This is about five unusual pieces of camping gear that could improve your next backwoods experience. I am not going to mention very core camping essentials that likely first came to mind like a first aid kit and fire starters for example. This list contains more out-of-the-box items that most campers might not have initially thought of that are usually part of my camping gear!
Gorilla Glue Tape
Every camper should have a little repair kit if things go wrong, such as your tent tearing or a pole breaking. Not many think to bring gorilla glue tape, although I do know many campers who carry duct tape around with them.
Gorilla tape gives duct tape a run for its money because this tape is three times stronger, made with double-thick adhesive, and with a tough all-weather shell, you can repair anything within a few minutes and not worry about whether it’ll hold through the night. It is extremely durable, and more people should know about it.
Light-Up Stakes & Glowing Rope
Rather than skimping on several flashlights so that everybody has enough light to see in the dark, you could invest in some light-up stakes and/or glow-in-the-dark rope.
I know what you are thinking – aren’t these some sort of gimmick? Well not exactly, not only do they look cool, but they provide some light and an easy way to find your way back to your tent. Once the campfire has been put out, it can be tricky to go on bathroom breaks and such.
The stakes are usually made of aluminum with built-in LEDs that may have over 10 hours of life in them.
I love the glow-in-the-dark rope a lot, as I often find myself tripping over my guy lines at night, but with the glowing, I can steer clear of them.
Solar Powered Portable Stove
Most portable stoves are powered with gas, and every camper surely has some sort of stove, but solar-powered ones can be fun, cause less hassle, and are eco-friendly.
They can be durable and don’t take ages to have something cooked; you can have a meal ready in about 20 minutes as temperatures can reach up to 290 degrees Celsius in full sunlight.
The only problem is, of course, that you are reliant on the sun, so you would only want to use one in summer, and then maybe in spring and early autumn. On the bright side, think of it this way – each time you use a solar-powered stove instead of a gas one, you’re doing something good for the environment.

Mosquito Repellent Device
Something else that most campers will have on them is some sort of bug spray or mosquito-repelling cream, but not all of us can use sprays to repel insects, particularly those of us who suffer from asthma, eczema, etc.
This is because of the certain chemicals in bug-repellent sprays and creams, as they can cause those with asthma to suffer from difficulty breathing, and those with eczema have to be extremely careful as they can easily have a bad reaction.
There are plenty of alternatives to bug sprays, but the best ones I’ve seen are the electronic ones. These emit high-frequency sounds that are designed to repel insects. There are a variety of very portable versions available, and if you are not keen on an electronic one, there are also burnable ones such as incense sticks and coils.
A Stingray Tent
Now, I know I said I wouldn’t mention basics like tents, but this is something to be talked about. Once you try it you won’t want to go back. They are really lightweight and much easier to set up than most tents.
Plus, if you have children, they will absolutely love this.
So, stingray tents use a unique 3-point anchoring system to create tension, essentially providing you with a tent-hammock hybrid.
These tents have plenty of cushioning on the floor to securely cradle your body, and I can assure you that you will have the best night’s sleep you have ever had. Honestly, it has made my camping trips so much better because I know I am going to be so well-rested afterward.
Alternatively, if you already have a tent that you love, get a hammock. Sure, it’s not exactly a necessity, but I can guarantee that it will enrich your trip, and once you use it once, it will become a must on every camping trip.


David is a guest blogger and founder of Best Tent For You.
” At Best Tent for You, we love everything outdoors. Because we love the outdoors we cover everything to do with it including camping, backpacking, hiking, and travel just to name a few. “
No responses yet