# The 29 Best Pieces of Camping Gear, According to Outdoor Editors
Family camping trips create lasting memories, but packing the right gear determines whether those memories are joyful or miserable. Men's Health assembled tested recommendations from outdoor editors to help families prepare for their next adventure, whether they're driving to a campground or backpacking into the wilderness.
The curated list spans three camping styles. Car camping allows families to pack heavier comfort items since weight matters less. Backpacking demands lightweight, multipurpose gear. Day hikes and casual camping sit somewhere in between. Understanding these categories helps parents match gear to their family's abilities and preferences.
Quality camping gear reduces stress and increases enjoyment for children and adults alike. A reliable tent prevents weather worries. A comfortable sleeping pad stops kids from waking at midnight because they're cold and uncomfortable. Proper cookware and water filtration eliminate food safety concerns. These investments pay dividends across multiple trips.
The Men's Health recommendations address core camping needs. Shelter, sleep systems, and water management form the foundation. Cookware and food storage come next. Navigation tools, lighting, and safety items round out the essentials. Rather than buying budget gear that fails mid-trip, outdoor editors recommend quality pieces that families will use for years.
For families new to camping, starting with car camping gear makes sense. A roomy family tent, sleeping bags rated for your climate, and sleeping pads for everyone create a comfortable base camp. Car camping tolerates heavier items like larger cookware, camp chairs, and entertainment items. Kids sleep better when they're warm and cushioned from hard ground.
As families gain experience, they can invest in backpacking-specific gear. Ultralight tents, compact stoves, and weight-conscious sleeping systems enable longer wilderness adventures. Kids develop confidence and independence on multi-day trips. Many families find backpacking creates their strongest family bonds.
The gear selection reflects what outdoor professionals actually use rather than what companies market aggressively. This distinction matters. Outdoor editors test equipment across seasons and conditions, revealing what truly performs under stress. A tent that looks impressive in a showroom may leak in a rainstorm. A sleeping bag rated to freezing temperatures may fail if it gets damp. Editors identify these real-world issues.
Parents should match gear purchases to their family's actual plans. A weekend car camping trip needs different gear than a week-long backcountry adventure. Budget constraints often require phased purchases. Start with shelter and sleep systems, then add cookware, then upgrade to lighter gear as skills improve.
The outdoor community values gear that performs reliably and lasts through multiple seasons. Quality items purchased years ago often outlast cheaper alternatives bought annually. This reality helps justify the investment for budget-conscious families.
Before your next camping trip, review the Men's Health list in context of your family's needs. Borrow or rent specialty items before buying. Talk to other families about gear they love. Outdoor editors provide a starting point, but your family's preferences will guide final decisions. The best gear is what your family will actually use and maintain for years of adventures ahead.