1. An Exped Ultra 3R Sleeping Pad for a great night's sleep while backpacking *or* if you want a pad you can roll up super-duper small at the end of your car camping trip for easy carrying and storage back home. Inflatable pads are especially beloved for side sleepers (including me) since your hips are nice and suspended above the ground.

Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed

^Look at me lovin' my Exped sleeping pad! I've long been an inflatable sleeping pad convert, but had yet to find my "holy moly this is the best" model...until recently when I tried this baby. Other pads I've liked, but not loved, felt too narrow and, because of the kind of insulation they used, were SUPER noisy with every move I made in my sleep. It was like sleeping on a Mylar balloon! But this pad is quiet as can be. Thank goodness! I also opted for the medium wide version, which gives me a little more room to spread out — no more feeling like I'm teetering. That extra room and a 3-inch height keep me super comfy as a side sleeper. The wide version is a little heavier (obviously), but even as a backpacker who can be really picky about base weight, I find the extra ounces totally worth it for getting a better night's sleep. The MW weight is about 1 pound and 7 ounces. Not too shabby!

An R-value of 2.9 makes this perfect for three-season backpacking, but especially warmer months. On a recent camping and surf weekend near Santa Barbara, it kept me perfectly comfortable during the cool summer nights. It was seriously the best night of sleep I've gotten outdoors in quite some time. ILY, Exped!

Price: $140 (available in three sizes)

2. A Salomon bottle belt so you can stay hydrated and hands-free, which is all the more important in this hot summer weather. A simple adjustable belt keeps both the bottle and zippered pocket with a key clip nice and secure.

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Price: $45 (available in three colors)

3. A Katadyn BeFree 3-liter microfilter for anyone who's tired of putting in the elbow grease with filters that require squeezing and just want to let gravity do its thing. With the BeFree, all you need to do is fill the bag, let it hang, and let your newly cleaned water flow into the vessels of your choice.

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The reservoir you put dirty water in holds 3 liters of water, and it filters at a rate of 2 liters per minute. Whoa, that's faster than I thought! Maybe it's time I finally try one! Backpackers love this system, but they'd also be great for car camping trips where you have access to nice, running mountain water. Sure, you could pack your own, but drinking the water you find in the backcountry really is a special experience, especially when you have confidence it's safe to drink after treatment. 

Promising review: "Only used once in 50 degrees. Stream was clean, running fast, and filled the bladder in seven seconds. Flow rate was perfect for my needs. Perfect holding points, especially at the intake side, for submerging. First BeFree, so will see how long it lasts with a good flow rate. I'll likely carry an extra filter if out solo. Weight is perfect for the benefit. Last thing I want to do is squeeze a bag for my water after a long hike and setting up camp. Now I know why I see a lot of gravity filters are hanging. The holding strap was a bit much for my needs unless someone uses it as a shoulder-carrying strap. I changed that up." —Dilf

Price: $79.95

4. A CoolNet UV+ Buff you can wear all sorts of ways in order to keep the sun off your head or neck, cool down, keep your hair back, etc. And for all my Survivor fans out there, yes, this is what they wear on the island! Is that why I got one initially? Yes. Have I been impressed with how useful it is out in the wild? Also yes. You can't say reality TV never taught me anything.

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A Buff is a simple piece of gear I basically never hit the trail without. I use it for sweat control, sun coverage, and even for keeping myself covered up while changing at crowded campsites sometimes. The possibilities are endless, the material is nice and cooling, and they wash super well when you get back home. Love!

Promising review: "In my experience, this 21-inch buff length is a bit excessive for wearing as a bandana or as a face mask, about 17 inches is perfectly adequate for both purposes, and those extra inches are mostly unnoticeable. I wear this on my forehead, and a shorter version of a CoolNet UV+ as a mask to avoid sunburn during mountain excursions above the snow line. It's more reliable than sunscreen. It's breathable enough to use with glasses, without too much fogging, when the temperature is above freezing." —Aleksandr A

Price: $23.95 (available in nine patterns)

5. A Garmin InReach Mini 2 to help you stay in touch with loved ones or in case of emergency when you're out in the backwoods with no cellphone service. A huge relief to have for outdoor folks of all kinds, especially if you often travel alone.

