The weather is finally starting to cool, and this year’s sweet combo of school holidays-Easter-ANZAC day means this is the ideal time of year to head out of the city and into the bush.

After settling back into work and school, holidays can creep up on us and leave us feeling like we aren’t sure if there are any essentials we are missing out on. Maybe it’s been a while since the last adventure, and you can’t quite remember that one piece of gear that you definitely missed last time. Or maybe it’s time to treat yourself to a sick upgrade and get that tent you’ve had your eye on. Packing the right gear makes a big difference to your experience and can save you from some pretty dicey situations. 

Whether you’re planning a family car-camping trip or an epic backcountry adventure, here are some bits of gear essential for this Easter season that have kept me happy on many trips before. 

 

1. Luci pro outdoor 2.0 solar compact inflatable lantern

 

 

For when you’re sick of having your kids shine their head torches at you whilst playing cards, or you’re fed up with bugs flying in your face whilst cooking. This lantern is solar charged (or USB-charged), so it’s easy to stick on the dash while you’re driving and have fully-charged lighting when you get to camp. The inflatable body dissipates light evenly, creating a nice glow with enough light to read by. It’s easy to hang off an awning, keeping you hands-free. 

Why it’s a camping must-have: Saves the hassle of batteries as it lasts up to 50h on one charge, and doubles as a portable charger for your electronics. 

 

2. Kula cloth

 

 

I will forever rave about the mighty Kula Cloth. It’s a super absorbent pee cloth that is antimicrobial, thanks to the silver infused on the black side. It easily hangs on your pack to allow it to dry, and doesn’t get stinky. Easy to rinse whilst in the backcountry, and you can 
just pop it in the wash when you get home. 

Why it’s a camping must-have: Practicing Leave No Trace is critical for all outdoor lovers, and using toilet paper can make that a bit harder. Burying is not ideal and packing it out can accumulate your rubbish a lot over a week-long trip, so using a pee cloth for your number-ones simplifies your experience. Definitely worth the upgrade. Also…it’s way more comfortable than drip-drying.
 

 

3. Bedrock cairn evo pro unisex adventure sandals

 

 

These sandals have it all. They are insanely durable with a Vibram Megagrip sole underfoot, so they are ideal for keeping you upright on dicey creek beds. For our barefoot lovers, they have a flat footbed but are still super comfortable underfoot. 

Why it’s a camping must-have: While the weather is still warm enough for some water-based adventures, a good pair of camp sandals make all the difference in your creek crossings. They’re light enough to take with you whilst backpacking and durable enough to handle all the whitewater conditions.
 

4. Nemo dagger osmo tent

 

 

Everything you could ask for in a single tent - light enough for the backcountry, roomy and comfortable with its design so it can be your base camp anywhere in the world. My 2-Person Dagger has come with me around Europe and through alpine Tassie, without a single leak or tear. The performance in heavy wind is great, and the design is well considered. Bilateral vestibules and good internal pockets make gear storage comfortable and easy. The 3-Person size is great for you and your kids, or just for the two of you to have some extra space. 

Why it’s a camping must-have: While a financial investment, this tent will hold up well for any adventure you have in store. In the unpredictable weather around Easter, a dry tent makes a massive difference in your experience…the cheap tent might not cut it. 
 

 

5. Sea to Summit wilderness wash

 

 

This biodegradable 4-in-1 wash is the epitome of a camping essential. It boasts a soap, detergent, clothes wash and shampoo all in one item, and I can attest that it lives up to the hype. The packaging is great too, and I’ve never had a leak.

Why it’s a camping must-have: When you have so many things to pack for a trip, it’s essential to have some multi-use gear. This all-in-one wash is super potent and you only need a tiny drop, so the bottle lasts a long time. 
 

 

6. Campfire pioneer camp oven set

 

 

A high-quality, pre-season camp oven set is essential for any camper. The Campfire Pioneer set is heavy-duty with excellent design: spring-loaded handles for ease of lifting, a deep lid to hold coals, and a steam hole so you aren’t burned when you lift the lid. The set includes a carry case, leather gloves, and a 26cm lid lifter.

Why it’s a camping must-have: Camp ovens are a staple but aren’t often seen among the ultralight camping community. However, they last seemingly forever and can make some pretty epic meals. From stews to apple crumble, this can sit in the fire, save on gas fuel, and make the whole family very happy.
 

 

7. Ocean Signal RescueMe PLB1 Personal Satellite GPS Locator

 

 

The smallest Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) in the world, the Ocean signal PLB can be operated with one hand, with a single spring-loaded flap to prevent inadvertent use. This PLB can be operated internationally and is free to use when you’re in an emergency. When activated, your location will be transmitted to the nearest rescue coordination centre via satellite link so emergency services can aid in your prompt rescue. 

Why it’s a camping must-have: While not something we often like to think about, things happen in the backcountry. PLBs can and do save lives. We aren’t always able to dial SOS on our phones and pressing a button can ensure you make it home safely from your adventures. Plus, this one is compact and light, so it won’t weigh you down on your trip.
 

 

8. Mont flora microfibre travel towel

 

 

Highly absorbent, quick-dying and compact, this towel is perfect for hiking, camping and travel. The towel comes with a zippered storage bag and includes a loop for easy hanging and drying. The beautiful design was created by Australian artist Siena Montgomery. 

Why it’s a camping must-have: Beach towels don’t cut in while hiking - they are far too heavy and take ages to dry. Microfibre towels are the light, absorbent solution. This Mont towel doesn’t feel too strange to touch (as can be the case with microfibre towels), and has a beautiful design so you won’t lose it. Plus, it’s long enough to take to the gym when you come back home. 

 

 

If you're heading outdoors this Easter, don't forget your Easter Camping Checklist! Download your free checklist here! 

 

Not sure what gear you need for your Easter Camping adventure? Chat to our friendly team of Outdoor Gear Specialists in-store or online today and don’t forget to share your adventures with us on Instagram by tagging @wildearthaustralia and #mywildearth in your next post.

 

 

 

About the contributor:

Georgia Suttie is a supervisor at Wild Earth Brisbane. Her experience of the outdoors is always driven by a connection to nature and the self, and when she’s not in the microbiology lab or playing ultimate frisbee, she’s always planning her next adventure in the mountains.