What to Bring on a Camping Trip: 10 Must-Have Items

Imagine you’ve just reached a secluded spot in nature after an exciting road trip in your Subaru. Everything is just as you dreamed: fresh air, the rustling of trees, a full reset. The tent is already set up, the campfire is crackling, and you’re looking forward to a true escape. Everything’s perfect—until you realize you left the charger at home and there’s nowhere to dry your wet socks. The romance of it all quickly gives way to frustration. To avoid having small details spoil your getaway, it’s best to plan your gear in advance.

Experience comes with mistakes, but it’s always nicer to learn from others. Below are 10 items that are easily forgotten but without which camping in a Subaru Outback could unexpectedly turn into a real quest.

Gear that Makes Your Trip Comfortable

• Paracord (Camping Rope)

A camping rope is a true lifesaver for any trip. You can use it to dry clothes, repair your tent, or secure something on your car’s roof. To make your trip even more comfortable, it’s helpful to have Subaru Outback camping accessories such as a folding table, sink, faucet with USB charging, and a USB light.

• First Aid Kit

Many people bring a minimal kit, but if you want to be prepared for a range of situations, add: an antihistamine (for insect bites), burn ointment, motion sickness pills, pain relievers, activated charcoal, and an anti-diarrheal. This is especially important if you plan to cook over a fire or forage for mushrooms.

• Thermal Mug with a Secure Lid

Pour your coffee in the morning, and it stays warm even after a few hours. In the evening, you can brew herbs you’ve collected on site. It’s important that the mug doesn’t spill, especially if you're on the road with a best camper for Subaru Outback, where everything is compact, reliable, and hassle-free.

• Weather Station or Offline Weather App

The weather in the forest and mountains can change in an instant. A small weather station or at least an offline weather app will help you avoid wet gear and the need for a sudden move. Some devices even give a signal when there’s a sharp drop in pressure, indicating an approaching storm.

• Microfiber Travel Towel

This compact and lightweight towel dries in about an hour, takes up minimal space, and doesn’t add extra weight to your backpack. After your first hike, you’ll truly appreciate how convenient it is to use.

• Reusable Zip Ties

These are indispensable when you need to secure, hang, repair, or temporarily “assemble” something. They take up very little space, and their potential uses are limited only by your imagination.

• Firestarter

Starting a fire after a downpour can be tricky, but a firestarter easily solves this problem. It’s especially useful when regular wood won’t catch fire due to moisture. It’s best to store the firestarter in an airtight box, near your best Subaru Outback camping kitchen.

• Water Filter

If you run out of your own water and the stream turns out to be murky, a mini-filter, such as LifeStraw, will turn questionable water into drinkable water. It’s convenient to simply scoop up water and drink straight from the stream.

• Silica Gel or Rice

If your gear gets wet—your phone, GPS, or lighter—some silica gel or rice will help absorb moisture and prevent damage. This is especially important when humidity rises inside the car and condensation settles on your things.

• Compact Board Game or Deck of Cards

When it gets dark outside, a good game is a perfect way to pass the time with close ones or friends. Cards or a simple game like "Mafia" will help you relax and have fun.

• Signal Mirror for Emergencies

This is a reliable way to send a distress signal. The reflected sunbeam is visible from great distances.

Camping is not only about nature and disconnecting from daily life but also about the little tricks that make the experience more comfortable. Whether you’re sleeping under the stars in a tent or in your car on a sleeping platform, with the right gear, every moment outdoors will bring you joy.