Camping is my reset button. Spending over 60 nights a year outside—whether it’s car camping, tent camping, or backpacking—has helped me manage my anxiety and perfectionism in ways nothing else has. There’s something about waking up to crisp mountain air, unplugging from distractions, and falling asleep under a sky full of stars that makes everything feel lighter. But let’s be real—the right gear makes all the difference between a trip that’s peaceful and one that’s just uncomfortable. After years of trial and error, these are my top 10 tried-and-true camping essentials that I never leave behind.
Conditions to Expect in Spring Camping
Spring camping in Oregon means beautiful landscapes, fewer crowds, and unpredictable weather. While it can be one of the best times to camp, you’ll need to be prepared for:
Rain
Spring showers are common, and wet gear can ruin a trip fast. Expect drizzly mornings, passing storms, and damp ground—even if the forecast looks clear. A waterproof tent, rainfly, and a solid layering system are non-negotiables for staying dry and comfortable.
Pro Tip: Pack a ground tarp to prevent moisture from seeping into your tent and store your gear inside dry bags to keep it from getting soaked.
Wind
Spring winds can be stronger than expected, especially in open areas like high desert campgrounds or along the coast. Gusts can flatten an unanchored tent or make cooking over a stove a challenge.
Pro Tip: Stake down your tent securely, use guy lines, and position your tent behind natural windbreaks (trees, hills, or rocks) for extra protection.
Colder Temps
Even if the daytime temps feel warm, nights can drop below freezing in the mountains and high desert. Without the right gear, cold-weather camping can be miserable or even dangerous.
Pro Tip: Pack an insulated sleeping pad, a sleeping bag rated for 10-20°F lower than expected temps, and layer up—fleece and down are your best friends. Also, don’t forget warm socks, gloves, and a beanie for chilly mornings and nights.
My Gear Recommendations: Minimalist & Budget-Friendly Camping Essentials
I like to keep my camping setup simple—everything fits into 1-2 storage bins for easy packing, quick setup, and portability. Most of the gear I use is affordable, practical, and doesn’t break the bank, making it easy to camp without overpacking or overspending. Whether you’re setting up for a weekend trip or heading out on a longer adventure, these are my go-to camping essentials.
Lighting & Power
LuminAID Lantern – Compact, solar-powered, and waterproof
A lightweight, inflatable lantern that’s perfect for car camping or backpacking. Charges via solar power or USB, packs flat, and provides adjustable brightness for everything from reading to cooking.
Why I Love It: This is one of my most asked-about camping products. Anytime I bring it on a trip, other campers stop me to ask where they can get one. It’s packable, long-lasting, and a total game-changer for nighttime camp setups.
Goal Zero Portable Battery – Reliable power for camping & road trips
This heavy-duty power bank is my go-to for keeping all my devices charged on extended trips. It’s a must-have for multi-day camping, road trips, or remote work setups. It can charge phones, cameras, headlamps, lanterns, and even my laptop when I’m off-grid. Pair it with a solar panel for unlimited power in the backcountry.
Why I Love It: It’s a lifesaver for week-long trips, road trips, and remote camping where I need to keep multiple devices running.
Need a Lighter Option? Try the Anker Power Bank – Ultralight for Backpacking
For backpacking trips, I prefer a much lighter power bank like the Anker Power Bank. It’s compact, weighs only a few ounces, and has enough juice to recharge your phone and headlamp a couple of times without weighing down your pack.
Why I Love It: Super compact, lightweight, and perfect for backpacking trips where every ounce counts.
Cooking & Water Storage
Coleman Camp Stove – Affordable & Easy-to-Use Classic
If you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly camping stove, this one is tried and true. It’s lightweight, folds compact, and runs on propane, making it ideal for car camping or casual weekend trips.
Why I Love It: My Coleman stove is literally older than I am—it’s a family hand-me-down that’s still going strong after decades of use. Easy to use, built to last, and a total workhorse at camp.
MSR PocketRocket 2 – Ultralight Alternative for Backpacking
For those who need something smaller and more portable, the MSR PocketRocket 2 is a backpacking-friendly stove that boils water in under 4 minutes and packs down to fit in the palm of your hand. When paired with Jetboil JetPower fuel, it can boil water in just 1 minute, making it one of the fastest and most efficient ultralight stoves out there.
