Camping gear

At MEC, we know that a great camping trip starts with the right gear. Whether you are heading out for a weekend in the woods or a multi-day backcountry adventure, you will find the essentials you need to camp comfortably and confidently.

Tents, sleeping bags and so much more

Our lineup of camping gear includes high-quality tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and camp kitchen equipment. From solo shelters to spacious family tents, MEC offers a range of designs tested in Canadian conditions. Our sleeping bags and insulated mats are made to keep you warm through cool nights, and our camp stoves help you whip up everything from morning coffee to full meals under the stars. You will also find durable backpacks, cooking sets, water filters, and lighting to round out your setup. MEC Label gear is built to be reliable, versatile and accessible, offering the performance you need at a price we are proud to stand behind. Our in-house designs focus on long-lasting materials, smart features, and gear you can depend on year after year.

Comfort and safety in the great outdoors

Looking for more creature comforts? Camp chairs, portable tables, hammocks and camp furniture help bring extra relaxation to your site. Plus, we carry bear safety gear and first aid essentials to make sure you are ready for whatever the trail throws at you. No matter how you camp, MEC’s collection is designed to get you outdoors and keep you there longer. We are proud to offer gear for beginners, seasoned trekkers and everyone in between. If you are gearing up for your first overnight or planning a serious expedition, our gear experts can help you find what you need to make it a success. Explore camping gear at MEC and get ready to sleep under the stars with confidence.

Frequently asked questions

What basic camping gear do I need?

At a minimum, you’ll need a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, portable stove or cooking system, a light source (like a headlamp or lantern), and appropriate clothing. For safety, it's smart to carry a first aid kit, water filtration, and navigation tools. Check out our article on the 10 essentials for hiking and camping to get a list of gear you can’t forget.

What should I look for when choosing a tent?

When figuring out how to choose a tent, think about how many people it needs to fit and the type of conditions you’ll face. Look for tents with strong waterproof ratings, sturdy poles, and full-coverage rainflies if you expect rain. If you'll be backpacking, prioritize lightweight models that pack down small. Ease of setup is important too, especially if you’ll be pitching camp after a long day. Ventilation, durability, and storage pockets inside the tent can also make a big difference in your camping experience.

How do I pick the right sleeping bag?

Knowing how to choose a sleeping bag depends heavily on temperature ratings. Always check the bag's comfort rating (the lowest temp at which you'll sleep comfortably) and consider how cold it might actually get where you’re camping. Decide between down (lighter and warmer but sensitive to moisture) and synthetic insulation (more affordable and insulates when wet). Also think about the shape — mummy bags are warmer and lighter, while rectangular bags offer more room to move.

What’s the difference between front country and backcountry camping?

Front country (or car camping) gear can afford to be heavier, larger, and more comfort-focused because you don't need to carry it far. Think bigger tents, plush sleeping pads and full kitchen setups. Backpacking or backcountry camping gear, on the other hand, must be lightweight and compact since you’ll be carrying it on your back all day. Materials in backpacking gear tend to be more technical and expensive to help save weight without sacrificing performance.