9 Essential Camping Items I Never Camp Without
Whether I'm wild camping deep in the woods or pitching up on the North Downs Way, there are a handful of items that always make their way into my backpack. Over the past couple of years, I've tested everything from cheap gear off Amazon to more premium kit — and today I’m sharing the 9 bits of gear I just can’t leave behind.
This is for anyone into wild camping, hammock camping, or just getting outside in the UK or beyond. These items are reliable, affordable, and honestly — game changers.
1. Small Billy Can (Cook Over Fire or Stove)
This £12 billy can has become one of my go-to bits of kit. I’ve cooked everything in it — from boiling water for coffee to heating up stews over an open flame. Simple, sturdy, and light enough to not even notice in your pack.
2. DD 3.5 x 3.5 Tarp
This tarp has been with me on countless camps. I’ve thrown it over hammocks, used it as a stand-alone shelter, and even made a shaded cook area during a heatwave. It’s strong, versatile, and excellent value.
3. Nalgene Water Bottle
Tough as nails. I’ve dropped mine on rocky paths, had it rolling next to the fire, and not once has it cracked or leaked. There’s a reason so many campers swear by these.
4. Budget Bushcraft Knife
I picked up this little bushcraft knife for about £8 and honestly, I still use it all the time. It’s simple, sharp, and more than enough for cooking, cutting cordage, or stirring sausages over a fire.
5. Flextail Gear Pump & Light
This small rechargeable pump is a multitasking legend — it inflates my sleeping pad in seconds and doubles as a light. The battery life is incredible and the whole thing is tiny. Wouldn’t go out without it.
6. Kilos Gear Rover X Light
My current favourite camp lantern. With adjustable brightness, colour-changing ambient light, and a telescopic build, this is my ultimate camp mood-setter. Big fan.
7. Jungle Formula Mosquito Spray
When the mozzies are out, I suffer. This spray has saved me on summer evenings more times than I can count. I always carry a bottle when camping anywhere warm.
8. Lightweight Power Bank
Let’s face it, we all take a phone or camera out now. This lightweight power bank handles two full days of charging, even while filming and editing. If you’re watching Beard in the Wild in your tent — this is the reason why.
9. Forclaz Down Jacket (Decathlon)
This jacket has been a lifesaver. I picked it up from Decathlon for around £79 and it performs like jackets twice the price. Packs down small, keeps me warm even on exposed hilltops — wouldn’t leave it behind.
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Key Takeaways
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get solid gear.
The right kit makes your camp more comfortable, warm, and safe.
Having a mix of comfort (like lights and jackets) and practicality (like a knife or tarp) is key.
Your Turn — What’s in Your Pack?
Leave a comment below and let me know your non-negotiable bit of kit. Is there something you never leave behind on a wild camp? I'm always looking for new ideas.
In this video, I reveal the 9 essential camping items I can’t camp without, the tried and tested gear that always makes it into my rucksack. From cheap Amazon finds to reliable wild camping equipment like the DD tarp, Nalgene bottle, and my trusty Flextail Gear pump.
Suggested Reading
Winter Wild Camping Gear Loadout: What I Pack for Sub-Zero Nights
The full rundown of what I carry when temperatures dip well below zero.Is the Hilleberg Soulo the Best Tent in the World?
My honest review of the tent I put to the test in snow, wind, and wild conditions.Wild Camping Kinder Scout – My First Winter Adventure
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A closer look at a roomy three-season tent that’s great for woodland comfort.Wild Camping UK: My 48-Hour North Downs Adventure
Two days of pure wild camping bliss — fire, food, and the great outdoors.
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