Top 9 Camping Accessories
I Never Leave Behind for a Weekend in the Woods | Real Gear from a Real Camp Life
I’ve spent more nights in the woods than I can count—some of them peaceful, some of them chaotic, and all of them worth it. Whether I’m out running hounds, glassing a backcountry ridge, or just unwinding by a fire after a long week, one thing I’ve learned: good gear isn’t about luxury. It’s about comfort, safety, and not wanting to throw something in the river halfway through the weekend.
These are the 9 camping accessories I personally pack every time—the ones I’ve tested in the dirt, the rain, and the freezing cold. They’ve earned their spot in my rig, and I don’t head out without ‘em.
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1. Thermacell Portable Mosquito Repeller
There are two kinds of campers: those who have a Thermacell, and those who wish they did. I’ve sat through enough swarms of skeeters to know this is one of the most underrated pieces of gear on the planet. No DEET, no smoke—just peace.
2. Jetboil Flash Camping Stove Cooking System
Hot coffee in 90 seconds is not a luxury—it’s survival. I’ve used this on freezing mornings and late-night meals, and it’s fast, reliable, and packs tight.
3. GearLight LED Lantern 2-Pack
I stash one in the tent and another in the truck bed. These little lights throw out a ton of brightness, and I’ve dropped mine more times than I’d admit. Still going strong.
4. YETI Rambler 26 oz Bottle with Chug Cap
I’ve kicked it, dropped it off a tailgate, and left it rolling around on a rocky trail. Still keeps coffee hot till lunch and water ice-cold by sundown.
5. TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack
For those longer treks in or if you’re hauling gear to a remote camp, this pack does the job. It’s not ultralight, but it’s bombproof and won’t break the bank.
6. BioLite 450 Rechargeable Headlamp
If you’ve ever had a headlamp that bounced around like a bobblehead, you’ll appreciate how low-profile and comfy this one is. Rechargeable means fewer batteries rattling in your pack.
7. Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Foam Sleeping Pad
This isn’t for the glamper—it’s for the backwoods realist. It’s tough, warm, and won’t deflate on you in the middle of the night.
8. Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set
I’ve cooked ramen, cowboy coffee, and fresh trout in this thing. Simple. Stainless. Gets the job done every time.
9. UST BlastMatch Fire Starter
I’ve used this in wind, rain, and once during a snowstorm when my lighter was soaked. It throws sparks like a champ. Good backup—or your main fire source.
Wrapping It Up
Camping doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does have to be comfortable enough to make you want to go back. These nine items have followed me from desert canyons to high-country camps, and I’d trust every one of them again tomorrow.
Got a piece of gear you swear by? Tag @CarbonTV in your camp photos—we’re always looking to add something new to the lineup. Until then, stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the hell outta those woods.
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