There’s nothing quite like camping. Whether you’re near Durdle Door or camping on Brownsea Island, it’s the best way to soak up the outdoors.
The right accessory can turn a basic camping trip into something way more comfortable. And honestly? A lot more fun.
They’re mostly small, helpful tools that just make camp life smoother. Below are some of our favourites—tried, tested, and built for a better time outdoors
14 Clever Camping Accessories for Your Next Dorset Adventure
COTGCO Mini Espresso Maker
If you want rich espresso without the mess while camping or hiking, this little gadget keeps things simple.
Pros
- Makes quick, barista-style coffee on the go
- Simple, one-touch operation
- Compact and easy to pack
Cons
- Only works with certain capsule brands
This mini espresso maker slips right into a backpack, making it perfect for packing light when camping in one of Dorset’s beautiful camping locations. I love a good coffee, especially when I’m away. There’s something peaceful about sipping a fresh espresso with the sun rising and everything still—it just feels right.
One button. No faff. Just coffee and a sunrise. With a built-in battery, you don’t need to hunt for power—just bring your favourite compatible capsules and you’re good to go.
Bramble Heavy Duty Car Roof Bag
If you’re looking for a clever way to add extra packing space to your car, this roof bag is for you.
Pros
- Fits cars with or without roof racks
- Waterproof and holds a lot
- Simple to attach and take off
Cons
- Needs careful packing for best stability
I’ve used this bag on loads of family trips. It really helped us at Camp Bestival, back when our car was smaller and the kids wanted to bring everything. Just putting our bell tent in the boot took up most of the car space.
This roof bag allowed us to take bedding, gear, food, clothes, and all the other things the kids wanted to bring. Without it, I’d have had to seriously cut back on what I brought. Trust me, if you have a family, this is a MUST.
FLEXTAILGEAR Tiny Pump
Want a small gadget that speeds up camp set-up? This little pump is a smart addition to your kit.
Pros
- Fits right in a pocket or rucksack
- Makes inflating and deflating quick
- Can double as a handy camp light
Cons
- Can be a bit noisy
After setting up the tent, the last thing you want is to spend ages with a foot pump blowing up beds, especially with kids running around hyped up. This little pump keeps your camping sanity intact.
It’s light. It’s quick. It works. What more do you want when the kids are yelling and the airbed’s still flat?
Landworks Enhanced Rotomolded Cooler
This cooler’s a solid pick for anyone chasing reliable ice retention without paying top-brand prices.
Pros
- Holds ice for days, even in warm weather
- Strong, thick walls offer impressive durability
- Features like built-in bottle openers add real convenience
Cons
- Quite heavy once loaded
This is one of those things I took to Camp Bestival, and it made a big difference. Having a cooler that actually kept food and drinks cold all weekend meant I could bring proper meals for us, no relying on food stalls, which I’m sure you know, can be pricey when there’s a few of you. Having this probably saved us a fair bit of money.
If you want a reliable alternative to pricier brands like Yeti, this one’s a standout.
Sea to Summit Lite Line Clothesline
This clever clothesline is a great pick for anyone who needs a super-portable way to dry clothes, camping locally in Dorset or even abroad.
Pros
- Lightweight and fits into even the smallest bag
- No need for pegs, thanks to rubber beads
- Holds several pieces of clothing at once
Cons
- Can be tricky to find places to attach it indoors
This compact clothesline solves the age-old problem of drying clothes on the go without hogging space. The two cords with beads grip fabric instead of pegs, so socks, towels, and shirts stay put—even on gusty days.
It’s easy to set up between trees, posts, or anything sturdy, which is ideal for camping in Dorset. The included pouch helps make sure it doesn’t disappear into the depths of your rucksack.
Finding attachment points inside can be a pain, but outside it’s usually a breeze. So for anyone after a lightweight, hassle-free drying fix, this could be just the thing.
ELECOM NESTOUT Outdoor Power Bank
If you camp in all sorts of weather, this rugged charger’s a solid pick for reliability and clever features.
Pros
- Built tough against drops, water, and dust
- Quick-charging USB-C keeps our devices ready
- Modular design for lamps and tripods
Cons
- Heavier than most portable chargers
The ELECOM NESTOUT Outdoor Power Bank keeps phones and tablets topped up when I’m off-grid with the family, even during a wet and windy Dorset weekend (I’ve had a few wet ones).
Its waterproof and shockproof build means you can trust that it won’t let you down.
There are even attachments to turn it into a lantern if you want to expand its use.
It’s on the heavier side, so it belongs in a rucksack instead of a pocket. It’s what you’d expect for a heavy-duty power bank.
Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel
This practical folding shovel gives me a handy tool for multiple camping tasks without hogging space in the kit.
Pros
- Versatile design lets us use it as a shovel, pickaxe, or hoe
- Strong carbon steel build stands up to tough outdoor work
- Packs down small, so it’s easy to fit in our camping bag
Cons
- The carry pouch is a tight fit
This is one of those tools you don’t realise you need—until you really do. It’s great for clearing uneven ground before pitching a tent, or for digging a quick fire pit safely.
