Must Have Camping Equipment:12 Essentials For UK Campers

Packing for a UK camping trip shouldn’t feel like a game of chance. One minute the forecast looks fine, the next you’re battling sideways rain, midges, and a flat air bed with no pump in sight. Overpacked cars, forgotten tent pegs, the wrong gas canister for your stove—most “near-miss” weekends start with a messy kit list. If you’re unsure what’s genuinely essential (and what’s just a gimmick), or you want a list that works for family campsites, festivals and wild overnighters alike, you’re in the right place.

This guide boils your kit down to 12 must‑have items for British conditions, with clear buying tips, budget‑savvy recommendations, and where to pick them up from trusted UK retailers (including Take a Hike UK). You’ll learn what to look for in a weatherproof tent and footprint, why a 3‑season sleeping bag is the UK sweet spot, which stove and fuel actually work here, and how to sort lighting, water, power, first aid and more without overloading the boot. Expect plain-English advice, UK‑specific pointers (from EHU leads to butane vs propane), and quick checks so you can pack with confidence. Here are the 12 essentials every UK camper should pack first.

1. Take a Hike UK: your one‑stop shop for camping essentials

If you’d rather build your kit in one basket than bounce between shops, Treat Take a Hike UK as base camp. It curates must‑have camping equipment alongside smart outdoor tech and activewear so you can cover shelter, sleep, cooking, lighting, water, power and safety in one hit.

What it is and why it matters

Take a Hike UK is a specialist e‑commerce store for outdoor adventure gear, tech accessories and activewear. You’ll find camping staples (sleeping bags, mats, portable showers), useful gadgets (smart bottles, headbands), and carry gear (jackets, packs). With free delivery over £50, 12/6 support (08:00–20:00, Mon–Sat) and 14‑day money‑back on unused items, it removes the usual friction from trip prep.

What to look for (UK tips)

Build a simple, UK‑proof base kit that works from Easter to October, and add luxuries later.

• Weatherproof sleep system: tent + footprint, 3‑season bag, insulated mat.
• Cooking setup: camping stove, the correct compatible fuel, lighter/matches.
• Lighting: head torch for hands‑free tasks, lantern for camp.
• Water: collapsible carrier and a backup purification option.
• Power/EHU: power bank or safe Electric Hook‑Up mobile mains kit.

Recommended picks

From Take a Hike UK’s ranges, prioritise compact, reliable items that earn their space.

• 3‑season sleeping bag: a versatile UK comfort range.
• Self‑inflating mat or air bed: warmth and comfort over bare ground.
• Compact camping stove: plus the matching gas/fuel you actually need.
• USB‑rechargeable lantern + head torch: bright, battery‑sensible lighting.
• Collapsible 10L water carrier + purifier bottle: easy fills, safer sips.

Where to buy

Shop the Camping, Tech and Gear categories at Take a Hike UK, use free delivery over £50, and lean on 12/6 customer support if you’re unsure about compatibility (fuel types, EHU, etc.). Keep packaging intact to use the 14‑day money‑back window on unused items.

2. Weatherproof tent and footprint

Your tent is non‑negotiable must‑have camping equipment in the UK: it’s your living room, bedroom and storm shelter in one. Pair it with a footprint to protect the underside and you’ll keep water, mud and abrasion at bay, extend the life of the tent and make packing away cleaner. Add decent pegs, tight guylines and you’ll ride out breezy beach pitches and soggy hilltop nights with far less drama.

What it is and why it matters

A weatherproof, double‑wall tent (inner plus rainfly) keeps you dry, blocks wind and manages condensation, while a dedicated footprint adds a sacrificial layer between ground and groundsheet. UK retailers call out both as essentials: a sturdy tent, solid pegs and a footprint help durability and comfort, especially when the forecast swings from sun to showers.

What to look for (UK tips)

Keep your criteria simple and UK‑focused, then choose the best fit for your trips.

