13-06-2025
27 Splurge-Worthy Camping Products From Backcountry
A Marmot four-person, three-season tent that'll be your go-to for almost any camping trip you can dream up. Grab a few pals, pick a spot, and run for the hills, mountains, desert, etc. It's a wonderful thing to have a "home" away from home you can bring anywhere and really love.
A good rule of thumb is that a tent can hold the number of folks it's rated for (four, in this case) squished like sardines *or* one less person with room for everyone's gear. The more the merrier, IMO, especially with a nice vestibule like this tent has! And since it's rated for three seasons, it'll be perfect for any spring, summer, and fall trips. Just don't take it out in the dead of winter. Mmmm, maybe that'll be a good excuse to get a cabin for the weekend. Promising review: "I have been camping at Katmai every summer since 2017 (with the exception of Covid 2021). I have camped in June, August, and September. Each month brings totally different weather conditions, from violent winds with heavy rain to spring-like days for a walk in the park. This tent has withstood all conditions without fail. I am on my second tent only because the airline lost all my baggage in 2022. This is a great tent." —Edward SPrice: $398.95 (available in two colors)
Or a Nemo Dragonfly one-person, three-season backpacking tent if you're itching to get out for some solo multi-day trips — a personal fave way to experience the outdoors! This puppy is freestanding (aka can be set up with its included poles), super light at just over 2 pounds, and is the perfect size to tuck away into your pack virtually unnoticed until nightfall. Nothing like tucking yourself in under the stars.
I have a *slightly* different one-person backpacking tent from Nemo and absolutely adore it! They've perfectly hit that "all the special features you need and none that you don't" mark that is essential for lightweight gear. Price: $449.95
A doggie backpack so your furry friend can carry their own gear on hikes into camp. Just be sure to give them a doggie packing list! Food? Check. Poop bags? Check. Really cool stick? Double check.
Price: $99.95 (available in sizes XS–XL and two colors)
A Garmin InReach Mini 2 to help you stay in touch with loved ones or in case of emergency when you're out in the backwoods with no cellphone service. A huge relief to have for outdoor folks of all kinds, especially if you often travel alone.
To use the Garmin on your trip, the device requires a monthly service fee of $14.95+ (or $11.95+ if you opt for an annual contract). But don't worry, if you're just planning on one trip, the monthly plan only requires a 30-day commitment, so you can bail after your hike and reactivate the next time you go on an adventure. Price: $299.99 (originally $399.99, available in two colors)
Some adorable Nocs Provisions binoculars so you can do some birdwatching from your sight, check out the top of the nearest peak, and see if you can spot any interesting flora and fauna. Love a camp activity!
Promising review: "I bought these to throw in a backpack for hikes in Southern Utah as we scout the cliffs. They are the perfect size and offer a clear picture and ideal magnification power for my purposes. They are sturdy and easy to use for me and the kids. I definitely recommend these for a solid set of hiking binoculars." —Landon LPrice: $94.95 (available in five colors)
A Rumpl puffy blanket to keep you warm and cozy all through the night — whether you grab it for some time around the bonfire or add it to your sleep setup. Its smooth surface is water- and dirt resistant, so there are no worries about exposing it to the elements. And best of all, when you get it home, it's washer- and dryer safe!
I've had my OG Rumpl blanket since 2019 and literally could not love it more. Six years in and it still lives in the trunk of my car, ready for impromptu trips, picnics, and park hangs! It's a splurge-worthy piece of gear I've recommended to basically everyone in my life with my whole chest and will for years to come. Price: $99 (available in two colors)
Or the iconic Pendleton Yakima Camp Blanket that has a snugglier take on the outdoor blanket thing. Made of 86% virgin wool and 14% cotton, it's soft, incredibly warm, and just breathable enough to help you sleep soundly through the night. Tuck it into your tent, lay it out for stargazing, heck, throw it on your bed when you get home, too.
