If you're completely new to camping but interested in giving it a go, it can be hard to know where to start.
The internet is noisy with opinions and recommendations. Not to mention assumed knowledge. Before you know it, you're either filling your cart with the wrong things or getting overwhelmed and closing the tabs altogether.
But camping is supposed to be egalitarian. More than that, it's supposed to be fun.
To relieve any stress, we've compiled a no-nonsense list of all the things you actually need* to set off for a first-time camp trip. Once you've had your first adventure, we trust you can fill in all the gaps.
(*Card games not included, though highly encouraged.)
NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.
Essentials for first-time campers
Sleep
Tent
There are two big factors to consider when picking a tent: shape and capacity.
The Coleman Sundome Camping Tent is a classic and versatile shape, which packs down nicely and is lightweight. Whereas the Coleman Silver Series Instant Up allows a bit more room for standing up. It also has an in-built awning for comfort and shade.
In terms of capacity, have a think about how much extra room you'd like. As a rule, I usually double capacity for the number of people to make sure there's space for mattresses, bags, moving around and getting changed. This means a four-person tent is good for two people, a six-person for three, etc.
A swag, like this one from Adventure Kings, is another great option for a night under the stars and gives you the benefit of much less setting up and packing down. Plus, an in-built mattress.
Tarp
Having a tarp on hand is always a good idea — be it for laying down under your tent to prevent moisture or for emergency rain and sun protection. It's a versatile bit of gear.
Something like this from Polytuf, with eyelets for pegs or ropes, works nicely.
Sleeping bag
When picking your first sleeping bag, keep an eye out for things like temperature rating, material and packdown size.
If weight matters to you — say you're hiking or just want to keep a neat set-up — a down sleeping bag should be your pick. While more expensive, they're exceptionally warm for their weight. This from NatureHike has our pick for value for money.
If you're happy to cart around something more bulky, the Coleman Big Game sleeping bag has been well-reviewed for coziness, comfort and durability. It even has a pillow!
However, thanks to the mild Australian weather, we can get away with a lot in terms of warmth. If you're looking to just try something out, this one is an Amazon best-seller, is well-reviewed and very reasonably priced.
Mat or mattress
This one also depends on your preference of size, level of comfort and ease of set-up. A blow up mattress will obviously be more comfortable but is a pain to cart around and set up.
Intex Classic Downy Airbed
A camping mat, on the other hand, won't be as plush but will take you no time to roll out and get ready. Plus it'll really remind you you're roughing it. We're big fans of foot-pump ones like the Elegear Double Sleeping Pad for couples and the Meetpeak Camping Sleeping Pad if you're after a single.
Elegear Double Sleeping Pad
Eat
Stove
Lest you rely on a campfire and then there's a fire ban, or rely on a pub meal and then the nearest pub is half an hour away, you best equip your kit with a burner instead.
This starter stove from Coleman — the Coleman Cascade two burner — is good value for money.
Coleman Cascade two burner stove
Kitchen gear
Along with the stove, you'll need to pack in a kettle (this one looks great) and all the other kitchen accoutrements. Stanley has a great pack equipped for four, complete with a spatula, spoon, frypan and pot, plates and cutlery that all pack into each other.
While we're at it, add a box of matches or a lighter to your list too. And a collapsible bucket-slash-sink for washing up.
Geiserailie Camping Coffee Pot
Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for four
Seymour's 10129 Collapse-A Sink
Coolers
Of course, you need somewhere to store the aforementioned food and drinks. We like the matching Coleman Daintree Cooler and the Coleman Daintree Jug Cooler. Both come in varying sizes for your needs.
Coleman Daintree Cooler
Coleman Daintree Jug Cooler
Relax
Light
It gets dark in the bush, so you certainly don't want to forget a light. While your phone torch would probably work in a pinch, it's so worth it to have a dedicated lantern or torch for the night time. This rechargeable one doubles as both!
Chair
A camping chair can really make or break your trips. It doesn't need to be anything fancy – but a cup holder and some sort of added cushion are important inclusions for any self-respecting camper.
Table
For meal prepping, card playing and miscellaneous 'stuff' dumping, a camping table is essential. Pick one that's adjustable for all different uses, like this one, which has the added benefit of being made from lightweight aluminium.
Kiliroo Lightweight and Portable Aluminium Frame Camping Table
This one is also a winner and packs down super sleek.
Sportneer Folding Table
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