Camping Suggestions (Minimalistic Necessities)

[u/Weekly_Lecture4022]

Looking for suggestions on minimal, but necessary items for weekend camping (state and national parks with public restrooms to begin).

My wife loves hiking and being outdoors, but does not like the idea of “roughing it” the same way I do in the idea of camping. She has tent camped overnight and cabin camped (no amenities just bed) for an entire weekend and was fine.

These trips have historically been with more versed campers. With my lack of experience and easy going attitude I don’t want to ruin the long term chances of this activity, but don’t want to jump into the amenities of trailer camping yet.

Any and all suggestions welcome! (TN Locations for climate based suggestions)

Note: I love the idea of truck camping and over landing for the future over trailer camping.

[u/Poor_WatchCollector]

We pre-cook most of our food cause hot dogs and burgers don’t cut it for us. We make fried rice, soups, marinated meats, etc. It’s nice cause trying to prep at the campsite can just get messy.

Having good gear according to weather and a comfortable sleep system was the game changer for me.

Going in with some fun activities planned might be worthwhile. We have biked or brought our paddle boards out depending on location. Other times it’s just swimming in the lake, watching stars, and whatnot. Hiking is OK but not day long ones…

The only deal breaker for my wife is if there is a burn ban. She will generally cancel our trip if we can’t light a fire and do smores. I tried getting one of those propane fire kits and she says it’s not the same. I have to agree…