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To use the Garmin on your trip, the device requires a monthly service fee of $14.95+ (or $11.95+ if you opt for an annual contract). But don't worry, if you're just planning on one trip, the monthly plan only requires a 30-day commitment, so you can bail after your hike and reactivate the next time you go on an adventure. 

Price: $399.99 (available in two colors)

6. A Therm-a-Rest camp pillow because camping doesn't always mean forgoing all of your favorite creature comforts. It even has a smart little drawstring feature that lets you adjust the firmness so it's exactly to your liking.

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Promising review: "Decided to try this pillow out after reading the reviews and researching other brands. I didn’t want to spend too much right now, as I’m new to camping and not backpacking. What I like is that the large size is perfect for me, and it’s very comfortable. I have used this several times now, and each night I sleep great with this pillow. The material is soft and easy to fold up for traveling. I love the fun mushroom design, and the colors are vibrant. I’m glad I went with this pillow and the large size. I usually like a flatter pillow so I don’t have a stiff neck. This was a great choice and had no issues. It was perfect and definitely recommend!" —Andreana A

Price: $25.56+ (originally $31.95+; available in three colors and two sizes)

7. A Marmot four-person, three-season tent that'll be your go-to for almost any camping trip you can dream up. Grab a few pals, pick a spot, and run for the hills, mountains, desert, etc. It's a wonderful thing to have a "home" away from home you can bring anywhere and really love.

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A good rule of thumb is that a tent can hold the number of folks it's rated for (four, in this case) squished like sardines *or* one less person with room for everyone's gear. The more the merrier, IMO, especially with a nice vestibule like this tent has! And since it's rated for three seasons, it'll be perfect for any spring, summer, and fall trips. Just don't take it out in the dead of winter. Mmmm, maybe that'll be a good excuse to get a cabin for the weekend. 

Promising review: "I have been camping at Katmai every summer since 2017 (with the exception of Covid 2021). I have camped in June, August, and September. Each month brings totally different weather conditions, from violent winds with heavy rain to spring-like days for a walk in the park. This tent has withstood all conditions without fail. I am on my second tent only because the airline lost all my baggage in 2022. This is a great tent." —Edward S

Price: $398.95

8. Or a Nemo Hornet Elite Osmo one-person, three-season backpacking tent if you're itching to get out for some solo multi-day trips — a personal fave way to experience the outdoors! This puppy is freestanding (aka can be set up with its included poles), super light at just over 2 pounds, and is the perfect size to tuck away into your pack virtually unnoticed until nightfall. This is low-key my favorite tent. Okay, high key! I bring it along even if I'm car camping.

Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed

The more I get to know this tent, the more I love it. Going on two years with it by my side, it's my go-to for basically every trip from meandering backpacking in Appalachia, to nights out in the desert, to car camping-slash-surf trips to the beach (peek my really COOL wetsuit hand tan above). It's semi-freestanding, meaning it has poles for the main structure but should be staked out to reach its max capacity (though as you can somewhat see above, sometimes I just wing it and let it be "freestanding," letting my wide sleeping pad fill out the floor. The rain fly (not pictured because...California, but included) does need to be staked out, but even the stakes are ultralight. That's right. This entire tent weighs in at just 1 pound and 7 ounces. I know! It's incredible. And I really don't feel like I'm missing out on any features. There's a few great interior mesh pockets where I put my phone, headphones, and headlamp, a nice vestibule when I put the rain fly up, and it all packs down SUPER small. I mean, just look at that stuff sack. That's literally the entire tent. Nothing short of miraculous! The tent has plenty of room for little old me, and ultimately, that's all I really need the tent to hold! I occasionally sleep with my pack at my feet (I'm 5'6" and have found that it can settle down there without me having to sleep with my feet on top of it), but most of the time I let the vestibule do its thing and enjoy having the tent to myself. This tent has kept me dry and warm through a few years of adventures, and I look forward to putting even more miles and nights on this thing over the years. Worth the splurge, especially if you're an ounce-counter who would rather not go totally non-freestanding...at least not yet.