• Size and layout: aim for a tent that “sleeps” 1–2 more people than you need for kit space and comfort.
• Pitch strength: sturdy poles, reliable clips and plenty of pegging points; pack extra pegs and guylines for bad weather.
• Porch/vestibule: a porch or canopy gives dry cooking and boot space on wet days.
• Ventilation: multiple vents and mesh to reduce condensation in cool, damp air.
• Footprint fit: a model‑specific footprint (or ground tarp cut to size) protects the sewn‑in groundsheet.
• Easy repairs: a basic repair kit, duct tape and spare stakes for on‑site fixes.

Recommended picks

If you want proven all‑rounders, OutdoorGearLab’s camping tent picks include:

• Marmot Halo 6: best overall camping tent for space and ease of use.
• Fanttik Zeta C6 Pro: best value with fast setup.
• The North Face Wawona 6: runner‑up with excellent bonus vestibule space.
• Don’t forget: a matching tent footprint/ground tarp, extra tent stakes and a mallet.

Where to buy

Build your shelter system at Take a Hike UK: choose a weatherproof tent, add the compatible footprint, a set of robust pegs and spare guyline. If you’re unsure on compatibility or what to prioritise for a specific campsite (coast, festival, family site), use their 12/6 support before you check out and take advantage of free delivery on orders over £50.

3. Sleeping bag (3‑season for the UK)

If a tent keeps the weather out, your sleeping bag keeps the warmth in. UK nights stay cool and damp even in summer, so a dependable 3‑season bag is must have camping equipment. It’s the heart of your sleep system alongside your mat, turning a long, chilly night into real recovery for the next day’s adventures.

What it is and why it matters

A sleeping bag provides insulated warmth so your body doesn’t lose heat to cold air and ground. UK retailers flag sleeping bags in two‑ to four‑season variants; a 3‑season choice hits the sweet spot for most British trips from spring through autumn. Pair it with a decent sleeping mat or air bed for proper insulation and comfort.

What to look for (UK tips)

Focus on features that cope with variable British weather and mixed trip styles (car camps, festivals, weekenders).

• Season rating: a 3‑season bag for versatile UK use; add layers if a cold snap hits.
• Insulation and care: choose materials that handle damp conditions and are easy to dry between trips.
• Fit and shape: enough room to move without leaving cold gaps; a snug hood helps on breezy nights.
• Zips and features: a full‑length zip for venting, a draft baffle to seal warmth, and an internal pocket for small items.
• Packed size vs comfort: car campers can prioritise comfort; backpackers may want a smaller pack size.

Recommended picks

Independent testers highlight reliable, good‑value options:

• ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood: a heavy‑duty camping sleeping bag praised for warmth and durability—great for car camping and cooler nights.
• Coleman Brazos: a best‑budget camping sleeping bag that covers the basics without blowing the kit fund.
• Bonus comfort: pair your bag with a compact camping pillow such as the NEMO Fillo or Therm‑a‑Rest Compressible Cinch to improve sleep quality.

Where to buy

Build your sleep system at Take a Hike UK: choose a 3‑season sleeping bag that fits your trip style, then add a matching mat from their Camping range. Use free delivery on orders over £50, and if you’re unsure about sizing or warmth, tap their 12/6 support—unused items are covered by a 14‑day money‑back guarantee.

4. Sleeping mat, air bed or camp bed

Your tent keeps the weather out; your bed choice decides how well you actually sleep. In cool, damp UK conditions, insulating yourself from the ground is as important as cushioning. Whether you go compact sleeping mat, plush air bed or raised camp bed, choose a setup that’s warm, reliable and quick to deploy after a long drive.

What it is and why it matters

A sleeping mat or mattress adds comfort and blocks heat loss to the ground; an air bed prioritises cushy thickness for car‑camp comfort; a camp bed (cot) lifts you off the floor, handy for side sleepers and when pitches are wet. UK retailers call these basics out alongside your sleeping bag because they transform a chilly night into proper rest.

What to look for (UK tips)

Start with your trip style, then match the bed to the job.

