The 24 Best Camping Gifts for Campers Who Love to Cook

Yeti Rambler 20 oz Stainless Steel Tumbler

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This vacuum-sealed tumbler has a magslider lid that keeps beverages ice-cold or piping hot in any outdoor setting. Durable and easy to grip, the stainless steel bottle is bound to become a non-negotiable essential when packing for camping trips — no matter if you fill it with your morning coffee or evening margarita.

We tested this insulated water bottle, leaving it out all day, and we were thoroughly impressed by its performance. Our drinks stayed below 40° F for 10 hours without the tumbler sweating a bit. We found it fit in most car cup holders (ideal for car camping and road trips) and love that it easily pops in the dishwasher for a quick clean-up after returning from a weekend of camping.

Price at time of publish: $35

OXO Outdoor Santoku Knife

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It’s no easy task to find a camping knife as good as your go-to chef’s knife, but cooking while camping is when you need a sharp and reliable blade the most. We always include this blade in our camp kitchen because it’s affordable, sharp, reliable, and large enough to handle just about any task without being cumbersome or taking up too much room in the pack.

Forged in the Japanese style, this santoku is built to effortlessly work through meat, veggies, cheese, and fruit with a rocking motion, and its non-slip handle keeps you safe as you slice, even in rainy conditions or with wet hands. It's a perfectly practical gift for campers who love to cook.

Price at time of publish: $20

AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

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Just because you’re camping doesn’t mean you won’t fall victim to the pre-coffee grumps. While your home brewing method is likely not transportable or well-suited for an outdoor setup, you won’t be left yearning for a good cup of joe with the AeroPress Go. One of our favorite portable pour-over coffee makers, this lightweight press pumps out 10 ounces of coffee per press. It can brew hot or cold (tack on an extra minute of brew time for cold brew), and it comes with a scoop and circular filter papers.

Price at time of publish: $40

Pottery Barn Abbott Concrete Candle Citronella & Geranium

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Candles might not normally be included on camp trip packing lists, especially when a fire can set the ambiance instead, but trust us: This pick is worth the trunk space. This citronella candle makes for a great, moody source of tabletop lighting, but it also doubles as an insect repellent. The candle mixes citronella with geranium, rose, eucalyptus, oakmoss, and cedarwood for a subtle, sweet, and woodsy smell.

We love that this candle can be repurposed as a planter after it has burned through its wax, plus it has an extended 50-hour burn time. Functional and stylish, it’s a great gift for campers or those who love spending time outside in their backyards. 

Price at time of publish: $60

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet

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This classic cast-iron skillet is a timeless cooking essential both indoors and outdoors. Safe for use on a camping stove (and gas stove in your home kitchen), nestled in the coals, or directly over an open flame, we particularly love this cast iron cookware for the fact that its low price point doesn’t compromise its quality or construction. Long-lasting and hardy, the do-it-all skillet heats evenly and consistently.

This skillet does not come with a lid, but according to chef Steve Corso, founder of Outdoor Eats, you don’t necessarily need one for camping. “I’ve found that a piece of aluminum foil works just as well as a lid at times,” he says. Although it comes in a wide range of sizes for a variety of culinary uses, the 10.25-inch diameter is the most versatile, especially when looking to pack as few camping cookware pieces as possible.

Price at time of publish: $41

RTIC 20-Quart Cooler

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Large enough to comfortably house four 6-packs plus ice, this high-end cooler gives similar, albeit more expensive, alternatives a run for their money. We’ve tested the larger model, which has all the same technology and design elements, and found it to be our favorite overall cooler, with ice kept intact even after a full day of use. This cooler has 3-inch thick foam insulation, a molded slot that ties down to keep the cooler sealed securely, and sturdy rope handles for easy transportation and repositioning throughout the campsite. It doubles as a seat and has a spout so you don’t have to dump it upside down to let it dry.

This cooler can easily tackle any car-camping trip, day trip, or backyard hang no matter if it's housing beers, cold cuts, or a week’s worth of meal prep. We think this would make a perfectly practical gift for campers. 

Price at time of publish: $180

Kootek Camping Hammock

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This extra durable, parachute-grade nylon hammock is lightweight when bundled, but it opens up to make a roomy and relaxing space when hung. It can hold up to 500 pounds and comfortably accommodates two adults. In our testing of the best hammocks, we liked the Kootek’s extra long, adjustable straps and safe, sturdy hardware. Having straps that range up to 10 feet means you won’t have to search for perfectly spaced trees.

We also like this hammock’s wide range of 18 color options. Not only are the dual hues aesthetically pleasing, but they’re functional and make your hammock easy to spot on a crowded campground. 

Price at time of publish: $25

Camp Chef Everest 2x Camping Stove

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If you, like us, make eating an important part of camping, you’ll understand just how essential this gift is. A good camping stove can make or break an outdoor adventure, especially after a long day of hiking. The Everest 2x ranked first place in our favorite camping stoves list due to its powerful and easy-to-control flame. We found it has “enough BTUs to sear meats and vegetables easily,” but also effortlessly tackles tasks that require a more gentle heat source.

