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From a cooking set to a water-repellant blanket, 19 must-haves for summer camping

What every happy camper needs.

Because it takes place in the great outdoors — where Mother Nature can be awfully unforgiving —there's an added pressure of packing when going on a camping trip. What you bring, or forget to bring, really does determine whether or not you'll ever want to sleep under the stars again.

For that reason, Shop TODAY rounded up some great camping gear that you'll definitely want by your side as you rough it. From a cooler that floats (and keeps your favorite drinks cold for 24 hours), to a two-second tent that comes pre-assembled and a kid-friendly collapsible lantern, here's what you should consider packing if you plan on camping this summer.

Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray

Sometimes, the best defense is a strong offense. So before you let yourself become a buffet for bloodthirsty mosquitos, this popular repellent designed for clothes can help. Spray it directly on your clothes (outdoors) before putting them on. It protects you from mosquitoes, mites, chiggers and disease-carrying ticks for up to six washings or six weeks, according to the brand.

Continue reading the complete list of summer camping needs here.

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December 3, 2023

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Personally, I use Sawyer’s Fabric Treatment–available in pump or spray–for my hunting and hiking clothes.

Popular Mechanics

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Casserly’s favorite water treatment is a squeeze filter like the SAWYER SQUEEZE filtration system ($29, sawyer.com), which screws onto the included flasks or a plastic water bottle. Squeeze filters are ideal for individual use. They’re light and inexpensive, and you can drink the water immediately through the filter.

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While young babies should be protected with clothing and netting (not chemicals), older babies and children should use a suitable repellent to help avoid bites, discomfort, and insect-borne illnesses.

Molly Bradac