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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Wieners on a stick are just the start of what’s possible with campfire cooking. If you’re looking for new camping food ideas and want to make the most of cooking outside, then there are plenty of campfire cooking tools you can use to bring out your inner chef. From portable fire-pits to making pizza in the forest, see some fresh ways you can get sizzling.

### Breakfast: Portable fire
No firepit? No problem. See how to elevate your campfire – and your pancakes – and keep the ground from getting charred (à la [Leave No Trace](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly) principles):



Camp Kitchen: Breakfast

The campfire cooking tools: Primus Kamoto OpenFire Pit and the OpenFire Pan

### Lunch: Outdoor pizza oven
Take your meaty or margherita creation to-go, and charge your phone while you’re at it:



Camp Kitchen Lunch

The campfire cooking tools: Biolite BaseCamp Pizza Stone & Lid, plus the BaseCamp Grill

### Dinner: Flame-kissed dishes
Make the most of your campfire with cast-iron and fire-friendly pots that have handles that won’t melt:



Camp Kitchen: Dinner

The campfire cooking tools: Barebones Dutch Oven and Primus Campfire Pot

### More camp cooking ideas
If you want to get even more gourmet at your campsite, scope these [6 craft s’mores recipes](/en/article/craft-smores-boost-your-camp-snack-game) and our [camp kitchen secret videos](/en/article/camp-kitchen-secrets).



## Related articles
- [How to choose a camp stove](/en/explore/choose-your-camp-stove)
- [Camping checklist](/en/explore/camping-checklist)
- [7 ways to hike and camp responsibly](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly)



Take your camping meals to the next flame-kissed-level with these ideas. See what possible for breakfast grilling, lunch pizzas and Dutch-oven dinners.

The art of open-fire cooking | MEC Blog

The art of open-fire cooking

After a tough winter, nothing beats the feeling of breaking out your running shoes and finally hitting the trails around Quebec City. While the Old Port is a scenic place for urban running, there are many wooded trails within reach of the city – you just need to know where to find them. To get you started, here are some trails around Quebec City that you and your running buddies of all levels can enjoy.

### Parc de la rivière L’Ancienne-Lorette


This vast urban forest is the largest of its kind in the region, and is a good place to start for anyone kicking off their running regimen. The park, as its name suggests, is crossed by the Lorette River, and is home to a network of trails of varying lengths.

The shortest loop, Trail 1, is just under 1km long. Trail 2 (1.5km loop), 3 (2.1km loop) and 4 (3.5km loop) will take you through a mixed forest along the river. If you’re after a good photo opportunity, Trail 2 also has a viewpoint that overlooks the river, where you can get a sense of the park’s impressive size within the city.

### Mont Sainte-Anne


Mont Sainte-Anne is a popular place for skiing and mountain biking, but it’s also loaded with trails for hiking and running. If you’re looking to get in shape or get your running legs back, you can check out La Pichard, an easy 4km trail that you can access from the base of the mountain.

For runners up for a bit more of a challenge, there’s the 12-km Mestachibo trail at the base of the mountain; it follows the Sainte-Anne-du-Nord River most of the way to the Saint-Férréol-les-Neiges church. The terrain can be a bit rough, so wear a pair of trail running shoes with [grippy soles](/en/products/footwear/shoes/running-and-training-shoes/trail-running-shoes).

If you’d prefer to stay on the mountain, there’s also La Libériste, a steeper 9km trail that goes right to the summit. The last part of the climb takes place on a ski run, so you’re totally exposed – don’t forget a hat and sunscreen on those sunny days.

### Mont Wright


If you’ve got some experience trail running and are looking for moderate-to-difficult routes, then head to Mont Wright. The mountain offers both short and long trails of varying inclines, so it’s a good spot for some hill workouts. If you want a proper climb, attempt Sentier du Sommet, a 1.2km linear route that takes you to the top of the 483m mountain.