In other words: You’ll have ultimate control over the flame. The stove has sturdy and protective windscreens that keep your food at temperature and aid in even cooking, and it folds down for a compact carry. It’s important to note that although it does have superior heat force and flexibility, this stove may run through fuel faster than other camping stoves.

Price at time of publish: $190

Kelty Lowdown Camping Chair

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In our testing, we found this fold-up camp chair to be versatile for virtually any body type or activity. While it is slightly more reclined than other camp chairs, it works just as well for eating dinner as it does for relaxing fireside. Lightly padded for comfortable extended sitting periods, the chair survived many of our drop tests without bending or denting. This chair has plenty of oversized cupholders for drinks around the campfire, plus it’s easy to carry thanks to an included wrap. 

Price at time of publish: $80

Everdure Cube Portable Charcoal Grill

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Unlike many camping stoves or grills, the Everdure CUBE runs on charcoal, providing all the smokey, outdoorsy flavor of campfire cooking without the hassle. During our tests, we liked many of Everdure’s thoughtful design components — like a top that doubles as a cutting board — and we especially appreciated how easy the grill was to transport. Thanks to the CUBE’s portability, it’s easy to imagine packing this along with a cooler and other essential gear without any added inconvenience.

Price at time of publish: $200

Hydro Flask Escape Soft Cooler

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It can be difficult to find a soft cooler option that will hold its weight against a heavy-duty, hard cooler, but the Hydro Flask Escape does just that. With insulation that can keep two dozen cans chilled for three full days, we love this backpack cooler’s functionality. Its leakproof seams and comfortable shoulder straps make carrying it anywhere comfortable, and its molded base is designed to keep the bag upright when it’s not on your back.

Although the bag’s opening is a bit slim for larger items, it has a generous 20-liter internal capacity. Two loops and laser-cut openings serve as hooks for carabiners if you want to load it up with accessories or gadgets, and its lightweight polyester shell is waterproof.

Price at time of publish: $200

REI Co-op Camp Prep Table

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This specifically designed camp prep table from the outdoor experts at REI is meant to create a level surface when set up on uneven ground. When camping, this feature is a game-changer. Constructed with aluminum and steel, its adjustable legs can be individually lowered or raised to compensate for bumpy or sloping dirt below, but also allow it to raise and lower for standing prep work or seated dining.

In our review of the best camping tables, we noted that it’s easy to assemble, heat-resistant on its surface (don’t worry about placing a hot pan or your stove directly on top of it), and comes along with a comfortable carry bag. Although it folds in half, this table can still hold up to 100 pounds, making it a multifunctional surface not just limited to prepping or cooking meals. 

Price at time of publish: $150

RTIC Outdoors 30-Can Backpack

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Another soft cooler bag we adore, the RTIC portable ice chest is an over-the-shoulder bag as opposed to a backpack. While technically a soft cooler, this bag has a strong insulated shell that gives it body and rigidity so you can optimize space and fill every corner. Constructed with two inches of foam, a tear-resistant lining, and a leakproof (albeit slightly finicky to zip) zipper, it’ll keep beverages cold for up to 24 hours. 

Our favorite feature? This insulated cooler floats. These brilliant design features make it a must-have item for lake or river camping trips and pool days. Its 22-quart capacity easily holds up to 30 cans and can also hold containers, sandwiches, and ingredients for camp cooking. 

Price at time of publish: $130

Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller

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One huge drawback to spending time outdoors can be bugs. Flies, mosquitoes, gnats, and other bothersome buzzers can dampen a mood and sometimes even ruin a camping experience altogether. Senior commerce writer Jennifer Zyman discovered this chemical-free bug deterrent as a way to enjoy time outside gardening in her backyard without getting eaten up by mosquitos. 

Using butane to heat an odorless repellant in refillable cartridges, all you’ll need to do is set up the patio shield near your site and enjoy a 15-foot bug-free radius that’s DEET-free. 

Price at time of publish: $20

GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Dualist HS Cookset

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For camping and backpacking enthusiasts, a quality camping mess kit makes for a perfect gift. The GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Dualist is a lightweight, compact, two-person set including one 1.8 liter pot, two mugs, two bowls, two folding utensils, and a storage bag that doubles as a sink for thorough clean-ups and easy water transportation. Its nonstick aluminum pot has an included helpful straining lid, and there's enough room to fit a small, 8-ounce fuel canister inside, making it a great choice for backpackers.

We also love that its polypropylene bowls and mugs are odor-and-stain stain-resistant and can handle high temperatures for worry-free soup or hot cocoa. For those who currently pack random cups, bowls, and cookware, this gift is sure to revolutionize their camp cooking experience. 

Price at time of publish: $95

Yeti Boomer 4 Dog Bowl

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If you’re taking your pup camping, you’ll need to set them up for a fun outdoor experience. Upgrade your furry friend’s water bowl from that old worn-out piece of Tupperware. We’ve listed a few YETI items here that we love for ourselves, but the brand also excels when it comes to camping gear for dogs. This durable, rust-resistant, insulated dog bowl is meant for both food and water.