The solid steel build handles tough soil with ease and folds down small when you’re done. Defo one of those items that earns its space in the kit every time
TREKOLOGY YIZI GO Camping Chair
If you want a clever mix of comfort and portability for your next camping trip, this chair’s an easy pick.
Pros
- Packs down small and fits easily into backpacks
- Offers good lower back support for relaxing by the fire
- Quick set-up with stable feet for different terrains
Cons
- Poles can feel awkward when packing away
This is one of those chairs you end up using way more than you’d expect. It’s so light and compact, it’s not just for camping, but even for quick trips to the woods. It’s great being able to throw it down and relax without filling the whole boot with bulky chairs. Surprisingly comfy, too.
WEKAPO Air Lounger Sofa
This portable inflatable lounger could make our camping trips in Dorset a lot more comfortable—and honestly, more fun.
Pros
- Inflates by waving in the air—no pump needed
- Packs away small and light for camping
- Breathable polyester material feels cool and durable
Cons
- Takes a bit of practice to master inflation
Whether I’m at the beach, in the garden, or out camping, this lounger’s been a brilliant bit of kit. It’s super light, easy to carry, and inflates without a pump. You might get a few funny looks while you’re waving it around to fill it, but the comfort makes up for it, perfect for lounging in the sun.
Blukar Camping Lantern
Looking for a decent lantern for your tent or find your way a campsite at night? This bright, affordable option could be worth a look.
Pros
- Lots of lighting modes for different needs
- Rechargeable battery—no hunting for spares
- Easy to hang anywhere, even on a tree branch
Cons
- Flipping through seven light modes can get a bit fiddly
I find this really handy, especially at night when it’s hung from the top of our bell tent. It’s great being able to dim it for reading or turn it up when I need more light—way better than fumbling around with a phone torch. The battery lasts well, and the hook makes it easy to hang anywhere
Campingaz Camp Bistro Stove
This handy stove is a great pick if you want a compact camp cooker that keeps meal times simple outdoors.
Pros
- Takes up little space and is easy to carry
- Simple to light and adjust the flame
- Feels safe with the built-in lock and valve
Cons
- Might struggle to boil water quickly if it’s windy
Don’t just think bacon! You can whip bacon sarnies, sure. Or go wild with Thai curry and naan. In a field. Why not? It’s not your typical camping food, but it works. Toast the naan right after, and it’s spot on. And yes can still fry up bacon or sausages in the morning for a tasty bap.
Simple to use. Easy to carry. And a must if you want decent food while camping.
LIFETIME Folding Picnic Table Set
This camping table set is a solid pick if you want something sturdy for your next outdoor meal.
It’s practical and handles a bit of rough use, which is honestly what you need for camping.
Pros
- Solid and durable build
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Benches tuck neatly away for storage
Cons
- Heavier than other folding tables
Once you’ve cooked dinner—yes, even a Thai curry with warm naan—this table is just what you need. It’s solid, packs neatly, and gives everyone a proper place to sit together. A lot more civilised than eating on your lap or juggling plates on the ground.
It’s not one of those must-haves when camping, but if you’ve got the space for it, then it’s defo one of those nice-to-have things.
COVACURE Camping Beach Blanket
If you’re after a clever accessory for group outings or family camping, this blanket is a simple, handy solution.
Pros
- Fits several people comfortably
- Multiple zipped pockets keep essentials safe
- Packs down very small for easy transport
Cons
- Only one corner pocket for sand weighs it down
The COVACURE Beach Blanket Mat gives you plenty of room for friends or family. You can use it for the beach, camping, and picnics.
At 210 x 200 cm, it’s big enough for everyone and all your stuff. The extra pockets along the edges are perfect for keys or phones, and the included pegs help keep the mat anchored when the wind picks up.
Sandproof and waterproof features mean you can relax without worrying about getting wet or covered in sand.
Grayl GeoPress Water Bottle
If you camp or hike in Dorset (or anywhere really), this water purifier bottle makes it easier to stay hydrated without stressing about what’s in the water.
Pros
- Super simple—just fill, press, and drink
- Removes a bunch of contaminants, from bacteria to chemicals
- No batteries or complicated bits to mess with
Cons
- A bit bulkier than a regular water bottle
You don’t always need a water purifier when camping, but it’s great peace of mind if you’re heading out for a walk or camping more remotely. It lets you grab water from a stream, lake, or tap and drink it safely. Lightweight, easy to use, and a smart one to have in the bag just in case.
Matador FlatPak Toiletry Case
Packing light for a Dorset campsite or quick weekend away? This compact toiletry bag could be a game changer if you care about saving space.
Pros
- Squeezes down to fit just what you pack
- Lets your toothbrush dry even when zipped up—no soggy mess
- Waterproof, so your gear stays dry
Cons
- Honestly, it’s probably too small for longer trips
Packing light? This toiletry case is a great little space-saver. Instead of taking full-size bottles, you can just put what you need into these smaller toiletry cases. They take up hardly any space and keep everything neat and waterproof. It’s also travel-approved, so you can chuck it in your hand luggage if you’re flying. A handy bit of kit for weekend camping trips, or anywhere you don’t want to overpack.