The trees lining Sentier de la Forêt Ancienne (or the “Old Forest Trail”) are nearly 300 years old, and the park has been deemed a conservation site, so be sure to stick to marked trails – which is a good rule of thumb for all running trails across the country.

### Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier


Let’s not forget Quebec City’s biggest network of trails in Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier. The park is home to over 100km of hiking trails that give you a big variety of terrain and landscapes to explore by foot. Beginner runners can start off on La Tourbière, a quick and easy 2.9km loop that starts at the third kilometre of the Chemin du Parc-National. This trail is also dog friendly, as part of a pilot project taken on by the city, so take your favourite four-legged running buddy with you.

If you’re looking for a truly glute-busting, lung-burning workout, head out to Les Loups, an 11km in-and-out with a 447m difference in elevation. From the top, the view of the Laurentian Massif and the beautiful valleys of the Jacques-Cartier and the Sautauriski are a great payoff for the hard effort.

### Plaines d’Abraham


The historical Plaines d’Abraham is home to some awesome festivals and celebrations, but also has some nice paths for walking and running. Though it’s right in the city, Sentier des Plaines d’Abraham is tucked away from all roads, which makes this an easy year-round option for city-dwellers who want to get a quick trail run in. There’s also a designated jogging path, located right at Grande-Allée Ouest and Avenue Wolfe-Montcalm.

### Quebec City trail running map


*Map of Quebec trail running locations*

No matter where to decide to trail run around Quebec City, make sure you’ve got all the [gear you’ll need](/en/article/how-to-start-trail-running-tips-for-road-runners). If you’re just getting started with trail running or are looking for new friends to explore these routes with, check out run crews and races. They’re a great way to meet like-minded people who also want to get outside.



*Photo credits: [Shutterstock / onixxino](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/pretty-female-running-forest-on-side-136298369?src=YUliUkn81h5_cebUiG8E4w-1-15), [Shutterstock / Sara Borbala Balogh](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/runner-girl-green-spring-forest-627573365?src=4tR10y-pnw0U7CA19zmXwA-1-7), [Flickr / Samuel Bouchard](https://www.flickr.com/photos/samuelbouchard/696738554/in/photolist-24yY6G-9rfmdy-4arYS-4arXu-5VEVSJ-NzPKq-62RnEQ-5F3xni-5VAzAK-62LG64-24uwEM-5VEVVd-62QWBG-g1jjqh-5HRgjs-5VEVLW-ox2X25-5VEVPL-NzQqQ-NzQ4L-NAhmr-NAg5T-NzN59-FJj1z-24uvge-24uxxR-NAhWz-NzNSw-5VEVRq-NzNZC-5VAzH2-24uAhV-NAgY6-NAgvi-NzNt7-NzPU9-NAgng-NzPio-62MkZR-62RzSJ-62Rbrd-62LQET-62QRsU-2qmmP5-2qgY2a-2qmg8w-24uB5B-24z2Cb-24z1Hj-NzPrq), [Shutterstock / ninikas](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/male-runner-jogging-on-forest-track-478852444?src=srHzqreos7f62NcgrMvxMg-1-3), [Flickr / Guilhem Vellut](https://www.flickr.com/photos/o_0/30211362250/in/photolist-E7Ftiu-EyPNxp-MwAHMJ-Nukcup-Nr7A1b-NmrKDB-NqRCtC-NiNnvf-Mwe79R-Mwe3D4-MwmpcW-MwdZuD-NmryuH-N2HGEw-NiNat9-NqRnfm-NiN5xs-NiN3bd-N2HDD1-NmrmU8-NiMWWf-NiMVgw-NiMSKQ-NqR7my-NiMNQA-NiMLFq-N2F8s3-Nu2FQi-NiKMzd-Nu2E66-NqP7NE)*



From mountain paths to urban parks, here are some great running trails to try. Check out 5 places to explore in Quebec City and just beyond the city limits.

