Camp Out: What to Pack for this Summer’s Adventure in the Great Outdoors
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With July upon us, summer, and the camping season, is in full swing. And whether you experience the wonder of the great outdoors with a group of friends, the family or for a romantic retreat with your significant other, camping is a great bonding experience, and also a respite from the chaotic digital device focused world we live in. So in honor of digital detox and just relaxing, here are the camping accessories we are absolutely loving this summer, non of which require plugging in to use.
Shindig Blanket (MSRP $69.95)
We love the double-size dual-layer Shindig Blanket from Kelty for hanging around the campsite. It’s big enough to spread out and share with friends for a picnic or stargazing session. It’s also super soft and features CloudLoftTM Insulation for comfort and warmth. The blanket also features a hide-away pocket allows you to store the top layer, and then easily pull it out when the temp starts to drop. The built in carry handle also makes it super easy to carry. This blanket is also perfect for music festivals!
Sunshade (MSRP $149.95)
No need to worry about finding a shady camping spot when you carry the Sunshade along. This unique three-legged structure features a moveable sidewall to block the sun from any direction — we love how you can pull it up and down depending on how much coverage you want. And with three equal length fiberglass poles, set-up is straightforward and effortless. It also comes with a convenient backpack carry bag for trouble-free transportation.
Linger Get Down (MRSP 149.95)
Also perfect for lounging is The Linger Get Down Chair, which is compact, lightweight and folds into an easy-to-carry carry bag for transportation. Made with a durable anodized aluminum frame that is simple to collapse, this chair is lower to the ground than some camping chairs and also slightly reclined, making it really comfy but also perfect for stargazing. It also features a built-in padded headrest.
Ridge Merino Wool Clothing (starting at $29.95)
A camping trip can be made or broken by changes in weather. But one way to prepare is to pack the right clothing. And specifically that means the correct layering system that lets you stay comfortable as the weather swings from cold and wet to warm and sunny. We love the merino wool products by Ridge Merino to take on this task. Whether you grab the Men’s Merino Wool TShirt, the Men’s Ridge Merino Boxers or the Women’s Ridge Short from their extensive collection, you will be happy with the soft and cozy feel. The material is thin and lightweight and not at all scratchy. Plus the natural fibers help regulate body temperature, keeping you comfortable regardless of the shifting weather. Merino wool is also naturally antibacterial, meaning it won’t retain odor after multiple days on the trail.
Toad & Co: Insect Shield Technology
Thermacell Halo
If heading into the outdoors this summer, you’ll definitely want to protect yourself against mosquitoes. We like Halo from Thermacell, which literally creates a “death zone” for mosquitoes in seconds without using sticky sprays, smelling candles or potentially harmful topical chemicals to keep the ‘skeeters at bay. Instead Halo creates a 15 x 15 foot “mosquito protection zone” in minutes that can be put in place at sporting events, around the campfire or at a backyard picnic. Silent, nearly odor-free and containing no open flame, it uses four butane cartridges to power itself for 48 hours at once, and comes in white, gray and brown.
