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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.

LAST UPDATED

May 20, 2022

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MEDIA MENTIONS

A 20% DEET Premium Controlled-Release Lotion will work well against mosquitoes, but Dr. Zimring says he prefers the 20% Picaridin lotion since it also protects against ticks, gnats, chiggers, and flies. (In both instances, he recommends Sawyer brand.)

Rachel Schultz
Editorial Director

MEDIA MENTIONS

Part of spending time outside means battling ticks, mosquitoes, and other biting insects. For this, Nelson swears by permethrin.

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MEDIA MENTIONS

And out of the products we tested, Dr. Zeichner highly recommends Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent.

Samson McDougall