(Updated 2021)
Summertime and camping go hand-in-hand. To make the most of your outdoor excursions, be prepared for the heat and humidity by stocking up on these summer camping gear essentials.
Summer Camping Gear Must Haves
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Breathable Camping Tent-Look for a tent with a rain flap to handle those summer showers. Also, you can sleep under the stars if you like complete with the protection of bug netting.
Camping Hammock-In lieu of a tent, some people find that they prefer a Camping Hammock with Net in the summertime.
Lightweight Sleeping Bag-One that is streamlined and easily packed such as the ECOOPRO Warm Weather Sleeping Bag will work well. And it will fully unzip to make a blanket if needed.
Sleeping Pad-Add a layer of much need comfort under your sleeping bag with this Sleepingo Camping Sleeping Pad .
Portable Fan-I have found from personal experience camping in 100 degree plus weather that this O2COOL Portable Fan with AC Adapter is a must have. It is sturdy and has good run time per battery charge. Also, it can be plugged into an electric outlet, if you are in a campsite with an electrical source.
Neck Cooler-These evaporative cooling towels are amazingly effective.
Mosquito Repellent-Living in a state that should have adopted the mosquito as its official insect, I am quite knowledgeable on this subject. Also, I am one of those fortunate (ha, ha) people that mosquitoes find irresistible.
Forget the home remedies and concoctions. I have never seen them work. Go for spray on mosquito repellents with DEET, Picaridin,
or Lemon Eucalyptus. Spray on is good because you can easily apply on the cuff of your pants and shirts, as well.
Also, great for having while sitting around the picnic table at night or lounging in a hammock
is a Thermacell
. This portable mosquito repellent device creates a multi-foot zone of protection around you in the span of 10 to 15 minutes once in operation.
Sun Protection-Since camping generally involves lots of outdoor time, don’t forget to guard yourself against the sun’s rays. A proper hat is so helpful for protecting your head from sun damage. The best summer camping hats offer both sun shield and air circulation. Check out the Mazo Quick-Dry Sun Hat and the Home Prefer Wide Brim Hat with Neck Flap.
Also, consider purchasing clothing with built in SPF protection such as this Columbia Long Sleeve Shirt UPF 40.
Don’t forget the ever important sunscreen lotion or spray.
And sunscreen lip balm.
More Handy Summer Camping Gear
Headlamp-There is just something so special about those long summer evenings. Enjoy them well after dark with the help of one of these 4 modes LED headlamps. The straps help to keep the light securely on your head.
Camping Lantern-Bring some light to the whole campsite with these Etekcity Portable LED Camping Lantern Flashlights.
Cooler–
For drive up or short walk in campsites, this Coleman Xtreme Series Wheeled Cooler will be great for bringing along your drinks and munchies.
Playing Cards–These waterproof cards in plastic case
are great for summer fun and won’t get ruined by moisture.
Horseshoe Set-This version from Champion offers easy set-up and minimal environmental impact.
Along with the summer camping gear from above, don’t forget to bring along closed toes shoes for walking around the campsite and exploring, water shoes for using public shower, and trash bags to keep your campsite clean.
For more camping tips:
12 Popular Camping Myths Not To Fall For