As summer approaches, I can’t help but look forward to getting outside more. Getting outside to me looks like walks with my dog, family hikes, canoeing & kayaking, fishing, camping and the list goes on. I love how life becomes a lot more simple in the summer, from meals outside to unplugging and spending time exploring. When it comes to camping, I grew up camping with my family all summer long, and my husband and I have been on quite a few camping trips ourselves and with friends and absolutely love it. We even got engaged in 2019 while on camping trip on the North Shore, one of our most favorite places. We hope to get our first trip to the Boundary Waters under our belts this summer, so stay tuned to see if we make that happen.

Camping can be tricky (maybe even overwhelming for some), but once you figure out what you actually need, it becomes easier to know what to bring. With most camping done in the summertime, you don’t have to pack much heavy clothing, but layers are helpful, especially for the cool mornings vs. hot afternoons. My tip: have fun with it! Plan fun and easy meals, bring your coffee must-haves, cozy clothes for bonfires – don’t forget the cribbage board or your favorite board game, too!

Here’s a round up of our camping essentials to help you pack for your camping trip:

CAMPING GEAR

Tent – We’ve used our 4-person tent for many years. Coleman is such a great brand. Rain-fly is a must!

Tarp – For under our tent to keep us dry and clean.

Cookstove – Love using this to make easy camping meals, and having a stovetop to heat up our coffee on. We also bring our dishes and utensil set similar to this one – easy to re-use and wash and dry for meals.

Coffee Maker – Can’t forget the mugs, too. I always take my yeti, these mugs come in a set and are cute for the morning with breakfast at the campsite and these are a good option for on-the-go.

Lanterns – Love this option too for a stylish one.

Trash Can – So handy to have around the campsite to stay organized.

Chairs – We got these zero-gravity ones for our wedding and we can’t wait to take them camping to sit around the bonfire with. We also have had these (looks like they don’t carry the red color anymore) for a few years that are very comfortable.

Polaroid Camera – Love the sweet memories captured in Polaroid photos. Last forever! I love writing the date or a simple caption on the bottom part of the photo, too.

Cooler + Cooler Ice Packs – Our RTIC cooler keeps ice for several days and is a great, affordable option. We also love our soft-sided RTIC cooler in camo. These cooler ice packs are awesome to have and come in many sizes.

Camping Mats – Easy to inflate and surprisingly not too bad to sleep on. These ones have great reviews too.

Sleeping Bags – I got this one for my husband a few years ago and he loves it.

Hammock – We’ve both had these for years since our days in Young Life. Perfect spot for a post-hike nap or an evening read.

CAMPING OUTFITS

Hiking Boots – My husband bought me these hiking boots for my birthday a few years ago. Little did I know they are amazing boots! Still look like brand new and are so comfortable. They fit true to size.

Water-Resistant Pants – Comfortable pants are essential, and these are similar to ones I have from EB. Breathable, stretchy and such good quality.

Go-To Sweatshirt – I always bring this sweatshirt with me. Great to layer with and easy to throw on!

Vest – A good vest is a great layer to have. For fall camping, I almost always wear a vest with a flannel or long sleeve underneath. Love this style too for fall and winter.

Flannel – Men’s flannels are my favorite, I love the oversized fit. Good layer during hiking and perfect for cozying up around the campfire in the evening.

Shorts – These shorts are great and don’t ride up. I love the liners too for summer wear. These shorts are also a staple for me and an affordable price!

Tank– I loved this crop tank to wear with leggings for summer hiking.

Kavu Bag or Backpack – A comfortable backpack to carry is great for holding snacks, and any essentials you may need for the day. I’ve had my kavu bag for years and I love it. It hardly feels like you have it on when you’re wearing it!

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Camping and hiking trips have always brought many fun memories! We look forward to continuing to camp every year and taking on the added adventure when we (God-willing) grow our family in the future. If you have any other questions about camping, feel free to leave them in the comments.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10