Camping Starter Kit for Beginners

BY Micaela August 1, 2022

If you decide to ditch air travel this summer and head out into the wilderness, you may need to start from scratch for your first camping adventure. Although these items seem like no-brainers for your checklist, you may not know where it’s okay to get the lowest budget items or when it’s necessary to splurge. Here are a few things to get you started:

Tent

Depending on your party size, the amount you’re traveling, and weight restrictions, you may want to look at different tents. You may be surprised to find a wide array of tents ranging from $50-$1,000+, so which one do you need? If you plan on driving to your campsite and setting up next to your car, you can opt for an easy-setup tent that tends to be a little less expensive. If you plan on backpacking through your vacation, you’ll need something sturdy and light. The average cost for the highest rated backpacking tents range around $300-400. If you are wanting your campout to run super bougie, there are options that include stoves and air conditions, or even separate rooms!

Sleeping Bag

Did you know sleeping bags come with different insulation ratings based on the temperature you’ll be camping at? If you’re heading out into the desert in the height of summer, you’ll want something light and breathable. If you’re trekking through snow and high altitudes, make sure your sleeping bag is rated for the temperatures you need. It’s also important to note the size, length, shape, and fill type (just in case any allergies are in play). Rest assured, you’ll sleep soundly after doing your research for the right sleeping bag. 

Sleeping Pad

Although this is listed third on our list, your sleeping pad might be the most important when it comes to the comfort of your campout. No one likes sleeping on lumpy dirt and waking up to random knots from tossing and turning. If you need to pack light, there are little camping pads packed as small as a can of soda that are easy to inflate and easy to pack. If you’re glamping with your sweetheart, you may want to go all out with a full on air mattress. If this is the way you decide to go, make sure to bring an air pump if it isn’t built in. 

Camping Chairs

The best memories of your trip are likely going to be made while sitting around your campfire, making s’mores, cooking hot dogs, and telling scary stories. Like everything else on this list, you can keep your camping furniture on the cheaper end when on a budget, or you can camp in style with loungers, padded arm rests, and a bunch of extra bells and whistles. Let it be known that no matter what, you’ll be much more comfortable even if you opt in for a $20 camping chair instead of sitting on a log. 

Cooler

Apart from the obvious reasons of getting a cooler to keep your food fresh, it can also help save you from critters coming to raid your camp site while you’re sleeping. Some come with locks, some are light and easy to carry, some have lifetime guarantees. Like most things in life, you tend to get what you pay for, so if you see yourself becoming a regular adventurer and weekend camper, maybe dig a little deeper into your pockets for brands like Yeti or Pelican that will last you for decades to come. 

While these items are mere suggestions, know that many people have enjoyed a campout with a blanket under the stars. Make sure to stay safe by letting others know where you’re camping, bring a flashlight, and never forget that bug spray. Have fun!