The 38 Best Gifts for Camping Lovers, According to Our Editors

Just because you’re camping doesn’t mean you won’t fall victim to the pre-coffee grumps. While your home brewing method may not be transportable or well-suited for an outdoor setup, you won’t be left yearning for a good cup of coffee with the AeroPress Go. One of our favorite portable pour-over coffee makers, this lightweight press pumps out 10 ounces of coffee per press. It can brew hot or cold (tack on an extra minute of brew time for cold brew), and it comes with a scoop and circular filter papers.

Equal parts practical and fun, loyal fans of the Stanley brand will appreciate this all-in-one, leak-proof flask and shot set. The set includes four 2-oz. shot glasses and an 8-oz. capacity flask. The flask can conveniently fit inside your pocket, and the included stainless steel shot glasses are perfect for sharing with friends around the fire.

Most campers have a backpack, but what about a backpack cooler? We love the Yeti Hopper M20 for keeping food and drinks cold but also for freeing our hands to carry other gear, snap photos of a stunning view, or hold a kid’s hand or a dog leash on a hike. “I brought this cooler to Big Bend National Park, and after 24 hours in the Texas heat, it still had ice in it,” says editor Mary Claire Lagroue. “It’s also totally leak-proof. I turned it upside down after the ice melted, and it stayed sealed. It even stood up to being checked at the airport twice without scratches, which is pretty impressive.”

If you, like us, make eating an important part of camping, you’ll understand just how essential a good camping stove is. The Camp Chef Pro 14-Inch Cooking System features two burners with 30,000 BTUs each, making it more powerful than the average kitchen stove burner. While it consumes more fuel than simpler, smaller camp stoves, it provides ultimate control over the flame with dials on each burner. The stove features sturdy and protective windshields that maintain your food’s temperature and facilitate even cooking, and it folds down for a compact carry.

“It’s a powerful stove, but what I really like is that you can customize it with any two of Camp Chef’s 14-inch accessories, like a flat-top griddle for pancakes or a pizza oven,” says Lagroue. “It’s so versatile that you’ll want to use it at home, too.”

If you’re eyeing the Camp Chef Pro 14-Inch Cooking System, consider splurging and making this grilling accessory part of your gift. It’s designed to fit over one of the 14-inch system’s two burners, but you can also buy one for the other burner if you want to double your grill space. “It easily holds four or five kebabs and doesn’t take long to cook, so you can feed several people back to back. Testing it out, it left steak, chicken, and vegetables with perfect grill marks, and nothing was dry. It’s a great camp cooking upgrade.”

It’s no easy task to find a camping knife as good as your go-to chef’s knife, but cooking while camping is when you need a sharp and reliable blade the most. We include this blade in our camp kitchens because it’s affordable, sharp, reliable, and large enough to handle just about any task without being cumbersome or occupying too much space in the pack.

Forged in the Japanese style, this santoku is designed to effortlessly slice through meat, vegetables, cheese, and fruit with a rocking motion. Its non-slip handle keeps you safe as you slice, even in rainy conditions or with wet hands. It’s a perfectly practical gift for campers who love to cook.

Unlike many portable grills, the Everdure CUBE runs on charcoal, providing all the smoky, outdoorsy flavor of campfire cooking without the hassle. During our tests, we liked many of Everdure’s thoughtful design components — like a top that doubles as a cutting board — and we especially appreciated how easy the grill was to transport. Thanks to the CUBE’s portability, it’s easy to imagine packing this along with a cooler and other essential gear without any added inconvenience.

We’ve tested several camping chairs, and we’ve found this one to be versatile for virtually any body type or activity. While it is slightly more reclined than other camp chairs, it works just as well for eating dinner as it does for relaxing fireside. Lightly padded for comfortable extended sitting periods, the chair survived many of our drop tests without bending or denting. This chair has plenty of oversized cupholders for drinks around the campfire, plus it’s easy to carry thanks to an included wrap.

