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The best camping accessories to buy now
From battery packs to kettles, here are the essentials.
The coronavirus pandemic has curtailed a lot of foreign holiday plans, meaning many of us may look at staying closer to home this summer now that travel rules around the UK have begun to relax.
Camping, a classic past time, may end up proving particularly popular this summer, as it's pretty perfect for social distancing. Pack up the car, pile in and go. Spending a few days in nature with your family is ideal bonding time – cooking on a camping stove, going for long walks, washing up all together and snuggling down under the stars.
Whether you're camping down on a campsite or wild camping, planning thoroughly for your trip will help it go smoothly. And part of a proper plan is packing all of the right kit and camping accessories you'll need to make your trip as comfortable as possible.
Some camping accessories are time-old essentials, such as whistling kettles, camp stoves and water carriers, while others are a nod to the way we live now, including a battery pack that can carry enough power for five full phone charges.
Whether you're a frequent camper or haven't been since childhood, the memories from camping trips are sure to last a life time. Help make this year's break your best yet with our pick of must-have camping accessories to buy now...
Decathlon Energizer150mm floating sailing LED spotlight
Shaped so it won't roll, this camping torch has long-range illumination of up to 150m. It will give you 400 hours of light and you don't have to worry about getting it wet. Not only is it waterproof, but it floats too.
Decathalon Rechargeable camping lamp.
Powerful, waterproof and weighted, this lamp can provide light for four people in tents or outside.
Millets Coleman 70QT Xtreme® Marine Cooler
These impressive piece of kit can keep food icy cool for up to three days. Plus the lid can support up to 250Ibs so it doubles as a seat.
Coleman 30QT Performance 28L Cooler
Coleman 30QT Performance 28L Cooler
This smaller and more affordable option will still keep food cool for up to 2 days.
Millets HI-Gear Water Carrier (15 Litre)
An essential but so easy to forget. Fill it up before you leave home or, if you're on a campsite, it will save you countless trips to the taps.
Aosom PawHut Heavy Duty Pet Car Barrier, 89-122Wx41H cm-Black
Aosom PawHut Heavy Duty Pet Car Barrier, 89-122Wx41H cm-Black
A top camper tip, pet barriers can help you really pack your boot to the max without things falling out or into the car.
Millets Outwell Cazal Portable Grill
This handy little grill folds up flat.
Forclaz Battery-Operated Trekking Head Lamp - Black
A good head torch from a brand you can rely on is a must.
Any gadget with a USB charging cable can be charged with this battery pack. It holds the equivalent of five full smart phone charges. A 21st century camping essential in our eyes.
Blacks Eurohike 25 Piece Picnic Set
This 25-piece camping set with plates, bowls, cups and cutlery for four all fits cleverly into the large serving bowl with a lid, for super easy storage and transport.
Event Shelter Large - 3.65 x 3.65 Gazebo
Event Shelter Large - 3.65 x 3.65 Gazebo
A great addition allowing you to spent time outdoors no matter what the weather. And it's not just for camping, you could use it in the garden or at festivals too.
Quest Whistler 2.2L Camping Kettle
This needs no explanation. And it's cute too!
A simple and timeless design that will fare well for all manner of outdoor activities, even long queues.
No you can't tread in the tent pegs. They will bend. There will be plenty of uses for this handy tool on your trip.
John Lewis Thermos Stainless Steel King Flask, 1.2L, Red/Silver
John Lewis Thermos Stainless Steel King Flask, 1.2L, Red/Silver
Every household needs a good Thermos flask, but especially when camping. Fill it with tea before you leave the house so you can have an easy cup of tea as soon as you've got the tent up. You can also use it to keep the water hot after boiling the kettle.
One you've had a few trips and make sure you don't hate camping, a roof box will make packing so much easier. Pretty useful year round too.
OLPRO Outdoor Witley Wooden 5 Pole Windbreak 4.8m Red
There are so many windbreakers in every design imaginable, these are another item you'll also be grateful for at the beach or on planned outdoor activities with unpredictable weather.
Quechua Double action hand pump
There are lots of electronic options but a good old fashioned hand pump is an essential.
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