Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Camping Gear for Adventurers

The Joy of Shopping for Camping Gear

There's nothing quite like the thrill of purchasing new camping gear. Whether it's a cozy sleeping bag, a lightweight merino t-shirt, a spacious tent, or a trusty backpack, each item brings a spark of excitement for your upcoming journey. Preparing for camping trips is not just about shopping; it’s about ensuring a comfortable and safe experience on the open road.

Getting Ready for Summer

Summer camping is an essential adventure during these long, sunny days. To optimize your experience, planning ahead and preparing the right gear is crucial. Without proper preparation, your trip could quickly turn into a nightmare for both you and your friends. You’ll need to pack more than just a few essentials, including layers of clothing, camping supplies, food, and cooking equipment.

If this is your first camping trip and you’ve agreed to join friends without knowing what to bring, don’t worry — we’ve put together the perfect guide to summer camping gear for beginners.

Essential Gear

As you plan your trip, keep in mind that every trail is different. On guided trips, companies often provide a list of necessary gear along with some special accessories. Typically, “backpacking” refers to sleeping in shelters or temporary accommodations, while camping is entirely self-sufficient and outdoors.

Camping Backpack

Price: 3,500,000 - 7,000,000 VND
If you plan to stay overnight in the woods, you’ll need a large and comfortable backpack to fit your sleeping gear, food, and all your essentials. Opt for a sturdy backpack with a minimum capacity of 45 liters for an overnight trip, though expandable packs are even better. For multi-day trips, a 55-70 liter backpack like the Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a fantastic choice.

Make sure your backpack comes with a hydration reservoir, like CamelBak. If you’re buying online, it’s best to purchase from a store with a physical location so you can adjust it to fit your body comfortably.

Camping Tent

Price: 7,600,000 VND
Outdoor Vitals has launched the ultra-light Cirq tent for camping season, designed to save space in your backpack and as light as air. This tent sets up in just a few minutes and can accommodate one person, or two if you don’t mind being cozy. I bought one this spring, and it has become my go-to for camping trips.

Sleeping Bag

Price: 6,700,000 - 7,000,000 VND
Nothing is worse than tossing and turning without a good night’s sleep before a long day of hiking. A quality sleeping bag can make a significant difference. First, check the temperature rating, usually found on the bag and packaging. Ensure that the sleeping bag you bring is appropriate for summer and the expected weather on your trip.

We love the Big Agnes Sidewinder SL for its comfort and easy packability. This sleeping bag has a temperature rating of 20 degrees, is compatible with a sleeping bag liner, and uses down insulation — lightweight and highly efficient. If you have the choice between down and polyester, opt for down as it offers better water resistance.

Other Useful Items

Well-prepared adventurers often research their trips in advance, reading online forums and noting items recommended by those who have gone before them. During your research, you might come across various comments about what others found essential to bring. Pay attention to items that are frequently mentioned.

Camping Stove

Price: 2,500,000 VND
The Jetboil stove easily connects to a 3.5-ounce gas canister, allowing you to cook meals over an open flame in nature. This is one of those must-have items when you need to whip up meals on the go.

With the items listed above, you’re ready to prepare for an amazing summer camping adventure. Choose gear that fits your needs and budget to create unforgettable experiences!