Where to go trail running near Quebec City

Curious about what makes paddleboards popular? Wondering whether a canoe or kayak would be better for you? Check out our infographic on canoes, kayak and SUPs to see what they’re each great for, some different features to know, and lots of paddling facts so you can hit the water prepared.

*If you’ve got your eye on a [canoe](/en/products/watersports/canoeing/c/350), [kayak](/en/products/watersports/kayaking/c/354) or [paddleboard](/en/products/watersports/paddleboarding/c/359), we want to set you up right. See our special package for [15% off boat accessories](/en/explore/special-offers-watersports).*



Which one floats your boat? Find out whether you should choose a canoe, kayak or SUP, and learn some cool paddling facts along the way. Dip in to get started.

Infographic: Canoe, kayak or SUP | MEC Blog

Infographic: Canoe, kayak or SUP?

Most mountain bike trips involve well-known destinations or at the very least, places other mountain bikers have been. For the most part, our trip to India involved neither of these. Mountain biking does exist in a few select places in the country, but those spots were meant for a different kind of bike adventure.

We’d hatched a plan months prior, at home in Whistler, BC, and dreamt up two goals: the first, to explore the remote Spiti Valley, where we could build and ride big mountain lines in some truly unique places. The second, to ride the mystical root bridges of Nongriat in a corner of India known for being one of the rainiest places on earth. So, on a crisp fall morning, Chris Draper, Vince Emond, Justa Jeskova and I departed Whistler, excited for what our six-week trip held for us. India has a reputation for being a tough place to travel, and we had the added weight of bikes and camera equipment, but I don’t think any of us were prepared for some of the more trying moments of our journey.



Our first stop was Manali, widely considered the mountain bike capital of India by the small community of bikers here. A fair description, but it needs to be taken in context, as mountain biking is still very much a fringe sport in India – the number of locals asking for a photo with us and our bikes confirmed that. There’s a small ski area just above town where, once a year, the few local riders in town hold a downhill race, and there are plenty of trails surrounding town to keep you busy for a while. We stayed for about five days and there were still many areas we could have explored. It was the only place our tires wouldn’t be leaving first tracks.

Our goals would be accomplished over the Rohtang Pass and beyond, deep into the high mountains. Our first day in the Himalayas was one of the most astounding days I’ve had travelling. Until you see the mountain range in real life, you don’t truly get an idea of how massive and beautiful they are. Travel was slow due to the state of the roads, yet none of us cared; we were glued to the windows of our van for hours as we took in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Our emotions were heightened too, knowing we would be riding our bikes in this wild place.



Following 12 hours of driving, we arrived at Chandra Taal, a high-altitude lake sitting at over 4300m. Bike assembly went rather hastily as we were eager to finally lay tread on the massive playground before us. Pedalling uphill at this altitude felt like riding through mud, but it was easy to ignore while scanning the horizon for rideable lines. We settled on a shale slope with a short chute entrance and hiked our way to the top. Each step we took resulted in a half-step back due to the loose surface and our lungs gasped for air. At the top looking down our line and taking in our new view, there was a distinct “is this for real?!” moment. Each second we were in the Himalayas was more surreal than the one before, and now we were about to let loose down a long slope where no one had ridden their bikes before. And it wasn’t just the novelty factor that made it so great – those turns were some of the best turns I’ve ever made in my life.

The next two weeks were a blur of building, riding and exploring, plus hard work, sweat and blistered hands. The days were short and hot. The nights were long and cold. The exploration and prep work to ride lines and trails in the Indian Himalayas resulted in some of the most gratifying biking we’ve ever done. We would come home each day covered in dust to a sporadically-functioning cold shower and even that couldn’t kill our buzz. It was an incredible few weeks that culminated in biking through a high alpine village with a centuries-old monastery a stone’s throw away. A mind-blowing end to our time in the Spiti Valley.



