6 Gadgets to Take on Your Next Camping Trip

An escape from your urban day-to-day doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some of the comforts of home. Take along these nice-to-haves on your next family camping trip.

Super-Sized Tent

If you buy a tent that fits up to eight for your family of four, you’ll be thankful for the extra legroom, especially on a rainy day. The Wenzel Klondike Eight-Person Family Cabin Dome Tent has an attached screen room and plenty of space.

Solar Panels

You may think you’re overdoing it, but this will come in handy—even on a short trip. Reap the benefits of the sun’s energy with portable, compact solar panels, such as the Goal Zero Nomad 7M. It can charge your smartphone, e-reader, GPS or anything else with a 12-volt battery or USB connection.

Portable Shower

Yes, it’s nice to bathe in the lake. But you know what else is nice? A shower. Coghlan’s Camp Shower will let you skip the lineup at the shared facilities. It heats up water using the summer sun, perfect for a quick, warm rinse.

Coffee Maker

Just because you’re in the backwoods doesn't mean you can’t enjoy a fresh cup of joe. Try Coleman’s 10-Cup Portable Propane Coffeemaker—and leave that jar of instant behind.

Games and Toys

For rainy days or evenings, bring games to keep your kids entertained—just be sure they don’t have a lot of small pieces. Pass the Pigs is great for easy family fun. Classics like Pictionary should not be forgotten. And Monopoly Deal is an all-card version of the popular board game that is sure to be a hit with everyone.

...And The Kitchen Sink

Once you have one you won’t know what you did without it. Portable and foldable canvas sinks are perfect for after-meal cleanup and a slew of other uses, including laundry. Try the Sea to Summit five-litre Kitchen Sink or the 12-litre Seattle Sports Camp Bucket.