GADGETS

Top Must-Have Gadgets for Your 2023 Trip

Last updated on March 20th, 2023 at 02:38 pm

Camping gadgets are technologies or products that make camping easier, more comfortable, and more fun. 

These might be as basic as a camp seat and a water filtration system or as complicated as camp kitchens and satellite communicators. 

These camping tools may be used for several purposes, including cooking, safety, and entertainment. Several of these goods are lightweight, small, and long-lasting, making them simple to pack and move. 

But whichever technology you choose, it should serve a function in the woods. These are the top camping devices for this summer.

Reviews and Suggestions for the Best Camping Gear

The Best Method for Cleaning Water: Backcountry Gravity Water Filter MSR AutoFlow XL 10-Liter

Important Characteristics

  • Purpose: Purification of water
  • Weight: 16.2 oz
  • Size: 7 x 11 x 3 in.
  • Materials: Hollow fiber filter made of plastic
Image courtesy of outdoorsmagic

Pros

  • Filter with a high volume.
  • Simple to use
  • There is no need for pumping or mechanical components.

Cons

  • For backpacking, it is too large.

The MSR AutoFlow XL Gravity Filter is simple to operate and effective at filtering vast quantities of water. 

Fill the 10-liter bag with water from a rill, river, or lake to utilize this purifier. Next, hang the bag from a tree, tent, or car, or place it on its covered bottom. 

Water will drain automatically via a silicon straw and the hollow fiber filter. Place a clean water bottle or vessel under the filter and see the clean water leave. 

This filter is effective in removing germs, protozoa, and microscopic particles. When gravity is used, the MSR AutoFlow XL has a filtering rate of 1.75 liters per minute.

This device may be excessive for lone trekkers or ultralight hikers since it filters so much water and is cumbersome. 

If you prefer something smaller, check out my recommendations for the finest water purifiers. 

On the other hand, this equipment is ideal for base campers, families, or parties that want vast volumes of water to be filtered at once.

Read: 15+ Amazing 12v Portable Oven Recipes for Camping

Best Showering Method: Shower Tent and Decathlon Pressure Solar Camping Shower

Important Characteristics

  • Purpose: Hygiene
  • Weight: 1.9 lbs
  • Size: 8.7 x 15.4 x 4.7 cm
  • Materials: Plastic
Best Camping Showers of 2023 | Outdoor Life
Image courtesy of outdoorlife

Pros

  • Packable
  • Power and batteries are not necessary.
  • Convenient

Cons

  • 10L is the maximum capacity.

You don’t have to get filthy just because you’re camping. The Decathlon pressure solar shower is small and straightforward to use. 

The storm was helpful for human hygiene and cleaning dirty gear, dogs, and boats. What’s more, unlike comparable items, you don’t need to carry a bucket for the water or use batteries. 

Just fill the soft bag with water and place it in the sun to heat up. A temperature gauge is provided to track its development. 

Lift and push the hand pump 25 to 30 times once heated. When you squeeze the nozzle, pressurized water pours out. 

Attach the shower head to the velcro straps in the Quechua 2-Second Pop-Up Shower Tent for privacy.

Best for Solar and Backup Power: Anker 767 Solar Generator with Panels

Important Characteristics

  • Purpose: Solar energy and a battery
  • Weight: 67 lbs
  • Dimensions: 20.67 x 9.84 x 15.55 inches
  • Materials: Lithium-ion power source
Anker Solar Generator 767 Review | Outdoor Life
Image courtesy of outdoorlife

Pros

  • Quiet
  • Outstanding energy capacity
  • Simple to use

Cons

  • Expensive

Anker’s Solar Generator 767 is a true powerhouse. This incredible equipment delivers battery power to operate and charge devices, power your RV, or run camping appliances. 

The Anker PowerHouse 767 has the highest capacity battery in the company’s PowerHouse range of power stations. 

With a capacity of 2048 Wh and an output of 2000 W, this revolutionary camping device can power 99 percent of your gadgets, including refrigerators, microwaves, and power tools. 

A camper could power a portable fridge, charge a drone, charge four phones, and operate an LED light for three days without recharging.

It is an ideal tool for van lifers, vehicle campers, overlanders, and those who want to camp for a week or longer. 