Getting to Nongriat to explore its network of living root bridges turned out to be a much more difficult process than we envisioned. After three days of crude dirt and crumbling asphalt roads, we briefly made it back to civilization before spending four days navigating the over-complicated bus and train systems just to get there. Along the way we learned how to cram bikes, people and luggage in rickshaws and found out that full trains were *not* designed for travel with mountain bikes. Most importantly, we learned to *never* eat the train food again.

After what felt like months we finally made it to Cherrapunjee, the closest town to Nongriat. Still reeling from the effects of a food-borne parasite, we gladly took a day off to plan and rest, and mapped out a descent high above Nongriat to navigate to the valley bottom, usually only accessible by foot (or in our case, bikes). The trail down took every ounce of our energy. It was steep and technical with many more switchbacks than we anticipated. We were more than happy to swim in the valley’s crystal clear river, which gave us the rejuvenation we needed to ride on.



Sooner than we expected, the first living root bridge appeared: a two-level span hundreds of years old. The bridges are created from the roots of the banyan fig trees, and manipulated by humans over generations to grow across rivers. The bridges are their means of inter-village connection during the monsoon season when the rivers grow impassable. It was an otherworldly sight and an unforgettable experience to ride across – not exactly the most technical feature to ride, but easily one of the most unique. On a trip full of wonderful and wild experiences, it was a big highlight of our adventure.

Our exploration of unridden India was an adventure success. A veritable highlight real of stunning views and surreal riding environs. It isn’t a mountain bike mecca (yet), but with a little hard work it was so much more: riding in a biking world unknown.



The story of a small team of riders, a photographer, and a videographer on a mission to explore and experience new riding and cultures on the sub-continent of India. With little information regarding India’s terrain and trails, the group decided it was best to uncover it themselves first hand.

Shot and edited by Vince Emond.

India: An Uncertain Road

### 

India’s fringe mountain biking community turned out to be a massive playground for Steve, Justa, Vince and Chris. MEC was proud to support them on their epic journey via [expedition grant funding](/en/explore/outdoor-impact).



*Want to see more wild places to ride in the world? Check out*[*10 must-do mountain bike destinations*](/en/article/must-do-mountain-bike-destinations)*.*



India’s fringe mountain biking scene meant a ton of first lines, mystical root bridge crossings and Himalayan backdrops for these bike-crazy Canadians.

Mountain biking in Northern India | MEC Blog

Mountain biking in Northern India

If you’ve ever hiked near Vancouver and saw a group of people leave the trail and start digging small holes, that might’ve been me. We weren’t searching for buried treasure… we were learning how to poop in the woods. Yep, you heard that right, I teach people how to poop outdoors – along with how to choose a tent site, what to do with orange peels, what kind of wood to use for a campfire, and a whole lot of other wilderness responsibility skills. It’s all part of being a volunteer Leave No Trace trainer.

What is [Leave No Trace](https://leavenotrace.ca/)? It’s a set of 7 simple principles that help guide us when we spend time outdoors. The aim is to make sure that we keep the wilderness wild for everyone to enjoy. If you’re planning to camp or hike this year, here’s a look at the 7 things to keep in mind:



### 1. Plan ahead and prepare

It’s no fun showing up to a fully booked campground or discovering snow on the trail when you’re wearing shorts. To have an awesome adventure, do some research before you load your tent in the car or put on your hiking boots. Check the weather forecast, trail conditions and park regulations ahead of time so you know what to bring. Don’t forget [a first aid kit](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/first-aid-kits-and-supplies/first-aid-kits) and other emergency supplies so you’ll be prepared for what mother nature throws at you and won’t risk damaging the environment.





### 2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces

Tolkien said, “Not all those who wander are lost,” but wandering off trail is actually a good way to get lost (and it hurts the plants too). Hundreds of footsteps or dozens of tents can damage fragile ecosystems that may take years to recover. The areas that are the most sensitive are often the most beautiful: think meadows, wetlands and lakeshores. Keep your impact on nature as light as possible by staying on trail and camping in designated sites. If you’re in a backcountry area with no designated campsites, remember that the best campsites are found, not made. When you pitch your tent, look for gravel, dry grass, snow or bare dirt.



