How To...Camp As Comfortable as A Guide: 11 Non-Essential Pieces of Gear Really Nice to Have

If there's one thing professional outdoor guides know how to do, it's camp efficiently—but that doesn't mean they don't also camp comfortably. We asked four of Eastside Sports' staff members (Colin, Tess, Scott, and Reader), each with guide experience in the Eastern Sierra and beyond, to share their favorite *non-essential* pieces of gear that seriously elevate life in the backcountry. These are the little luxuries and smart upgrades they actually carry, because they know from experience: a bit of comfort can go a long way.

Whether you're planning a summer backpacking trip, building your personal wishlist, or shopping for the perfect graduation, birthday, or "just because" gift, this list offers some solid inspiration. And yes, all of these items are available right here at Eastside Sports or on our website.

------------------------------

**Colin's Picks**

1. Nemo Chipper Foam Pad: A recycled foam pad that's lightweight, super durable, and perfect for sitting anywhere. Colin uses this as his go-to buttpad for mealtime, rest breaks, or just hanging out at camp. It adds comfort, insulation, and keeps your pants clean—way better than plopping down on bare dirt or rocks. Trust us when we say...you don't think you need a buttpad until you bring one on a trip...and then you never go back.

2. Black Diamond Apollo Lantern: More than just a light source, the Apollo turns your tent into a cozy, communal space. It's great for playing cards, reading, or journaling after dark without blinding your tent-mates. Rechargeable and compact, it’s a real morale booster on long trips.

3. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad: Colin swears by this pad for its warmth-to-weight ratio and packability. It’s warm enough for high elevation nights and quiet enough that it doesn’t sound like a bag of chips every time you roll over. Solid sleep is essential to enjoying your outdoor experience (or just making it less frustrating?)—this pad delivers.

------------------------------

**Tess' Picks**

4. Sea to Summit Aeros™ Premium Pillow: Tess has tried the ol' stuff-a-jacket trick. It works—but it doesn’t compare to this ultralight inflatable pillow. Comfortable, compact, and covered in soft knit fabric, it feels like an actual pillow and packs down to the size of an egg (no joke!).

5. Sunday Afternoons Sun Hat: A quality sun hat makes all the difference during long summer days. Tess loves any of the Sunday Afternoons styles we carry for their full brim protection, UPF 50+ fabric, and lightweight breathability. Fashion meets function. Worried about looking cool? Well, to that we say, what could be cooler than not having sun cancer in two decades?!

6. Petzl Bindi Headlamp: Perfect for camp use, this minimalist 200 lumen headlamp is USB rechargeable and ultralight. Tess loves that it stays secure without feeling heavy, has just the right amount of lumens for reading or cooking in the dark, and won’t die after one night.

------------------------------

**Scott's Picks**

7. Travel Games (Cards, Foldable Boardgames, etc.): After a long day on trail, few things beat sitting around with friends and playing a game. Scott recommends packing lightweight entertainment like cards or mini game sets. It fosters connection and fun that doesn’t require a screen because we all know you don't go to the backcountry just to hang out on your phone some more!

8. Gossamer Gear Lightrek Hiking Umbrella: This ultralight umbrella provides serious shade on exposed terrain and keeps you dry in a drizzle. Scott loves it for its weight, durability, and ability to create personal comfort zones anywhere—whether trekking through sun-blasted meadows or hanging out in camp.

------------------------------

**Reader's Picks**

9. ENO Double Hammock: Reader never skips the chance to string up an ENO hammock. It’s the ultimate camp lounge setup, weighs barely over a pound, and is strong enough for two people or one sprawled-out nap. Bonus: it can double as a bed if needed.

10. Big Agnes Skyline UL Camp Chair: No more balancing on sketchy rocks or soggy logs. This camp chair is light, sturdy, and seriously comfortable. Reader likes using it while cooking, hanging by the fire, or just soaking up the view with some morning coffee.

11. A Great Book: Sometimes the best gear isn’t gear. Reader always packs a compelling read: a local trail guide, stargazing book, or something literary like Sierra Stories or John Muir Wilderness Essays. It’s an easy way to unwind and deepen your appreciation for the places you’re exploring.

------------------------------

**Wrap-Up**

All 11 of these items are available here at the store in Bishop, CA or online at eastsidesports.com....and better yet...this is just a small sample of the extras that can make your outdoor life more enjoyable. Have questions? Need tips? Want recommendations for your next trip? Give us a call, shoot us an email, or stop by the store—we're always happy to help make your time outside more comfortable and fulfilling.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Need Help Prepping for Your Summer Adventure Gear? If you're in need of sleeping bags, hiking boots (Men/Women), trekking poles, crampons, ice axes, or other gear (backpacks, tents, etc.) for your adventures, you can rent or buy everything that you would need with us here at Eastside Sports.

Got a More Specific Question? As always, don't hesitate to call us at store (760-873-7520) if ever in need of adventure ideas or conditions information!

Want to get information like this all the time?? All you have to do is join our email list and you will get free standard shipping on any online order of $15 or more!