10 Must-Have Tent Camping Accessories for Every Camper

Whether you are camping in a forest or on a cliff, carrying proper accessories is crucial. Otherwise, you won’t be able to comfortably enjoy the time and gain the experience you have been looking forward to.

Besides, camp sites are not like any hotel where you could get anything anytime just by a phone call. The weather conditions can also get unpredictable. So, carrying everything necessary to protect yourself at a campsite is of utmost importance.

However, most beginner campers fail to pay attention to this aspect, most probably due to their sheer excitement.

Missing a single thing can ruin your plans instantly. That being said, we have further elaborated on the top ten tent camping accessories you should put in your backpack without fail.

This list will help you prepare yourself in every aspect and provide you a great opportunity to enjoy your camp trip rather than being worried.

Essential Tent Camping Accessories You Shouldn’t Camp Without

1. Sleeping Gear

Even if it’s for one night, you need quality sleep without any disturbance to stay energized. High-quality sleeping gear will help you get wonderful sleep while offering you warmth and comfort throughout the night.

It should include:

• Sleeping pad or an air mattress: It will offer warmth and keep you safe from the cold grounds while adding a cushion to your bedding. Self-inflatable pads are most convenient for a camping trip.
• Sleeping bag: Get this for camping during winter so that you can wrap yourself in a thick blanket and keep warm, especially on late nights.

2. Headlamp or Lantern

A headlamp or a lantern is one of the most essential tent camping accessories you should put in your backpack. Whether it’s for cooking or for taking a late-night stroll, it will be of huge help.

Headlamps are more convenient as you won’t have to carry anything in your hand. They are best suited for activities like setting up a tent or walking at night.

Choose a product with infrared vision and adjustable brightness. A lantern, on the other hand, will help you illuminate a wider area near your tent. Get a rechargeable one so that you won’t have to worry about running out of battery power.

3. Portable Camp Stove

Sometimes, open fires are out of the picture. So, put a portable camp stove in the backpack so that you can cook your meals easily. Also, make sure you have the right fuel for the stove you have, like alcohol or propane gas.

4. Navigation Tools

Having reliable navigation tools in your list of tent camping accessories is crucial, especially if you are going to a remote campsite.

So, you should be carrying the following items with you without fail. 

• Maps and Compasses: Although you have Google Maps, it’s better to carry a physical paper map and a compass. It will help you navigate easily when your phone is out of the service area.
• GPS Device: Carry a modern GPS tracker that can work offline to find your route in remote areas. Such devices also offer topographical maps so that you can learn the geography ahead.

5. Water Filtration System

Drinking clear and pure water is essential as you will be out in the wild. So, carry a portable and lightweight water filter system along with you.

For example, a straw filter is best for personal use, while a pump-style product will be better for groups.

You can also take filtration tablets, as these are quite convenient to use. All you need to do is put them in the water bottles or the filter tank, and they will do the magic.

6. Compact Camp Chair

You would require a comfortable seating spot after a long tiring day. So, it’s better to carry a compact chair perfect for camping.

For example, a folding chair will be easier to carry around due to its lightweight built. To top it, some designs also offer proper back support so that you won’t end up with muscle cramps the next day. You can also go for a small stool or a seat pad with a cushion for more comfort.

7. Fire-starting Kit

One of the most essential tent camping accessories you should carry is a fire-starting kit. It will help you start a campfire to stay warm once the temperature drops.

Also, you will need it to light your stove or a stick in case of emergencies. For this, include these things in the kit.

• Waterproof lighters or matches are best for outdoors since they won’t get damaged even when exposed to water.
• You can also carry a few ready-made fire starters that, once ignited, will automatically burst into flames.

8. Multi-tool or Knife

You will have limited space in your backpack, which is why carrying different tools simultaneously will be difficult. Instead, buy a many-in-one tool.

Whether it’s cutting vegetables or opening a bottle’s cap, your tasks will become much easier. You can find a screwdriver, a can opener, a pocket knife, and many other such handy tools in a single item so that you won’t have to carry them separately.

9. First Aid Kit

From cleaning a small cut to treating a mild fever, a first aid kit will come in handy, especially during emergencies. Every kit should have:

• Bandages and gauze for covering wounds and blisters from dirt and dust.
• Pain relievers and over-the-counter medicines to treat body pains, mild fever, and headaches.
• Antiseptic lotions and ointments to disinfect the wounds and prevent any infection risks.
• Scissors and tweezers to cut the bandages and remove any splinters, respectively.

10. Bear-proof Food Storage

Several camping sites have specific requirements for bear-proof food storage systems for people coming there for camping.

So, check the requirements first so that you can carry bear bags, bear canisters, and odor-proof bags. These will help you to keep your food safe from wild animals, especially bears.

Our Thoughts

From sleeping gear to portable stove, you will need numerous tent camping accessories for your upcoming tour. So, make a list of the things you already have at your house and the ones you would need to purchase. At least then, you won’t have to worry about your safety and comfort out in the wild.