Depending on where you live, your definition of “camping season” might vary. Personally, I grew up in the south, where most camping takes place in the fall. While the weather never really gets too cold for sleeping out under the stars, you wouldn’t dare head out into the wilderness to brave the baking sun, sticky nights, and mosquitos that brutalize the early summer months. But once the heat breaks and that autumn crispness sneaks into the evening air, everyone starts buzzing about s’mores, sleeping bags, and campfires.
I was a girl scout throughout most of my childhood, and I’ll still happily brag about all the skills I picked up while camping with my troops over the years. I can cook you a five-star meal over the campfire, pitch a tent in record time, and show you how to lay out the sleeping bags and blankets just so as to ensure minimum discomfort from sleeping on the ground.
If I’m honest, though, I’ve always preferred venturing out into the great outdoors with as many creature comforts as possible. My favorite early camping memory is from Disney World’s Fort Wilderness (not exactly “roughing it”), and it was always my dream to trade my run-of-the-mill scouting experience for one that was more like something out of Troop Beverly Hills. As an adult, I tend to approach camping with that good old girl scout motto in mind: “be prepared.” I like spending time in nature, but I want to bring my favorite comforts and conveniences along with me.
Planning a few camping trips in the coming months? A subscription is a great way to add a little pizzazz and fun to your upcoming excursions. I’ve compiled a list of my 5 favorite subscriptions that are great for bringing along camping. Let’s check them out!
1. Marshmallow of the Month Club
Whether your days will be filled with hiking, canoeing, lounging, or swimming, if you’re headed out camping, there’s a good chance you’ll end your day around the campfire. And where there’s a campfire, there better be marshmallows. Marshmallow of the Month Club is practically made for camping. Boxes come with a beverage for dunking (choose between coffee, tea, and cocoa), graham crackers for s'mores (pick gluten-free or standard), along with some fun extras like tealights and chocolate kisses. The marshmallows are made with all-natural ingredients, no corn syrup or eggs, and they're pescatarian-friendly. Plans start at $20 per month. Check out our Marshmallow of the Month brand page to learn more.
ACTIVE DEAL: Save 5% off your first box with a 3 or 6-month subscription
CODE: METIME
2. Bespoke Post
If you're the kind of person who's always looking for that extra little thing you didn't know you wanted, check out Bespoke Post. Every month, several new curated boxes are released, and as a subscriber, you can choose whichever one is calling your name. Outdoor supplies, tools, and gadgets are often featured, and there are plenty of current boxes available that would be perfect to bring along on your next camping trip. Carlos' last review showcased "Toss," which features the Finnish lawn game Mölkky, along with a koozy and notebook to help you keep score. Need something with more oomph? Check out "Terra," a box with an all-purpose field knife as the hero item, or "Trail," which includes a hunting knife and outdoor geat. Not into weaponry? Maybe something artistic will be more your speed. "Focus" will get you a National Parks coloring book and a colored pencil set, perfect for getting artsy while fireside. Bespoke Post costs $45 per month, or you can nab a single box for $55 without a subscription. Check out our brand page for more info.
3. Cairn
If nature is your middle name and you love spending time outdoors, check out Cairn. While this subscription tends to skew a little "crunchy" for yours truly, it's a great match for those who take their camping seriously. Each shipment from Cairn features "gear, apparel, food, skincare, and emergency supplies" that are all curated with recreational enthusiasts in mind. Fire starters, water filters, and natural deodorant have all popped up in past boxes, and the "vibe" is useful, practical, and just a little hardcore. Cairn costs $34.99 per month when you pay monthly, and you can check out our Cairn brand page for more information.
4. The Original Craft Beer Club
Do you want to know my favorite thing about camping as a grown-up? You get to bring beer! The Original Craft Beer Club is a monthly subscription that delivers craft brews from around the country direct to your door, and the beers are perfect for tucking into your backpack and toting along on your journey. If you like trying new small-production beers from independent brewers across the country, you'll probably also enjoy trying new small-production beers from independent brewers while fishing. Or boating. Or tubing. In my humble experience, most outdoor activities are better with a cold one. For $44.75, you'll get 12 new craft beers each month. Learn more about this subscription and check out reviews by visiting our brand page.
ACTIVE DEAL: Receive 3 bonus gifts with your first shipment! No coupon needed - just use this link.
5. FaceTory
Is "glamping" more your speed? Leave the extreme gear at home, and stuff your duffle full of products that will help you relax and refresh while you're away. I mean, why not practice a little self-care while you're sitting out under the stars? If you're on the hunt for easy-to-carry beauty products that you can use fireside, sheet masks are a great option. They're easy to apply, don't require running water, and are easy to discard when you're done. (They could also be a fun way to up your ghost story game. Imagine the possibilities!) FaceTory is a subscription that seeks out the "latest sheet mask sensations and hidden gems," and you can get 7 new masks delivered every month for $19.90. Learn more about FaceTory by visiting our brand page.
Have you tried any of these camping-friendly subscriptions? Or do you have a favorite we didn't mention? Head to the comments section and let us know!
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