Another soft cooler bag we love is the RTIC portable ice chest, which is an over-the-shoulder bag rather than a backpack. While technically a soft cooler, this bag features a strong, insulated shell that lends it body and rigidity, allowing you to optimize space and fill every corner. Constructed with two inches of foam, a tear-resistant lining, and a leakproof (albeit slightly finicky to zip) zipper, it’ll keep beverages cold for up to 24 hours. 

Our favorite feature? This insulated cooler floats. These brilliant design features make it a must-have item for lake or river camping trips and pool days. Its 22-quart capacity easily holds up to 30 cans and can also hold containers, sandwiches, and ingredients for camp cooking.

A waterproof bag like this Deuter Dry Pack keeps essential items from getting soaked in a kayak or during a rainstorm. “If I’m bringing a lunch on a kayak, it’ll go in my dry pack, along with my phone, keys, and maybe a book,” says Lagroue. “When not on the water, I like using it kind of as a packing organizer. I have a few Deuter bags — this dry pack and two backpacks — and I’m impressed with their durability. I also love the brand’s color selection.”

This classic cast-iron skillet is a timeless cooking essential, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Safe for use on a camping stove (and a gas stove in your home kitchen), nestled in the coals, or directly over an open flame, we particularly love this cast iron cookware because its low price point doesn’t compromise its quality or construction.

This skillet does not come with a lid, but according to chef Steve Corso, founder of Outdoor Eats, you don’t necessarily need one for camping. “I’ve found that a piece of aluminum foil works just as well as a lid at times,” he says. Although it comes in a wide range of sizes for various culinary uses, the 10.25-inch diameter is the most versatile, especially when aiming to pack as few camping cookware pieces as possible. It’s so indestructible that you can use it as a mallet for putting tent stakes in at camp.

Candles might not normally be included on camp trip packing lists, especially when a fire can set the ambiance instead, but trust us: This pick is worth the trunk space. This citronella candle makes for a great, moody source of tabletop lighting, but it also doubles as an insect repellent. Made of soy wax, it’s a healthier alternative to paraffin wax, plus it has an extended 30-hour burn time. It’s even smokeless, which is an advantage for backyard entertaining.

For some people, camping wouldn’t be complete without casting a reel and cooking fish over live fire. For others, there’s tinned seafood. Fishwife “I love all kinds of tinned seafood, but Fishwife’s smoked trout is the best I’ve tried,” says Lagroue. “It has a flaky texture and tastes fresh and mild, not fishy, with the perfect amount of salt and garlic. I enjoy eating it right out of the tin, but it would be great as a dip with crackers or in a sandwich with crusty bread and greens. I also appreciate that it’s sustainably sourced and comes in BPA-free packaging.”

Brewing a hot pot of coffee is one of our favorite camping rituals, so we’re including a few coffee picks on our list. Yeti’s French press is great for both outdoor and indoor use. It features the same double-walled vacuum insulation as the rest of the brand’s Rambler collection, and it kept coffee hot for four hours in our tests. While coffee sitting that long should get bitter, this French press has a special plunger that separates the grounds from the brew for an impressively smooth taste.

While we can speak to the advantages of a larger stove for car camping, sometimes, you need to pack as little as possible. This compact, propane-fueled stove can help you get a number of meals started when basic resources are limited. The Jetboil cooking system can boil water in less than two minutes (quicker than others we’ve tried!) for preparing a freeze-dried meal, instant ramen, or hot chocolate. The bottom cover even serves as a measuring cup and bowl, so your pack is lighter than ever.

This extra-durable, parachute-grade nylon hammock is lightweight when bundled, but it opens up to create a spacious and relaxing area when hung. It can hold up to 500 pounds and comfortably accommodates two adults. Testing it at home, we liked the Kootek’s extra-long, adjustable straps and safe, sturdy hardware. Having straps that range up to 10 feet means you won’t have to search for perfectly spaced trees. We also like this hammock’s wide range of 18 color options. Not only are the dual hues aesthetically pleasing, but they’re functional and make your hammock easy to spot on a crowded campground.