Promising review: "I've had my Yakima blanket for at least 15 years, maybe more. It goes on all my adventures. From sleeping in my hammock in warmer months wrapped like a burrito, to sleeping in the back of my '97 4Runner. Keeping me toasty, always. When my kids came of age, they received a Pendleton blanket as well, with the understanding that this blanket is to be used. Whether picnics, camping out in the mountains, concerts, or wherever their adventures take them. My daughter just received hers this Christmas at 17 years old. She was tickled to death and snuggled up in it right away. Mine is a little threadbare around the edges, but still going strong." —FlyFishNut Price: $199+ (available in two sizes and six colors)
A Dometic 45-liter powered cooler to keep your food and drinks cool as can be without ice. Thanks, technology! By plugging it into your car you can refrigerate or reach temperatures as low as -7 degrees, all without dealing with wet food, sloshing water, and everything else annoying about traditional coolers.
The cooler features a "three-stage dynamic battery protection" that miraculously means it stays cool without draining your car battery (that was also my first worry). It can fit up to 67 cans (!!!!) and also includes dividers so you can keep everything contained and tidy. Promising review: "I have had a number of ice coolers over the years. The CFX3 45L has an amazing amount of room, considering no space has to be given up for ice. The cooler does a great job of keeping everything cool. I have paired it with a PLB40 battery, and it keeps the fridge running for just short of two days (I have been averaging about 2–3% of battery capacity/hour when not in direct sunlight). Unlike ice coolers, nothing gets soggy, and no water to drain or ice to buy. I was so impressed with the performance of the CFX3 45L, I added the CFX3 25L for those shorter day trips. Highly recommend if you want to get away from the traditional ice cooler." —Tami MPrice: $850
A super cool Jetboil Genesis Base Camp 2 Burner Cooking System with two adjustable burners so you can be a Michelin-level camp chef, whipping up delectable egg and bacon breakfasts, elaborate dinners (with a side!) and anything else you can dream up. It also includes a 5-liter pot and a pan so you have truly everything you need all in one handy, collapsible, easy-to-transport package.
The burners feature wind screens to keep the party going even if it's a blustery night, and they run on standard 16-ounce propane fuel tanks. The burners also have simmer control — fancy! — so you can really dial in your signature dishes. Price: $399.99
A Katadyn BeFree 3-liter microfilter for anyone who's tired of putting in the elbow grease with filters that require squeezing and just want to let gravity do its thing. With the BeFree, all you need to do is fill the bag, let it hang, and let your newly cleaned water flow into the vessels of your choice.
The reservoir you put dirty water in holds 3 liters of water, and it filters at a rate of 2 liters per minute. Whoa, that's faster than I thought! Maybe it's time I finally try one! Backpackers love this system, but they'd also be great for car camping trips where you have access to nice, running mountain water. Sure, you could pack your own, but drinking the water you find in the backcountry really is a special experience, especially when you have confidence it's safe to drink after treatment. Promising review: "Only used once in 50 degrees. Stream was clean, running fast, and filled the bladder in 7 seconds. Flow rate was perfect for my needs. Perfect holding points especially at intake side for submerging. First, BeFree, so will see how long it lasts with a good flow rate. I'll likely carry an extra filter if out solo. Weight is perfect for the benefit. Last thing I want to do is squeeze a bag for my water after a long hike and setting up camp. Now I know why I see a lot of gravity filters are hanging. The holding strap was a bit much for my needs unless someone uses it as a shoulder-carrying strap. I changed that up." —DilfPrice: $79.95
A Nemo Riff Endless Promise 30-degree down sleeping bag so you can get snug as a bug in a rug when you lay down after a long, tiring, beautiful camp day. Nemo's "spoon"-shaped bag is perfect for side sleepers with extra room where you need it that mummy bags usually constrict. It's fairly light, packs down small, and is equally suited for car camping and backpacking. Choose your own adventure!
There's really nothing like going to bed in a down bag, and their warm yet breathable feel is really unmatched and worth the splurge. Down bags are also usually much lighter and easier to pack down than synthetic ones, making them more versatile and easy to throw in a backpacking pack. This bag also comes with a compression bag to get it super tiny for transport. Price: $359.95 for men's sizes or women's sizes (each available in long and regular lengths)
Or a Big Agnes King Solomon 20-degree double sleeping bag if you and your boo want to share a bed outside just like you do at home. The top layer even zips off so you can use it as a quilt — perfect for warmer camping months when you want more than anything to stick one foot out of your sleeping bag so you can get to the perfect temp.
