Our readers have spoken: camping is a beloved pastime, and the right gear makes all the difference. From a storm-proof tent to a clever mattress-to-chair converter, here are their top recommendations for a successful trip.
Chris swears by his Alpkit Soloist tent for solo bikepacking. After a night of heavy gales, he emerged dry while a fellow camper in a van was surprised he hadn't been soaked.
Mike Howells recommends the lightweight Naturehike Cloud-up 3, which weighs about two kilos yet fits two. He also praises Decathlon's blackout tent linings for better sleep.
Celia and John rely on a Paramo waterproof jacket, a poncho, and layers to handle British summer. They also bring an Ocean Bottle insulated flask—big enough for a pint, keeps drinks cold, and is recyclable. They also love the Decathlon Quechua mattress for home-like comfort.
Nick transformed his camping with a Thermarest chair kit that turns his mattress into a seat. “When stuck in a tent due to rain, sitting up comfortably makes a huge difference,” he says.
Stuart Hatcher endorses the Flextail tiny pump for quick mattress inflation, drawing envious looks at festivals.
Shelter and Extras
A camping shelter is a game-changer for unpredictable weather, offering shade or rain protection. A simple flying disc provides cheap entertainment. And a washing line from Decathlon is invaluable for drying gear—just string it between trees.