I go camping every year. Here are 10 essentials I suggest buying

• This list includes items like rechargeable string lights, a portable grill and a foldable camping chair.
• Other recommendations focus on practicality, such as a solar panel charger and waterproof hiking boots.

I have an annual camping trip every summer that I look forward to all year. I am always so connected and plugged in that having a few days out in the woods where I'm forced to log off, is really nice. The thing is, I still want to enjoy a few amenities while basking in the fresh air. My main needs include lighting because I'm admittedly afraid of the dark, coffee or a way to make coffee and I need to be able to sit down by the fire, ideally in a chair.

Whether you have camping trips planned for summer 2026 or simply want to celebrate the great outdoors this summer, I've curated a list of camping essentials I recommend buying to help you stay comfortable and prepared.

10 camping essentials I recommend buying

Shop for new hiking boots, my favorite set of retractable string lights, a must-have foldable table that will be the hero of every trip and of course, the ultimate camping tent that my 6'2" husband can actually stand in.

1. Ogery Rechargeable Camping String Lights, 4-in-1 Quick Storage

Ogery Rechargeable Camping String Lights, 4-in-1 Quick Storage

Get these rechargeable fairy lights that retract into a hanging container on sale at Amazon. Save 25% at Amazon

2. Fanttik Outdoor Zeta C8 Air Camping Tent

Fanttik Outdoor Zeta C8 Air Camping Tent

Get this editor-approved tent that sets up in about one minute on sale at Amazon and make your next camping trip super easy. Save 15% at Amazon

3. Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill with 3 Adjustable Burners

Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill with 3 Adjustable Burners

I love our Coleman grill. They will last you forever (we had one that was in my husband's family for more than 30 years before we upgraded) and they come in different sizes to suit your needs. Buy now at Amazon

4. BigBlue Waterproof, Portable, Foldable Solar Panel Charger

BigBlue Waterproof, Portable, Foldable Solar Panel Charger

I have a foldable solar charger like this one and it is a camping hero. Simply lay it outside and let the sun charge up your speaker or lanterns throughout the day! Buy now at Amazon

5. Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots - Women's

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots - Women's

These waterproof Salomon hiking boots are super comfortable and durable. Get them on sale right now. Save 42% at REI

6. Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System Camp Stove

Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System Camp Stove

I love a good Jetboil stove. This little guy is perfect for boiling water to make some quick coffee while camping or a simple breakfast for two! Buy at REI

7. Portable Rechargeable Fan with LED Lantern

Portable Rechargeable Fan with LED Lantern

I love having a fan with a built-in light. It is perfect for when your tent gets a little too warm in the mornings and when you need some illumination at night! Save 12% at Amazon

8. iClimb Ultralight Compact Camping Folding Table with Carry Bag

iClimb Ultralight Compact Camping Folding Table with Carry Bag

This might seem obvious but you always need more table space while camping. This foldable table is essential for my campsite’s cooking area. Buy now at Amazon

9. GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Outdoor Rocking Chair with Beverage Holder

GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Outdoor Rocking Chair with Beverage Holder

A good camping chair is essential to any campfire hang. This one comes highly rated (it has more than 53,000 reviews) for how comfortable it is and yes, it has a cup holder. Buy now at Amazon

10. 19-in-1 Emergency Survival Gear and Equipment

17-in-1 Emergency Survival Gear and Equipment

You'll always be prepared with this survival kit. It includes multi-tools, utensils, a bottle opener, fire starter and more. Save 33% at Amazon

USA TODAY Shopping will be covering all the best deals and drops so be sure to sign up for text alerts, check us out on Flipboard, follow us on TikTok, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Instagram to stay updated!