• Comfort vs pack size: car campers can go thick; minimalist trips favour compact mats.
• Warmth on damp ground: insulated or inflatable mats beat bare foam for typical UK nights.
• Speed and simplicity: self‑inflating or quick‑valve designs save faff in the rain; a tiny USB pump helps with air beds.
• Durability and repair: bring a repair kit; stony pitches happen.
• Tent fit: check mattress/cot dimensions against your inner tent so doors still close.

Recommended picks

Independent testers highlight strong choices across categories:

• Therm‑a‑Rest MondoKing 3D: best overall camping mattress for thick, luxurious comfort.
• REI Co‑op Camp Dreamer XL: impressive comfort and value noted as “Best Bang for the Buck.”
• Coleman Pack‑Away Cot: best overall camping cot—simple, sturdy, great for sleeping off the ground.
• KingCamp Folding Deluxe: budget‑friendly cot with quick setup.

Tip: pair any bed with a compact camping pillow to noticeably improve sleep quality.

Where to buy

Head to Take a Hike UK’s Camping range to choose a mat, air bed or camp bed that fits your tent and trip style. Add a small pump and repair kit to your basket, use free delivery on orders over £50, and lean on 12/6 support for sizing or compatibility questions—unused items are covered by a 14‑day money‑back guarantee.

5. Camping stove and fuel

A reliable camping stove turns cold, wet evenings into hot dinners and morale‑boosting brews. In the UK, where wind and showers are frequent guests, a stable stove with the right fuel is must have camping equipment—especially when campsite shops don’t always stock what you need.

What it is and why it matters

Car‑camping stoves (single or double burner) are purpose‑built for proper cooking and quick hot water; they’re heavier than backpacking stoves but far more versatile at a campsite. Independent testers highlight wind resistance and time‑to‑boil as key performance factors, and UK retailers remind you: bring the correct fuel for your stove—campsite shops may not carry it, or may sell out.

What to look for (UK tips)

Choose a setup that cooks confidently in breeze and drizzle, then pack the fuel to match.

• Wind performance: integrated windshields and a steady flame for gusty pitches.
• Power and control: fast boils and fine simmer control for real meals.
• Stability: wide pot supports and a solid base for family‑size cookware.
• Ignition backup: piezo is handy, but carry stormproof matches or a lighter.
• Fuel certainty: buy compatible gas/charcoal in advance; don’t rely on site shops.
• Site rules: cook outside, and follow any local fire or fuel restrictions.

Recommended picks

Tested favourites that balance power, control and value:

• Camp Chef Everest 2X: best overall camping stove for strong wind resistance and fast boils.
• Gas One GS‑3000: standout budget single‑burner that still cooks confidently.
• UCO Stormproof Matches: dependable ignition in wet, windy conditions.

Where to buy

Pick a stove that fits your group size and cooking style at Take a Hike UK, then add the matching fuel and ignition (lighter or stormproof matches). If you’re unsure on compatibility, use their 12/6 support before checkout, and take advantage of free delivery on orders over £50 and the 14‑day money‑back window on unused items.

6. Pots, pans, utensils and lighter

Nothing derails camp morale faster than a great stove but nothing to cook with. Pots, pans, utensils, cutlery and a reliable lighter/matches are must have camping equipment—UK retailers even flag “forgetting cooking equipment” as the most common mistake. Pack a compact cookset, a few smart tools and a simple wash kit so meals are easy and clean‑up is quick.

What it is and why it matters

Your camp kitchen is everything you need to cook, eat and wash up: nesting pots and a frying pan, lids, a stirring/serving spoon and tongs, plates/bowls/cups, a cutting board and knife, plus a can/bottle opener and ignition (lighter or stormproof matches). Add a wash bowl, sponge, biodegradable soap and bin bags to keep the pitch tidy.

What to look for (UK tips)

Aim for a simple, durable setup that nests to save boot space and copes with breezy, damp conditions.

