The 50 Best Camping Essentials - Furniture

Whether it’s a rock festival or a faraway field, Simon Usborne finds the tents, togs and tackle for your outdoor adventure

Campingaz Floating Water Lounger

“This brightly coloured, comfy lounger will make you feel at home wherever you are,” say Jonathan and Sophie. “Park yourself in it and float on a lake or in the sea; plonk it next to the campfire for an evening’s singing, or save aching feet at a festival – it’s the perfect companion for outdoor living. Easy to inflate and boasting an inbuilt cup-holder, this durable piece of equipment allows for luxury camping on a budget.”

Where: Blacks (0800 665410; www.blacks.co.uk)

How much: £14.99

Outwell Carpets

Jonathan and Sophie say, “Add a touch of luxury to your tent with these ‘living room carpets’. Made from soft flannel on top to give your tent a homely feel, and a heavy PVC underside, the carpet adds insulation from the cold ground, so you can be sure of staying cosy at night. On sunny days they’ll double up as a picnic mat. Easy to clean, the carpets come in four sizes and a choice of two colours.”

Where: Cotswold Outdoor (0844 557 7755; www.cotswoldoutdoor.com)

How much; from £40

Gelert Four-Shelf Cupboard

“Don’t let your tent resemble a bag lady’s boudoir,” says Clive. “Get yourself some storage units. Most require a degree in structural engineering to put together but not this unit from Gelert – it just pulls open and is made from easy-clean aluminium and PVC-coated polyester. It couldn’t be simpler.”

Where: Gelert (01766 510300; www.gelert.com)

How much: £34.99

Coleman Loveseat

“Get up close and personal with your favourite camping companion with Coleman’s inflatable Loveseat,” Clive says. “It is immensely comfortable and each arm has a drinks holder for that romantic tipple. And, if things get a little, er, bouncy, Coleman’s hi-strength valve will keep the air in.”

Where: Coleman (01275 845024; www.coleman.eu)

How much: £26.99

Lafuma RSXA Garden Chair

Based on Nasa’s recommended reclining position, this exceptionally comfortable chair is designed to reduce spinal pressure and muscle tension – the perfect way to unwind after a day’s trekking. It fold flats enough to fit in even modestly proportioned car boots and includes an adjustable headrest, padded armrests and a foot rest. Camping was never this laid back.

Where: John Lewis (08456 049049; www.johnlewis.com)

How much: £110

Vango windbreak

It’s all very well pitching your multi-roomed tent and laying out your hi-tech barbecue and smart picnicware if it’s all going to get blown into the next county by a gust of wind. A windbreak will keep things in place. This number fromVango comes with sewn-in windows and, in case it’s really blowing some, guy ropes and pegs.

Where: Vango (09018 140020; www.vango.co.uk)

How much; £32.50 (four pole); £48.50 (six pole)