Parent writing notes at a picnic table with a tent and a mountain view

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How we choose camping gear

We pick gear for families who are new to camping. We compare specifications, owner reviews, price, warranty and how well a product fits a family. Here is exactly how.

Our 5 criteria

Specifications: Size, weight, materials, what is included.
Owner reviews: What people praise and what they complain about.
Price: We show a range, not a price that changes daily.
Warranty and support: What the maker covers, and how.
Fit for a family: Size, ease of setup, kids.

Notebook, tape measure and tent fabric on a wooden table

What we read

For each product we read owner reviews, with attention to the complaints, and the maker's specifications. We report what we found.

Tested or researched

Hands pushing a tent stake into the grass at sunset

TESTED BY US

One of us used the product, and the page has our own photos.

Laptop and printed notes on a desk by a window

RESEARCHED OR COMPARED

We did not use it. We read the specifications and owner reviews.

We never use the word "tested" for a product we did not use.

What money does not decide

We earn a commission on qualifying purchases through our links, at no extra cost to you.

When we update

Every page shows the date it was last updated. We re-check gift lists each November, Prime Day lists each June, cooling lists each March and cold-weather lists each October.

Free camping checklist

75+ items in a PDF and 3 emails with your first-trip plan.