Your Ultimate Weekend Camping Gear Guide

You’ve made plans for the weekend to get out and go camping—that’s a fantastic way to chill out, sit back, enjoy a good campfire, and do what we call a bushman’s reset. We all need those resets from time to time, and camping is a great way to make it happen.

What gear do you have? What do I take? Do I need to bring my own firewood? Is there a fire ban in this area? I’ll do a simple review of the things we usually take with us. You might think it’s a good list, or you may want to bring more.

Gear

Starting with the basics: a good tent is essential. Depending on your budget, you might opt for a rooftop tent, a swag, or even a simple multi-person tent. Other popular options include gazebos with hutchies off the side, which can be set up either outside or under the gazebo—great for shade when needed.

Bedding

Bedding is important, and it’s crucial to know where you’re headed. When I plan District Scout Camps at Seeonee Park on Yeppoon Road, we encourage parents to buy a decent sleeping bag for their children—ideally one rated between 0°C and 10°C. In the Limestone Creek valley, the temperature can drop to 3°C overnight in winter. Do your weather research and try to gather some local knowledge. Just because the weather app says Rockhampton is 10°C doesn’t mean Seeonee Park is the same. Oh, and don’t forget your pillow.

Camp Chairs

Camp chairs are an integral part of camping. There’s nothing worse than leaving your favourite chair at home and having to perch on a stump or rock. There are many different styles of camp chairs out there—my best advice is to sit in as many as you can and pick one that suits both you and your budget.

Firewood

Before you even think about lighting a fire, check whether it’s permitted in the area you’re visiting. If you can’t find the information online, call the local council or national parks. They’ll let you know if a fire ban is in place. If fires are allowed, be sure to take a portable fire pit or use a provided fire ring if available. Also, find out if you’re required to bring your own firewood. Don’t forget a shovel to manage hot coals.

Cooking Equipment

Without taking the entire kitchen with you, consider packing a couple of different-sized camp ovens, some mitts, and a lid-lifting tool. You can do a lot with a camp oven—from using the lid as a frypan to roasting, stewing, or baking. A portable hotplate is also handy over hot coals. There are holders that let you adjust the height over the fire—they work a treat. And of course, bring plates, cutlery, tongs, and a spatula.

Food Storage

Proper food storage is key—not just for safety, but to keep curious critters away when you’re asleep or out exploring. Camp fridges are fantastic and often found in the back of 4WDs, keeping your favourite beverage icy cold. They come in various sizes and brands, so do your homework: read reviews and ask friends or family for recommendations.

A good ol’ esky works well too, especially for an overnighter. It’s cost-effective and, depending on the model, the ice should last a full night. For longer stays, dry ice on the bottom of the esky is a great option. For food that doesn’t need to stay cold, we use storage boxes from Kmart or Bunnings—they seal up nicely and stack well.

Amenities

There are some great ideas out there for your bathroom needs. Ensuite awnings that fold out from your 4WD in seconds are becoming popular. These, along with instant-up ensuite tents, provide privacy for you and your family. If you’re going the roughing-it route, make sure to dig a proper toilet hole—well away from any waterway or creek (100 metres is a good guideline)—and cover it up before you leave.

Rubbish

Take out what you take in. Always clean up your campsite and leave it better than you found it. Never toss leftover food into the fire—it can attract and harm wildlife. And don’t forget to put your fire out before you go. Remember, the standard you walk past is the standard you set.