You can get the official footprint here, but tbh I just cut a cheap blue tarp to size and find that that works great. On my last trip, I even got brave and put it up without a footprint, and it fared just fine. Probably not advised, but the more you know! The tent is also available in a two-person size and in a similar, totally freestanding version called the Dragonfly.

Price: $579.95

9. A Hydro Flask 8-liter insulated tote so that picnic you meticulously planned stays cool as can be as you trek down the trail or through the park on your way to the perfect spot.

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Promising review: "I love my Hydro Flask insulated tote. It's perfect for bringing lunch to the office or a couple of beverages to the park for an afternoon hang. I would agree with other reviewers that the design is very vertical. I don't have an issue with it and will just put my frozen meal or Pyrex container on its side. Overall, I'm very happy with my tote, its ability to keep my food cold, and its durability over time." —Koly S

Price: $49.95 (available in five colors)

10. A Sea to Summit ultralight spork because as grown-ups, going on an outdoor adventure is one of the only times we have an excuse to use one of these bad boys! Save yourself from packing a few pieces of silverware and swap for this fun little ultralight aluminum utensil instead. Niche gear is the most fun, after all.

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Price: $9.95

11. A plant-based insect repellent spray to keep biters at bay thanks to the lemon and eucalyptus oil that also happens to smell great and doesn't harm your gear.

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P.S.: This repellent is DEET-free. 

Price: $9.99

12. A Snow Peak GigaPower manual backpacking stove for building out your cooking kit with as little weight as possible. That's right, this comes in at just 2.6 ounces! Pretty exciting stuff if you're the kind of person who keeps a spreadsheet that calculates your pack's base weight.

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The stove doesn't have an integrated igniter, so you'll need to bring a lighter along (or a piezo if you're feeling really fancy), but you're probably already doing that anyway! And just a reminder that you can't buy fuel canisters online, but you can get them in-store (or in the local camp shop or hostel next to where you're getting on the trail if you're in a backpack-y place).

Price: $35.95

13. A pair of Mountainsmith Tellurite adjustable trekking poles because if you haven't treated yourself to hiking with some, you're in for a real treat. They help you go up mountains of course, but I think they're underrated when it comes to coming down, especially if it's super steep.

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Cork handles are *so* much more comfortable than the rubber or plastic ones you often find on trekking poles at this price point. They also absorb moisture, helping to prevent blisters without getting funky. Score!

Price: $64.95

14. A GSI Outdoors Crossover Kitchen Kit so all the fiddly little extras you want to pack as the designated camp chef are all ready to go in one convenient, lightweight package. Prep and cleanup will be especially improved. Lookin' at you, cutting board and scrubby pad.

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The kit includes the following: compact scraper, scrubby pad, cutting board, pivot tongs, pivot spoon, pivot spatula, spicer, soap bottle, oil bottle, camp towel, and tote.

Promising review: "This was a gift from my partner, and I thought it was a bit silly at first. However, it is well thought out, and I have used it several times. From the quick overnight backpacking trip when you want to do more than rehydrate a meal, to 10 days of car camping with a group of strangers, this thing has saved the day several times. It has everything you need and nothing extra, although I've added a pot scraper and a folding wash basin. The bottles are a pain to clean if you leave oil in them for an extended time, but they are also easy to replace if necessary. I've heard some folks complain about durability, but I've had this set for two years now without a problem." —orgidie1812045

Price: $39.95

15. An Eno TravelNest hammock that comes with included straps and folds down super tiny, so setup literally couldn't be easier. The perfect little add-on to stick in your day pack for a mid-hike nap or bring along on a camping trip to create an extra hangout zone.