### 3. Dispose of waste properly

You already know you should pack out your granola bar wrappers and water bottles. But what about orange peels, apple cores, egg shells or those crusty noodles that burned to the bottom of your cooking pot? While it’s true that they’ll biodegrade, it’s also true that it will take a long time – it could be *months* in some cases. Plus, biodegradable waste doesn’t look nice and animals might be tempted to eat it. So biodegradable or not, if you packed it in, always pack it out.

And what should you do if “nature calls” while you’re in nature? If you can’t make it to the nearest outhouse, then the first step is to get at least 70 paces away from trails, campsites and water sources. This distance gives you privacy, makes sure you don’t pollute water, and prevents anyone else from coming across your deposit later. Dig a small hole about 15cm (6in.) deep. If you aren’t packing a [portable trowel](/en/product/0199-554/trowel), a rock, stick or the heel of your boot makes a great substitute. When you’re done, fill in the hole with dirt. If possible, pack out your toilet paper in a plastic bag (otherwise bury it in the hole). I carry [hand sanitizer](/en/product/6016-045/lavender-organic-hand-sanitizer-59ml) to clean my hands afterwards.



### 4. Leave what you find

Taking photos of our lives is now easier than ever. And if your life includes finding pretty wildflowers, cool rocks or historic artifacts on your outdoor adventures, snap a pic instead of taking them home with you. (Bonus points if it’s a selfie.) Leave the things you find in nature so that other hikers and campers can discover them too.



### 5. Minimize campfire impacts

Crackling sounds, the smell of smoke, and sticky marshmallow goo on your fingers… a campfire is an essential part of many camping trips. Thankfully most campsites already have a fire ring, since that’s the best (and safest) place to build your campfire. Make sure your fire is never left unattended and make sure it’s out and cold before you leave it. (You don’t want to be the person that started a forest fire!)

Instead of gathering wood at your campsite, it’s best to buy bundles of dry firewood. Popular camp areas get overharvested, which damages the forest. If you do collect firewood, choose wood from dead and downed trees. Live trees don’t burn very well and are a valuable part of the forest ecosystem.

Summer fire bans are becoming more common and fires might be prohibited year-round in sensitive environments such as alpine meadows. Check regulations in advance and come up with a campfire-free evening plan. (My favourite is playing board games around a [lantern](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/headlamps-and-lighting/lanterns).)



### 6. Respect wildlife

One of the things that gets me the most stoked on outdoor adventures is spotting wildlife: eagles, deer or even bears. You might be curious about an animal, but remember to give wildlife space to eat and roam. Use [binoculars](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-and-accessories/binoculars-and-monoculars) or the zoom lens on your camera to get a closer look, not your feet. And if you bring your dog hiking or camping, carry a leash so they don’t get too close either.

Squirrels and birds may play cute and beg for snacks, but don’t give in. Human food isn’t healthy for them and they might lose their ability to find their own. (And if the animal eating human food is a bear, things can get scary.)



### 7. Be considerate of other visitors

You’ll likely be sharing the trail or campsite with others, so be a good neighbour. Keep your #adventuresquad small and make sure other people have space to enjoy nature. Many people head outdoors to listen to the birds or the wind in the trees, so if your life requires a soundtrack, consider wearing headphones. The outdoors are for everyone, and we need to compromise and share so we can all go home with great memories.



*Want more tips? See the full set of [Leave No Trace principles](https://leavenotrace.ca/the-seven-principles-of-leave-no-trace/) or check out [#LeaveNoTraceTuesday](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/leavenotracetuesday/) on Instagram for new tips from Taryn (@happiestoutdoors).*



Our Leave No Trace expert breaks down the basic of how to be a good hiker and camper. Find out how to keep the outdoors awesome.

7 ways to camp and hike responsibly

Thank you for being our witnesses.

