Carry on camping – just make sure you kit your tent out with twelve clever gadgets and gizmos that’ll have you wondering how on earth you managed before they were in your life. These gear ideas are perfect for wild hikers, bushcraft lovers and the camper who brings everything but the kitchen sink… oh wait.
Ten bits of camping kit you never knew you needed
1, Camp slippers
Who knew that tiny sleeping bags for your feet were such a cult item? Snug down slippers were the envy of everyone when I was trekking in the cold Himalayas – they’re perfect for camping, as you can wear them inside a sleeping bag to keep feet toasty in cold temperatures.
2, Waterproof matches
It’s one of the ironies of outdoor life that the conditions in which you need a fire the most are the hardest to get a flame to stay alight in. Waterproof matches to the rescue! These matches from The Bug Out have waxed heads and come in a handy jar with a striker top. Or you can save your pennies and make your own by dipping match heads in wax or nail polish and leaving to dry.
3, Portable Solar Shower
Say goodbye to cold river baths! A portable solar shower is a game-changer, especially on longer camping trips and for van living. These nifty bags heat up in the sun, giving you a refreshing, warm shower when you need it most. Lightweight and compact, a solar shower is easy to pack yet provides a feeling of squeaky-clean luxury you never thought you needed.
4, Ultralight Hammock
Perfect for lazy afternoons and extra sleeping space alike, ultralight hammocks pack down small but are built for durability, making them ideal for wild camping or just lounging about in trees by your tent with a view of the stars.
5, Collapsible Sink
Cleaning dishes in the back-of-beyond is a doddle with a collapsible sink. These space-saving marvels unfold in seconds to give you a stable, waterproof basin for washing dishes, hands, or veggies. Afterward, fold your sink flat, and it disappears in your bag. It’s the kind of tool you’ll wonder how you camped without, especially with grubby kids in tow.
6, Tarpaulin
A tarpaulin might just be the most versatile bit of kit you can bring along on a camping trip. It’ll serve as an instant all-purpose shelter, a porch, something to sit on, a windbreak or a water-resistant cover for your gear. Tarpaulins Direct offer affordable, weatherproof tarps in a myriad of sizes.
7, Multi-tool with Firestarter
A multi-tool with an integrated firestarter is a one-stop shop that should always be in your pocket – pliers, screwdrivers, knives and the life-saving ability to spark a fire in all conditions should have you covered whether you’re planning a relaxed weekend glamping trip or are headed for the mountains with a bivouac bag.
8, All-in-One Camp Lantern & Power Bank
Never get stuck in the dark again with a lantern that doubles as a power bank. This dual-purpose device provides bright light for your tent after twilight and charges your devices when you’re off the grid. Small but powerful, it’s the perfect companion for camping remote areas where electricity is hard to come by.
9, Portable Campfire
For eco-conscious campers who want the warmth of a fire without damaging the ground, a portable campfire is a brilliant solution for cooking, toasting marshmallows or just sitting around the flames with a beer. These compact, mess-free fires burn cleanly and safely, perfect for when you can’t have a traditional campfire.
10, Water Filter Straw
A water filter straw is the most lightweight and efficient way to stay hydrated while hiking. Simply drink directly from streams or lakes, and the built-in filter will remove harmful bacteria and contaminants. It’s a literal lifesaver for every backpacker, ensuring access to clean water without the need for bulky bottles or purifiers.
