6 items that levelled up my family camping trips
People call me a 5-star camper for my homely set-up. But it’s these items that truly make all the difference for those who might not LOVE the great outdoors like I do.
When I tell people I love taking my family camping, they usually hit me with the following two comments:
“OMG I love camping, where do you go?”
Or….
“No way. I couldn’t think of anything worse.”
If they sit in the latter division of opinions, their questions are soon followed by ones about bugs, how I can sleep comfortably, what I eat, if I shower and where I poop.
I’m happy to confirm that all of those concerns are covered off well - I travel with a -5 degree sleeping bag, a stretcher to put it on, a toilet and shower both under a lovely cover of an ensuite tent, and all the cooking equipment that you would need to prepare a 3-course, 5-star meal.
BUT, there are some must-have items that completely levelled up my camping game and having them with us has even convinced non-campers to join in.
1. NRG Vault Solar Powerbank
I love camping off-grid, but there’s one massive downside and that is having no power to charge items you’ll need. Having a power bank that doesn’t require being charged itself is a real winner for these moments.
The NRG Vault Solar Powebank (retails around $59) powers up with solar energy and has multiple outlets, allowing you to charge more than one item in one go. I also love that it doubles as a torch.
One tiny item - one massive game-changer.
2. Anker Solix C800 Portable Power Station
Now that the little items are sorted, you’ll need some bigger friends to power up bigger things in your camp. I’m talking any flood lights, cooking appliances etc.
The Anker Solix C800 Portable Power Station (RRP $799) is perfect for these moments. The station allows you to plug in up to 10 appliances all at once with multiple plug-in options.
Unlike some larger power stations, this box is small in storage but mighty in power. We use it to keep our fridge running, charge larger electronics like iPads and outdoor cinema screens, and of course any torches and other lighting devices that might need some extra power overnight.
It takes up no room at all when packing the car, which is the part that I love the most.
3. Heated Shower
I have done my fair share of camping without showering for days. I didn't love it. After one trip in the middle of summer, I realised if I was going to love this whole camping thing, I'll need to shower. We invested in a solar shower, which consisted of a bag with a spout. No good. Still cold. Still uncomfortable.
If showering comfortably is high up on the list of must-haves, I recommend investing in a proper heating system like the Mt Aspire Portable Gas Hot Water Heater System (RRP: $363 from Decathlon).
Warm water is instant and the power on the shower head is firm enough to get the job done quickly. If I had to pick one indulgent item to take with us, this is it.
4. ALDI washing machine
While we're on the topic of indulgence in the great outdoors, we need to talk about SOMETIMES needing to wash clothes. And I say this not to cement my princess status, but because sometimes you just need to pack light.
ALDI's Adventuridge Foldable Washing Machine is a handy little gadget for camping or road trips, priced at $79.99. Its collapsible design makes it super easy to store, and it’s surprisingly versatile with three modes: a quick five-minute speed wash, a 10-minute standard wash, and a rinse-and-spin cycle.
Just keep in mind you’ll need 12V power and plenty of water to get it going - it’s not exactly a tiny water-sipper.
That said, for anyone who hates doing laundry by hand on the road, this little machine is a real time-saver.
5. GME’s Handheld CB Radio
If you asked my kids what they love to pack most — aside from the iPad, which admittedly defeats the point of being outdoors — I’m certain they’d say the walkie-talkies.
They offer the perfect balance of independence and reassurance, letting the kids head off on mini adventures of their own while still being able to contact base — a huge thrill for them, and an important safety net for me. But not all of them are great in range, which means if they wander too far, they're not contactable.
GME’s XRS-660 Handheld UHF CB Radio (RRP $549) is a perfect gadget to invest in for these moments.
One feature we really liked is the Bluetooth audio, which makes it easy to connect the XRS-660 to a wide range of third-party headsets and accessories. It’s a simple, wire-free way to stay connected without needing extra cables or complicated setups.
The built-in GPS is another big plus. It means the XRS-660 knows exactly where you are without relying on a smartphone, which is especially handy in remote or commercial settings where location tracking is important for safety and peace of mind.
6. Anker EverFrost Dual-Zone Powered Cooler 50
If there's one bulky item, apart from the necessary tent etc, that needs to be packed, it's the Anker EverFrost Dual-Zone Powered Cooler 50.
This ice box is a total game-changer for camping. Having a proper fridge and freezer with you - without dealing with ice - makes trips so much easier. The 299Wh battery lasts well, the cooling range goes all the way from -20°C to 20°C, and with 0% ice you actually get 100% usable storage for food and drinks. Being able to charge it via solar (up to 100W) is also a huge plus when you’re off-grid.
It’s easy to move thanks to the EasyTow suitcase design, runs efficiently, and the smart app control makes checking temps simple. At $1,599 it’s definitely an investment, but if you camp regularly, the convenience of having a fridge and freezer on hand is hard to beat.
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Originally published as 6 items that levelled up my family camping trips
