The New to Camping (or Not-So-New) Holiday Wishlist
All I Want This Year is… Wi-Fi in the Woods?
If you’re new to camping, thinking about becoming new to camping or already are a camper, the holidays are a perfect time to stock up on the essentials and not-so-essentials. So, we made you a list of items that will set you up for success, whether you knew you needed them or not.
Let’s start off with some solid basics:
A Reliable Tent (depending on the type of camping you’re doing): Look for one that’s easy to set up, weather-resistant, and appropriately sized for your group. Features like multiple entrances or storage pockets can make a big difference in your time spent.
Safety Gear: Basic first aid kits, fire-starting tools, and multi-tools are essential. These items ensure you’re prepared for anything. And maybe a portable power station if you’re not going off the grid. Or even if you are.
Lighting Essentials: Lanterns and/or headlamps are non-negotiable for camping. Rechargeable options are eco-friendly and convenient.
Outdoor Clothing Layers: Weather can change quickly. Ask for moisture-wicking base layers, a cozy fleece, a waterproof jacket, a sweet hat, some sturdy boots, gloves, socks, and anything else your mom would stuff in your stocking, to stay comfortable no matter the conditions.
Retractable Clothesline: A small but useful item for drying swimsuits, towels, clothes, or anything else you washed or got wet that day.
Collapsible Storage Bins, Chairs, Tables and Shade Tent: Practical for saving space while staying organized.
Coolers: There are so many options. High-performance coolers, portable electric coolers, soft sided coolers, backpack coolers, the list goes on. But a cooler is always something you need even if you already have a fridge in your RV. They even have backpack cooler chairs.
Compact and Portable Heater: There are versatile and safe portable heaters that can extend your camping season or patio weather that also can run on propane.
And of course, a Reliable Backpack: With so many uses, from serious outdoor adventures, to just staying organized, you need one if you don’t have one.
Alright, now let’s get into some fun items you may have not even thought of or just want someone else to buy you:
Portable Projector: Turn any campsite into an outdoor movie theater.
Wi-Fi Signal Booster: Stay connected, even in remote locations. If you want to, that is.
Smart LED String Lights: Take your practical lighting essentials up a notch. Add ambiance to outdoor evenings with color-changing, programmable lights. These string lights charge via USB-C or Solar.
Outdoor Pizza Oven: A fun and unexpected way to enjoy gourmet-ish meals on the road.
Campground Membership or Pass: Gift access to top RV parks and campgrounds or discounts on stays. That’s pretty much a whole vacation already planned and paid for. Check out an example here.
Portable Mosquito Repeller: Compact, portable, wide coverage, and many with chemical-free options. Why not.
Portable Trash Bag Holder/ Pop Up Trash Can (with biodegradable trash bags too!): A practical gift that keeps campsites clean and organized while adding convenience to their setup.
DIY Campfire Cocktail Kit: For adult campers, a kit with all the fixings for campsite cocktails (like hot toddies or spiked cider) is a welcomed treat for certain occasions.
Hammock with Built-In Bug Net: Perfect for relaxing in nature, whether it’s in the woods or right down the steps of your RV.
Portable Outdoor Shower: For campers who love a little luxury, say glamping-esque, this practical gift makes showering outdoors feel a bit more glamorous.
All-In-One Cast Iron Grill: This thing grills, deep fries, smokes, sautés, the list goes on. And it packs up neatly for easy travels.
Portable Washing Machine: Yes, portable is the theme here, but, well, we are outdoors and on the move. Why not get a load of clothes done wherever you are.
Outdoor Subscription Box: This is a great way to get some cool, smaller items that you wouldn’t think of, all year long. It’s a gift that keeps on giving.
Board Games, Speakers, Puzzles, Kindles (or real books?), Portable Espresso Makers, Heated Blankets, Glow in the Dark Accessories, we have to stop somewhere. So, we are stopping here. This is a great jumping off point for anyone that is getting into camping or is already a well-established adventurer. Your list may have expanded by 10 items, but you’re really only expecting a few of them, right..? Right.
