Camping with Dogs: 12 Must-Have Accessories for the Great Outdoors
Camping with your dog is basically the dream, right? Fresh air, stunning views, quality bonding time—what’s not to love?
But let’s be real, camping with your furry BFF isn’t that simple. You need the right gear to make sure both you and your pup have a safe, comfy, and not-stressful adventure.
So, whether you’re a seasoned camper or a total newbie, here are 12 must-have dog camping accessories to keep your pup happy, safe, and Instagram-ready out in the wild.
1. A Durable Dog Backpack: Let Them Carry Their Weight

Why should you haul all the gear? A well-fitted dog backpack lets your pup carry some of their own essentials—think food, water, and collapsible bowls. Plus, they’ll look adorable doing it.
Why it’s awesome:
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- Reduces your load so you can carry more snacks for you.
Pro Tip: Start light. Let your dog get used to wearing the pack before adding weight, and keep it under 10-15% of their body weight.
2. A Portable, Waterproof Dog Bed
- Waterproof and large size: Waterproof dog mat is made of Oxford cloth, water resistant for almost all weather, water or …
- Outdoor and indoor use: perfect outdoor dog bed, suitable as a camping mat, sleeping mat for pets, traveling car mat; al…
- Durable and washable: mat is durable with refined stitching, scratch resistant and claw resistant, but not recommended f…

Your dog deserves a comfy place to sleep, even if you’re roughing it. A lightweight, waterproof bed keeps them off the cold, damp ground and makes camping feel more like home.
Why it’s awesome:
- Keeps your pup warm and dry.
- Easy to pack and clean (because dirt happens).
Look for: A bed that rolls up or folds flat, like a sleeping bag for dogs. Bonus points if it’s chew-resistant.
3. LED Collar or Light-Up Tag: Nighttime Visibility FTW
- High Visibility: Ensure your dog’s visibility with our light up dog collar, featuring 7 vibrant colors and 9 flash modes…
- Long-lasting Battery Life: Quick-charge your glow collar in just 1 hour for over 8 hours of continuous use. Equipped wit…
- Cuttable Led Dog Collar: The LED collar can be easily adjusted to fit your dog’s neck size comfortably. Our cut-to-fit d…

Ever tried finding a black dog in the dark? Not fun. An LED collar or clip-on light makes your dog visible around the campsite or on late-night potty breaks.
Why it’s awesome:
- Helps you spot them easily in low light.
- Keeps them safer if you’re near roads or trails with other campers.
Pro Tip: Some LED collars have rechargeable batteries, so you don’t have to pack spares. Win!
4. A Reliable, Hands-Free Leash

A hands-free leash is a lifesaver when you’re hiking with your dog. It attaches around your waist, giving you freedom to navigate trails while still keeping your pup close.
Why it’s awesome:
- Perfect for active hikes or setting up camp without losing track of your dog.
- Reduces pulling because your dog feels your movements more naturally.
Bonus: Look for one with a built-in bungee to absorb those sudden “SQUIRREL!” moments.
5. Collapsible Bowls: Lightweight and Practical

No one wants to lug around bulky food and water bowls. Collapsible silicone bowls are lightweight, packable, and perfect for quick water breaks on the trail.
Why it’s awesome:
- Easy to clean and store.
- Perfect for hikes, road trips, and anywhere space is limited.
Pro Tip: Bring a couple—one for water, one for food. Your dog will appreciate the efficiency.
6. A Compact First Aid Kit (Because Stuff Happens)

Accidents happen, even to the goodest boys and girls. A dog-specific first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, or paw pad issues.
What to pack:
- Bandages and gauze.
- Tweezers (hello, splinters and ticks).
- Paw balm for cracked pads.
- Doggy-safe antiseptic wipes.
Pro Tip: If your dog takes medication, pack enough for the trip plus a few extras just in case.
7. Tick Protection: Keep Creepy Crawlies Away

Ticks love the great outdoors, and your dog is basically a walking invitation. Bring tick repellent (dog-safe, of course) and a tick remover tool for emergencies.
Why it’s awesome:
- Prevents Lyme disease and other nasty infections.
- Gives you peace of mind while exploring grassy or wooded areas.
Heads Up: Always do a tick check at the end of the day, especially around ears, paws, and belly.
8. A Sturdy Tie-Out Stake or Portable Playpen
- NEW DESIGNED FOR PETS: Dog playpen tent promotes comfort and security, providing your pet a secure enclosed space. Recta…
- STURDY VERSATILE: Puppy playpen is composed of high-grade thick mesh and scratch-resistant washable 600D Oxford cloth wh…
- EXCELLENCE PERFORMANCE: Pet playpen for small dogs is a great alternative to a traditional kennel!Pet playpen with mesh …

Unless you trust your dog to stay close 24/7 (spoiler: don’t), you’ll need a way to secure them at the campsite. A tie-out stake or portable playpen gives them freedom to chill without wandering off.
Why it’s awesome:
- Keeps your pup safe while you cook, set up tents, or relax by the fire.
- Lets them enjoy some off-leash vibes without the actual risk.
Pro Tip: Look for a tangle-free cable or retractable tie-out to avoid leash spaghetti.
9. Doggy Backpack Harness: The Safety Net

If you’re doing some serious hiking, a dog backpack harness is a must. Not only can it help your dog carry gear, but it also doubles as a way to safely lift them over obstacles (like boulders or streams).
Why it’s awesome:
- Great for dogs that hike but need a boost now and then.
- Distributes weight evenly for comfort.
Pro Tip: Practice wearing it before your trip so your dog gets used to the fit.
10. Dog-Safe Insect Repellent: Protect Those Paws and Ears

Bugs love dogs, and your pup can’t exactly swat them away. Bring along dog-safe insect repellent to protect them from mosquitoes, flies, and other pests.
Why it’s awesome:
- Prevents bites and irritation.
- Reduces the risk of bug-borne diseases like heartworm.
Heads Up: Never use human bug spray—it can be toxic to dogs.
11. Portable Dog Shower or Wipes: Clean Pup, Happy Pup
- HIGH-QUALITY DOG WIPES: These textured wipes are the perfect everyday cleaning solution for your dog’s paws, body, and b…
- GENTLE INGREDIENTS: These dog wipes contain high-quality ingredients like soothing aloe, shea butter, chamomile, and cuc…
- USER FRIENDLY: Made of thick, durable, USDA Certified 99% Biobased material, our plant-based dog wipes have just the rig…

Camping is dirty. Whether it’s mud, river water, or something gross they rolled in, a portable dog shower or pet-safe wipes can save the day.
Why it’s awesome:
- Keeps the smell of “wet dog” from taking over your tent.
- Prevents skin irritation from dirt and debris.
Pro Tip: A pack of wipes is your secret weapon for paws, ears, and even quick face cleans.
12. High-Energy Snacks: Keep Their Fuel Up

Long hikes and outdoor play burn a ton of energy. Pack some high-protein treats or travel-friendly dog food to keep your pup fueled and happy.
Why it’s awesome:
- Prevents mid-hike meltdowns (yes, dogs can get hangry too).
- Easy to carry and dispense on the go.
Bonus Idea: Look for freeze-dried dog food that’s lightweight and easy to rehydrate at camp.
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Have Fun
Camping with your dog is an adventure you’ll both love—as long as you’re prepared. With these accessories, you can focus on enjoying the great outdoors instead of worrying about what could go wrong. So grab your gear, leash up your pup, and get ready to make some memories (and maybe roast a marshmallow or two).
Happy camping, and don’t forget to pack the poop bags. 🐾

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