Camping Gear for Couples

This Exped sleeping pad is AMAZING.

We recently upgraded our too-thin sleeping pads for this cushiony, lightweight pad.

Why?

Because after several sleepless, cold nights in Yosemite, I said I would never backpack again unless we figured out a better sleeping situation.

Sleepless nights make me grouchy.

The Exped duo fits two people on one sleeping pad (yay!).

This pad weighs about 3 lbs, rolls up compactly, and is comfortable even for side sleepers. It has an R-value of 4.9, so it's great even in extremely cold weather.

We spent a long time looking for compact sleeping bags that we could carry easily in a backpack.

Of course, since we own the Exped duo sleeping pad, a double sleeping bag (that fits two!) seemed like an awesome idea.

There was one problem.

I hate mummy-style sleeping bags. The thought of my legs being wrapped up and unable to move makes me feel jittery.

Sadly, almost every lightweight, compact, double sleeping bag out there is mummy-style.

Finally, we discovered the camping quilt.

A camping quilt is designed to act like a blanket and wrap around the sleeping pad.

This camping quilt weighs about 2 lbs and will keep both you and your partner warm and cozy.

This trekking pole tent isn't exactly a spacious glamping tent, but it is PERFECT for backpacking.

Or any other time when you don't want to pack a heavy tent.

This tent uses trekking poles for support instead of tent poles and stakes, so you're only carrying the weight of the tent itself in your pack.

This tent is perfect for two people because it uses two trekking poles. How convenient!

Plus, it's about $400 cheaper than the cheapest 3lb backpacking tent at REI! Love it!

The trekking pole tent above is perfect if you and your partner are backpacking, but what if you're car camping?

If you want something a little roomier, try this 3-person Coleman Sundome Tent.

It's roomy enough for two adults (and their bags!), easy to setup, and has a removable rainfly.

My husband and I have been using this Sawyer Squeeze water filter system for years.

It's easy to use, and unlike personal water filters (like LifeStraw), this water filter works for two (or more!).

We use the Sawyer Squeeze to refill our water bladders and bottles from creeks and rivers along the trail, and have been incredibly happy with it.

When my husband and I first started camping together, we brought along plastic wine glasses.

And from day 1, the plastic glasses were ANNOYING.

Plastic wine glasses almost always have an uncomfortable rim with a flat, sharp edge. And after a few uses, those plastic glasses started to look scratched.

Plus, wine doesn't taste quite as delicious in a plastic glass.

Recently, we replaced our plastic wine glasses with these stainless steel wine glasses. And they are WONDERFUL. I highly recommend them!

If one or both of you love to start your day with coffee, don't compromise while you're camping!

Skipping your morning coffee (or drinking bad coffee) is a recipe for a grouchy hiking partner.

Instead, grab this portable espresso maker! My husband likes to make us a cup of espresso in the morning AND when we reach our destination on the trail.

If you want to make espresso on the trail (or at a campground), make sure to pack a backpacking stove (or camping stove), some water, and espresso grounds (we like Illy grounds).