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Stock up on essential gear, according to a lifelong camper.

Choosingcamping gearthats durable, versatile, and comfortable is always a good rule of thumb to follow.

What to Pack for a Novice Camper

Credit:Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

But even after over 30 years, Im still adjusting and refining mycamping packing list.

If youre new to camping, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start.

Finding what best suits your needs and camping style can take some trial and error.

REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Pad

REI

Here are eight common camping packing mistakes to avoid as a newbie camper and what to bring instead.

Spare your sneakers and tennis shoes the unnecessary wear and tear and opt for a trail orhiking shoeinstead.

The rugged lugs on the grippy outsole afford excellent traction and effectively shed mud and debris.

Salomon Speedcross 6 Trail-Running Shoes

REI

Its plenty breathable to wear in warmer weather or as a base layer in cooler climates.

I lovethis lightweight headlampfor its multifunctional tweaks, waterproof design, and intuitive controls.

A quick turn lets you toggle from flood to spotlight.

Smartwool Classic All-Season Merino T-Shirt

REI

I primarily operate with the red light for night vision around the campsite.

Though it measures just 32 x 16 inches, its sufficiently absorbent to dry off after a swim.

The polyester and nylon blend material is odor-resistant and dries quickly to pack away or use again.

Ledlenser HF6R Core Hands Free Rechargable Headlamp

Amazon

I love thisall-in-one cookware setfor its packable design and versatile functionality.

The integrated strainer lid on the pot avoids the need to pack extra equipment.

I appreciate that the bowls and plates have different colors to quickly tell dishes apart.

Sea to Summit AirLite Towel

Amazon

The included drawstring carry bag is incredibly portable and easily accommodates the full cook set.

I love the practicality of the spork and mini carabiner that holds the set together.

I also appreciate the ergonomic handles and that the cutlery is designed to stack for neat and efficient packing.

Gerber ComplEAT 16-Piece Cook Set

Cabela’s

The latches provide secure closure while the thick exterior is highly insulated and incredibly durable.

Though hefty, its a breeze to transport over uneven terrain thanks to the periscope handle and rugged wheels.

Shop More T+L-Approved Picks

Sea to Summit Frontier Ultralight 2-Piece Cutlery Set

REI

YETI Roadie 32 Wheeled Cooler

REI

Doc Miller Open Toe Compression Socks, FitFlop Women’s Lulu Wedge Sandal, iHealth Neo Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor, and 7 For All Mankind Men’s Austyn Relaxed Fit Straight Leg Jeans on a blue background

Kate Spade Madison Lilly Pochette, Staci Medium Tote, Flora Flower Bouquet Crossbody and Gwen Espadrille Flat on a blue gradient background

People wearing Alo Airbrush High-Waist 7/8 Bootcut Legging in Espresso, Navy and Black on a concrete background