Don't let camping season slip away without these must-have supplies
Even if you're a seasoned camper, it's a good idea to check in on your gear to see if you need to add anything.
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We’re midway through the summer, and the rest of the season will fly by before you know it. If you’re a camper, and you haven’t hit the woods yet, we suggest getting on that as quick as you can – and browsing this list of must-have camping accessories to fill out the gaps in your kit.
Solar Battery Power Bank Portable Charger
Rated 4.2 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
We hope you’ll take your camping trip as an opportunity to unplug, but you’ll still need your phone for communication or navigation. Even sparse use will drain the battery over time, so consider this solar-charged power bank from Xooparc. It’s compatible with just about every phone and device, and though you can plug it in to charge, its solar cell can free you from being near an outlet for a good long while.
SHOP MORE: Make the sun work for YOU with these solar powered gadgets
Igloo BMX 25 Quart Cooler
Rated 4.6 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
Whether you need to chill some meat for the grills on the way up to the campsite, or keep your drinks cool while lounging by the lake, this mid-sized cooler from Igloo is the best in its class. Its sturdy construction, with powerful latches and a rubberized lid, means the cold is sealed for longer within the cooler’s polypropylene confines. If its 25-quart capacity isn’t quite enough, Igloo offers a 52-quart option.
SHOP MORE: The best coolers for you and your drink this summer
Trekology YIZI GO Portable Camping Chair
Amazon.ca
What’s a campsite without a proper camping chair? If you’re looking for something comfier and roomier than the basic variety, this lightweight option fits easily in a backpack or even carry-on luggage. With extra side pockets for stashing your keys, water bottle, or phone as well as an enhanced loop design that helps you set up the chair in seconds, this affordable option is like the compact umbrella of chairs.
SHOP MORE: The best foldable chairs for outdoor activities
Like what you see? Check out our Shop the Weather articles for more must-have product recommendations.
Easthills Double Camping Hammock
Rated 4.3 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
You always run the risk of rain when you’re camping, and though you have a tent to shelter in, you didn’t go to the woods to huddle indoors. This hammock from Easthills can still help you get your outdoor fix. Aside from its included rain fly, it also features storage pockets for books or snacks, hoops to hang a lantern or fan, and netting to keep out the bugs. Whether you’re snoozing or reading, this is your pick.
SHOP MORE: Take a load off with these 6 hammock recommendations
Thinksport Kids Sunscreen
Rated 4.6 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
Don’t let the name fool you. This zinc oxide-based sunscreen from Thinksport features an SPF of over 50, and is water resistant up to 80 minutes, so it’s perfectly suitable for adults as well as kids at the campsite. As a bonus, it’s not only mineral-based, it’s a non-nano solution, which means there are no nanoparticles whatsoever getting into your bloodstream.
SHOP MORE: Think zinc! Find the best natural sunscreen for you
LED Bluetooth Speaker
Rated 4.4 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
Once you’ve unpacked your campsite and had a chance to stretch yourself out, how about some tunes? Bluetooth speakers are ubiquitous and come in whatever style you like. We were drawn to this one due to its built-in LED design, set to flicker with a warm yellow like a lamp – a great way to add to the mood as the sun slowly sets.
SHOP MORE: Five things you'll need to make the most of your patio this season
LEATHERMAN, Wave Plus Multitool
Rated 4.7 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
It’s a wise camper that remembers to pack a multitool for those little unexpected repair needs that might crop up. There are plenty of multitools out there that can do in a pinch, and of those, Leatherman is best-known for a reason. It's packed with loads of tools, including pliers, wire cutters, and spring-action scissors, all seamlessly folded into an elegant and robust package.
SHOP MORE: Get equipped for summer DIY with this comprehensive list of gear
Solar Camping Lantern
Amazon.ca
When the sun goes down and the fire goes out, we recommend this solar-powered option (just remember to keep it in the sun during the day to recharge!). It features two modes to allow for night-time reading and ambience, and a brighter flashlight beam.
SHOP MORE: Make the sun work for YOU with these solar powered gadgets
Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller
Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
No one likes mosquitos ruining their camping trip. This gadget from Thermacell will be your friend. Its repellent mats can keep bugs away within a 15-foot radius for up to four hours each, and a separate fuel cartridge removes the need for cords, making it good for any outdoor setting.
SHOP MORE: 5 things you'll need to keep your patio bug-free
LEXIVON Camping Hatchet
Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
A campfire in the woods is a special delight while camping, and firing one up is a special art. Make things easier for yourself with this hatchet. With its carbon steel blade and ergonomic handle grip, splitting firewood has never been easier.
PSKOOK Pocket Bellows
Rated 4.6 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
While we’re on the subject of campfires, you know it can sometimes be a struggle to get one going, and trying to keep the oxygen flow going can be taxing. Consider this pocket bellows from PSKOOK – it’s just a simple, collapsible steel tube, but it makes directing the airflow much easier if you’re willing to give a good blow. Comes in a two-pack with carrying case.
AISITIN BBQ Grill Accessories with Insulated Cooler Bag
Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
What’s a camping trip without a barbecue? And what’s a barbecue without a good set of tools? We recommend this one from AISITIN. There are other such kits out there, and even some with more pieces included, but this one especially appealed to us because it includes a good-sized insulated bag to keep soft drinks cool or a newly grilled lunch warm.
SHOP MORE: 6 long weekend must-haves for parks, picnics and camping
Emergency Weather Radio with Solar Charging
Rated 4.4 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
It’s great to disconnect, but remember, the summer months can be stormy months, and severe thunderstorms can be destructive and possibly even produce a tornado. A good weather radio is a must-pack, and this one is the most recommended. Its solar charging capability provides power to a built-in reading light and flashlight as well as outlets for USB charging. The device is also equipped with an SOS alarm and emergency weather radio that broadcasts from AM, FM, and NOAA stations
SHOP MORE: 6 ways to go solar this summer
Like what you see? Check out our Shop the Weather articles for more must-have product recommendations.
Our trusted Product Specialists recommend high-quality items that we think will enhance your experience with Canadian weather conditions. Prices and availability of items are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
With files from Nicole Hilton
Thumbnail image source: Tegan Mierle/Unsplash