Essential Backyard Camping Supplies for the Ultimate Staycation

Key Takeaways

• Learning how to backyard camp involves picking a flat spot, setting up a tent, and bringing snacks outside, so you can enjoy nature without leaving home.
• Tents, sleeping bags, and cookware are essential backyard camping supplies.
• Backyard camping is a great way to test out new gear or introduce your family to the experience.

Camping, whether alone or with a group, is one of the best ways to disconnect from screens and enjoy the beauty of nature. No work. No responsibilities. Just you and the outdoors.

But sometimes, heading to the great outdoors just isn’t possible. The family’s schedule doesn’t align. That new camping gear hasn’t been tested. The weather rains on your plans. Or maybe you’re just not in the mood for a long car ride to a state park or campground.

When wilderness adventures are out of reach, turn to the backyard! It’s a convenient, low-stress way to enjoy the fun of the outdoors with zero travel time – and full access to indoor bathrooms. All you need are the right backyard camping supplies.

How to Backyard Camp: What You’ll Need and What to Do

Your staycation setup can be as rugged or cozy as you’d like. Use these essential backyard camping supplies to get started, and make any adjustments as needed.

You’ll notice we’ve left out your usual camping gear essentials, like first aid supplies. This is because your home being just steps away eliminates the need for survival gear and emergency items.

Choose Your Tent

You’ll need simple shelter to set up camp in your backyard. Military surplus tents are an excellent option because they’re lightweight, yet durable enough to withstand years of use. Some even feature blackout capabilities for a good night’s sleep, even among streetlamps and illuminated neighborhood houses.

When you’re ready to camp, pick a flat, clean spot in your backyard to pitch your tent. While it’s completely optional, we recommend placing down a canvas tarp to protect your tent floor from dirt and rocks.

Reminder: If you have sprinklers, don’t forget to turn them off before you set everything up!

Get a Sleeping Bag That Accommodates Your Needs

Lawns can accumulate a lot of morning dew. That means a simple blanket setup won’t cut it. Military sleeping bags not only provide ground insulation but light moisture protection, often made from water-resistant materials like nylon. 

Camping with your kids?

Choose a kids-specific bag. Adult sleeping bags are too large, leaving empty space that a child’s body cannot heat up efficiently. These backyard camping supplies should also be made from a synthetic material like polyester. It’ll keep your kid warm, even if it gets wet from condensation and spills!

Prepping for a future wilderness trip? 

Prioritize a lightweight, compact tent for easy packability. You should also match your equipment rating to a safety margin of 10° to 15° F below your expected overnight lows.

Bring Blankets for Extra Warmth and Comfort

Backyard camping supplies aren’t just about practicality. They’re about comfort, too! You can bring a woobie blanket or a throw for extra warmth around the campfire, added comfort in your tent, and even as a ground layer for outdoor relaxing.

Pillows also help create the perfect staycation vibe!

Backyard Camping Food and Cooking Supplies

Cooking is a big part of learning how to backyard camp. Sure, your kitchen is just inside, but cooking over an open flame or portable stove makes the experience that much more authentic. 

Opt for easy-to-prepare foods like classic hot dogs, sandwiches, and foil-packet meals, made by wrapping meat, potatoes, and vegetables in heavy-duty foil to cook over warm coals. S’mores are also great for kids and casual campers.

Some essential backyard camping supplies for cooking include:

• Stove or sterno
• Mess kits or cookware, like can openers and utensils
• Lighters or fire starters, if you’re cooking over a backyard fire pit
• Heavy-duty foil for wrapping and protecting your food while it cooks
• A sharp knife or tactical multi-tool for cutting food or packaging
• A cooler packed with ice for any perishable food
• Trash bags for your food waste

Have Proper Lighting for Safe Movement After Dark

It’ll be dark on the way back inside for bathroom breaks. Make sure everyone can safely navigate to and from your backyard site with a camping flashlight. Headlamps are also excellent backyard camping supplies if you prefer hands-free navigation.

Looking to set the mood? You can set up lanterns or even string lights along your fence or tent lines to create a soft and cozy glow.

Bring the Entertainment

When night falls in the wilderness, that’s usually time for stargazing and telling stories by the campfire. Why should it be any different in the backyard? Bring a few board games or card games outside, use a projector to watch movies, stargaze, or anything else your friends and family prefer.

Add Clothes to Protect Against Mosquitoes and Cool Nighttime Temps

Learning how to backyard camp, or camp anywhere, for that matter, calls for the right military clothing. It’s your primary defense against wind, moisture, and dipping temperatures at night. It also protects you from mosquitoes and other pesky insects!

Since you’re close to home, you’ll just need the basics:

• Pajamas or thermal clothes
• A change of clothes, like an outdoor shirt and BDU pants
• An Army hoodie, MA-1 bomber jacket, or other outwear to stay warm at night
• A ball cap or hat, if you get cold

Grab Supplies for Your Backyard Camping Adventure

There aren’t any rules when it comes to backyard camping. Pick and choose from our list to meet your needs. You can even add items, whether it’s camp chairs or new survival gear you want to try out. 

With our affordable camping gear at Army Surplus World, you’ll be prepared for any excursion. Stock up to enjoy the perfect staycation!