With a 4-cup capacity and a seriously non-slip bottom, this sturdy bowl is pretty enough to keep out permanently in your home and tough enough for any outdoor excursion. We love that its insulated walls keep water cool so your doggo can cool down more quickly on hot days. 

Price at time of publish: $40

Wacaco Nanopresso

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If you’re an espresso drinker, it can be difficult to find a portable coffee option that fits the bill. This compact device uses air pressure to produce a creamy, rich shot of espresso in seconds. It has three compartments — one for boiling water, one for pressurizing the water with an embedded hand pump, and a third to house coffee grinds — and comes with a mini tamper.

With the capacity to reach up to 18 bars of pressure (that’s on par, and in some cases above, an electric espresso machine), the shot of espresso this little gadget produces is shockingly robust.

Price at time of publish: $70

Lodge L12DCO3 Deep Camp Dutch Oven

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This Dutch oven is designed for cooking above and inside of a firepit. Footed and with an extra large handle, the 8-quart pot is meant to be placed directly on top of the coals or hung over an open flame for easy one-pot meals. What makes this thick-walled cast iron different from other similar Dutch ovens and pots is its lipped lid that’s meant to hold coals, mimicking the interior of an oven. In testing, we found this lid made all the difference for bread-baking as it recreates an environment similar to a convection oven and the added weight of the coals above helps to retain moisture inside the pot.

It's worth noting the Dutch oven’s hefty weight. At 21 pounds, it’s a bit cumbersome to transport. However, its heavy-duty construction works to retain heat, build a flavor patina over time, and undoubtedly improve the flavor and quality of camping meals and dishes. 

Price at time of publish: $90

Yeti Rambler 12-Ounce Colster Can Insulator

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This simple gadget makes all the difference for drinking from a can. The two-piece beverage koozie secures your can with a quick screw and keeps your beverage ice-cold. Constructed with a thick double-wall vacuum steel and coated with a durable, chip-resistant finish that won’t sweat, this YETI find will easily last years of adventure. Although it's made to house a 12-ounce can, the rambler also works to keep most glass bottles cold, with the neck sticking out of the top.

We love the fact that you don’t need to pour your beverage directly into this rambler, keeping it clean and safe from residue, lingering odors, or unpleasant flavors. In testing, we unexpectedly grew attached to this gadget and found ourselves relying on chilling koozie at home for beers, seltzers, kombucha, and the like.

Price at time of publish: $25

JavaPresse Manual Burr Coffee Grinder

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No matter how you plan on brewing your coffee at the campsite, having fresh grounds can make for a smoother, bolder, and overall more tasty cup of joe. This under-$40 grinder holds up to the electric coffee grinder you might have at home. The JavaPresse operates with a built-in ceramic burr that’s adjustable to 18 different settings, so it’s compatible with every kind of brewing — from espresso to French press.

Unlike motorized versions, this hand-crank grinder is practically silent. That being said, it does require a fair amount of cranking to get a double shot’s worth of grounds. However, in testing, we favored the JavaPresse for outdoor usage as it requires no cords or batteries and produces consistent and precise results. 

Price at time of publish: $47

Ultimate Ears Portable BOOM 3 Waterproof Speaker

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For playing tunes at the campsite while you're meal-prepping, you’ll need a durable, portable, and waterproof speaker that doesn’t compromise on sound quality. We recommend Ultimate Ears’ UE Boom speaker. At just seven inches tall, the cylindrical speaker pumps out rich sound and can pair with up to 150 speakers (if ever you were planning a party in the woods). The cherry on top is that this waterproof speaker floats and can withstand up to a minute and a half submerged. 

Price at time of publish: $130

LuminAID PackLite Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern

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Lightweight, inflatable, and versatile, this LuminAID outdoor lantern is a must-have for anyone who spends ample time outdoors. The collapsible lamp can be charged in two ways, either by USB or solar power. On a full charge, you can get up to 50 hours of light. Unlike other portable lamps, the PackLite doubles as a charging port for your phone, speaker, or headlamp, meaning it’s extra handy for backpacking trips where you can charge it in the sun and then use it as a light source and charger.

We love how durable it is, especially the fact that it's waterproof and floats, so you never have to worry about overnight dew or a tumble into the lake. It’s also a helpful tool to have around the house as well, in case of emergency, or just for spending time in the backyard. 

Price at time of publish: $50

Yeti Camino 35 Carryall with Internal Dividers

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This sturdy hold-it-all tote can stand up solo and be carried with ease. Its double-hold handles make it porting around a no-brainer, whether in your palm or over your shoulder. We love its roomy interior with multi-purpose use and found it helpful in holding anything from gear to snacks, to towels, and more. Vinyl lining and a waterproof base make the bag easy to clean and immune to moisture damage.

Our favorite thing about this handy tote is its hidden storage compartments. Along with two zip pockets, there’s a pair of tall collapsible side pockets that securely hold bottles on either end of the bag’s interior, two hooks inside, and twelve hooks on the outside that are meant for carabiners, ropes, and toggles, so you can load it up with your camping gear.

Price at time of publish: $150