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Price: $54.95 (available in three colors)

16. An Osprey Ariel or Osprey Atmos backpacking pack ("women's" and "men's" models of the same pack, respectively) so you can hit the ol' dusty trail with everything you need in a supportive, cushioned pack that has all the special features you need, but not so many that it weighs you down. With a suspended mesh back, plenty of pockets, and a comfortable hip belt, it's wonderful for first timers and seasoned pros alike.

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An older model of the Ariel was my first backpacking pack, and I still have BIG love for it! Absolutely the most comfortable bag I've ever owned, and I found 65 liters to be a good volume to start out with, especially if you enjoy bringing a luxury item or two, are planning on going out during colder weather (requiring bulkier gear), are carrying gear for a friend, kid, or pet, or just have a kit that skews larger. If you're conscious of your pack's weight, there are lots of removable components, including the "brain" at the top of the pack. But rest assured, weight carries really well in this bag thanks to mercifully padded hip straps. 

Price: $207+ for the Ariel (originally $319.95, available in sizes XS–L) and $339.95 for the Atmos (available in sizes S–XL and three colors)

17. Or a Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55-liter pack for ultralight backpackers who are ready to take the next step into their weight-cutting journey. This no-frills bag is a fave of thru-hikers for a reason. A strong and light Dynema body, the huge outer pocket we all dream of, a roll-top closure and taped seams that get it as close to "waterproof" as anyone can reasonably claim, and aluminum stays that give it a structure without adding too much weight.

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This pack is at the top of my ultralight wish list! It weighs just 2 pounds (the black version is an ounce heavier, funny enough) and just seems super functional. The folks that I've met who have tested it love it, yes, for backpacking, but also for using it as a travel bag in general. Hey! A great bag is a great bag. 

Promising review: "High quality and well-made. This is the backpack if you need something that is simple, ultralight, and waterproof. It is a roll-top bag so not as convenient as one with a zipper opening which allows full access to the contents without pulling everything out, but is like half the weight. The seams of the pack are the only areas where water could penetrate. The 55-liter provides additional flexibility to expand when you have a larger load out, but can be rolled down to 40 liters if you don't need the extra space." —Melissa M

Price: $322.15+ (originally $379+; available in three sizes, a tall version, and two colors)

18. A doggie backpack so your furry friend can carry their own gear on hikes into camp. Just be sure to give them a doggie packing list! Food? Check. Poop bags? Check. Really cool stick? Double check.

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Price: $99.95 (available in sizes XS–XL and two colors)

19. A Rumpl puffy blanket to keep you warm and cozy all through the night — whether you grab it for some time around the bonfire or add it to your sleep setup. Its smooth surface is water- and dirt resistant, so there are no worries about exposing it to the elements. And best of all, when you get it home, it's washer- and dryer safe!

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I've had my OG Rumpl blanket since 2019 and literally could not love it more. Six years in and it still lives in the trunk of my car, ready for impromptu trips, picnics, and park hangs! It's a splurge-worthy piece of gear I've recommended to basically everyone in my life with my whole chest and will for years to come.

Price: $99 (available in three colors)

20. A Helinox Chair Zero Camp Chair because sometimes those campsite benches just don't cut it. It weighs just over a pound, packs down super small, and is perfect for any outdoorsy person who hates to forgo comfort. I've had one of these for years and can confirm, it's super easy to bring along on trips where you want to be more comfortable without adding a ton of volume. And whoa, does it pack down small!

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The chair weighs 17.6 ounces. 

Promising review: "I am so glad I bought this chair and absolutely loved having it on my four-day, three-night backpacking trip. I used it around camp and took it on my day hikes. It's easy to set up, packs easily into its own carrying case, and is super light. I won't backpack or day hike without it now!" —Shannon

Price: $139.95 (available in three colors)

21. A Nemo Riff Endless Promise 30-degree down sleeping bag so you can get snug as a bug in a rug when you lay down after a long, tiring, beautiful camp day. Nemo's "spoon"-shaped bag is perfect for side sleepers with extra room where you need it that mummy bags usually constrict. It's fairly light, packs down small, and is equally suited for car camping and backpacking. Choose your own adventure!

