Camping is a fantastic way to enjoy nature and relax, but having the right gear can make your trip even better. We’ve put together a list of the top 10 must-have camping gadgets that blend outdoor fun with modern tech. These gadgets will help you stay safe, comfortable, and connected on your next adventure.
Key Takeaways
- The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter ensures you have access to safe drinking water anywhere.
- Nanopresso makes it easy to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee in the wild.
- A Wearable Sleeping Bag keeps you warm and mobile during chilly nights.
- The OtterBox Venture cooler keeps your food and drinks cold for days.
- Big Agnes mtnGLO Tent and Camp Lights add a cozy glow to your campsite.
1. LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is a must-have for any camping trip. Rather than carrying a clunky water bottle around your campsite or on the trail, give the LifeStraw personal water filter a sip. It filters 99.999999 percent of waterborne bacteria and 99.999 percent of waterborne parasites out of water, according to the manufacturer, so you can drink securely from any water source. Plus, it slips neatly into even the tightest backpacks.
2. Nanopresso
The Nanopresso is a compact and portable espresso maker, measuring just over six inches. This small device packs all the necessary components to make an exceptional hot beverage. Thanks to its innovative construction and easy operation, the Nanopresso will help you brew perfect cups with a nice and dense crema layer every time.
The internal pump can reach up to 261 pounds per square inch (psi) with little effort from the user. All parts can be easily cleaned and stowed when you’re done enjoying your amazing espresso.
- Compact size: just over six inches
- High pressure: up to 261 psi
- Easy to clean and stow
The Nanopresso is perfect for those who love coffee and adventure. Its small size and powerful pump make it a must-have for any camping trip.
3. Wearable Sleeping Bag
The wearable sleeping bag is a fantastic gadget for campers who want to stay warm while still being able to move around. It features armholes that allow you to read a book or use a tablet, and you can zip them up when it’s time to sleep. The lightweight cotton stuffing ensures you stay cozy even in temperatures as low as 20°F.
Key Features
- Armholes for mobility
- Lightweight cotton stuffing
- Suitable for temperatures as low as 20°F
This wearable sleeping bag is perfect for those chilly nights when you want to stay warm but still need to use your hands.
4. OtterBox Venture
The OtterBox Venture cooler is built to keep your food and drinks cold for an extended period. With its two-inch thick insulation, it can hold ice for up to 14 days. This cooler comes in three sizes: 25, 45, and 65 quarts, and is available in three different color combinations.
One of the standout features of the OtterBox Venture is its ability to be customized with various modular additions. You can add a bottle opener, storage tray, cup holder, side table, and more. This makes it a versatile choice for any camping trip.
The exterior of the cooler is designed to be tough and durable, able to withstand the rigors of boats, truck beds, campsites, and other challenging environments.
The OtterBox Venture is not just a cooler; it’s a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures.
5. Big Agnes mtnGLO Tent and Camp Lights
The Big Agnes mtnGLO Tent and Camp Lights are a fantastic addition to any camping setup. Weighing just 2 ounces, these lights are incredibly lightweight, making them perfect for both car camping and backpacking trips. The 100 inches of lights can be clipped to anything, providing versatile lighting options for your tent or campsite. You can even turn them into a lantern if needed.
Key Features
- 100 inches of lights
- Option to make them a lantern
- Clips attach the lights to anything
Pros
- Lightweight
- Two lighting options
Cons
- Not USB rechargeable
These lights are so light and versatile that they have become a staple in my camping gear. They create a cozy ambiance and are easy to set up.
6. PackTowl UltraLite Hand Towel
The PackTowl UltraLite Hand Towel is a must-have for any camper. This ultralight towel is soft, absorbent, and quick-drying. Weighing less than 2 ounces, it takes up minimal space in your backpack, making it a practical choice for any adventure. Whether you’re drying off after a swim in an alpine lake, wiping condensation off your tent, or drying a pot, this towel is up to the task.
The towel is made from 70% polyester and 20% nylon, which makes it durable and comfortable. Unlike some microfiber towels, it doesn’t feel abrasive. The anti-pill construction ensures it stays in good condition even after multiple uses.
Key Features
- Weight: 1.5 ounces
- Microfiber material
- Machine washable
- Snap button hang loop
Pros
- Anti-pill
- Fast-drying
- Made in USA
Cons
- Only Personal and Luxe towels feature odor control
The smooth texture is perfect for drying faces and hands, wiping off glasses and ski goggles, and keeping the sweat out of your eyes when worn as a headband.
7. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Micro Pump
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Micro Pump is a game-changer for campers who want to save time and energy. This tiny pump can inflate and deflate your sleeping pad in minutes. With just one button, it’s incredibly easy to use.
Key Features
- Inflates and deflates pads quickly
- Simple one-button operation
- Lightweight at just 2.3 ounces
- Prevents moisture from entering the pad
Pros
- Saves time
- Saves energy
- No moisture gets in the pad
- Lightweight
Cons
- Expensive
- Only works with Therm-a-Rest WingLock valves
This is the one gadget my wife claims we actually need. I owned the original pump for the twist-lock valve, but when Therm-a-Rest upgraded their pads, I forked over the $40 to buy the pump that works with the new WingLock valve. With a weight of just 2.3 ounces, this is a luxury worth carrying. No more huffing and puffing to blow up mattresses at camp after a long day of huffing and puffing on the trail.
8. Solo Stove Campfire Gear Kit
The Solo Stove Campfire Gear Kit is a must-have for any camping enthusiast. This very good quality campfire solo stove is designed to be both efficient and portable, making it perfect for your outdoor adventures. The kit includes a stainless steel stove that uses natural wood-burning fuel, ensuring you have a reliable heat source without the need for propane or other fuels.
Features
- Stainless steel construction
- Natural wood-burning fuel
- Lightweight and portable
- Suitable for both campfire and cooking
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Can get dirty/sooty |
| Fun to use | |
| Nests together for easy transport |
It’s a perfect size for about 3 people to sit around. Cannot wait to take it out camping with us!
9. Yeti Camino 35 Carryall
The Yeti Camino 35 Carryall is a versatile and durable tote bag designed for all your camping needs. This tote bag will keep your wet boots and waders contained, keep dry gear inside protected from mud and puddles, and provide a tough barrier from sharp hooks. Made with high-quality materials, it stands up on its own and boasts weatherproof construction.
Key Features
- Stands up on its own
- Weatherproof construction
- Can carry a lot
Pros
- Yeti Quality
- Durable
Cons
- Expensive
When I first got this 35-liter bag, I balked at the stiff price. However, I quickly realized the price equaled the Yeti quality and reputation. I have years of using and abusing this bag—adding up to hundreds of times—to verify its durability.
10. Gerber Stake Out
The Gerber Stake Out is a versatile multi-tool designed for campers who need a reliable and compact gadget. Weighing just 3.3 ounces, this tool packs 11 different functions into one small package. It includes a 2.2-inch plain edge blade, scissors, an awl, a ruler, a ferro rod, a sharp saw, and a file. One standout feature is the tent stake puller, which makes removing stakes much easier.
Key Features
- 11 tools
- Built-in carabiner
- Lightweight at 3.3 ounces
Pros
- Lightweight
- Useful tools
- Durable
- Carabiner clip
Cons
- No pocket clip
- No serrated blade
The Gerber Stake Out is a must-have for any camping trip, offering a range of tools in a compact and durable design.
Conclusion
Camping is a great way to enjoy nature and have fun. With the right gadgets, your trip can be even better. The top 10 camping gadgets we talked about can help you stay safe, comfortable, and connected. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced camper, these tools can make your adventure more enjoyable. So, pack your gear and get ready for an amazing outdoor experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter?
The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is a handy tool that lets you drink water safely from rivers, lakes, or streams by removing bacteria and parasites.
How does the Nanopresso work?
The Nanopresso is a portable espresso maker that uses ground coffee and hot water to brew a fresh cup of espresso anywhere you are.
What is a wearable sleeping bag?
A wearable sleeping bag is a sleeping bag you can wear like a coat, keeping you warm while allowing you to move around the campsite.
Why should I use the OtterBox Venture?
The OtterBox Venture is a durable cooler that keeps your food and drinks cold for a long time, perfect for camping trips.
How does the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Micro Pump help?
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Micro Pump inflates your sleeping pad quickly and easily, saving you time and effort when setting up camp.
What is included in the Solo Stove Campfire Gear Kit?
The Solo Stove Campfire Gear Kit includes a portable stove and accessories for cooking meals over an open flame, making it easy to prepare food while camping.
