8 Camping Essentials from REI, Starting at Just $9

After 10-plus years of camping, I’ve curated a set of camping essentials that I pack or every trip. While I still make upgrades from time to time, like a new camping table or portable grill, my core camping setup remains the same. Whether you’re just starting out or have been a seasoned enthusiast for years, there’s a key set of tools and equipment that every camper needs, including a durable stove, a covered knife, rechargeable headlamps, and more. Luckily, all my tried-and-true favorites are on sale at REI for up to 50% off, so build your own camp kit (or make a few upgrades) to start enjoying the great outdoors. 

The Best Camping Essentials at REI

Coleman Cascade Classic Camp Stove

Coleman camp stoves last forever if you treat them well. Trust me, I’ve had mine for over 10 years and it was a hand-me-down. I’ve never had to buy a new one and it’s always the first item I pack for a camping trip. The stovetop is spacious, easy to clean, and has matchless ignition. With a total of 20,000 BTUs in adjustable cooking power, the independently controlled burners let you sizzle bacon on one side and gently cook pancakes on the other. At 30% off, it’s a worthy investment for a camping tool you’ll reach for trip after trip.

Sea to Summit X-Pan

This lightweight Sea to Summit X-Pan pan is a camp kitchen essential. I like that it has heat-resistant silicone handles and a wide enough surface to cook for more than two people. It’s also easy to clean, but doesn’t come with toxic nonstick coatings that you might find on other camping cookware. Plus, it’s 31% off, so grab one for the perfect meal after a long day on the trails.

GreenPan Clip Series Ceramic Nonstick 3-Piece Saucepan Set

My camping saucepans are cookware pieces I turn to again and again, from heating up water for tea to stewing lentils. This GreenPan ceramic saucepan set is ideal for camping, thanks to the clip-on handle that makes storage and transport a breeze. The ceramic coating makes them easy to clean and since they can easily nest into each other, they’ll barely take up any room. The set includes a 1.7-quart saucepan and a 3.3-quart saucepan, perfect for making solo camp meals or cooking for friends. Plus, it’s on sale for 25% off.

Hydro Flask Cut and Serve Platter

Having a dedicated camping cutting board saves time since I don’t have to take anything back and forth from my home kitchen. My camping cutting board stays with my gear, and it streamlines prep work when I’m slicing and dicing vegetables at the campsite. This now-30% off Hydro Flask cut and serve platter has a cutting board that nestles perfectly into a metal tray, making it a versatile two-in-one tool for the camp kitchen. I love that you can chop on the cutting board and then conveniently slide ingredients onto the tray to make room for more.

Morakniv Bushcraft Survival Knife

A covered camping knife makes for an efficient (and safe) adventure. I’ve had my knife for years, and this Morakniv survival knife is a great addition to any camping setup. It’s made of durable carbon steel and the sheath has an integrated diamond sharpener that makes it easy to keep the blade sharp. You’ll also never have to worry about getting a fire going thanks to the included fire starter. Grab one while it’s 30% off and you’ll be sharpening twigs for hotdogs in no time.

Gsi Outdoors Cascadian 1-Person Table Set

One of my best camping gear upgrades was when I replaced all of my mismatched plates and utensils with dining sets that were easy to store and clean. This Gsi Outdoors table set is perfect because it comes with a plate, bowl, handled cup, fork, knife, and spoon. At just $9, it’s worth grabbing a few sets for your camping gear. The set is super lightweight, and the utensils are conveniently kept together with a cutlery ring, so there’s no need to rustle around for a loose fork or spoon.

Nite Ize Radiant 170 Rechargeable Headlamp

I love my headlamp so much that I bought another for at-home use, whether I’m taking the dog out at night or stumbling around the basement when the power is off. I especially like having a rechargeable headlamp like the Nite Ize headlamp, so I don’t have to worry about having the right batteries on hand. At only $17, the Nite Ize headlamp has four modes, including white and red LED light. It puts out up to 170 lumens of flood lighting that has enough coverage for completing camping tasks in the dark. If I ever find myself cooking past sundown, my headlamp ensures I can still see what I’m chopping or stirring.

Alps Mountaineering Camp Chair

My camp chairs have lasted through more than a decade of outdoor adventures. The perfect camping chair folds easily, is comfortable, and stays durable over years of use. The Alps Mountaineering camp chair is an especially convenient one since it folds flat for transport and easily pops back open without any hassle. The aluminum frame is also durable, and the seat has an arch to it for added back support. Plus, it’s a whopping 50% off right now.