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There's really nothing like going to bed in a down bag, and their warm yet breathable feel is really unmatched and worth the splurge. Down bags are also usually much lighter and easier to pack down than synthetic ones, making them more versatile and easy to throw in a backpacking pack. This bag also comes with a compression bag to get it super tiny for transport.

Price: $359.95 for men's sizes or women's sizes (each available in long and regular lengths)

22. Or a Big Agnes King Solomon 20-degree double sleeping bag if you and your boo want to share a bed outside just like you do at home. The top layer even zips off so you can use it as a quilt — perfect for warmer camping months when you want more than anything to stick one foot out of your sleeping bag so you can get to the perfect temp.

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Price: $449.95

23. A Coleman Cross Rocker Chair that sounds like the ultimate way to relax at camp. I can see it now. You whittling away at a little stick, listening to the fire crackle, rocking back and forth, not a care in the world.

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Price: $144.99

24. A Dometic 45-liter powered cooler to keep your food and drinks cool as can be without ice. Thanks, technology! By plugging it into your car you can refrigerate or reach temperatures as low as -7 degrees, all without dealing with wet food, sloshing water, and everything else annoying about traditional coolers.

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The cooler features a "three-stage dynamic battery protection" that miraculously means it stays cool without draining your car battery (that was also my first worry). It can fit up to 67 cans (!!!!) and also includes dividers so you can keep everything contained and tidy.  

Promising review: "I have had a number of ice coolers over the years. The CFX3 45-liter has an amazing amount of room, considering no space has to be given up for ice. The cooler does a great job of keeping everything cool. I have paired it with a PLB40 battery, and it keeps the fridge running for just short of two days (I have been averaging about 2–3% of battery capacity/hour when not in direct sunlight). Unlike ice coolers, nothing gets soggy, and no water to drain or ice to buy. I was so impressed with the performance of the CFX3 45-liter, I added the CFX3 25-liter for those shorter day trips. Highly recommend if you want to get away from the traditional ice cooler." —Tami M

Price: $850

25. A super cool Jetboil Genesis Base Camp 2 Burner Cooking System with two adjustable burners so you can be a Michelin-level camp chef, whipping up delectable egg and bacon breakfasts, elaborate dinners (with a side!) and anything else you can dream up. It also includes a 5-liter pot and a pan so you have truly everything you need all in one handy, collapsible, easy-to-transport package.

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The burners feature wind screens to keep the party going even if it's a blustery night, and they run on standard 16-ounce propane fuel tanks. The burners also have simmer control — fancy! — so you can really dial in your signature dishes.

Price: $399.99 (available in two colors)

26. A Sea to Summit Frontier ultralight two-person cook set to ensure you have all of your camp kitchen needs packed and ready in one convenient place. No more plates left behind! The set includes a 2-liter pot and lid, two plate-bowls, and two cups with lids so at long last, you and your camping partner don't have to both eat out of a pot, clanking your heads and spoons together!

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Price: $99.95

27. And finally, the best dehydrated meal of all time, Peak Refuel Sweet Pork and Rice. When I am at my desk fantasizing about being on a backpacking trip, the dream always includes this incredible meal! In the middle of a long, rainy day on the trail, it is my reason to keep walking! The sun is cool. The fresh air is nice. But sweet pork and rice? Now that's a slice of heaven.

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Sometimes you just can't find it in you to cook on your big adventure. Just add boiling water, wait a few minutes, and enjoy! Sometimes I even add a little instant rice to the package to rehydrate with it to stretch the meal even further, especially if I'm splitting it with someone. I know, it's very nice of me to share. 

Price: $13.99

The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.