Our editors love using pasta bowls for much more than pasta, and this durable, BPA-free melamine set from West Elm would be just as versatile in a camp kitchen. With an 8-inch diameter and rounded shape, they can accommodate nearly any meal you could make outside, whether it’s oatmeal, grilled meat and veggies, or a slice of pizza. “I have the plates from this collection and like how they’re lightweight to carry and easy to hand-wash for reuse,” says Lagroue. “I want the pasta bowls next!”

A camping table is a game-changer. This specifically designed camp prep table from the outdoor experts at REI is meant to create a level surface when set up on uneven ground. When camping, this feature is a game-changer. Constructed with aluminum and steel, its adjustable legs can be individually lowered or raised to compensate for bumpy or sloping terrain below, while also allowing for easy adjustment to accommodate standing prep work or seated dining.

This camping table is easy to assemble, heat-resistant on its surface (don’t worry about placing a hot pan or your stove directly on top of it), and comes along with a comfortable carry bag. Although it folds in half, this table can still hold up to 100 pounds, making it a multifunctional surface not just limited to prepping or cooking meals.

Large enough to comfortably house four 6-packs plus ice, this high-end cooler gives similar, albeit more expensive, alternatives a run for their money. We’ve compared YETI vs. RTIC coolers side by side and tested the larger RTIC model, which features the same technology and design elements, and found it to be our overall favorite cooler. (It kept ice intact even after a full day of use.) This cooler features 3-inch thick foam insulation, a molded slot that secures the lid to keep the cooler sealed, and sturdy rope handles for easy transportation and repositioning throughout the campsite. It doubles as a seat and has a spout, so you don’t have to dump it upside down to let it dry. This cooler can easily tackle any car-camping trip, day trip, or backyard hangout, no matter if it’s housing beers, cold cuts, or a week’s worth of meal prep. We think this would make a perfectly practical gift for campers. 

This simple gadget makes all the difference for drinking from a can. The two-piece beverage koozie secures your can with a quick screw and keeps your beverage ice-cold. Constructed with a thick double-wall vacuum steel and coated with a durable, chip-resistant finish that won’t sweat, this YETI find will easily last years of adventure. Although it’s made to house a 12-ounce can, the rambler also works to keep most glass bottles cold, with the neck sticking out of the top.

We love the fact that you don’t need to pour your beverage directly into this rambler, keeping it clean and safe from residue, lingering odors, or unpleasant flavors. In testing, we unexpectedly grew attached to this gadget and found ourselves relying on a chilling koozie at home for beers, seltzers, kombucha, and the like.

No matter how you plan to brew your coffee at the campsite, having fresh grounds can make for a smoother, bolder, and overall more flavorful cup of joe. This under-$40 grinder holds up to the electric coffee grinder you might have at home. The JavaPresse operates with a built-in ceramic burr that’s adjustable to 18 different settings, so it’s compatible with every kind of brewing — from espresso to French press.

Unlike motorized versions, this hand-crank grinder is practically silent. That being said, it does require a fair amount of cranking to get a double shot’s worth of grounds. However, in testing, we favored the JavaPresse for outdoor usage as it requires no cords or batteries and produces consistent and precise results.

One huge drawback to spending time outdoors can be bugs. Flies, mosquitoes, gnats, and other bothersome buzzers can dampen a mood and sometimes even ruin a camping experience altogether. Senior writer Jennifer Zyman discovered this chemical-free bug deterrent as a way to enjoy time outside, gardening in her backyard, without getting eaten up by mosquitoes. (Thermacell has a variety of mosquito repellent products, actually.)

Using butane to heat an odorless repellent in refillable cartridges, all you’ll need to do is set up the patio shield near your site and enjoy a 15-foot bug-free radius that’s DEET-free. While not the most fun camping gift, your loved one will be appreciative when this little guy proves to be necessary.

