsite. We sifted through thousands of reviews from industry professionals, retail experts and camping enthusiasts to find out more. 

1. Cook out in style 

Flash Cooking System 

Brew a cup of Joe, whip up dinner, or simply boil water in seconds with Jetboil’s lightning-fast Flash Cooking System. Capable of boiling water in just 100 seconds, this system is Jetboil’s fastest stove to date 

“Took this for its first spin up Wheeler Peak! Cooked breakfast at the trailhead and the Jetboil quickly had the water roiling and ready to pour! Made it up to Williams lake split and used this to make a quick cup of coffee before heading to summit. Again the water was ready to go in a minute or two. On my way…” Read More

Everest 2x High Output Two-Burner Stove 

Cooking for a group? Look no further than this high-powered Camp Chef stove. Lightweight and portable, this stove is packed with two 20,000 BTU burners. Cook a gourmet meal, no matter your coordinates. 

“Super powerful, super adjustable. This definitely isn’t a stove for lightweight backpacking, but you already know that. It’s widely considered the best of the bunch for a reason. It’ll boil water in seconds and keep soup at a simmer for longer than your patience lasts. 

Santoku Knife Set 

Weighing in at just under 1 ½ pounds, this compact, three-knife set also includes a foldable cutting board, soap bottle and a two-sided dish cloth for easy clean up

“I like my camp gear really organized, and this set is definitely helpful for that. The knives are all really sharp. We had steaks this weekend camping and used them for cooking as well as eating. I like that the cutting board folds so it takes up less space. One of my favorite features of this set is there is plenty of extra room in the…” Read More

2. Make access to water easy  

Day Tank 3.85 Gallon Water Tank

Enjoy access to clean, pressurized water wherever your journey takes you with this 3.8-gallon reservoir from WaterPORT. Simply plug in your garden hose into the tank’s quick connect to automatically pressurize the reservoir, then clean, rinse or refresh at will.

“I use this as a shower and a water source for dishes on camping trips. If you’re sparring with your water 2 people can shower on one fill. Perfect for weekend getaways, and what’s best is no more loading multiple gallon jugs into your vehicle! The plastic is food grade and BPA safe so I feel comfortable using this for drinking water…” Read More

 

Katadyn Gravity Microfilter 

Filter smarter, not harder with the foldable Katadyn BeFree Gravity 10L filter system. Featuring a convenient carrying strap, clear water level indicator window and a flow rate of up to 2 liters per minute, the Katadyn Gravity Microfilter is the easiest way to get potable water at your campsite.

“Lightweight and durable. This bag is very handy when I take it camping so everyone can get filtered water at a central location.”

3. Elevate your sleep set up  

TRUNKTECH™ Hammock

Hang out in style with a Hammock designed specifically for explorers. Breathable, soft and nearly half the weight of ordinary parachute hammocks, the TRUCKTECH™ is designed with durable Ripstop Nylon for added durability and a variety of fun colors to choose from.

“I absolutely LOVE this hammock. It is easy to use (get the straps), comfortable, lightweight (easy to move around, carry around and get set up), cheerful, and makes being spontaneous easy. I also got the bug net, which I would highly recommend.”

Foamy camp mattress 

The Foamy camping mattress from HEST features two layers of enhanced memory foam to deliver body alignment and pressure point relief that rivals your home mattress. Packable, water-resistant and ready for adventure, the Foamy “Provides the most comfort of any camping mattress we’ve tested.” – NY Times, Wirecutter.

“I’ve used this pad 6 or 7 times in temps below 15 degrees and it keeps me incredibly warm when paired with the -20 echo park from big Agnes. You can also get it to a pretty small size if you roll it up properly. I also love how the bottom is water resistant and very sturdy overall. I definitely see myself keeping this pad for a long time.”

Puffy Kachula

Ditch your heavy throw and experience the warmth of the intuitive Puffy Kachula adventure blanket. A versatile cross between a puffy jacket, a blanket and a sleep sack, the Puffy Kachula is packed with features like durable zippers and a detachable hood that allows users to adapt to any situation at a moment’s notice. 

“Picked up the hooded conversion Puffy Kachula as an option for evenings by campfire/campsite breakfast-cooking insulation, but it has become a fixture of our home. It’s the first blanket we grab during the cool winter nights to curl up with a movie or book, and it’s big enough to be (mostly) shared on a couch without …” Read More

4. Set up a sturdy shelter 

Copper Spur HV UL3 Long 

This best-selling tent from Big Agnes sets up easily and comfortably fits three people. The Copper Spur HV UL3 features dual low-vent vestibule doors and awnings to keep you and your gear protected from the elements.

“We used this tent while camping and canoeing/portaging through the BWCA. It was amazing! It’s super lightweight, compact, and easy to set-up/take down. The rain fly protected us from overnight moisture. With it removed, we could see the sky full of stars. The bugs were brutal one night but we had no issues. The seams…” Read More

5. Bring your living room outdoors  

Freestyle Rocker XL Camp Chair 

The Freestyle Rocker XL camp chair combines the comfort of a rocking chair with a lightweight design and an integrated side table to deliver comfortable convenience to your camp site. Constructed from sturdy powder-coated steel, the Freestyle Rocker’s frame supports up to 400 pounds and includes padded armrests and a breathable mesh backrest. 

“I was needing a new comfortable camping chair, and this one far exceeded my expectations. Super comfortable and having the tray on the side is a bonus.”

Woodchuck Camp Table 

Unwind after a day of adventuring around the Woodchuck Camp Table from Big Agnes. Lightweight and sturdy, this table sets up in seconds and is ideal for meal prep, card games or post-hike drinks.

“Used this table on a few trips. Was really nice to have such an easy to set up and light weight table to set stuff on. Goes up super fast and is pretty sturdy. Would recommend!”

6. Enjoy campsite convenience  

Nomad 50

Power your laptop, portable fridge and other essentials with this foldable 50 Watt solar-charged power bank. The Nomad 50 can attach to vehicles and tents thanks to integrated hang loops and features built-in charging cables for use with Goal Zero Yeti Power Stations, Power Banks and USB devices.

“I’ve used the Nomad 50 on several trips now, and its efficiency always blows me away! I hardly take the time to angle the panel throughout the course of the day, as I tend to leave it at my campsite and go about my exploring. Even without giving it perfect direct sunlight, it charges my Yeti 400 in about 7 hours! Big fan of…” Read More

Sawyer Squeeze Filter Bundle

Those in search of serious protection from ticks and mosquitoes need look no further than this convenient bundle from Sawyer. In addition to both Picaridin spray for personal use and Permethrin spray for your clothing and gear, this combo also includes Sawyer’s Squeeze Water Filtration system for an added source of water purification

“Recently purchased this bundle. This will be my third Sawyer Squeeze products I’ve purchased and is easily the most used in long-distance hiking. I would recommend Sawyer products to any thru hiker! A couple notes: The Sawyer mini Squeeze is also an option but I find the flow rate too slow for me. And remember to….” Read More

Gear up and get going 

Whether you’re looking to add a little extra comfort to your campsite or upgrade your backcountry BBQ, you’ll find everything you need — and more — on ExpertVoice.