8 Must Haves for the Perfect Campsite Setup

Power and Fuel

Power and fuel are arguably some of the most important inclusions for a camping trip. They are the juice that allows a lot of your items to work like your lighting setup, refrigeration, cooking stove, and campfire. A key piece of power supply you should ensure you have is a portable dual battery pack or larger power bank with solar panels. This will come in handy when you're camping on an unpowered site.

Cooking and Food Storage 

Cooking meals outside is one of the best parts of camping. But it’s even more enjoyable when you have the right cooking gear. By adding a portable stove, gas bottle, cooler, and cooking utensils to your setup - you’ll enhance your entire camping experience. 

A portable stove is an essential piece of cooking equipment for any camping trip. They come in various sizes and fuel types, from compact single burners to larger propane grills. Additionally, you’ll be grateful for a gas bottle. Providing a reliable, controllable heat source, it's the perfect item for cooking a wide range of meals. And of course, don’t forget your cooking utensils, pots, and pans. To secure the best camping cookware, look for lightweight, durable, and easy to clean options.

Campsite Tools 

Another camping must have is a good set of campsite tools that can help you deal with various issues that may arise around the campsite. There are plenty of lightweight options that don’t take up a lot of space. Some examples include hammers, pegs, extra stakes, a screwdriver, dustpan/brush, spare ropes, a bucket, and cable ties. 

Camp Lighting

A good lighting setup will provide adequate lighting for all your camping-related activities like general or ambient lighting, task lighting for reading/cooking, and directional lighting for pathways. There are many compact torch, headlamp, and lantern options on the market, with a variety of brands now offering rechargeable products. 

Sleeping and Bedding

Camping is tiring work. Especially if you’ve been out exploring all day. So when you return to your campsite, you’re going to want a good night’s sleep. However, for that to happen, you’ll need the right type of bedding like a sleeping bag, mattress, and pillow. When considering which sleeping bag to take, think about the type of climate you’ll be camping in - various sleeping bags are designed for different temperature ranges. If you are camping in a cold climate, a mummy-style sleeping bag will be ideal and provide good insulation. If you are camping in a warmer climate, a simple rectangular bag is a sufficient option. 

Camping Furniture

There’s nothing worse than sitting on the ground while camping. That’s why your camping setup should include a table and camping chair. Other handy items that you’ll be grateful for include shelving or a small kitchen pantry to raise items off the floor and organise your gear.

Weather-Resistant Tent and Tarp

While camping, your tent is your home away from home. That’s why you’ll want to ensure it's sturdy, waterproof and large enough to accommodate the number of people you’re travelling with. When finding a water-resistant tent, look for a bathtub floor (curves up at the sides) and a full-coverage rainfly to keep you dry in wet weather. Your tent should also have plenty of mesh windows and vents to help with ventilation. Additionally, a tarp can add a layer of protection against the weather as well as serve as a great communal area for cooking.

First Aid and Safety 

One of the most important essentials for your camping trip is a well-equipped first aid kit. A well-equipped first aid kit might include personal medications, insect repellent, sunburn cream, directions, extra drinking water, and a remote communication method like a whistle.