Summer camping gear guide
- Jul 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 13
We tested the 2026 summer gear so you know exactly what’s worth packing before you head outside.
July 18, 2026
SUMMER GEAR
Camp cooking shouldn’t mean digging through bins in the dark, wondering where the spatula went. It folds out into a solid, stand-alone cooking station with dedicated drawers and shelving built around your gear.
No wasted space, no guesswork- just a clean, organized system that keeps your vehicle and your campsite dialed in. Setup is fast. Breakdown is faster. Everything has a place and stays there. Whether you’re cooking for two at a quiet desert pullout or feeding a crew after a long day on the trail, CHUK brings order to camp and lets you get back to the fire where you belong.
Website: chukoutdoors.com
Rugged Road 65 Cooler
Most serious coolers are built like tanks, and carry like them too. The Rugged Road 65 changes that. Weighing in at just 13 pounds- less than half the weight of comparable coolers, it delivers serious performance without the burden, holding ice for days in real-world conditions.
It fits 65 twelve-ounce cans plus ice, and the exterior features a proprietary coating originally developed for military-grade applications, proven tough where it counts. It floats upright to keep contents dry and accessible, the reversible lid doubles as a cutting board and cup holder station, and a lifetime warranty backs it all. This is the cooler you reach for when the terrain is demanding and your back already has enough to carry.
Website: ruggedroadoutdoors.com
Animus Works Cooler and Lunch Setup
This one stands out for pure versatility- built for camping, but just as at home with anglers and hunters who need every inch of space to earn its keep. The Animus is a true 5-in-1 system, combining an insulated cooler with dedicated storage for food and water, gear compartments, a sealed dry drawer, and a reinforced seat rated to 350 pounds, all in a compact, upright design that saves space where it matters most.
Rod holders and tools mount directly to the unit, valuables stay protected in the dry drawer, and cold water is always within reach, with a raised spigot for better access. This rig easily provides 48+ hour ice retention backed by commercial-grade insulation; it delivers where it counts. We recommend it for both camping and fishing, especially when space is limited and your setup needs to be dialed in from the moment you drop the tailgate.
Website: animusworks.com
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The Disc-O-Bed Cot System
If you’ve ever spent a night in a sleeping bag on uneven ground, the Disc-O-Bed is a clear upgrade. The military-grade cot system converts from bunk beds to two singles or a bench without tools and in minutes.
Its powder-coated steel frame supports up to 500 pounds per bunk, while the tensioned sleeping surface is designed to reduce sag and eliminate the need for a center support bar. Whether set up in a backcountry wall tent or a family campsite after a long drive, the Disc-O-Bed is designed for repeated use in outdoor environments.
Website: discobed.com
Keep an eye out for UNPLUG Magazine's upcoming 2026 Fall Gear Guide, where our team puts the season's latest outdoor gear to the test—bringing you honest reviews, real-world performance, and the essentials you'll want on your next adventure hike.
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