Of every second wind, kilometre crushed, shin iced, knee braced. Of every fuel up and cool down. Of every event entered. Of every challenge accepted.

To our friends and family who act as our tireless supporters and motivators on the sidelines of any race or event – thank you for being there to wish us luck before the starting pistol and to greet our sweaty, shaky selves at the finish line.

A race is a chance to set new records, to beat personal times and to prove to yourself that you can always be a better athlete. But it’s also a chance to take part in a larger event, to experience a collective environment that celebrates human tenacity and perseverance. Without loyal cheerers equipped with cold water, inspiring words and silly signs, these races wouldn’t be the same.



Thank you to our cheerers for enduring our whines about every ache and pain, for forgiving us for not coming out on weekends because we had to wake up [early to train](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-get-the-tempo-run-101). Thanks for being our champions, for massaging our calves (and, at times, our egos); thanks for every moment that you spent out in the cold, applauding our feats, without complaint.

We get the bibs, and sometimes even medals, but you deserve credit, too – for getting up early and braving the weather with us, for being prepared with snacks in your pockets and enough energy and cheer to motivate our next strides. While we may not be able to stop to thank you at the time, never underestimate how much a familiar face or word of encouragement helps push us through a difficult stretch.

Thank you for telling us to go for it, whether we faced muddied trails or sun-warmed streets, because you always believed that we would cross the finish line. The best supporters are those who tell us to get outside because they can see when we need them to; because they can’t wait to be there, cheering our names at the finish line, showing us how proud they are.



Whether we’re at the front of the crowd or dragging behind, whether it’s our first race or our twentieth, you turning up gives us something to run for.

Thanks for being there to meet us.

Thanks to our cheerers – cheers to you.

*Have a dedicated cheerer in your life? Share this post with them to say thanks for all their support, high-fives and hugs at the finish line.*



Behind every runner, there’s a high-five, hug and funny sign that keeps them going. This one goes out to the friends, family and cheerers on the sidelines.

Cheers to the cheerers

If you had asked me to go camping a few years ago, I would have found the first blanket to hide under. Back then, it just seemed like so much effort, and I wasn’t prepared to leave behind my cozy bed for the forest floor and a sleeping bag just yet.

But after my first time camping, I realized that your trip and your campsite are what you make of them. Adding comforts and character to your campsite can help your experience go from “roughing it” in the forest to a weekend more comfy and photo-worthy than one spent in the city. Even on a short getaway with friends, nothing beats getting a little indulgent and sprucing up your campsite, especially if you’re rolling there with a vehicle or are just a short walk to your site. Here are some tricks I’ve learned along the way that can bring a little more luxury to your next camping trip.

### Get fancy with meal planning


It’s a myth that camping means denying yourself the comforts or luxuries of home. With room in your trunk and some solid camping cookware, you can almost recreate a mini version of your very own kitchen, only outdoors.

Who’s to say you can’t cook a 3-course meal in the woods? There are lots of double burner stoves to choose from that are still light and compact, like the [GSI Pinnacle Pro 2 Burner Stove](/en/product/6005-634/pinnacle-pro-2-burner-stove), for instance. I like to poach marinated chicken in boiling water (all you need is a pot) until it’s shreddable and treat my campmates to chicken and pineapple tacos by the campfire. You can also step things up by charring corn on the campstove and adding it to the tacos or a cold salad.

When it comes time for dessert, check out these [6 gourmet s’mores recipes](/en/article/craft-smores-boost-your-camp-snack-game) for some simple (yet tasty) sweets. For even more ways to amp up your camp meals, see these [camp kitchen secrets](/en/article/camp-kitchen-secrets).

### Create the ultimate hangout spot


Beyond the basic tarp and tent combo, you can add a little flair to your campsite to make it feel more luxurious.