• Non‑stick, nesting cookware: pans with lids that stack inside each other to minimise rattles and cleanup.
• Real tools, small size: a long‑handled spoon, tongs and a heatproof pot‑grab or mitt.
• Prep essentials: compact cutting board and a sharp pocket knife or multi‑tool.
• Eat and drink: tough plates, bowls, mugs and a lightweight cutlery set.
• Ignition redundancy: a refillable lighter plus stormproof matches for wet/windy nights.
• Easy washing: folding wash tub, sponge/cloth, biodegradable soap; bring foil and zip bags for leftovers.

Recommended picks

Independent testers highlight reliable, car‑camp friendly options that earn their space:

• GSI Pinnacle Camper: a complete, nesting cook‑and‑eat system that’s ideal for families and car campers.
• Sea to Summit camp cutlery (3‑piece): light, packable utensils that won’t bend at the first stir.
• OXO Outdoor cutting board & tray set: keeps prep tidy and juices contained at the picnic bench.
• UCO Stormproof Matches (with striker): light reliably when lighters sulk in drizzle.

Where to buy

Build your camp kitchen in the Camping category at Take a Hike UK: add a nesting cookset, utensil kit, cutting board/knife, tableware, lighter plus stormproof matches, and a simple wash kit (folding bowl, sponge, biodegradable soap, bin bags). Use free delivery over £50, tap 12/6 support for compatibility questions, and keep packaging intact to use the 14‑day money‑back guarantee on unused items.

7. Lighting: head torch and lantern

After dark, good lighting turns chores into non‑events and keeps everyone safe. A head torch gives you hands‑free light for pitching, cooking and loo runs; a lantern fills the tent or porch with soft, group‑friendly glow. UK retailers class torches and lanterns as camping essentials—and they’re right—just remember spare batteries or a way to recharge.

What it is and why it matters

Head torches concentrate light where you look without tying up a hand, making them ideal for wet‑weather faff and mid‑midge tent zipping. Lanterns spread light evenly for cooking, eating and games without blinding your neighbours. Independent testers rate both categories heavily on beam quality, runtime and ease of use, and UK advice is simple: pack one of each, plus extra batteries or a charger.

What to look for (UK tips)

Pick simple, durable lights that work in drizzle and long evenings.

• Head torch basics: hands‑free fit, easy modes (including low/red), broad flood beam for camp tasks, and rechargeable or spare batteries you can manage on site.
• Lantern essentials: stable base/hook, dimmable output for tent/porch use, long runtime, and USB recharging you can top up from a power bank or EHU.
• Weather sense: light rain happens—choose lights with practical weather resistance and tactile buttons you can use with cold hands.
• Etiquette & safety: use low/red modes at night, and never use open‑flame lighting in or near a tent.

Recommended picks

Tested, dependable options that earn their space:

• Petzl Tikkina (headlamp): best for general‑purpose use—simple, reliable and camp‑ready.
• Zebralight H600w Mk IV (headlamp): premium performance for those who want maximum output and control.
• Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 (lantern): best overall lantern with versatile, camp‑friendly light.
• Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma (lantern): great value, pack‑flat and handy around camp.
• UK value shout: Vango Superstar 500 Recharge USB is a popular, budget‑friendly rechargeable lantern.

Where to buy

Add a head torch and a lantern in the Camping or Tech categories at Take a Hike UK, plus spare batteries or a USB cable/power bank. Use free delivery over £50, ask 12/6 support for charging and EHU advice, and keep packaging intact to use the 14‑day money‑back guarantee on unused items.

8. Water carrier and purification

Hot drinks, cooking and hand‑washing all hinge on dependable water. On UK campsites you’ll usually have potable taps, but walking back and forth for every brew gets old fast. A dedicated water carrier is must have camping equipment, and if you’re off‑grid (or just cautious at festivals), pack a simple purification option so you’re never caught short.

What it is and why it matters

A collapsible carrier lets you fetch and store several litres at a time, keeping the tent tidy and the kettle busy—UK retailers explicitly recommend a water carrier so you don’t have to visit the site tap every time. Add a built‑in tap and you’ve got easy, one‑handed filling for bottles, pans and hand‑washing. For wild camps or uncertain sources, a purifier bottle safeguards your stomach and improves taste.

