12 camping essentials you’ll need for this season

Gear has come such along way in recent years and with new, cool things frequently introduced, your camping trip can be a whole lot easier with some of these clever gadgets and essentials, from cords and containers — right down to the kitchen sink

1. Hands down the best tent for two people. The ultra-light Spark 2 is a gorgeous little number that weighs 1.5 kilograms and packs up like nobody’s business. A good tent is worth the investment, and this one delivers cutting-edge design and features. $389.95 at MEC.

2. The SlapLit LED drink gadget wraps around a drinking glass as you keep track of your beverage at the campsite. The bonus neoprene surround keeps your drink cold, the battery is replaceable — what’s not to love? Pop one of these on a classic Pioneer Pint metal cup, $10.95, and you’re set. $16.95 at MEC 

3. Speaking of beverages, the stemless wine glass — although designed for red wine, you could easily use it for white if you’re not a hard-core oenophile — ramps up your camping to another level. You don’t always have to use that metal mug for every beverage, after all. $8.95 at MEC. The classic style wine glass — in a set of two and with removable stem — goes for $19.95, all at MEC.

4. Stuff for all your stuff: little containers, pouches, tubes, a handy cutting board, and even a tiny little can opener are the things you sometimes forget, but truly need. And they pack up so well, this leaves more room for large items like sleeping bags and cooking gear.Travel packs can hold ketchup and mayo, seasonings, sauces or anything to take your camp cooking to the next level. Priced from $1.70 for the can opener, $4.75 for the cutting board, $15.95 for bottle set, and $24.95 for the small GoToob set. All available at MEC.

5. Towels for everything: for you, for dishes, for mopping up spills. You will need these. Sizes and prices vary, from $10.95 and up, from MEC.

6. A new daypack, the Cotopaxi 20L size is perfect for anything you throw at it, or anything that’s thrown at you. Sourced from remnant materials, which appeals to the recycler in all of us, no two packs are alike and are complete with cushy foam, an internal hydration sleeve, and pockets for all the important items such as your wallet, keys and phone. $119.95 at MEC.

7. Bungees, cords and stretchy straps — you need them all. These are the small items you can easily forget about until you’re trying to strap equipment together or put up a tarp — or whatever. The wise camper will grab several packs before the trip — just in case. Prices start at $1.50.

8. If you’re in a campground, these collapsible water containers will make your life a whole lot easier. Available in various sizes and shapes, you may only have to make a few trips a day to get water for drinking or doing dishes. So, so easy. Priced from $10.95 for the 10L size, up to $39.95 for 4L Dromolite bags.

9. Campers are not all created equal. Some of us will take the easy way out — and others can’t whip together a bacon cheeseburger at a campsite. This is where packaged, dehydrated meals come in handy. These are not just for the backcountry purists who rely on these because every single ounce matters when carrying all your essentials. Products have improved dramatically, so that Pad Thai at the end of a day is as delicious as it is fast to prepare.

10. There are small gadgets for making coffee, from filters and presses, to strainers that can do the trick. The morning coffee is one of the best pleasures at a campsite, and the classic coffee percolator is the best. This is not lightweight, but if you’re at a campground, you will be glad you have this seemingly ancient method of brewing that stands the test of time. Serve it in a stainless and stylish mug, and you’re set for the day. The stainless steel percolator is  $48.95; the stainless cup is $15.95. Available at MEC.

11. Reusable bags for storage and for cooking are just brilliant. These are so versatile you’ll wonder how you managed without them. Ideal for the obsessive planner who will package individual meal servings, these are also perfect for snacks and lunches for day trips. Priced from $14.95.

12. And yes, even the kitchen sink. A folding bucket or a kitchen sink so you can avoid being that person who stands at the campground tap washing each individual plate, bowl and cutlery.  Add in the kettle package so you can boil water for the dishes or for making coffee, and you’re good to go.  Folding bucket priced from $41.99; the Kitchen Sink is $26.95.