This vacuum-sealed tumbler has a magslider lid that keeps beverages ice-cold or piping hot in any outdoor setting. Durable and easy to grip, the stainless steel bottle is sure to become a non-negotiable essential when packing for camping trips — whether you fill it with your morning coffee or evening margarita.

We tested this insulated water bottle, leaving it out all day, and we were thoroughly impressed by its performance. Our drinks remained below 40°F for 10 hours without the tumbler sweating excessively. We found it fit in most car cup holders (ideal for car camping and road trips) and love that it easily pops in the dishwasher for a quick clean-up after returning from a weekend of camping.

For camping and backpacking enthusiasts, a quality camping mess kit makes for a perfect gift. The GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Dualist is a lightweight, compact two-person set that includes one 1.8-liter pot, two mugs, two bowls, two folding utensils, and a storage bag that doubles as a sink for thorough clean-ups and easy water transportation. Its nonstick aluminum pot has an included helpful straining lid, and there’s enough room to fit a small, 8-ounce fuel canister inside, making it a great choice for backpackers.

We also love that its polypropylene bowls and mugs are odor- and stain-resistant, and can handle high temperatures for worry-free soup or hot cocoa. For those who currently pack a variety of random cups, bowls, and cookware, this gift is sure to revolutionize their camping cooking experience.

If you’re an espresso drinker, it can be difficult to find a portable coffee option that fits the bill. This compact device uses air pressure to produce a creamy, rich shot of espresso in seconds. It has three compartments — one for boiling water, one for pressurizing the water with an embedded hand pump, and a third to house coffee grinds — and comes with a mini tamper.

With the capacity to reach up to 18 bars of pressure (which is on par, and in some cases exceeds, that of an electric espresso machine), the shot of espresso this little gadget produces is remarkably robust. It’s a camping gift that will be enjoyed (and appreciated!) each morning.

This Dutch oven is designed for cooking above and inside a fire pit. Feet and an extra-large handle make the 8-quart pot suitable for placement directly on top of the coals or hanging over an open flame, allowing for easy one-pot meals. What makes this thick-walled cast iron different from other similar Dutch ovens and pots is its lipped lid that’s meant to hold coals, mimicking the interior of an oven. In testing, we found that this lid made all the difference for bread baking, as it recreates an environment similar to a convection oven. The added weight of the coals above helps retain moisture inside the pot.

It’s worth noting the Dutch oven’s hefty weight. At 21 pounds, it’s a bit cumbersome to transport. However, its heavy-duty construction works to retain heat, build a flavor patina over time, and undoubtedly improve the flavor and quality of camping meals and dishes.

This gear case is great for organizing pots, pans, and a camping stove. Better yet, the internal divider doubles as a cutting board. The virtually indestructible, waterproof box also features a removable tray to keep small items, such as cutlery and food, organized at the top. At just 20 inches wide, its small but impactful size can be kept in your car at all times, ready for camping, biking, climbing — you name it.

For playing tunes at the campsite while you’re meal-prepping, you’ll need a durable, portable, and waterproof speaker that doesn’t compromise on sound quality. We recommend Ultimate Ears’ UE Boom speaker. At just seven inches tall, the cylindrical speaker pumps out rich sound and can pair with up to 150 speakers (if ever you were planning a party in the woods). The cherry on top is that this waterproof speaker floats and can withstand being submerged for up to a minute and a half.

Lightweight, inflatable, and versatile, this LuminAID outdoor lantern is a must-have for anyone who spends ample time outdoors. The collapsible lamp can be charged in two ways: either by USB or solar power. On a full charge, you can get up to 50 hours of light. Unlike other portable lamps, the PackLite doubles as a charging port for your phone, speaker, or headlamp, meaning it’s extra handy for backpacking trips where you can charge it in the sun and then use it as a light source and charger.