What to look for (UK tips)

Pick a roomy, collapsible setup with a tap, then add a purifier if you’ll ever be away from marked drinking water.

• Capacity and packability: 5–10L suits most duos and families; collapsible bags save boot space when empty.
• Tap/spigot control: a gravity tap is cleaner and safer around camp (less spillage, easier hand‑washing).
• Hang points and durability: reinforced lash points to suspend from a tree or tarp, robust caps that won’t weep in transit.
• Purification when needed: a purifier bottle is ideal for trails and festivals; it also improves taste from older site pipes.
• Cleaning and drying: wide openings help prevent mould—some soft bags can be trickier to clean and need airing.

Recommended picks

• Sea to Summit Tap Pack: gravity‑fed, one‑handed tap with lash points; available in 4, 6 or 10 litres, with a lifetime guarantee. The 4L weighs about 114g; the 10L around 193g. Note: can be fiddly to clean—air it thoroughly between trips.
• HydraPak Seeker 10L: a collapsible water storage bag praised by independent testers for campsite use and easy transport.
• Grayl GeoPress purifier bottle: removes bacteria, viruses, protozoa, particulates (microplastics), chemicals (including PFAS and chlorine) and heavy metals (like lead, chromium, arsenic), making dodgy water safer and better‑tasting.

Where to buy

Add a collapsible water carrier and a purifier bottle in the Camping/Tech ranges at Take a Hike UK. Use 12/6 support if you’re unsure on sizes or hang options, bundle to hit free delivery over £50, and keep packaging intact to use the 14‑day money‑back guarantee on unused items.

9. Cooler or insulated food storage

From family camps to festival weekends, keeping milk, meat and snacks safely chilled is must have camping equipment. Choose a cooler that matches how you camp: hard coolers for basecamp stays, soft coolers for day trips and picnics, or a powered cooler if you’ve got vehicle or hook‑up power. For hot, ready meals without faff, add an insulated food jar.

What it is and why it matters

Coolers use insulation to slow warming so your ice and perishables last longer; modern hard coolers can even keep ice for a few days. Soft coolers trade ice‑holding for portability—perfect for beach days and hikes. Powered (electric) coolers plug into your car’s DC outlet and act like mini‑fridges. Insulated food jars keep home‑cooked meals hot for hours.

What to look for (UK tips)

• Trip style fit: hard coolers for multi‑day basecamps; soft coolers for mobile days; powered coolers for road trips or EHU pitches.
• Portability: consider wheels/handles for heavier loads; soft coolers shine on foot.
• Power options: electric coolers run from a car’s DC outlet; they’re pricier but maintain steady chill.
• Durability: robust lids and construction help coolers double as a camp seat and shrug off rough pitches.

Recommended picks

• Hard coolers: Xspec 45 Towable (best overall wheeled); Canyon Outfitter 55 V2 (everyday use).
• Soft coolers: AO Coolers 24 Pack Canvas (best overall); Engel HD30 (premium).
• Powered coolers: Dometic CFX5 45 (best overall electric); BougeRV 23 Quart (value, small).
• Hot food option: Hydro Flask Food Jar for leakproof, vacuum‑insulated meals.

Where to buy

Pick the cooler style that fits your trip in Take a Hike UK’s Camping range, then add tableware or a food jar to round out your kitchen. Use free delivery over £50, ask 12/6 support for sizing and power advice, and keep packaging intact to use the 14‑day money‑back guarantee on unused items.

10. Camp chairs and table

Comfort keeps everyone happy when the drizzle sets in. A comfy chair turns a muddy pitch into a lounge; a stable table stops your stove living on the ground and makes cooking, eating and card games easier. UK retailers treat chairs as essentials and tables as high‑value “nice‑to‑haves”—together they’re must have camping equipment for family sites, festivals and beach days.

