Camping Upgrades That Make a Difference
Camping does not have to mean roughing it. A weekend in the woods requires more than just a cooler full of cold ones. After securing a tent, sleeping bag, and other basics, it is time to consider upgrades that can make camping more comfortable, relaxing, and fun. The outdoor-loving staff at Filter have tested numerous products to find those that truly enhance the experience. From a solar oven to a backpacking pillow you will never leave behind, these items will make your next trip one to remember.
Eat and Drink Better
Frontier Ultralight Collapsible Kettle – Starting at $72.95, this collapsible kettle from Sea to Summit is made of food-grade silicone with a hard anodized aluminum base for efficient heat transfer. Alyx Gorman, a Guardian Australia editor, uses it to make "billy tea" with eucalyptus. It also doubles as a cooking pot thanks to its wide rim.
GoSun Sport-E Hybrid Solar Oven – Priced at $225 (originally $349), this solar oven cooks with solar radiation or electricity. Alan Truly, a Filter reviewer, found it capable of making potatoes, quinoa, stir-fried veggies, bread, kebabs, tofu, and brownies in a "novel and green way." It can also be plugged into a car's 12V outlet or a portable battery pack.
Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle – At $29.95, this bottle collapses flat into a disc when empty. Elizabeth Brownfield, a Filter contributor, loves its flip-top straw for easy sipping and dishwasher-safe design.
Jacobsen Salt Co Pure Sea Salt Slide Tin – For $6, this tin features a camp-friendly sliding lid. Juno DeMelo, a Filter contributor, keeps one in her camping bin and another in her purse to season food or even coffee. "I add a pinch of salt to my coffee to make it taste smoother," she said.
Play Better
Tucktec Pro Foldable Kayak – At $360 (originally $379), this folding kayak packs down small enough to fit in a Prius and assembles in 10 minutes. Truly noted, "The reduced hassle often turns a 'maybe' idea into a 'let's go!' adventure."
Gregory Alpaca Gear Box, 2-Pack – Priced at $104.96 (originally $139.95), these rugged 45-liter boxes have clear lids for easy identification. Paige Triola, an outdoor writer, said, "These sturdy, stackable bins seal tightly so everything stays dry and clean."
See Better
Black Diamond Storm 450 Headlamp – At $51.93 (originally $64.95), this headlamp provides a wide beam "bright enough for real trail navigation but can be dialed down for cooking or camp chores," according to Josh Patterson, an outdoor expert. It is rugged, waterproof, and has a lock-out feature.
Nocs Provisions Standard Issue 8x25 Binoculars – For $99.95, these packable binoculars offer powerful views. Patterson said, "They have turned plenty of 'what's that over there?' moments into actual sightings of birds, wildlife or far-off landscapes."
Sleep Better
Loop Dream Earplugs – At $49.95, these earplugs feature soft silicone tips that stay comfortable for hours, including for side sleepers. Patterson noted, "The multiple size options make it easy to get a secure, gentle fit."
Nemo Fillo Backpacking Pillow – Priced at $49.95, this pillow combines an inflatable core with soft foam insulation. Patterson described it as having "none of the crinkly sounds that many inflatable pillows make when you shift around at night."