Price: $449.95
And an Exped LuxeMat Duo self-inflating pad so you're not contending with individual sleeping pads, too. This pad is 4-inches thick, aka mega comfy, has wool insulation so it's ultra warm for year-round use, has an integrated pump, and a washable cover for when you get home.
This pad has an R-value of 7.2, which just means it's A-OK to take out on your winter camping trips, as well as your trips during the rest of the year! When you unroll a "self-inflating" pad, it'll puff up, doing most of the air intake for you. You'll just need to pump it up a little bit more to get it to your desired firmness, hence: the integrated pump!Price: $500+ (available in two lengths)
A Helinox Chair Zero Camp Chair because sometimes those campsite benches just don't cut it. It weighs just over a pound, packs down super small, and is perfect for any outdoorsy person who hates to forgo comfort. I've had one of these for years and can confirm, it's super easy to bring along on trips where you want to be more comfortable without adding a ton of volume. And whoa, does it pack down small!
The chair weighs 17.6 ounces. Promising review: "I am so glad I bought this chair and absolutely loved having it on my four-day, three-night backpacking trip. I used it around camp and took it on my day hikes. It's easy to set up, packs easily into its own carrying case, and is super light. I won't backpack or day hike without it now!" —ShannonPrice: $139.95 (available in three colors)
A cutie patootie RovR cooler that looks like it's ready for an adventure, doesn't it? Big, fat wheels keep it trucking over rocky, bumpy terrain on the journey from your car to your site if you're walking in, a spacious 60-quart interior ensures you can pack everything you want for your weekend trip, and a convenient drain lets you get all that water out of there as your ice melts.
Ummm, I just don't think I've ever seen a cooler cuter than this! It comes in such fun colors, and those back wheels really will help you get it around. No more lugging with flimsy handles!Price: $399.95 (available in three colors)
A Biolite Alpenglow 500 lantern because with one wonderful lantern you can make your site functional once the sun falls *and* curate some truly wonderful vibes. Biolite is by far my favorite lighting gear company, making such easy-to-use, durable, and nice-looking pieces.
This lantern can run for five hours on its highest setting and a whopping 200 hours on its lowest. Whoa! It's rechargeable with an included USB and is water resistant, so you don't have to worry too much about sudden showers or packing it up just so. Speaking of packing, it also features a locking setting so it doesn't accidentally turn on in your bag and drain its battery before the trip even begins!Price: $79.95
An Eno DoubleNest Hammock for relaxing to the max amongst the trees. I literally can't imagine anything I'd like to do more than chill in a hammock on a camping trip. Nap time outside > nap time inside.
And here are the Atlas Straps you'll need to hang your new hammock quickly and easily!Price: $74.95 (available in 12 colors)
A fancy-schmancy Snow Peak table because boy oh boy do they design some of the most beautiful, splurge-worthy camp furniture and gear. Just imagine you and your campmates gathered around this table sharing a meal, swapping stories, and getting really heated over a game of cards, all as the moon beams overhead. Heavenly.
The table is expandable, and the center can be opened to put a stove in between the two sides, creating a cool cooking and prep space. The bamboo top can also double as a cutting board, and aluminum construction perfectly balances strength and weight. It folds down to fit in an included carrying case with a handle. Price: $419.95
A pair of Darn Tough Hiker Boot Cushion Socks that last forever and famously come with a lifetime guarantee — they're THAT confident they'll serve you well. I finally got my first pair of Darn Toughs this year, and love them. The heels and toes are perfectly cushioned, the merino wool blend isn't scratchy at all, and they're, tough!
Promising review: "I've had 3–4 pairs of these and I typically blow the toes out of all my socks. Not these. I have a pair that are almost 8 years old and show no sign of falling apart anytime soon." —MdksdePrice: $27.95 for men's sizes M–XL (available in six colors) or women's sizes S–L (available in three colors)
A Hest foam sleeping pad for anyone who refuses to be any less comfortable sleeping outdoors than they would in their comfy bed back home. More power to ya! This rollable pad has two layers of memory foam, a small stash pocket, a machine-washable cover, and a compression hardness with a handle for easy carrying.