What it is and why it matters

Camp chairs prioritise support and portability, so you can relax by the tent or fire without hauling garden furniture. Tables lift stoves off wet grass, add safe prep space, and corral the chaos at mealtimes. Independent testers highlight comfort, portability and durability for chairs, and stability plus packability for tables—exactly what UK campers need on damp ground and breezy evenings.

What to look for (UK tips)

Choose kit that handles wet pitches, long evenings and tight car boots.

• Chair comfort and strength: padded seats, high back, and a robust frame with a high max load.
• Pack size and weight: from ultralight to festival‑friendly; make sure it fits the boot and porch.
• Low vs standard height: low chairs suit beaches and concerts; standard height suits tables.
• Weather sense: quick‑dry fabrics and feet that don’t sink on soft ground.
• Table stability: a rigid or braced top that won’t wobble with a pan; adjustable or sensible height.
• Packability: fold‑in‑half or roll‑top designs that stash slim against the car wall.

Recommended picks

• Chairs (tested favourites):
  • ALPS Mountaineering King Kong: best overall for comfort and durability.
  • Cascade Mountain Tech Low Profile: great value, beach‑friendly height.
  • Helinox Chair Zero: super‑compact, five‑year warranty, ideal when space is tight.
• Tables (tested favourites):
  • Lifetime 4‑Foot Fold‑In‑Half Adjustable: stable, versatile camp classic.
  • Camp Time Roll‑A‑Table: premium roll‑top that packs small.
  • Helinox Table One Hard Top: ultralight, rigid surface for small setups.
  • Outwell Dawson Picnic Table: family set with four seats and a sturdy bamboo top.

Where to buy

Pick chairs and a table in the Camping range at Take a Hike UK. Check packed dimensions and weight limits, then bundle to hit free delivery over £50. If you’re unsure which height pairs best with your stove or awning, use their 12/6 support—and keep packaging intact to use the 14‑day money‑back guarantee on unused items.

11. First aid kit and wash kit

Minor cuts, stove splashes, blisters and bug bites are the most common trip‑ruiners—and the easiest to fix if you’re prepared. Pair a compact first aid kit with a simple wash kit and you’ll keep injuries clean, spirits high and the tent hygienic. UK retailers call out a travel first aid kit, personal meds, sun cream, insect protection and even toilet roll as must have camping equipment—add them before you add luxuries.

What it is and why it matters

A camping first aid kit covers everyday mishaps: bandages, antiseptic wipes, plasters, blister care, pain relief and burn treatment for kitchen accidents. Your wash kit keeps you (and the pitch) clean with quick‑dry towels, soap and wipes, which is half the battle against irritation and infection. UK checklists specifically recommend a travel first aid kit, personal medication, sunscreen, insect repellent and toilet roll—simple items that prevent small problems becoming big ones.

What to look for (UK tips)

Build a lightweight, weather‑sensible setup you’ll actually use.

• UK basics covered: assorted plasters and dressings, antiseptic wipes, crepe bandage, micropore tape, scissors, tweezers, gloves, pain relievers.
• Burns and blisters: include burn gel and hydrocolloid blister plasters—camp kitchen injuries and hotspots are common.
• Bites and sun: pack sunscreen, insect repellent and antihistamines; a midges‑proof plan is worth its weight in sleep.
• Personal meds + spares: bring enough for the whole trip, plus a couple of extra days.
• Wash kit essentials: quick‑dry towel, biodegradable soap, hand sanitiser, wet wipes, toothbrush/paste, small wash bowl and toilet roll.
• Packability and protection: organise in waterproof pouches; restock after every trip.

Recommended picks

Independent testers and UK editors highlight these dependable choices:

• Lifesystems Camping First Aid Kit: camping‑specific contents, including burn gel, in a compact case.
• Surviveware Small (first aid): best kit overall in comparative testing—well organised and trail‑ready.
• Johnson & Johnson All‑Purpose (home/base): best value for vehicle or basecamp restocking.
• Matador Flatpak Toiletry Bottle 3‑Pack: space‑saving, tough travel bottles for soap/shampoo.
• Sea to Summit Pocket Shower: doubles as a dry bag; simple, packable camp showers.
• Bonus bite control: Thermacell MR300 creates a scent‑free midge/mosquito protection zone around camp.

