
What to Know Before You Pack for a Camping Trip Research environmental risksīeing mindful of environmental risks, such as wildlife and natural hazards, is key when packing for camping and setting up camp. The tent comes with a Divvy Cube rectangular stuff sack, which helps campers divide the tent components and share the weight in an organized fashion. Thanks to color-coded poles, clips, and loops, setting up the Dagger Osmo 2 is a fast and straightforward process. Between the expansive mesh canopy and the clips for holding the doors open, the tent has excellent ventilation, even with the rain fly attached. There are also interior pockets and loops for stashing belongings and hanging a lantern. The Dagger Osmo 2 is fitted with two large doors and vestibules on each side, making it easy to store gear separately and get up to use the bathroom at night without disturbing others. It’s made from recycled fabric that avoids the use of PFCs and PFAS in its water-repellent construction. Lightweight, durable, and user-friendly, the Nemo Dagger Osmo 2 provides ample space for camping duos and reliable protection from the elements. View On Amazon View On REI View On L.L.Bean For longer camping trips, bringing clothes that are quick-drying, lightweight, and packable can save on space and be worn multiple times. If you plan to hike or do water sports, packing active footwear and quick-drying shoes, respectively, will come in handy for your trip. The duration of your camping trip and the activities you plan on doing should also factor into what you plan to pack. “Even the hottest and driest places can get precipitation and cold at night, so packing waterproof and warm layers is essential,” says Heron. The environment can change quickly, notes Heron, especially when camping in the desert and other arid regions. Heron recommends packing for both the best and worst weather campers could experience in their neck of the woods.

“People often focus on the forecast and forget how fickle conditions can be in the great outdoors”, says Julien Heron, Co-founder of Outdoors Generations.

As a general rule of thumb, preparing for the worst-case scenarios (e.g., unexpected rain or cooler weather) can help salvage your camping trip if things don’t go as planned. The climate and seasonality of your camping trip will help determine what types of apparel and footwear to bring.

Best Reclining Chair: GCI Outdoor Zero Gravity Chair.Best Lightweight Chair: REI Co-op Flexlite Air.Best Two-person Tent: Nemo Dagger Osmo 2.Best Four-person Tent: Nemo Aurora Highrise 4-person.Best Six-person Tent: Marmot Limestone 6-person Tent.Best Rain Jacket: Marmot Men’s PreCip Eco Jacket.Best Water Shoes: DLGJPA Quick-drying Water Shoes.Best Hiking Sandals: Bedrock Cairn Adventure Sandals.We’ve compiled our top picks for essential camping apparel, footwear, gear, and accessories to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re new to camping or a more experienced camper looking to fine-tune their packing, this camping checklist is a great place to get started. From waterproof apparel to tents and cooking equipment, we’ve tested and vetted these camping products firsthand so you can prepare for your trip with confidence. Regardless of your camping style and experience level, packing for an overnight or more in nature takes planning. Going camping looks different for everyone, from stays in roof-top tents to drive-in campsites and backcountry expeditions, the options abound. Whether to spend quality time with family and friends or just be immersed in nature, camping is a popular pastime for many.