Consumers may buy the PowerHouse battery alone or with solar panels, and a battery extension pack is also available if they need extra energy storage.

The generator is small and easy to operate but is hefty (64 lbs). Thankfully, it has a retractable handle and a rolling wheel. 

Moreover, this generator is expensive, making it most helpful for individuals who want backup power daily or for those like myself who will use it as a camping device and backup power for the basics in my house.

Read: Portable Gas Stoves/Ovens Combos for Indoors; Camping Guide 2023

Most creative: Satellite Communicator Zoleo

Important Characteristics

  • Purpose: Communication when out of service range, weather updates, position monitoring, and SOS
  • Weight: 5.3 oz
  • Size: 3.58″ x 2.6″ x 1.06″
  • Materials: Plastic/rubber housing with a lithium-ion battery
Image courtesy of weareexplorers

Pros

  • Intuitive
  • Convenient
  • Reliable

Cons

  • A cell phone is required.

The Zoleo satellite communicator is a little box that connects to your phone over Bluetooth and allows you to text, email, and call emergency services in the wilderness. 

It gives you peace of mind while camping out of phone range, traveling cross-country, or trekking off the grid. 

Using the data iridium satellite network, the software enables you to send emails and text messages even when you are out of mobile phone coverage.

The amount of characters that may be used in a message is restricted. Consequently, it could be better for extended emails or graphics, but it’s ideal for brief check-ins.

The gadget is less expensive upfront than many of its immediate rivals, but customers should know that it requires a monthly subscription fee to function.

Best for the car: EXO OpenRange Deluxe Yakima

Important Characteristics

  • Purpose: Storage and the camp kitchen
  • Weight: 67 lbs
  • Size: 31 x 18 x 18 in.
  • Materials: Metal side table and bamboo table in a plastic package
Image courtesy of GearJunkie

Pros

  • Convenient
  • Durable
  • Saving space by transporting outside the vehicle

Cons

  • Expensive
  • It only fits the Yakima ExoSystem.

The Yakima Exo OpenRange Deluxe Camp Kitchen is an excellent automobile camping accessory. 

This rugged and well-designed box connects to Yakima’s ExoSystem hitch base. It enables campers to transfer their camp kitchen outside the van, providing extra room for all your stuff.

The system includes:

  • A storage box.
  • A bamboo hardwood side table.
  • A metal side table.
  • A 2-burner propane cooker.

It also has a detachable washbasin and cutting board. It creates an entirely working camp kitchen that connects to the back of your car. 

If you don’t want it attached to your automobile, an independent leg kit is available separately. The system is fantastic, but it has a cost. 

This package is essential for campers using the EcoSystem hitch base and optimizing their camp setup for maximum efficiency. 

If the Yakima Exo OpenRange Deluxe is beyond your price range, several low-cost camp kitchen options exist. 

Nevertheless, unlike the OpenRange Deluxe, these low-cost choices must be kept in your car and are likely to last less long.

Read: How to Get the Best Small Microwave for Camping?

Men’s Favorite: Camping Kelty Low Loveseat Chair

Kelty Low Loveseat Review | Tested by GearLab
Image courtesy of GearLab

Important Characteristics

  • Purpose: Seat for a campfire
  • Weight: 15.2 lbs
  • Size: 37 x 13 x 9 in.
  • Materials: Steel frame and quilted 600D polyester seat

Pros

  • Comfortable
  • Case for transporting
  • Large cup holder

Cons

  • Heavy

This spacious camping sofa includes two broad, plush, and long-lasting seats. The adjustable armrests have large, insulated cup holders to fit a 1 L Nalgene water bottle and a phone slot. 

The seat material is a comfortable and toasty 600D polyester quilted design. It’s a little hefty, and the chair is low and reclining, but Kelty also has a higher version.

Women’s Favorite: Z Seat by Therm-a-rest

Important Characteristics

  • Purpose: Seating pad with insulation
  • Weight: 2 oz
  • Size: When folded, it measures 2.5 x 2.5 x 13 inches & opens to 13 x 16 inches.
  • Materials: Foam with a closed cell structure
Therm-a-Rest Z Seat Review | Tested by GearLab
Image courtesy of GearLab

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Portable
  • No need for inflation/Easy to use

Cons

  • Not as comfy as a camp chair

Because of its lightweight and foldable form, the Therm-a-Rest Z seat is a favorite item among camping aficionados. 

