Find Affordable Back to Basics Camping Gear

Camping is a rite of passage for many, a nostalgic way of reconnecting with nature and stepping away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you’re looking to get back to basics this camping season, you’ll need the right gear to make your experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. This article will provide insider tips on what essential gear to bring on your next camping trip, from lightweight and durable tents to functional cooking equipment, so you can have the best outdoor experience possible. From avid campers to first-time adventurers, there’s something for everyone in this comprehensive guide to basic camping gear.

Shelter

One of the most basic needs of camping is shelter. Make sure to find camping gear that is not only affordable but also durable. You want to invest in camping gear that will last through many camping trips.

Tent

One of the most basic camping gear you will need is a good tent. We currently own the tent above in a different color. The Coleman tent is a popular brand because of its proven durability, easy setup, and compact storage. You can purchase it in different sizes to fit your family’s needs. Find the tent here.

Sleeping Bags

The Soulout Sleeping Bag is perfect for those looking for a 3-4-season sleeping bag that is easy to pack and doesn’t take up a lot of space. The sleeping bag is also machine washable, an added plus with boys in scouting. You can find this reasonably priced sleeping bag here.

Mattress Pad

A mattress pad for your sleeping bag might be considered a luxury by some hardcore campers, but if you have a bad back, it might make camping more comfortable. My husband has this mattress pad. It makes tent camping bearable if you are sleeping on the ground. Avoid a sore back by sleeping on a mattress pad that will cover the rocks and bumps on the ground. It is easy to use and a snap to pack away. You can find the Powerlix Mattress Pad here.

Fire

You will probably want a fire for heat and for cooking during your back-to-basics camping trip. Creating a fire can be easy or frustrating depending on many factors, such as the weather or the type of wood you are trying to burn. Check out my post, How to Start a Fire Without a Match, for helpful tips.

Kindling

To start a warm, cozy fire, you will need dry kindling. It’s a good idea to have at least a few on hand that you know are dry and ready to go. You can find this box of EasyGoProducts Eco-Stix Kindling that will last through several camping trips here.

Flint Fire Starter

It’s a great idea to have a flint fire starter in your camping gear. No worries about wet matches or if there is starter fluid in the fire torch. They are portable and reliable. This one by Barite is well-reviewed for its durability and craftsmanship. You can find it here.

Food

The best part of camping is the food. Nothing is better than sitting around the campfire, eating your favorite camp meals, or roasting marshmallows.

Cooler

Be sure to keep all that camp food cold in a Coleman Insulated Cooler. Coolers can be expensive, but they are a great investment in camping. You want one that will keep your food cold for the duration of your camping trip for the health and safety of your family. You can find this durable cooler here that won’t break your camping budget.

Dutch Oven

The absolute best way to cook outdoors on your camping adventure is using the Lodge Dutch Oven. Make dinner and desserts without a lot of fuss, and your family will think you are an amazing camping chef. Add a Dutch Oven to your list of must-have camping gear. You can find the Dutch Oven I use here. For recipes and ideas on outdoor cooking, check out my category, Food.

Stanley Cook Set

This camping cook set from Stanley has everything a family of four needs to make a fabulous camp meal and a way to eat it. This well-made set is sure to last through many camping adventures. You can find it here.

Coleman Propane Camp Stove

Another great cooking option is the Coleman Propane Camp Stove. This stove is perfect for when you need a fast camp meal. No need to build a fire, a push of a button, and you are set to go. You can find the camp stove here.

Water

Having clean water during your camping adventure is a must. If you do not have water near your base camp, make sure to bring in enough for every member of your camping party.

Water Storage

Be sure to grab these SurVivv Collapsible Water Containers for your camping gear.  They do not take up much room when storing and will come in handy on your camping trip or hurricane preparedness kit. It might be a good idea to have one for a wash station and one for just drinking. You can find the containers here.

Personal Water Filtration Straw

A very handy camping gadget to have in your kit is the Practical Survival Personal Water Filtration Straw. If you can’t access clean drinking water, have no fear. This water filtration straw will kill 99.9% of bacteria from your water source and will provide you with 1100 gallons of clean drinking water. This would also be a great addition to your emergency preparedness kit. You can find this veteran-owned personal water filtration system here.

Personal Safety and Health

Don’t take any chances with your health and safety or that of your family. Be prepared for any emergency that may arrive during your camping trip.

First Aid Kit

Find a first aid kit that can handle a variety of mishaps. The one above is a 330-piece trauma medical kit that is equipped with almost everything you need to handle a medical emergency or a minor mishap. You can find this well-stocked medical first-aid kit here.

Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

Keep the mosquitos away during your camping adventure with these Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets. Enjoy being outside.

Camp Lighting

As we head into the fall season, the days are getting shorter. While it does make for awesome camping weather, the darkness will creep up on you. Find different types of lights to suit your needs.

Camp Lantern

This Coleman Camping Lantern is a basic light source that will come in handy on those dark camping nights. The popular lantern is well-reviewed and will last for many campouts to come. You can find it here.

Head Lamp

A convenient light source for campers is the headlamp from GearLight. Order the two pack to always have a spare, or order one for everyone in your camping party. You can find the headlamp here.

Flashlight

It’s always a good idea to have a basic flashlight on hand. This battery-operated one from EVEREADY can be found here. Reliable and durable is all you need.

Camping Tools

Make sure to have the right tools on hand when camping. You may have to dig a trench to divert water or trim back branches for a campsite.

Folding Shovel

The RHINO USA Folding Shovel is the perfect addition to your camping gear. It is well-made and built to last. It also folds up for easy storage.

Folding Saw

Another basic camping tool to have on hand is a folding saw. You may need to trim branches away from your tent to prevent them from snagging it. Make sure you know if you are allowed to do so, some parks will not allow this. The REXBETI Folding Saw is a great option to have in a camping kit.

Hatchet

A hatchet would also be useful in your camping kit. You may need one to chop smaller pieces of wood for the fire or to use the backside to hammer in tent stakes. The Hart Hatchet is a great addition to your basic camping gear to have.

Back to Basics Camping

We mainly camp in our RV, but my husband and sons have done a lot of tent camping with the scouting program. As long as your basic needs of food, water, shelter, and fire are met, you are sure to enjoy the great outdoors and all that it offers. I hope the list above gives you a great starting point in building your camping gear must-haves. Happy Camping!

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