Anyone can survive a night in a tent with the basics: sleeping bag, headlamp, maybe a spork if you’re feeling fancy. But surviving and actually enjoying your camping trip are two very different things. That’s where the camping “extras” come in. These are the little luxuries—the bonus items you don’t technically need, but once you’ve used them, they’ll go on every packing list from here on out. Trust us.
Bringing the Right Camping “Extras” to Level Up Your Outdoor Adventure
1. Camp Chair That Doesn’t Suck
You’d be amazed how quickly your mood tanks when you’re squatting on a rock trying to eat dinner. A good camp chair—one that’s comfy, folds up small, and doesn’t collapse on you after three uses—is worth its weight in gold. Get one with a drink holder. You deserve nice things.
2. String Lights (Yep, Really)
LED string lights–the magical choice for camping extras. They weigh nothing, take up no space, and turn your campsite from “eh” to “I live here now.” Wrap them around a tree, your tent poles, whatever. It’s not just about vibes—it’s practical. No more fumbling around with a flashlight trying to find your toothbrush in the dark.
3. A Real Pillow
Those little inflatable neck pillows are fine if you’re backpacking 20 miles into the backcountry. But if you’re car camping or close to base camp? Bring a real pillow. From home. With a pillowcase. Your neck and your REM cycle will thank you.
4. Insulated French Press (or AeroPress or Whatever Gets You Caffeinated)
Camping coffee can either be magical or a war crime. If you’re still using instant coffee packets from 1994, it’s time to evolve. A portable French press or AeroPress and a decent thermos = gourmet mornings with zero effort. Bonus points if you bring pre-ground beans from a local roaster.
5. Hammock
Why sit in a chair when you can float between two trees with a view of the ocean or a waterfall or whatever ridiculous scene Hawaii throws at you? Ultralight hammocks pack small, set up fast, and make you feel like you’re living in a Patagonia ad. Just don’t forget tree straps.
6. Microfiber Towel
It’s small. It dries fast. It’s not made of fluffy cotton, but it works. Whether you’re taking a dip in a waterfall, rinsing off at the beach, or just dealing with an unexpected downpour, a quick-dry towel is one of those “didn’t think I’d need it, but so glad I had it” items.
7. Small Bluetooth Speaker
Don’t go blasting EDM into the wilderness—no one wants that. But a little mellow music at camp? Game changer. Keep the volume low and the playlist chill. This isn’t Burning Man.
Final Thoughts: You don’t need to pack like you’re moving into a glampsite, but throwing in a few comfort-focused camping “extras” can take your trip from “that was fine” to “let’s do that again next weekend.” And honestly, isn’t that the point?
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