With Camping More Popular Than Ever, Here’s Your Starter Pack

Even if the great outdoors is your backyard.
yellow lawn chair on top of picnic blanket

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The past few months of quarantine have changed a lot about how we approach even the most quotidian activities; when it comes to summer travel, this means ditching far-flung destinations in favor of a local (and socially distanced) adventure: camping. According to the 2020 North American Camping Report, 43 percent of people are prioritizing spending time outside as a result of the pandemic. With cabin listings spiking on Airbnb, and West Elm releasing a new collection dedicated to the great outdoors, all signs point to this being the trendiest vacation idea of the year. 

The whole point is to go somewhere remote, where you’ll be away from crowds and breathing in fresh air. If you’re not ready to hop in the car and head for nature, try a mini staycation in your own backyard. Whatever your preference, we have the camping gear for you.

To Warm Up by the Fire

When the sun goes down, you’ll need something cozy to wrap yourself in while toasting marshmallows for s’mores—Pendleton’s thick wool option is up to the job. 

To Pack Your Favorite Lunch

With a spillproof interior (it’s made from water-resistant polyester), you can squeeze as many snacks as you want in this rosy tote. There are even pockets for reusable utensils and an ice pack or two. 

To Sleep Under the Stars

If you’re extending your travels to an overnight stay, you’ll need somewhere sturdy to seek shelter, and that’s where REI’s backpacking tent comes in. It has plenty of living space and boasts four ceiling vents to maximize airflow so you can rest easy. 

To Keep Your Energy Up

Mix one of The Nue Co’s sachets into your water after a day of outdoor activity to feel rejuvenated: The formula is made to combat fatigue and boost stamina.

To Rest Post-Hike

This aluminum lawn chair folds up neatly and is covered in waterproof nylon upholstery. Bring a couple along for the ride to use as seating if tree stubs aren’t your speed. 

To Stay Caffeinated

W&P Design’s portable mug is the perfect accessory for your early-morning coffee or late-night cocoa. The low-maintenance vessel can hold both hot and cold beverages and is a cinch to clean: Simply pop it in the dishwasher when you get home from your trip. 

To Make Nighttime Reading Easy

Don’t forget to bring a portable lamp. This rechargeable one can last up to seven hours—save your iPhone battery for emergencies. 

Introducing Domino’s new podcast, Design Time, where we explore spaces with meaning. Each week, join editor-in-chief Jessica Romm Perez along with talented creatives and designers from our community to explore how to create a home that tells your story. Listen now and subscribe for new episodes every Thursday.

Elly Leavitt

Writer and Editor

Elly enjoys covering anything from travel to funky design (tubular furniture, anyone?) to the latest cultural trend. Her dream apartment would exist on the Upper West Side and include a plethora of mismatched antique chairs, ceramic vessels, and floor-to-ceiling bookcases—essential to her goal of becoming a poor man’s Nora Ephron. You can probably find her in line at Trader Joe’s. You will never find her at SoulCycle.