We love how durable it is, especially the fact that it’s waterproof and floats, so you never have to worry about overnight dew or a tumble into the lake. It’s also a helpful tool to have around the house as well, in case of an emergency, or just for spending time in the backyard.

If you’re taking your pup camping, you’ll need to set them up for a fun outdoor experience. We’ve listed a few YETI items here that we love for ourselves, but the brand also excels in camping gear for dogs. This durable, rust-resistant, insulated dog bowl is meant for both food and water, and it’s certainly a step up from that old, worn-out piece of Tupperware. With a 4-cup capacity and a seriously non-slip bottom, this sturdy bowl is pretty enough to keep out permanently in your home and tough enough for any outdoor excursion. We love that its insulated walls keep water cool so your doggo can cool down more quickly on hot days.

This sturdy hold-it-all tote can stand up solo and be carried with ease. Its double-hold handles make it moving around a no-brainer, whether in your palm or over your shoulder. We love its roomy interior, which is multi-purpose and helpful for holding everything from gear to snacks, towels, and more. Vinyl lining and a waterproof base make the bag easy to clean and immune to moisture damage.

Our favorite thing about this handy tote is its hidden storage compartments. Along with two zip pockets, there’s a pair of tall collapsible side pockets that securely hold bottles on either end of the bag’s interior, two hooks inside, and twelve hooks on the outside that are meant for carabiners, ropes, and toggles, so you can load it up with your camping gear.

When the unexpected chill comes, you’ll want to be prepared. The Rumpl blanket is a fan favorite for anyone who spends time outside, thanks to its convenient, packable design, corner loops for added security, and weather-resistant insulation. We suggest keeping one readily available in your car; your recipient will be extra grateful for the gift when the time comes.

If your friend loves to camp, chances are they also love playing cornhole. While standard cornhole boards can weigh up to 50 pounds and take up some significant storage space, this lightweight mini set weighs 10 pounds and is easy to pop in the trunk for a car camping adventure. The lightweight wood construction is durable enough to be left outdoors at a campsite and has a smooth finish on the face so the bags can slide along its surface.

The boards come along with six bags, a rule book, and an easy carry case. This set makes a great gift for families who want a fun, inclusive activity to take with them on the go.

Sure, you can always default to the campsite’s fire, but if you have the room in your car, why not keep things a little less smoky with the Solo Stove? Portable in design, you can stow it with you and take it out when ready for use. Getting this thing ripping and roaring takes only a few minutes, and the (almost) smokeless design will keep friends and family happy for hours.

A headlamp is one piece of gear we don’t want to forget to pack, and we’ve found it just as useful for cooking after dark as it is for rummaging around a backpack before bedtime. It frees up your hands to flip food and hold a beer, so it can even replace your grill light at home. We like this battery-powered headlamp because it can quickly be transitioned from full to dimmed power, depending on your lighting needs. It’s also waterproof and dust-proof, so it’s ready to take on any adventure that’s calling.

A portable, lightweight flatware set is essential for enjoying meals in any remote location. Made of food-grade stainless steel, the 8-piece set comes equipped with any flatware your camping friend may need — including chopsticks and a straight and bent straw.

The smooth finish means cleanup will be a breeze with just a quick rinse, and the convenient straw brush will ensure straws stay fresh throughout the trip. When done, the cutlery set can be easily stowed away in the waterproof case, so no fork or spoon will be separated or lost from the rest of the set.

If your pack won’t support a full-size speaker, we recommend this convenient portable clip speaker. Its small size packs quite the punch when it comes to sound, and its waterproof exterior means you don’t have to worry about unexpected rain. It’s great for clipping onto your gear when you’re on the move, and its battery lasts up to ten hours.

Lightweight, quick-drying, and ultra-convenient, these small, packable microfiber towels offer numerous uses during your adventures. The pack includes two full-size towels, measuring 24 x 48 inches, that easily clip onto your pack and fit inside a small bag away from the elements when not in use. Perfect for a beach towel in a cinch or when you just need to wipe away the day’s sweat.