Camping must-haves

You had the perfect plan. A weekend off, a gorgeous Caribbean campsite, and a car packed with all the "essentials", or so you thought. But as the sun set and reality kicked in, the list of things you forgot grew longer by the minute.

By nightfall, you realized a few key items could have made your trip much more comfortable. Next time, you’ll be prepared. 

Here’s what you wish you had brought (and definitely will bring next time).

The plan: Freshly grilled fish and cold drinks. The reality: Warm beverages and food that didn’t last as long as expected. A high-quality cooler like the Igloo Maxcold Latitude Rolling Cooler is essential. It keeps everything cold for longer, has wheels for easy transport, and provides plenty of storage space.

For smaller trips, consider the Igloo Latitude 52 Qt Cooler or the Coleman Xtreme 50 Qt Wheeled Cooler. Both reliable options to keep your supplies at the right temperature.

A good night’s sleep is crucial, even outdoors. A self-inflating sleeping mat provides extra comfort without requiring a pump. Pair it with a pop-up tent for easy setup, ensuring you have reliable shelter without the hassle.

Don’t forget a mosquito net to keep unwanted guests away while you sleep. Lightweight and easy to pack, it ensures you wake up refreshed and bite-free. Proper rest makes all the difference in an enjoyable camping experience.

Spending hours sitting on uneven ground isn’t ideal. A foldable chair or a beach chair ensures you can relax comfortably. If you need a stable surface for meals, a foldable table or camping table makes outdoor dining much more convenient.

For larger gatherings, a foldable picnic table provides additional space for food and drinks.

Freshening up during a camping trip can be challenging. A camping shower allows you to rinse off salt, sand, and sweat, making your experience much more comfortable. Simply fill it up at home, let the sun warm it, and enjoy a refreshing shower anywhere.

Use an electric sander or a sandpaperblock (80 or 120 grit) and smooth out any rough edges or splinters.

Pay extra attention to corners to make the seat comfortable to sit on.

Keep it natural for a classic wooden look, or choose a stain or paint to match your style.

Use a painter roller and paint tray for an even finish.

A little preparation goes a long way in making your camping experience enjoyable. Investing in the right gear ensures that you can focus on relaxing and exploring rather than dealing with discomfort.

Click the links, get your essentials, and make your next camping trip your best one yet.