Whether you’re setting up camp in your backyard or preparing for that eventual post-lockdown camping trip, nothing says adventure travel more than a tent. Camping gives you freedom, flexibility, and the sheer fun of sleeping outside, often far away from civilization. However, the deeper you go into the wilderness, the better your equipment needs to be. Therefore, we tested some of the best new camping gear to take along on your next outdoor adventure.
MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Stove
True to its title, the MSR PocketRocket Deluxe stove folds down very small yet quickly heats water for that vital pre-hike morning coffee. The refined control valve means it’ll perfectly simmer your evening pasta as well, while the inbuilt ignition switch is invaluable.
In testing, we found care was needed to keep cooking pots stable, but that’s the case with any stove screwing directly into a gas canister. Overall, the combination of light weight, great performance, and fair price make the PocketRocket Deluxe highly recommended.
Buy for US$70 / GBP70 at msrgear.com.
Vango Cuillin 300 Tent
For any camping trip, the first item on the equipment list is a tent, and the Cuillin 300 from venerable Scottish brand Vango is ideal if you’re heading for mountains or wilderness where the weather may turn nasty.
Fortunately for this review (but perhaps unfortunately for our test team), we trialed this tent in an overnight storm, with driving rain and winds topping 50mph (80kph). Come morning, the team was glad to report the tent was unscathed while they remained dry inside, proving the Cuillin is as tough as the rocky ridge for which it’s named.
Key to the tent’s stability are the external poles (which also make setting up quick) while other features include a porch at each end (one for cooking, the other for gear). Nice touches are the windows in the fly and storage pockets high on the wall of the inner tent.
The Cuillin 300 is designed for three people but is perfect for two on a longer trip where extra weight to carry during the day is offset by the convenience of extra space inside at night. If you’re an ultra-lightweight hiker in gentle climates, there are many other options. However, if you’re likely to face the elements, this tent is an excellent choice. Buy for US$430 / GBP335 at vango.co.uk.
Osprey Archeon 70 Backpack
Backcountry camping trips in wilderness areas mean carrying your gear, so a good backpack is essential. The Osprey Archeon provides a 70L capacity, along with durability and comfort, making days on the trail enjoyable. Additionally, it’s constructed from recycled materials, giving you peace of mind about your environmental footprint.
The main compartment is accessible from the top in the traditional manner and from the side, which is especially useful in camp. In testing, we particularly liked the “floating” top pocket, which can be moved away from the back of your head for comfort.
The Archeon 70 male version is available in two sizes (S/M and L/XL) with an adjustable shoulder strap height for a perfect fit. The female version shares these features with a slightly smaller capacity (65L).
Buy for US$340 / GBP250 at amazon.com.
Therm-a-rest Topo Sleeping Pad
The original Therm-a-Rest self-inflating mattress revolutionized camping several decades ago. Since then, development continues on new products, including the Neo-Air Topo. This particular model differs from classic Therm-a-Rests because it’s inflated using lung power, but the payoff is an extra thick pad that’s very comfortable while still being lightweight and compact. It’s also available in various widths and lengths, making it versatile for different campers.
Buy for US$125 / GBP120 at amazon.com.
Therm-a-rest Questar Sleeping Bag
Therm-a-Rest Questar sleeping bags come in three varieties to manage temperatures from 32F down to 0F (0C to -18C) and work well with Therm-a-rest sleeping pads, thanks to two wide straps on the outside of the bag that fit around the pad and help prevent you from rolling off during the night. It’s a simple idea, but highly effective for ensuring comfort.
Other impressive features include Nikwax Hydrophobic Down filling: natural feathers responsibly treated to repel water, keeping you warm and dry. Furthermore, care is needed to ensure your bag endures the rigors of camping; it is recommended to use Nikwax Down Wash Direct to maintain the Questar’s filling.
In testing, we found the “box baffle” design significantly reduced unwanted cold spots, and we particularly liked the extra down filling at the bottom of the sleeping bag, which kept our feet warm throughout the night.
Starting from US$219 / GBP305 at thermarest.com and nikwax.com.
BioLite 330 Headlamp
For nights around camp, the BioLite 330 headlamp provides outstanding illumination, whether you’re cooking food, chopping firewood, or reading in your sleeping bag. The headband is very comfortable, and the ultra-slim lamp remains firmly in place with no bounce. The lighting angle is adjustable, and modes include red, “spot,” and “flood,” which are dimmable to save (USB rechargeable) battery life. In testing, although we were impressed by the brightness, we found switching between modes somewhat cumbersome.
Buy for US$59.95 at amazon.com.
Chrome Storm Signal Jacket
Hope for the best weather, plan for the worst. This maxim holds true for every camping trip, and the aptly named Storm Signal jacket from Chrome can handle any rain that comes your way. Originally designed for cycling, it is waterproof and breathable, with a longer back that provides extra coverage, making it practical for hiking—especially with a full pack. It’s available in male and female cuts, and even when your camping trip ends and you’re enjoying a drink in a bar, it’s stylish enough for city wear.
Buy for US$150 / GBP140 at chromeindustries.com.