Why I Love It: Perfect for solo trips, lightweight packing, and quick hot meals on the trail.
GSI Knife Kit – Compact kitchen essentials for camp cooking
This lightweight, all-in-one knife set includes a chef’s knife, paring knife, and serrated knife, all stored in a secure, travel-friendly case. Perfect for prepping meals outdoors without dealing with dull or bulky kitchen knives.
Why I Love It: I originally got this as a gift for Anders, and it’s easily become one of his favorite camping gifts (or gifts in general!). It’s one of those things you might not buy for yourself, but once you have it, you’ll use it all the time.
7-Gallon Water Tank – Reliable water storage for multi-day trips
I always pack a 7-gallon tank for easy access to drinking water, cooking, and cleaning at camp. It’s way more sustainable (and cheaper) than relying on single-use plastic jugs—and it eliminates the risk of leaks ruining your gear.
Why I Love It: I used to haul around six 1-gallon disposable jugs in my car for camping—until multiple leaked all over my stuff on a road trip. That disaster convinced me to switch to a durable, reusable 7-gallon tank, and I’ve never looked back. No leaks, less waste, and lasts forever.
Camp Comfort & Extras
Fairy Lights – Adds cozy vibes & soft lighting
A small string of battery-powered fairy lights instantly makes any campsite feel cozier while providing a soft, ambient glow at night. I use mine strung around my tent or in my car, creating just enough light to navigate without feeling harsh.
Why I Love It: Lightweight, energy-efficient, and makes camp feel like home. Perfect for adding a little magic to your setup without draining your battery pack.
REI Camp Chairs – Lightweight & comfortable
A solid camp chair is worth the space, and REI’s versions are durable, lightweight, and easy to pack. Whether you’re après-skiing, dispersed camping, or hanging out by the river, these chairs don’t take up much room but provide just the right amount of comfort and minimalism.
Why I Love It: Way better than sitting on a rock. I take mine everywhere—from ski lodge parking lots to remote campsites—because it’s lightweight, sturdy, and just comfy enough.
Gregory Weatherized Storage Container – Keeps gear dry & organized
A rugged, weather-resistant storage bin designed to keep camp gear safe from rain, dirt, and curious critters. I’ve left mine outside in heavy rainstorms and dust storms, and nothing gets in—everything stays dry, clean, and exactly as I packed it. Perfect for storing and transporting all your essential camping gear without the hassle of scattered, unprotected items.
Why I Love It: Durable, stackable, and keeps my setup minimal & organized—no more digging through loose gear in the back of your car.
Shop Gregory Storage Container (code LAUREN15)
Rumpl Blanket – Warm, packable, and adventure-proof
A lightweight, insulated camping blanket that’s water-resistant, ultra-cozy, and packs down small. Perfect for campfire hangs, chilly mornings, or layering inside a sleeping bag.
Why I Love It: Basically a sleeping bag you can wear.
ENO Hammock – Best way to relax at camp
There’s nothing better than setting up a hammock between two trees and kicking back at camp. The ENO Hammock is lightweight, durable, and easy to set up—perfect for naps, reading, or just chilling under the trees.
Why I Love It: Packs tiny but adds a huge level of comfort to camp.
Don't forget to grab hammock straps too!
Final Thoughts: Why These Picks Matter
Camping doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—by keeping my gear minimal, packable, and budget-friendly, I can spend less time packing and more time actually enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re backpacking, car camping, or setting up for a weekend in the woods, these 10 must-have items help make every trip more comfortable, organized, and stress-free.
What’s your go-to camping gear? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to check out my other gear guides for more outdoor essentials!
Leaving Notes
Thank you for being here! I’m excited for you to experience stress-free, easy camping with the right gear. I hope this guide helps you pack smarter, camp lighter, and enjoy the outdoors even more.
Here’s your reminder to get outside this weekend!
If you’re enjoying this blog and want to support me for free, you can:
Comment or DM me with your favorite camping gear recommendations Share this blog post with friends and family who might find it helpful Shop through my REI link to grab any of these camping essentials
See you in the next adventure!
Happiest Outside,
Lauren (@laurensbigadventure)
Read the Comments +