There’s nothing like camping. The smell of pine trees, the crackle of a fire, the satisfaction of sleeping under the stars (even if it’s on a sleeping pad that feels like plywood). Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned survivalist, one thing is guaranteed: a forgotten piece of gear can turn a great trip into a grumpy one fast.
At EvergreenBGF, we know gear. We don’t just sell camping products—we use them. Our team spends weekends hiking, cooking over fire pits, sipping coffee from tumblers that keep it hot, and living for early mornings in the wild. We’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to.
This checklist isn’t just a list—it’s a carefully thought-out guide based on real outdoor experiences. From essentials to “you’ll thank us later” items, this blog will ensure you’re packed for anything Texas (or the backcountry) throws at you.
1. Shelter & Sleep Essentials
Tent
Choose a tent based on the weather, group size, and how much space you like. Look for water resistance and easy setup.
Ground Cover
A tarp under your tent helps with insulation and keeps moisture out.
Sleeping Bag
Match your sleeping bag’s temperature rating to the climate. If you’re in Texas during spring, a 3-season bag usually does the job.
Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress
Trust us—your back will thank you.
Pillow or Stuff Sack
Don’t underestimate neck comfort. A compact travel pillow or even a stuff sack filled with clothes can work in a pinch.
2. Cooking Gear
Fire Pit or Camp Stove
Portable fire pits like those in our Firepit Adventures Collection offer a combination of open flame ambiance and versatile cooking setups.
Need inspiration for fire pit versatility? Our blog “March Madness: Fire Pit Adventures for Cooler Nights” dives into multi-use fire pit scenarios for outdoor living.
Portable Griddle
Cooking for a crowd? A stainless steel griddle handles everything from breakfast to fajitas without needing 12 pans. It distributes heat evenly, cleans up quickly, and pairs well with fire pits or camping stoves.
Fuel & Lighters
Bring more than one lighter and extra fuel if you’re using a stove. Always pack waterproof matches as a backup.
Cookware & Utensils
You’ll want:
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One pan or pot (or a combo if you’re fancy)
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Spatula or cooking spoon
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Tongs
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Knife and cutting board
Plates, Bowls, and Silverware
Reusable and durable is the name of the game. Avoid breakable or disposable materials.
Cooler & Ice Packs
For perishable food. Pre-chill your cooler the night before for maximum effectiveness.
3. Food & Water
Drinking Water
Bring more than you think you need. If you’re unsure about water availability, carry purification tablets or a filtration pump.
Easy Meals
Stick with options like:
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Pre-marinated meats
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Instant oatmeal
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Trail mix
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Tortillas over bread (less crushing)
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One-pot pasta or chili
Coffee or Tea Kit
Camping without coffee? We don’t recommend it.
4. Gear Organization
Range Boxes
If you’ve ever camped with gear stuffed into grocery bags, you know the chaos. Range boxes from our Adventure Gear Collection are built for organization. Use them for:
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Cooking tools
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Fire-starting supplies
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First aid
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Electronics
You can see how we use them in our post “Top 5 Uses of Range Boxes in Early Spring Adventures” for real-world versatility.
Folding Toolbox
Use a toolbox as a mobile kit for tools, emergency repair supplies, or campsite setup equipment. It’s foldable, durable, and easy to store when space matters.
5. Clothing & Footwear
Layered Clothing
Pack:
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Base layers (moisture-wicking)
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Insulating layers (fleece or wool)
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Rain jacket or windbreaker
Extra Socks & Undergarments
Your future self will thank you after day two.
Camp Shoes
Sandals or slip-ons for walking around camp after hiking boots come off.
6. Comfort & Convenience Items
Headlamp & Batteries
Hands-free lighting beats fumbling for a flashlight while holding a pot of noodles.
Portable Chairs
If you’re sitting on logs or rocks, your back isn’t happy.
Blanket or Camp Quilt
Add warmth at night or wrap yourself during coffee time.
Insulated Tumblers
Our stemless tumblers keep drinks hot in the morning and cold in the afternoon. They’re part of our Adventure Gear lineup for a reason—durable, double-walled, and downright good-looking.
Check out how they fit into our seasonal routines in “Gear Up for Spring Adventures with Durable Stemless Tumblers”.
7. Safety & First Aid
First Aid Kit
Must-have items include:
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Bandages
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Pain relievers
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Antiseptic wipes
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Tweezers
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Allergy meds
Bug Spray
Spring in Texas can bring bugs. Be prepared.
Sunscreen
Even on overcast days.
Pocket Knife or Multi-Tool
From cutting rope to making kindling, this is a daily use item.
8. Navigation & Extras
Maps, Compass, or GPS
Especially if you're venturing away from camp.
Phone + Power Bank
Signal may not always be available, but if it is, a fully charged phone is invaluable.
Journal or Book
For winding down at night or capturing trip highlights.
Sample Packing Plan by Scenario
Weekend in a State Park:
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Tent + sleeping bag
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Folding chair + fire pit
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Cooler + griddle
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Tumbler, utensils, range box
Backwoods Primitive Camping:
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Lightweight tent
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Portable fire setup
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Dry food + water filter
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Multi-tool + headlamp + compact stove
Family-Friendly Campsite:
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Large tent + extra sleeping pads
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Outdoor wall art for that homey vibe
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Board games + tumblers + cook station
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First aid + bug spray + sunscreen
Why EvergreenBGF Gear Is Built for Camping
We test our products in the wild—not in a showroom. From our portable fire pits to tumblers and folding toolboxes, we’ve created gear that:
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Packs down tight
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Handles the elements
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Makes setup and breakdown faster
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Adds a touch of style without sacrificing toughness
Our collections are intentionally versatile. The gear you bring to a campsite should be just as functional on your back porch or in the back of your truck.
FAQs About Camping Gear
Q: What’s the one item campers forget most?
Headlamp. Or the can opener. Bring both.
Q: Are stainless steel griddles hard to clean?
Not with hot water and a scraper. And they don’t absorb smells like cast iron.
Q: Can I use your fire pits at state parks?
Yes, in most parks that allow open fires—just check the local regulations.
Q: How long do tumblers keep drinks hot or cold?
Ours keep beverages hot for 4–6 hours and cold for up to 12.
Camping should feel like a break from the everyday—not a battle with forgotten gear or disorganized chaos. Whether you're roasting marshmallows, flipping pancakes over a fire pit, or sipping whiskey from a tumbler under the stars, EvergreenBGF gear keeps your adventure focused on what matters—relaxation, connection, and good food cooked outdoors.
This checklist is your new go-to. Save it, print it, or better yet, bookmark it before your next trip.
Ready to level up your next camping trip? Explore our Adventure Gear Collection to get everything you need—organized, durable, and adventure-tested.