Some [cozy bedding](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-quilts-and-pillows) goes a very long way. When you’re car camping, there’s plenty more room in the trunk than there would be in a backpack, so why not take advantage? Bringing throw blankets and pillows can help you turn your tent set-up from comfortable to a full-on adult fort in the woods. Consider creating a tent “patio” with a tarp, blankets and some [deluxe camping chairs](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-furniture/chairs) to enjoy camp coffee and breakfast in the sunlight.

You can also make use of the space around you, including the trees in the area. Most of us are familiar with the tree-to-tree clothesline set up, but why not [hang up a hammock](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-furniture/hammocks) instead? For an afternoon lying horizontal under the trees, it’s worth the 5-minute set-up.

### Add mood lighting


Consider swapping out headlamps to create some mood lighting. Lanterns are an easy and quick way to give your campsite some ambiance. You make your own with tealights in glass containers or pick up some rechargeable or USB-powered options (like the [Black Diamond Moji R+ Lantern](/en/product/6017-046/moji-r%2B-lantern)). But to really jazz up your campsite, consider hanging LED accessory lights around your tent or from trees. It may seem like a small addition, but twinkling lights can have a magical effect on the most simplistic of campsites.

Of course, if you do have a headlamp, you can rig up some soft, glowy light with just a water bottle:



Water Bottle Lantern



Camping is a great way to spend time outdoors, and you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to do it. Whatever your camping ambitions are for the summer, remember the [Leave No Trace principles](http://www.leavenotrace.ca/principles) and check out [hiking and camping clinics](/en/explore/outdoor-impact) at MEC stores for more tips on outdoor adventures.



*Top photo: Shutterstock / ballphotographer*



Just because you’re in the forest doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun with your campsite set up. Find ways to add some comfy extras to your next trip.

Camp in comfort: Ways to improve your next escape | MEC Blog

Camp in comfort: ways to improve your next escape

Preparing for a multi-day festival getaway this summer? We’ve got your festival packing checklist covered. While it’s easy to get lost in the excitement of summer festival season, some simple planning and prep will go a long way to provide you with an amazing experience. This list covers the necessities and a few extras that you’ll be grateful you packed.

### Campsite set-up and sleeping
- [quality waterproof tent](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tents-and-shelters/tents) (so you can use it post-festival too)
- an easy way to find your tent, like a [bright light](/en/product/6015-578/radiant-rechargeable-shineline) or flag
- lock for your tent
- [sleeping bag](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-bags)
- [sleeping pad](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-pads)
- [camp chair](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-furniture/chairs) (look for lightweight, portable ones)
- [tarp or shade shelter](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tents-and-shelters/tarps-and-light-shelters)
- [extra blankets](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-quilts-and-pillows/blankets-and-quilts) for the chillier nights outside
- [camp pillow](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-quilts-and-pillows/camp-pillows)
- [light layers for sleeping](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear)
- [ear plugs](/en/product/6004-916/travel-earplugs-kit) and eye mask
- [headlamp](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/headlamps-and-lighting/headlamps) or [flashlight](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/headlamps-and-lighting/flashlights)
- [rechargeable lantern](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/headlamps-and-lighting/lanterns) or string lights

### Camp kitchen
- [camp stove and fuel](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/stoves-fuel-and-fire)
- [outdoor cookware](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/outdoor-cookware)
- [pot grabber](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/outdoor-cookware/pots-and-pot-sets/pot-handles-grippers-and-accessories)
- [utensils](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/camp-dinnerware/eating-utensils-and-cutlery-sets) (try out a spork!)
- [dishes](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/camp-dinnerware/mugs-cups-and-dishes/bowls-and-plates) (or save space and eat straight out of the pot)
- [cup or mug](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/camp-dinnerware/mugs-cups-and-dishes/camping-drinkware)
- [coffee maker](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/coffee-makers-and-kettles) (the [Aeropress](/en/product/6009-760/go-travel-coffee-press) is awesome)
- [portable table](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-furniture/tables) or [picnic blanket](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-furniture/beach-mats-and-sun-shades)
- [food and snacks ](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink)
- [water filter or treatment tablets](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/water-filters-and-treatment)
- [portable sink](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/outdoor-cookware/clean-up)
- [biodegradable dish soap and sponges](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/outdoor-cookware/clean-up)
- [lighter or waterproof matches](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/stoves-fuel-and-fire/fire-starters-and-matches)
- [cooler](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/coolers-and-food-storage/coolers) and ice
- [food storage containers](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/coolers-and-food-storage/food-containers)
- garbage bags (the garbage bins aren’t always close by)
- [multi-tool](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-and-accessories/knives-and-tools/multi-tools)
- can opener
- bottle opener/corkscrew
- hand-crank blender
- [ice cream ball](/en/product/5040-220/softshell-ice-cream-ball-pint)