Hikers may take out their seats for a food break while remaining comfy and free of dirt and mud. Apart from its lightweight form, the Z seat is remarkably durable. 

This cushion is ideal for sitting on a picnic bench or replacing an uncomfortable folding chair. When placed on the ground, the Z seat has an R-value of 2, keeping you warm or cool.

Best for the beach: XL High Durable Collapsible Outdoor Folding Wagon by MacSports

Important Characteristics

  • Purpose: Wagon
  • Weight: 21.25 lbs
  • Size: 31 x 20 x 37 in.
  • Materials: 600D denier fabric on an alloy steel frame
Mac Sports Collapsible Outdoor Utility Wagon Review - YouTube
Image courtesy of youtube

Pros

  • Foldable
  • Significant weight capacity
  • Every terrain

Cons

  • Even when folded, it is bulky.

This functional cart can carry up to 300 pounds while navigating the sand. This model has a cargo net and two outside water bottle holders to keep everything in place. 

Swivel the wheels to push, pull, and turn. The handle is button-locked and expands to allow adults to comfortably draw the wagon without cutting their ankles. 

It is perfect for transporting my cooler, chair, and beach bag. The 600D poly fabric is long-lasting and straightforward to clean. 

This cart may also carry little children when their parents need a break from strolling.

Read: Top 5 Best Safe Tent Heaters For Camping; Complete Buying Guide

Considerations Before Purchasing the Best Camping Gear

There are a few things to consider when purchasing a new camping device to guarantee you receive a product that will meet your demands.

Purpose

Determine the gadget’s purpose and function and how it will be utilized. Do you need it? What issue does it address? 

For example, going into the wilderness, you should have a water filter to protect yourself against water toxins.

Dimensions and Weight

Space is usually restricted in a car, tent, or RV. Assess how much room the device requires. It is particularly true while camping.

Price and Quality

Camping equipment is available in a broad range of quality and prices. If you often camp, spending more money on higher-quality gear is worth it. 

If you only base once or twice a year, cheap equipment will suffice.

Compatibility

Numerous devices integrate with existing systems. 

Zoleo satellite communicator because of its simple software and layout, you may want to try the Garmin messenger as your communicator if you already own a Garmin watch. 

The Yakima OpenRange Deluxe, too, is compatible with the Yakima hitch system.

FAQs

How can I make my campground more enjoyable?

Camping equipment may make your camping more enjoyable and comfortable. 

For example, take your Therm-a-Rest Z seat and play some cards, gather around the fire on a nice Kelty Loveseat, or walk down to the beach in the practical MacSports cart with toys. 

Check out our top summer camping gear recommendations for some fantastic games and entertainment.

How can I make my camping experience more relaxing?

When you bring some of the conveniences of home, camping becomes more enjoyable. Pack some things that will give comfort and amusement if you have the space. 

The Anker PowerHouse 767, for example, can power a blender for a morning smoothie, a stereo, and a heating and lighting system. 

Similarly, a warm shower with your Decathlon Pressure Solar Shower will make you feel calmer.

What should I not bring with me on a camping trip?

Everyone has their own list of what they should and should not bring on a camping vacation. But there are a few things that you should leave at home.

  • Perfumes and strong odors: Perfumes, pungent soaps, and odorous meals may all attract unwelcome creatures. 
  • Keep odorous items away from camp to protect you and your tentmates safe from animal interactions.
  • Valuables: It’s typically preferable to leave valuables at home, such as pricey devices, jewelry, and clothes. 
  • They may be damaged in the open air and, in some situations, attract burglars.
  • Items made of glass or that are easily broken: Anything that is vulnerable in an outside setting should be left at home. Prefer plastic camp dishes over glass or ceramics.

Last Thoughts

Investing in a few useful tools can make your camping trip more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable. 

Whether it’s a soft recliner to curl up in front of the fire, a satellite communicator to let your loved ones know you’re safe, or a backup battery to power a tiny fridge, the greatest camping devices will enhance your outdoor experience.

 

WHAT'S UP AND COMING ?

STAY INFORMED

We don’t spam! Only Important Stuff.