Camping Tips

let's camp

Let’s Camp!

REI Staff|August 24, 2020

Our editors dish their best tips for packing right, pitching a tent, cooking a meal, sleeping well, having fun outdoors and more.

8 Tips for Turning Your Living Space Into Your Very Own Campsite

8 Tips for Turning Your Living Space Into Your Very Own Campsite

Sarah Grothjan|April 3, 2020

Plan your next camping trip using inspiration from these eight indoor adventurers.

How Do You Know Which Sleeping Pad Will Keep You Warmer?

How Do You Know Which Sleeping Pad Will Keep You Warmer?

Ken Knapp|March 20, 2020

R-value has always been a useful spec to measure sleeping pad warmth. Now a new standardized test lets you compare any two pads, regardless of brand.

Person holds scale with a fuel canister dangling in front of a peaceful river.

How to Measure How Much Fuel is Left in a Canister

Stoves that run on canisters are very popular, and for good reasons. They’re lightweight, easy to ignite and quick to boil water. But you ma...

A tarp shelter sits ready for camping.

How to Set Up an Ultralight Tarp Shelter for Backpacking

Ken Knapp|March 20, 2019

If you’re an ultralight backpacker using a tarp shelter to shed weight, you have many setup options. This video and article show you four simple methods.

Two people camping

9 Ways You’re Camping Wrong Without Even Realizing It

After figuring out how to set camp up in under 20 minutes, cook things in the backcountry that actually taste good and manage avoiding blisters while hucking a large pack around, we all feel like backpacking experts. But you don't know it all. Check this list to discover how many things you’re doing wrong in the woods.

backpacking stove fuel

How to Choose the Right Backpacking Stove Fuel

Because stove choice begins with fuel choice, it helps to know pros and cons of gas and liquid fuels. We also highlight some alternative fuel options.

person in a sleeping bag

How to Stay Warm in a Sleeping Bag

Even a quality sleeping bag can use a little help. We offer tips on how to prevent heat loss, along with ways to add a little warmth to your bag.

aurora borealis

In Defense of Winter Camping

I hear you groaning through the internet. You think there is nothing I could say that could possibly convince you that camping in the winter...

Tent at a campsite

How to Prevent Condensation in a Tent

We offer some proven hacks to prevent condensation in a tent from happening, and for getting rid of it if you do get condensation.

Nate and Alex hike along Gunsight Pass Trail in Glacier National Park

How to Gear Up and Get Your Kids Started Camping and Backpacking

Hard-earned, age-specific tips from parents for camping and backpacking with kids, including what kind of gear to bring. Learn more on the Co-op Journal.

Catskills fall photo

How to Pack for Fall Backpacking

What to bring, wear, eat, drink and where to go. Fall is one of our favorite times to backpack. There are fewer crowds, fewer bugs and ...

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