Essential Camping Gear List for First-Time Campers - A Beginner's Guide.
A simple camping checklist with the real gear I use and recommend—perfect for beginners and casual campers alike.
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Our Kelty tent and Rovr cooler set up for a weekend in Shawnee National Forest.
Getting Started
Camping is fun—but only if you’re prepared. This guide is for first-time campers looking for gear that actually works. I’ve tested every item listed here personally or in real-world situations with friends and family. The goal? Less stress, better sleep, and more time around the fire.
What You Really Need to Bring
The tent is undoubtedly the cornerstone of camping gear, providing shelter and privacy in the heart of nature. Choosing the right tent isn't just about size or brand; it's about finding a balance between comfort, durability, and ease of setup. Here's what you need to consider:
Tent
Your shelter from the elements. Look for a 3-season tent that’s easy to pitch and can handle rain or heat. I use the Kelty Tallboy 6—plenty of space, fast setup, and it’s held up in national and state parks across the U.S.
Check out the Kelty Tallboy 6 — my go-to tent for big trips
Sleeping Bag
Don’t skimp on sleep. Choose a sleeping bag rated lower than the coldest temps you expect. I prefer mummy-shaped bags for warmth. Lately, I’ve been using the Big Agnes Echo Park 20 Sleeping Bag—super warm, packs down well, and holds up great on chilly nights.
Sleeping Pad
This makes a huge difference. I’ve returned pads that were too bulky or hard to pack. Choose between air pads, foam, or self-inflating depending on how much space and comfort you need. Right now I’m using the Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe Insulated Sleeping Pad, and it’s the most comfortable setup I’ve found yet.
Blanket
Bring a Rumpl blanket. They’re warm, light, and come in fun designs. I always toss one in, no matter the season.
Cooler
Our Rovr cooler has picked up stickers from parks and bike trails across the country.
We use the Rovr cooler—holds ice for days, fits in the trunk, and doubles as a sticker board. Go with a size that matches your trip length and number of campers.
Folding Chair
Sitting riverside with a sketchbook at our campground along the Snake River in Jackson, Wyoming.
A folding chair with a drink holder is a must. We love the Kelty Lowdown Chair—packs small, super comfy.
Lighting
We rely on Black Diamond for headlamps, lanterns, and small tent lights. Headlamps = must-have. Lanterns = game-changer after dark.
Bear Spray
In bear country? Carry Counter Assault Bear Spray.
Bug Spray
Ben’s 100 Max DEET bug spray — our go-to insect repellent for camping in the Midwest.
Anywhere else? You still need bug spray—we use Ben’s 100 Max DEET.
Firestarter
Bring a firestarter that lights easily and lasts. We use:
Pro Tip: Buy firewood locally to avoid spreading pests. And always check burn regulations.
Basic First Aid
Start with a small pre-packed kit and add anything personal you might need (medications, allergy care, etc.).
Pro Tip: We once had a kid get a fish hook stuck in his ear at camp. We didn’t have anything to cut it out with—had to canoe across the lake to find help. Always bring small scissors or wire cutters.
Toiletries
Bring the basics:
Biodegradable soap
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Quick-dry towel
Toilet paper
Hand sanitizer
Sunblock
Lip balm
Where to Camp?
For your first trip, keep it simple. Look for campgrounds with amenities like restrooms, running water, picnic tables, and marked sites. These make a huge difference when you’re just starting out.
We recommend State Parks or National Parks that offer drive-in campsites. You’ll still feel immersed in nature—without having to hike miles with gear.
Want something more private? Try Hipcamp, a site that helps you find unique places to camp—like farms, vineyards, or private land. You can filter by amenities like showers, toilets, or even pet-friendly stays. We haven’t used it ourselves yet, but it’s a popular option for off-the-beaten-path camping.
Pro Tip: Don’t go full backcountry on your first trip. You’ll want nearby help if you forget something or need support.
Storage
Packed and ready — Gregory Alpaca Gear Box 45 loaded with Snow Peak gear for the next camping trip.
Where do you pack it all? I use the Gregory Alpaca Gear Box 45—durable, structured, water-resistant, and easy to load in the car.
Final Word
Camping is about doing more with less. You don’t need every gadget—just the right essentials. This checklist is built from years of trial-and-error and field-tested gear. Use it as your baseline, and you’ll be off to a great start.
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