Gear Zone: Camping

Best sit mats for hiking, camping and festivals in 2026
By: Andrew Forrest - updated June 2026

Compare the best sit mats for UK walking, hiking, camping and festivals, with practical picks for foam, inflatable, backrest and budget options.

Best power banks UK 2026: Portable chargers for hiking, camping, travel, phones, laptops and drones
By: Andrew Forrest - June 2026

Find the best power banks in the UK for 2026, including compact phone chargers, 20,000mAh models, laptop power banks, waterproof outdoor options, solar chargers and travel-safe picks for hiking, camping and everyday use.

Best camping lanterns for camping, hiking and outdoor adventures 2026
By: Andrew Forrest - May 2026

Find the best camping lantern for UK camping, hiking, wild camping, family tents and power cuts, with practical picks for brightness, battery life, waterproofing and backup lighting 2026.

Best camping coffee makers for walkers and campers
By: Andrew Forrest - May 2026

Find the best camping coffee makers for walkers and campers, including AeroPress-style brewers, moka pots, pour-over filters, coffee bags and insulated mugs.

Best lightweight camping stoves for walking and camping (2026 guide)
By: Andrew Forrest - May 2026

Compare the best lightweight camping stoves for walkers and campers, including gas, integrated, spirit, liquid-fuel and wood-burning options, plus a detailed UK buyer's guide and safety tips.

Best gifts for walkers and hikers: 101 Top presents every hiker should have in 2026
By: Andrew Forrest - updated November 2025

Need a gift for a walker or hiker? Look no further as we've pulled together 101 gift ideas that range from inexpensive to luxurious and cover practical, fun and personalised presents for both men and women, not forgetting our four-legged friends.

Sleeping mat care, cleaning and storage: Stop mould and keep valves healthy
By: Andrew Forrest - September 2025

Proper care and maintenance of your camping sleeping mat or pad will extend its lifespan and ensure it performs optimally. With regular cleaning and clever storage, your mat can last for many years, preventing problems such as mould growth or leaky valves.

R-values demystified: How your sleeping mat affects warmth and comfort
By: Andrew Forrest - September 2025

R-values: What they are, what they mean, and why they matter. Being familiar with R-values will help you choose the right sleeping mat for a great night's sleep in the great outdoors, and this guide will explain all you need to know.

The best sleeping mats of 2026: A comprehensive guide
By: Andrew Forrest - updated September 2025

When camping, nothing ruins your sleep more than being cold and uncomfortable. The simple solution is the warmth and comfort provided by a quality sleeping mat. There are four main types of sleeping mats, and many factors to consider in choosing your perfect one.