Top 10 Essential Camping Items Under £50 You Need for Your First Trip
Introduction
Finding the right essential camping items under £50 can make all the difference when you’re starting out. Camping is one of the best ways to explore the outdoors, enjoy quality time with friends and family, and disconnect from the daily routine — and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Many beginners worry that they need to spend hundreds of pounds on specialist equipment, but that’s simply not the case. With a few smart choices, you can gather everything you need for a great outdoor experience without breaking the bank.
Choosing affordable, reliable gear is the key to enjoying your first camping trips. There are plenty of high-quality options available from trusted brands, and if you know what to look for, you can put together a full starter kit for a surprisingly low price. From tents and sleeping bags to cooking gear and lighting, you can find essential camping items under £50 that are durable, practical, and easy to use.
Camping on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or fun. It just means shopping smart and focusing on what really matters: staying warm, dry, safe, and fed. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip to a local campsite or your first big outdoor adventure, the right affordable gear will set you up for success and help you enjoy the experience from the start.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the top 10 essential camping items you can buy for under £50 in the UK. These items offer fantastic value and will give you the confidence to set out on your first camping trip fully prepared — without spending a fortune.
1. Affordable 2-Person Tent
A good tent doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Brands like Decathlon’s Quechua offer reliable 2-person tents that pop up easily and offer decent waterproofing — often for under £50. Perfect for weekend getaways or first-time campers.
2. Three-Season Sleeping Bag
Stay warm without spending big. Vango and Mountain Warehouse sell excellent three-season sleeping bags for around £30–£45, keeping you comfortable on chilly UK nights.
3. Roll Mat or Foam Sleeping Pad
A basic foam sleeping pad provides essential insulation and comfort. You can pick one up from most outdoor shops for under £20, helping you get a better night’s sleep while camping.
4. Lightweight Camping Stove
Cooking outdoors is simple with a compact stove like the Campingaz Camp Bistro or similar models, often available for £20–£30. Great for boiling water, making coffee, or cooking easy meals.
5. Compact Camping Chair
Relax around the campfire in a basic foldable chair. You can find camping chairs at Decathlon, Go Outdoors, or online for around £10–£25.
6. Rechargeable Lantern or Head Torch
Lighting is essential for campsite safety and convenience. A rechargeable head torch or a compact lantern is available for under £20 and makes a huge difference after dark.
7. Cooking Set (Pots, Pans, Utensils)
Simple camping cooksets usually include a small pot, pan, and utensils. Basic sets from Amazon, Decathlon, or GO Outdoors are often under £30 and lightweight for carrying.
8. Power Bank (Portable Charger)
Keeping your phone charged is important for maps, photos, and safety. A reliable portable charger can be picked up for under £30, and it’s useful beyond camping trips too.
9. First Aid Kit
Always pack a basic first aid kit for minor cuts, bites, and scrapes. You can find decent kits for £10–£20 at pharmacies, Amazon, or outdoor stores.
10. Collapsible Water Container
Carrying and storing water at your campsite is much easier with a collapsible container. These are often under £20 and save space when packing.
Final Tips for Budget Campers
Look out for seasonal sales at outdoor stores — many offer huge discounts at the end of summer. Check Facebook Marketplace, Vinted, or Gumtree for second-hand bargains. Remember, you don’t have to buy everything at once. Start small and add gear as you gain more camping experience.
Conclusion
You don’t have to spend a fortune to start camping. With a little smart shopping, you can gather all your essentials for under £50 each. Whether you’re planning your first night under the stars or gearing up for a weekend adventure, these budget-friendly items will set you up for success — without emptying your wallet.
If you missed our post about camping on a budget, be sure to check out our Beginner’s Guide to Camping on a Budget in the UK.
You can find even more great budget camping gear at Decathlon’s camping range, which is ideal for beginners.
Alex H.
Savvy Camper