The Best Camping Gear Checklist

Our photo shoot brought with it gale force winds. So this wind-resistant tent almost seemed premeditated. The rigging system keeps the outer tarp taut, while inside there’s enough room for three actual people, contrary to the sizing given by most tents.

This revolutionary new design offers a self-inflating structure the company claims uses 60 percent less foam. That gives your weary bones the thin profile of an air pad with the durability and plush feel of a bulkier foam pad.

Harmful dyes create caustic byproducts. But this “Eco AF” bag offers everything the standard Lamina bag does, including a 30-degrees F rating and ripstop nylon exterior, but is made from recycled materials and avoids all dying processes for a clean-looking, and clean-feeling bag.

Kate and Woody snuggle up in Pendleton Woolen Mills’ Homestead wool blanket, a classic made in Oregon.

A minimalist two-seater for around the campfire, this sleek design pulls a layer of fabric taut around the X-shaped frame. We’ve loved the simple solutions from this brand in the past and the bench adds an important group option to any gathering.

We love these packable hammocks for one or two.

Hiking into the backcountry means someone has to lug the gear. This spacious pack fits a tent and two sleeping bags and still has room for more, thanks to the unique carbon-fiber frame system. Too much to fit inside the pack itself? You can wedge gear in between the frame and the rear of the bag.

This bomb-proof carry-all is something you’ll hand down to your kids, it’s that impervious to punctures and rips. It’s great for stowing and throwing.

Our favorite day tripper, this sustainable carry-all is made from 55 percent hemp, 45 percent recycled polyester. It’s durable, versatile, and smart.

All-purpose knives often come with a cost: weight. But this do-it-all everday carry blade only costs you 1.8 ounces in your pocket or bag. That’s thanks to the proprietary handle material and a custom alloy blend. It’s our go-to for everything from packages to campfire whittling projects.

You want an axe that lasts? Try finding one with a history that beats Hults Bruk’s. The Swedish blade maker has been around since 1697, which means they know a thing or two about splitting wood. American hickory coated with linseed makes up the handle of this chopper, while the hand-forged blade is made with care by actual blacksmiths, not machines.

Tim Leatherman’s iconic first design created a new category in knives and is beloved by DIYers and campers alike. Newer models may be lighter and easier to use, but nothing beats the sturdy, this original heirloom-quality package that will serve you at home and in the field.

With a head fashioned from the same steel used in jackhammer tips and a removable hickory handle (not shown) this axe is as sturdy as they come and can be used for light lumber cutting, kindling splitting, and, yes, target throwing.

Made in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, West Knifework’s does-it-all Japanese-style kitchen knife boasts a stacked fiberglass epoxy handle, super sharp S35VN high carbon steel, and an image of the Teton Mountain range etched into the blade.

For all the focus on tech-based navigation tools, you’ll also always want to bring a good old-fashioned compass. And for one good reason: It will never run out of batteries or need satellite signals to work.

Turn any hatchback into a home with Luno’s custom fit inflatable mattresses.

At just over 80 pounds sans bedding, the SuperLight tent solves the problem of vehicle roll through corners, and prevents the top-heaviness of other, weightier solutions. At 50 inches by 90 inches, the sleeping platform fits two adults comfortably. Available options include an extending ladder and bedding. Just like the beefier solution, the SuperLight pops up and down in an instant. The platform enclosure allows you to stash your bedding during transportation.

This stackable system locks shut–and stays shut–thanks to hinges that swing down for travel. It’s great for packing in essential cooking gear that doesn’t need refrigeration.

Cell service suffers in the wilderness. That’s a good thing–you can focus on nature–but also perilous if you’re injured or just want to stay an extra day and prevent mom from entering full-on panic mode. This satellite capable device links up with your phone to send SMS messages, ping your location to folks at home, and if needed broadcast an SOS alert.

This cooking system packs up tight enough to warrant use on a backpacking trip. But we’ve come to depend on it everywhere, thanks to the speed with which it cooks everything from eggs to fried rice. The baffles on the adjustable base unit distribute heat evenly to the pot above, and the detachable handle helps you wrangle both pots alike. It’s become an absolute go-to for our outdoor culinary missions.

Powering your devices off the grid means going solar; your car’s battery can’t do it all. That’s why this fold-out solution is so smart: Deploy it when you’re posted up, charging up a power station (sold separately) that can output enough amperage to run even blenders and small fridges.

Those small green propane containers have become the standard for weekend campers. But they’re difficult and inefficient to recycle. This reusable tank sits between its discardable siblings and the larger 20-lb tanks commonly used for barbecue grills. It’ll keep you grilling for weeks, and the carrying case helps it keep cozy during transport. You’ll save nearly 500 of those green canisters from the landfill.

Getting stuck in sand, snow, and mud can thwart even the burliest of four-wheel-drive systems. That’s why these combination shovels/grip pads are the perfect solution. Mount them to the outside of your whip and then pop them off in a pinch.

Long-lasting coolers are great for a day or two. But what if you’re REALLY getting off the grid? This powered cooler uses less juice than a 60W lightbulb but can keep your perishables on ice via the 12/24V cigarette lighter outlet in your car. What’s more, an active monitoring system ensures you won’t sap your ride’s battery when it’s running low.

Dogs love snoozers, the pita-shaped pockets that cuddle them at night. This circular sleeping bag will be your pup’s new best friend, thanks to synthetic insulation that washes clean and a stow-and-stash package.

Finding fido in the dusk is easier for a bear than it is for you. That’s why this inexpensive collar might literally be a life-saver. It’s rechargable, adjustable, and absolutely essential.

This collapsible, nylon-lined dog bowl is perfect for packing on a hike.