Just like there are introverts and extroverts, some people love the outdoors and others prefer to staying home. I'm one of those people who’d give anything to live outside — if I could live in a tent in the middle of the forest forever, I would.
There’s just something so freeing about being in the middle of nature, surrounded by fresh air, greenery and peace. It's such a healthy change from smoggy cities, our 24/7 screens, and the constant bombardment of news.
Being within nature is such an excellent way to do a digital detox. I use it as just that. Once every few months, when the world gets too much, I pick my gear up and set off for a weekend in the wilderness.
I’ve loved camping ever since I can remember. Setting up a tent, cooking food over a campfire, and diving into my favorite book — heaven. But as much as I appreciate the outdoors, I’ve had some horrid experiences. Once I brought a cheap tent that couldn’t withstand a pelting rainstorm — muddy sleeping bags are no fun! Another time, I forgot a few essential cooking items and we ended up eating energy bars for dinner. Sure, it was bummer, but the sun came out the next morning and I was off for a mountain hike.
But I no longer have to suffer with inferior camping gear. There are so many new products out there and camping sites themselves have truly evolved. Many have shower facilities and even wifi capabilities. So, this year, rather than dusting off all the old camping equipment cluttering up our basement, I picked up a few much-needed items beyond a tent and sleeping bag:
All products featured are independently selected by our editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.
First Aid Kit - $9.99
Not the most thrilling item, but do not leave home without your first aid kit. It contains 100 physician-recommended supplies including organized pouches for easy access and refill. There’s antiseptics, bandages, injury treatments, and a comprehensive first-aid guide.
Even for small cuts or splinters, it's a very handy item that doesn’t take up too much space in your backpack.
Camping Backpack - $39.99
Don’t go lugging a suitcase through the woods. A sturdy backpack is essential.
This waterproof backpack has a main compartment, two zipped front pockets, a sleeping bag compartment, mesh side pockets, and additional space for what you need. The material is high-quality so it's water-resistant, tear-resistant, and breathable so my dirty clothes don’t start stinking. It’s the ultimate backpack that holds everything I need for a weekend away.
Multi Chopping Board - $24.97
Might not be the first thing on the list but it's more than usefu for cooking and eating out in the wild. The cutting board is collapsable and the box contains a drain basket, cutters, slicers, and graters. This way you can efficiently cook your meals without using a ton of different cooking utensils.
It even has storage space so I carry all the fruit and vegetables right in this compact box. No need additional produce bags!
Portable lights - $13.99
You can never have too much light, especially out in the middle of the forest far away from the city’s bright lights. These Portable LED Tent Lights are super convenient to carry. Their hooks work for outside or inside of the tent and even attach to my bag or belt buckle.
They have 10-15 hours of battery life and come with 3 light modes: HIGH / LOW / Strobe. This is just about my favorite items I picked up for Camping in 2023.
Reminder: Carry extra batteries, you will end up needing them!
Camping Towels - $12.99 (large)
I used to hike around with pounds of damp towels that never dried and got moldy — eww. But when I discovered these towels, they. Changed. My. Life. These microfiber travel towels are super absorbent and can be air-dried quickly. Plus, since they’re lightweight, carrying them in their own case is easy-peasy.
It's the best towel for when you need to dry off after a quick dip in a lovely lake. And available in a range of bright colors and every single size you can think of.
Apart from these few picks, I also bought a new lightweight sleeping bag ($19.99 — such a bargain) that works in any weather. It's also waterproof and easy to clean, so any mud that gets on it can be easily wiped off.
I even picked up a few fun things like a magical flame fire ($15.94) which changes colors, marshmallow roasting sticks ($7.99), and a pour-over coffee maker ($23.99) because I need my coffee, even when I’m in the middle of nowhere!
Camping is my favorite hobby, and these new essentials make my days and nights in the great outdoors so much more exciting and enjoyable.