### Festival essentials
- map of the festival/campground
- schedule of what’s happening
- [sunscreen](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/bath-and-sanitation-products/sun-protection)
- [sunglasses](/en/products/cycling/sunglasses)
- [jacket](/en/products/clothing/jackets) and [warm layers](/en/products/clothing/fleece-hoodies-and-sweaters/hoodies-and-sweaters) for the evening
- [waterproof outer layers](/en/products/clothing/jackets/rain-jackets) (ponchos work well and pack small)
- extra [underwear](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/underwear) and [socks](/en/products/footwear/socks)
- [comfy t-shirts](/en/products/clothing/shirts-and-tops/t-shirts) (look for ones with UPF rating)
- [pants and shorts ](/en/products/clothing/bottoms)
- [hat](/en/products/clothing/clothing-accessories/hats-and-toques/caps)
- [bandana or neck gaiter](/en/products/clothing/clothing-accessories/headwear/neck-gaiters-and-scarves)
- camera and phone
- [extra power source](/en/products/travel-gear/travel-electronics/chargers-and-adapters)
- [water bottle](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-travel-mugs/water-bottles) ([hydration bags](/en/products/packs-and-bags/hydration-packs-and-accessories/bladders-reservoirs-and-accessories) make it super easy to sip)

### Other daytime activity gear
- [comfortable shoes](/en/products/footwear/shoes) or [boots](/en/products/footwear/boots)
- [daypack](/en/products/packs-and-bags/daypacks-and-school-bags)
- yoga mat
- [portable camp games](/en/products/kids/kids-activities/games)
- [speakers and headphones](/en/products/electronics/radios-and-headphones/headphones-and-speakers)
- [sandals](/en/products/footwear/sandals) for around camp

### Personal items and extras
- [first aid kit](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/first-aid-kits-and-supplies/first-aid-kits)
- [extra batteries](/en/products/travel-gear/travel-electronics/batteries)
- [pack towel](/en/products/travel-gear/travel-accessories/towels)
- [stuff sacks](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-quilts-and-pillows/compression-bags-and-stuff-sacks)
- [toothbrush and toothpaste](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/bath-and-sanitation-products/showers-soap-travel-toothbrushes)
- [soap](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/bath-and-sanitation-products/showers-soap-travel-toothbrushes) and [hand sanitizer](/en/product/6016-045/lavender-organic-hand-sanitizer-59ml)
- [extra toilet paper](/en/product/5010-241/tissue-on-the-go-toilet-paper)
- [bug spray ](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/bug-spray-and-bug-nets)
- cash and credit card

To make things easier on yourself and your fellow festival-goers, you can find all the gear on this festival checklist in lightweight, compact versions – which also makes them great options for apartment dwellers. The great news about this list is that you can tailor it to your other weekend getaways. Not only will you be festival-ready, but you’ll be set for all your summer adventures.

*Have any questions? Stop by your [local MEC store](/en/stores) to chat with staff who can help you get ready for camping, either at festivals or other campsites.*



Heading to a multi-day festival this summer? Here’s your packing checklist. Don’t forget your headlamp, camp chairs, Aeropress, speakers and more.

MEC Blog