12 Things We Never Go Camping Without as a Family of 3
- Emily Richards
- Apr 14
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 16
We’ve collected what I think is the perfect camping gear collection over years of camping before and after becoming parents. These are the essentials that always make the cut.
Camping as a family of 3 means being intentional about what we bring. Every item has to earn its place, make life easier, and add comfort without creating clutter. Over time, we’ve figured out the gear we truly rely on, and these are the 12 things we never head out without.
Short on time? Here is the shortlist:
Our gas camp stove – around $115–$130 (varies by model)
An axe – roughly $40–$70 depending on size and brand
A coffee percolator – around $40–$60
An electric cooler – Dometic CFX2 about $660; Goal Zero Alta‑style units similar price range
Portable power banks – units like Vtoman Jump 1800 with solar around $400–$500, Goal Zero Yeti 700 roughly $500–$600
Water jugs – 5‑gallon jugs typically $10–$20 each
A poop shovel – around $15–$25
A smokeless fire pit and grill – often $250–$400+ depending on size and features
A portable pressurized hose – commonly $30–$60 depending on pump type
A fold‑out table – around $50–$100
Comfortable chairs – hammock‑style camping chairs roughly $70–$170 per seat
Your bestie – priceless, but highly recommended 😉
Gas Stoves We've Used:
Coleman Double Burner ($130 - $275) : This is a solid stove that almost everytone knows about, it does the trick, is slim, and reliable. Can upgrade to griddle attachment.
FreeSpirit Recreation Gas Stove ($115): More compact, more durable, and less expensive, a no brainer for us. Comes with small griddle attachment that we use all the time.
MSR Pocket Rocket ($50): Super small, easy to use, great for backpacking or if you plan on making 1-pot meals. Not great for gourmet cooking in the wild! We have ours as a backup on camping trips, you never know!
Jet Boil ($145): Efficient and small for backpacking especially, comes with its own cooking system. I just don't see how its worth spending so much extra when the MSR is just as good!
Our gas camp stove is one of those pieces of gear that we use every single trip. It’s compact, durable, and makes camp cooking so much easier when we want a quick meal without a lot of setup.
We started with the classic Coleman double burner and this stove is great - but when we found the Freespirit Recreation Gas Stove we had to make the switch. Its way more compact and just as (if not more) durable at a lower price point. Now it what I suggest to everybody, even if you are relatively new to camping!
2. An axe
We also usually bring a hatchet and multiple smaller pocket knives / multi-tools. You can never be too prepared!
It’s a simple tool, but it always comes in handy. Whether we’re gathering firewood or just need a reliable all-purpose camp tool, the axe earns its spot every time.
We also use an electric kettle sometimes and use the Yeti French Press (pretty legit). We even occasionally stoop so low as to have instant coffee, you gotta do what you gotta do. But this little percolator is our fave!
Coffee is non-negotiable, and our percolator makes the best cup. There’s something about fresh camp coffee that just makes mornings feel extra cozy and worth slowing down for.
I'd love to try some of the fancy camping coffee making out there like VSSL, Aeropress, or OutIn - if anyone has tried these and loves them please do let me know your faves!
Our electric cooler is basically a mini fridge, and no ice is a total game changer. It keeps our food cold, cuts down on mess, and makes packing and meal planning so much easier.
We have both the Dometic CFX2 ($660) cooler and the Goal Zero. Our Goal Zero is a bit bigger and has a freezer so its super nice for longer trips. I think the Goal Zero is a slightly lower price point, but basically the same product, don't quote me on that.
5. Portable power banks
We always bring portable power, and ideally solar-powered options so we can recharge along the way. We actually have two, which gives us peace of mind and keeps our devices and essentials running when we’re off-grid.
We have the Vtoman Jump 1800 with 220W Solar and it keeps us going so long as we have sunshine! We also have the Goal Zero Yeti 700, but no solar for this. The difference? Not sure. I think Vtoman is a bit cheaper a company that is not a 'name brand' but just as good, though service could be an issue if you ever need it. Goal Zero is name brand, trusted, great service, but probably a higher price point.
6. Water jugs
Water is one of the most important things to have dialed in. We use two 5-gallon water jugs from REI, and together they give us enough fresh water for about two weeks on the road.
7. A poop shovel and portable bidet
Not glamorous, but absolutely necessary. A poop shovel is a must for responsible camping, and the portable bidet is such a nice upgrade for feeling clean and comfortable out in the wild. Obviously toilet paper is a must as well ;)
Our smokeless fire pit and grill has been such a favorite. This is super fancy, and not an essential - but what an UPGRADE! It keeps the smoke out of our eyes, makes live-fire cooking more enjoyable, and turns campfire meals into something we actually look forward to.
9. A portable pressurized hose
This has been a huge game changer, especially with a mud-loving child. A portable pressurized hose makes cleanup so much easier, whether we’re washing off boots, gear, or tiny humans after a day outside.
10. A fold-out table
A good fold-out table makes camp life feel organized fast. It gives us a solid place for food prep, meals, and all the random little things that pile up while we’re outdoors.
We've had this Portal Outdoors table for years and its still withstanding our abuse! Easy to fold, lightweight, compact, and sturdy.
Camping is so much better when you actually enjoy sitting around. We love hammock-style chairs because they’re comfortable, relaxing, and perfect for winding down after a long day.
These are our favorite hammock chairs. We also love the Kelty Loveseat, its low to the ground and you can snuggle with your partner, or kids :)
12. Your bestie
This one is essential. Camping is always better with your favorite person by your side, especially when you’re sharing the work, the laughs, and the little moments that make the trip memorable.
What Makes These Essentials Work
The best camping gear isn’t about having the most stuff, it’s about having the right stuff. For us, that means gear that helps us cook, clean, rest, recharge, and enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed.
A family camping setup has to be practical, but it should also make the trip feel good. These are the items that help us stay comfortable, stay organized, and spend more time making memories instead of managing stress.
What We’d Add Next
We’re always tweaking and improving our setup, but these 12 items are the core of what works for our family. If you’re building out your own camping list, start with the essentials that will support your actual lifestyle and the kind of trips you take most often.
What am I missing?
Comments