Top 10 Camping & Adventure Gear - My Essentials & Favorites
Every year, my adventures lead me to some of the most awe-inspiring destinations in California and across the United States. From the raging waterfalls of Yosemite National Park to the sun-scorched vistas of Death Valley and the towering peaks of the Eastern Sierra, my outdoor gear is put to the ultimate test. Whether I’m trekking rugged trails, setting up camp under the stars, or kayaking across an alpine lake, I rely on high-quality, durable products to keep me safe and comfortable. After countless miles and experiences, I’ve curated my top 12 camping and adventure gear picks for this year—viewer favorites that I’ve personally tested, fallen in love with, and proudly shared here on FlyingDawnMarie.com. These must-have items are perfect for any outdoor enthusiast looking to elevate their adventures.
Joshua Tree National Park shirt from SuddenlySee Etsy Shop
Vintage style national park posters from SuddenlySee Etsy Shop
Travel & Adventure Shop
Before we get started I want to give a special shout out to the SuddenlySee Etsy Shop Nate & I started last year. We have loved designing apparel and products highlighting our favorite national park adventures and we are thrilled to share them with you. We are premiering a new line of national park posters and a 2025 Yosemite calendar as part of our holiday collection. Through Thanksgiving week, all Flying Dawn Marie followers can get a 15% discount on orders with 2 or more items using code FLYING15 at checkout.
Bestway Inflatable Kayak at Tenaya Lake in Yosemite National Park
Bestway Inflatable Kayaks on Lake Manly at Death Valley’s Badwater Basin
1. Bestway Hydro-Force Inflatable Kayaks
These inflatable kayaks are a game-changer for anyone who loves exploring waterways but doesn’t have the space for traditional kayaks. They’re incredibly durable (yes, they’ve survived scraping against Yosemite granite boulders!) and they pack up compactly, making them perfect for road trips and tight spaces. After months of use—including paddling through the salty waters of Death Valley’s flooded Badwater Basin in February—these kayaks have held up beautifully. If you’re new to kayaking or looking for a convenient option, I highly recommend these.
Night Cat Pop-Up Tent & Teton Sleeping Bag in Yosemite Valley
2. Night Cat Pop-Up Tent
Gone are the days of fiddling with tent poles and deciphering setup instructions. The Night Cat Pop-Up Tent has revolutionized my camping experience (especially when arriving to my campsite after dark or heading out early in the morning). It’s as simple as tossing it out of its pouch and watching it pop into shape. It’s surprisingly spacious, and while folding it back up does take a little practice, the ease once mastered, makes this a great option for anyone new to camping. If you’re someone who wants to spend less time setting up camp and more time exploring, this tent is for you!
3. Teton Mammoth Double Sleeping Bag
Camping under Yosemite’s starry skies? The Teton Mammoth Double Sleeping Bag will keep you cozy and warm. Its soft flannel-like lining feels like a warm hug after a day of hiking, and the roomy size is perfect for couples or anyone who values extra space. It’s a must-have for cold-weather camping trips and has quickly become one of my favorite gear items of the year.
Hikenture Sleeping Pad inside the Night Cat Pop-Up Tent
4. Hikenture Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad
Comfort meets convenience with the Hikenture Extra Thick Double Sleeping Pad. While it takes up minimal space at only 4 inches thick, it feels luxurious, providing excellent support for a good night’s sleep on the ground. It’s so quick and easy to inflate and deflate without a motorized pump, making it a stress-free addition to your camping setup. Bonus: It’s compact enough to pack away easily in the provided carrying bag, making it perfect for adventurers.
Jackery Portable Power Station
5. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240
As a travel blogger, keeping my electronics charged is non-negotiable, and my Jackery Portable Power Station has been a lifesaver. Whether I’m recharging my Insta360 camera, iPhone, or Canon battery, this power station always has me covered. With multiple charging ports and enough juice for laptops, phones and more, it’s perfect for road trips, camping, and even emergency power at home. This is my #1 recommendation for staying powered up on-the-go, and I always keep my Jackery charged in my car for emergencies.
Cliq Chair in Big Sur
Cliq carrying case for 2 Cliq Chairs
6. Cliq Chair
This compact camping chair has been my trusty companion for years—literally (I even included it in my top products from last year)! Lightweight, easy to set up, and incredibly comfortable, it’s perfect for stargazing, picnics, or sitting by the campfire. These chairs have been with me for years and they show no signs of slowing down. If you want a chair that lasts, this is the one.
