For some of us, a camping expedition is a chance to escape technology. However for those of us who still like our home comforts, gadgets can provide a way to make your campaign expedition more luxurious. Certain contraptions could also have practical advantages or help you to explore and record memories. In this post, we’ll delve into 10 gadgets that could be worth investing in to level up your camping experience.
Electric torches (flashlights)
For those midnight toilet runs – or for simply providing some extra light while sitting around the campfire after dark – it can be useful to have an electric torch. Just what should you look for when buying a camping flashlight? Start by considering the brightness. Basic models provide about 300 lumens, while the brightest options provide over 900 lumens (great for wild camping and night hikes). Some torches also have different beam settings, including spot and flood beams. The majority use replaceable batteries, but some are rechargeable. You should also consider whether to buy a handheld torch, a headlamp or hanging light.
Camping stoves
While roasting marshmallows on a fire can be fun, cooking meals on a campfire isn’t easy. Camping stoves can help make outdoor cooking easier. These typically run off propane or butane, but you can buy electric campaign stoves too (not as powerful, but potentially safer). Look for weatherproof stoves with a stable base. Heavier options can be more cumbersome when hiking, but won’t fall over in strong winds. You can buy some stoves with a single hob, and others with two or more hobs.
Coolboxes
Not having a refrigerator typically means being limited to dry and canned foods. However, you can look into coolboxes. Passive options rely on ice packs to stay cool – they may only preserve foods for a day or two. Thermoelectric and compressor coolboxes meanwhile use electricity to keep food cool – which can allow you to store foods in them for much longer periods. The best coolboxes allow you to adjust the temperature and can stay cool in hot climates. Understand how coolboxes are powered – some need to be plugged into a vehicle, while others have leisure batteries or even LPG canisters for off-grid use.
Portable power banks
Portable power banks can be used to keep your devices charged up on the go. The most high capacity power banks can hold as many as 8 full smartphone charges. Some of these devices also contain multiple ports for connecting various devices at the same time. Others are lighter and more compact – designed to hold a few charges and to power a single device.
Solar chargers
For access to infinite off-grid power, consider looking into a solar charger. On extended wild camping trips, these gadgets can be used to continuously charge your devices without needing to look for a power outlet. Basic panel-only chargers can be used to charge up phones directly. High-wattage large panel chargers with batteries can meanwhile hold electricity in them and be used to charge large electronics like lanterns and coolboxes. Try to invest in durable options that can withstand dust and harsh weather. High-wattage solar chargers will be bulkier and more expensive, so may not be suitable for hiking.
Airbed pumps
Why settle for a sleeping bag on the ground when you can sleep on an air mattress? Airbed pumps allow you to inflate airbeds on the go. You may even be able to look into other inflatable furniture like inflatable couches to create your own remote living space. Basic pumps are manually operated, while the best pumps are battery-operated and provide fast inflation.
Action cameras
Action cameras from companies like Go Pro are designed for outdoor adventures, and can be excellent gadgets to take on camping trips. The cameras often come with different accessories for handheld use or use on a vehicle or helmet. When searching for high quality action cameras, make sure the camera is waterproof and that it has features like image stabilization to reduce shaky footage. The resolution and frame rate quality can also vary between models. Work out exactly how you will be using the camera to find the best model – there are cameras specifically designed for hiking, and others designed for water activities like kayaking.
Night vision binoculars
Binoculars can be great for spotting wildlife. For night animal spotting, consider investing in a pair of night vision binoculars. These binoculars use image intensification or infrared technology to allow you to see more clearly in the dark. When selecting binoculars, compare other features like the level of zoom (magnification) and built-in recording capabilities. Some of these binoculars are battery-operated, while others have to be charged via an outlet before your trip (or using a portable power bank or solar charger).
Mosquito repellers
Fed up of pesky mosquitoes ruining your camping trips? There are a few different gadgets that can be used to repel mosquitoes. Some of these devices release citronella-scented smoke to repel bugs, while others consist of lantern-style bug zappers to electronically shock insects. If you’re camping near a lake or near a bog, this could be a very handy piece of technology to bring with you.
Portable espresso machines
Being able to enjoy a good cup of coffee while camping could make all the difference on those cold and wet mornings. While you can bring a french press or use coffee bags, a portable espresso machine is a next level option. These devices function like traditional coffee machines by pouring high pressure hot water through coffee grounds. Some also come with grinding functions for grinding whole coffee beans on the go. Look for electric self-heating options that use rechargeable batteries.
These are just a few different gadget solutions to consider. When finding the best solutions, take your time to compare different brands and their unique features. You can sometimes save money by not buying well-known brands, but always read reviews to make sure that a gadget is reliable. It’s also important to make sure that devices are designed for outdoor use.