Promising review: "This is the camping pad that I have been waiting for. No pumping, no worrying about punctures. Just a comfortable night's sleep. Took two seconds to unroll and you're ready for bed." —Brock HPrice: $329
A Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Sleeping Mat backpackers who are trying to cut weight will be so grateful to have in their pack. Ditto for side-sleeping car campers who are looking for a pad that keeps their hips and shoulders super comfortable all night. Having a really cozy bed in a teeny-tiny package never gets old!
The pad has an R-value of 4.5, so it's a little on the low end for a winter trip, but depending on the exact temperature, it could work. TL;DR, do a little research before taking this out in December. But for spring, summer, and fall trips, you're good to go! The regular size weighs in at just a hair over a pound, so if you're at the backpacking stage where you're counting ounces, I think you'll be really happy with this upgrade!Price: $189+ (available in three sizes)
And a Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow that honestly might be nicer than your pillow at home. This baby packs down small enough and is light enough to backpack with thanks to being mainly inflated with a soft, warm down topper. And if you have a Sea to Summit sleeping pad, the pillows and pads have an integrated locking system so your pillow doesn't slide away in the night!
You don't *have* to have a Sea to Summit pad to enjoy this pillow — anyone can use it! You just won't get to use the locking feature. Price: $64.95+ (available in two sizes)
A Sea to Summit Frontier ultralight two-person cook set to ensure you have all of your camp kitchen needs packed and ready in one convenient place. No more plates left behind! The set includes a 2-liter pot and lid, two plate-bowls, and two cups with lids so at long last you and your camping partner don't have to both eat out of a pot, clanking your heads and spoons together!
Price: $99.95
A 12-ounce Hyrdro Flask coffee mug because sipping on coffee and tea on a crisp, cool camp morning is one of life's greatest pleasures, and it's made even better when it's out of a mug you love that can help retain your bevvie's temperature. Those metal camp mugs are cute, but WHOA do they make your drink cold fast.
Price: $27.95 (available in nine colors)
An Osprey Ariel or Osprey Atmos backpacking pack ("women's" and "men's" models of the same pack, respectively) so you can hit the ol' dusty trail with everything you need in a supportive, cushioned pack that has all the special features you need, but not so many that it weighs you down. With a suspended mesh back, plenty of pockets, and a comfortable hip belt, it's wonderful for first timers and seasoned pros alike.
An older model of the Ariel was my first backpacking pack, and I still have BIG love for it! Absolutely the most comfortable bag I've ever owned, and I found 65 liters to be a good volume to start out with, especially if you enjoy bringing a luxury item or two, are planning on going out during colder weather (requiring bulkier gear), are carrying gear for a friend, kid, or pet, or just have a kit that skews larger. If you're conscious of your pack's weight, there are lots of removable components, including the "brain" at the top of the pack. But rest assured, weight carries really well in this bag thanks to mercifully padded hip straps. Price: $207+ for the Ariel (originally $319.95, available in sizes XS–L) and $339.95 for the Atmos (available in sizes S–XL and three colors)
Or a Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55-liter pack for ultralight backpackers who are ready to take the next step into their weight-cutting journey. This no-frills bag is a fave of thru-hikers for a reason. A strong and light Dynema body, the huge outer pocket we all dream of, a roll-top closure and taped seams that get it as close to "waterproof" as anyone can reasonably claim, and aluminum stays that give it a structure without adding too much weight.
This pack is at the top of my ultralight wish list! It weighs just two pounds (the black version is an ounce heavier, funny enough) and just seems super functional. The folks that I've met who have tested it love it, yes, for backpacking, but also for using as a travel bag in general. Hey! A great bag is a great bag. Promising review: "High quality and well-made. This is the backpack if you need something that is simple, ultralight, and waterproof. It is a roll-top bag so not as convenient as one with a zipper opening which allows full access to the contents without pulling everything out but is is like half the weight. The seams of the pack are the only areas where water could penetrate. The 55-liter provides additional flexibility to expand when you have a larger load out, but can be rolled down to 40 liters if you don't need the extra space." —Melissa MPrice: $379+ (available in three sizes and two colors)
A Coleman Cross Rocker Chair that sounds like the ultimate way to relax at camp. I can see it now. You whittling away at a little stick, listening to the fire crackle, rocking back and forth, not a care in the world.
Price: $144.99
