I'm not a Boy Scout or a glamping aficionado, but one night of camping with my sister Chloe taught me that there are definite advantages to being prepared. Like: Did you know you could cook dinner on a collapsible table instead of sitting in the dirt? I did not. Chloe and her partner are semiretired van lifers turned frequent campers, and their packing list has been perfected over many dusty nights outdoors. When winter storms left swaths of the country without power earlier this year, they were even uniquely prepared to cope thanks to their solar battery and portable gas stove. So when I started to dream about spending a few weekends camping this summer without forgetting to pack something important, I turned to her. Read on for her essentials. - Aliza Abarbanel
Even during non-COVID times, my goal in nature is usually to be as alone as possible. That's where dispersed camping comes in (camping on public lands outside designated campgrounds). It's the best way to find private swimming holes, quiet campsites, and empty trails, but leaving the crowds behind also means going without amenities like fire pits, picnic tables, and bathrooms. Before you pack, read up on local regulations and Leave No Trace principles. Don't forget the basics: somewhere comfortable to sleep, water, food, camp chairs, and a reliable way to navigate the area.
Dispersed campsites are usually free, but it's worth it to invest in a few items to keep yourself safe and comfortable. In my opinion, camping is all about creating an environment where you're comfortable enough to enjoy the outdoors-not about loving the outdoors so much that you're willing to put up with being uncomfortable. When you're ready to upgrade your setup, this is my list of essentials.
Two-Burner Coleman Gas Stove
I love cooking over the fire to grill veggies and freshly caught fish, but a gas stove is much quicker and more reliable for tasks like boiling water, cooking pasta, and making coffee. It's also essential for cooking when you're camping somewhere with a fire ban or without readily available wood. When we were living in the van full-time, a classic green propane can would last us for at least a week or two, usually even longer. You can find propane at most grocery stores, camping outfitters, and even gas stations, especially near areas with lots of camping. I'm planning on investing in a refillable canister soon.
Collapsible Folding Table
We first got this table when we were living in a tiny studio apartment and needed something small and collapsible. We planned on moving into the van soon, so it seemed like a good option for cooking outdoors too. It's been great! Dirt and sand gets into everything when you're camping, but the table makes it a lot easier to keep our food and utensils clean and the campsite organized. The height is tall enough so that we can stand while using the gas stove on top, and it works when we sit down in our camp chairs to eat.
Portable Solar Panel
If you want to charge phones or other electronics without draining your car battery, solar panels definitely come in handy. There are lots of options when it comes to solar setups-some more DIY than others-but Goal Zero is the most user-friendly, plug-and-play option that I've come across. They have varying sizes to fit different needs, from backpack-sized chargers to rugged mountable panels. (Generally speaking, panels with a larger surface area generate more power.)
Our panel is mounted to the roof of our van and powers a detachable battery that can hold enough charge for our phones, computers, and cameras for a few days if there is no sun. Usually, the panel is able to constantly recharge as we use it, even when it's cloudy. I like that the battery displays how much power is coming in from the panel as well as how much is being used by whatever device is currently plugged in. We even brought the battery inside to charge phones and run lights when our apartment had a power outage earlier this year.
Hatchet
Bundles of firewood usually come with very large logs, but small kindling is important in starting a fire-the large pieces won't catch without it. A hatchet makes it easy to split large logs with a few swings. This one comes with a sheath to protect the blade when not in use, which is important for safety. If we buy a large bundle, we split the logs once we get to the campsite so they're the perfect size to add to the fire alongside any kindling we find in the area. Break down more than you think you'll need, because it's better not to be swinging the hatchet once it's dark. Also, always wear closed-toed shoes when you're splitting wood!
Foldable Shovel
Dispersed camping means no toilets, so you need a way to properly dispose of human waste. The best method for this depends on your environment: Sometimes you need to pack it out with you, so look up the rules for this before you head out. Often, you need to walk 70 steps away from any water, trails, and campsites to dig a six-inch-deep "cathole" to bury your waste. Look for a nice view if you can! Any shovel (or a shovel-like rock) will work, but this one is lightweight, foldable, and has serrated blades on the side for easier digging.
Twinkly Lights
Okay, twinkly lights aren't really essential, but they enhance the vibes! I plug our lights into our solar setup, but there are lots of battery-powered strands too. We use them to set up an aesthetically pleasing perimeter around the campsite to help with visibility at night. They create a nice glow, but we can still see the stars.