Where to buy

Grab a compact first aid kit, top up meds and build your wash kit in the Camping and Tech ranges at Take a Hike UK. Add sunscreen, insect protection and a quick‑dry towel, bundle to hit free delivery over £50, and use 12/6 support if you’re unsure what to prioritise for your destination. Keep packaging intact—unused items are covered by a 14‑day money‑back guarantee.

12. Power, EHU, navigation and safety

Flat phones, empty head torches and guesswork navigation can turn a good weekend sour. Sort your power and navigation plan up front and you’ll keep photos snapping, weather apps refreshing and help reachable if needed. On hook‑up pitches, use a safe EHU (Electric Hook‑Up) mobile mains kit; off‑grid, carry a rugged power bank and a compact solar panel. Add smart navigation and a simple audio signal and you’ve covered the essentials.

What it is and why it matters

Power covers three things: a reliable power bank for everyday charging, an optional solar panel for topping up between drives, and a campsite‑safe EHU kit when your pitch offers mains. Navigation and safety mean having a precise way to share your location, plus a loud, simple backup if your phone dies. Together, they’re must have camping equipment for UK trips where weather, queues and long days can drain batteries fast.

What to look for (UK tips)

• Power bank capacity and toughness: aim for 10,000 mAh+ with USB‑A/USB‑C and weather protection if you’re outdoors a lot.
• Solar reality: choose portable, durable panels with a kickstand and 1–2 USB ports; use them to top up a power bank during daylight.
• EHU readiness: if your pitch has power, you’ll need a dedicated mobile mains kit to connect safely and run/charge devices.
• Cables and spares: pack short USB‑C/Lightning leads and keep one in your daypack.
• Precise location sharing: install what3words; it maps the world into 3×3m squares so you can give emergency services three words instead of coordinates (GPS on; some features need signal).
• Simple signal: carry a safety whistle for low‑tech, long‑carry alerts.

Recommended picks

• RUGD. Power Brick: compact 10,050 mAh, IP67‑rated with USB‑A/USB‑C and a built‑in light—ideal for wet UK camps.
• Goal Zero Nomad 10: 10 W, 0.51 kg, foldable with a kickstand; durable trail companion (slower than a power bank, but limitless sunshine top‑ups).
• PV Logic 24W Fold‑Up Solar Charger: fast for its size, two USB ports, integrated stand, zipped pocket; light‑rain resistant (about 618 g).
• Safety whistle: a compact, loud whistle (e.g., Fox 40‑style) is light, cheap and effective.
• Navigation backup: what3words app pre‑installed and tested before you go.

Where to buy

Pick up a rugged power bank, compact solar and your EHU kit in the Camping and Tech ranges at Take a Hike UK. If you’re unsure what works with your devices or pitch, use their 12/6 support before checkout, bundle to hit free delivery over £50, and keep packaging intact—unused items are covered by a 14‑day money‑back guarantee.

Ready to pack and go

Sort these 12 essentials first and the rest of your weekend becomes easy: your tent stands firm, your bag and mat keep you warm, the stove makes a fast brew, lights tame the dark, and your power and navigation stay dependable. That’s how you avoid the classic near‑miss—forgotten pegs, wrong fuel, flat head torch—and turn mixed British weather into a story worth telling.

Before you roll out, check the forecast, test‑pitch and cook once at home, and stash spares (pegs, guylines, batteries, duct tape) where you can grab them. Build your basket in one go and keep it simple: shelter and sleep, kitchen, light, water, food storage, comfort, first aid, power and safety. If you’re ready to kit up, browse the Camping, Tech and Gear ranges at Take a Hike UK for curated picks, free delivery over £50, 12/6 support if you’re unsure, and a 14‑day money‑back window on unused items. Adventure sorted.