7. Ultra-Light Headlamp with Bright White, Red & Green
Night hikes, astrophotography, and late-night campfire sessions all call for a reliable headlamp. With 1300 lumens, this ultra-light headlamp lights up the darkest trails and campgrounds. I especially love the red and green light settings for activities that require subtle lighting, like setting up my camera for night shots. Lightweight and comfortable, it’s a must-have for any adventurer. I always hike with mine because you never know when a daytime hike is going to turn into a starry sky adventure.
8. First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is one of the Ten Essentials for hiking, camping, or any outdoor adventure—and I never leave home without one. For short outings, I carry a lightweight kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and blister care. For camping and longer trips I pack a more robust kit with extras like an emergency blanket, etc. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference, offering peace of mind and preparation for the unexpected. Customize your kit to fit your adventures, and you’ll always be ready to explore safely!
9. Car Electric Kettle
Who doesn’t love a warm cup of coffee, tea or soup while road tripping? This car electric kettle plugs into your vehicle and quickly heats water for drinks or quick meals. It’s been a lifesaver for early morning adventures and chilly evenings, adding a touch of comfort to every trip. I often plug mine into my Jackery when camping, and on particularly cold nights I love using this to boil water to pour into a hot water bottle, which keeps me warm if I’m out late capturing Milky Way astrophotography.
10. Solar-Powered Camping Fan
Camping in hot weather? This solar-powered fan is a game-changer. Compact, lightweight, and environmentally friendly, it keeps your tent cool without needing extra batteries or power. I’ve used it during trips to Death Valley, Sequoia, Yosemite and more. It’s made a world of difference in keeping my tent cool in the summer months. Plus, it doubles as a strong light source, and it can even charge my iPhone, making it a versatile accessory I take on every trip.
Yaktrax Diamond Grip Ice Cleats at Lower Yosemite Falls in Winter
Black Diamond Hiking Poles in Yosemite National Park during Winter
BONUS: Winter Products
Yaktrax Diamond Grip Ice Cleats
Say goodbye to slipping and sliding—Yaktrax Diamond Grip Traction Cleats are like magic for icy trails. These easy-to-slip-on cleats give you solid traction on everything from snow-covered paths to slick sidewalks. The swiveling diamond beads keep snow from sticking, so you can stroll, hike, or even run with confidence all winter long.
Black Diamond Distance Z Folding Trekking Poles
When your trail takes you from rocky climbs to snowy descents, the BLACK DIAMOND Distance Z Folding Trekking Poles have your back—literally! Lightweight yet tough, these poles pack down small and pop open fast when you need them. With a comfy, moisture-wicking grip and interchangeable tips, they’re as ready for adventure as you are.
Bestway Inflatable Kayak on the Merced River below Half Dome
Tested & Tried
Each of the items shared this week have been tested on real adventures, from hiking Yosemite’s trails to kayaking in remote waters. They’ve made my journeys more comfortable, safer, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or just starting your adventure journey, these products can take your trips to the next level...but I also want to encourage you to get out and adventure any way you can. When I started hiking, I didn’t even own a pair of hiking shoes...I used to hit the trails in my UGGs or sandals! 😂 Just because I love a product and it works wonderfully for me, doesn’t mean you need the exact same product or that you’ll enjoy it as much as I do. We adventure uniquely, and while I hope these products will be helpful to you, I ultimately hope you’ll adventure safely, remembering all the Leave No Trace Principles and seeking out your own wonderful experiences.
Night Cat Pop-Up Tent
In Summary
If you have a favorite piece of gear that I’ve missed, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments and learn about what I can be adding to my adventure kit in the coming year. Thanks so much for joining me this week, and make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video located at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Yosemite National Park mug from SuddenlySee Etsy Shop
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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Today I'm sharing my favorite camping gear and adventure travel essentials from this year. Looking for a great gift for your spouse or camping buddy? Check out my full product reviews of inflatable kayaks, pop-up tents, sleeping bags, hiking poles, portable power stations, folding chairs, head lamps, and more...all perfect for the upcoming holidays and for your next camping & outdoor adventure.