Heading into the bush for your first camping adventure is exciting. But it can also feel overwhelming when you see the gear lists, the tent sizes, the sleeping bag ratings and all the accessories. You don’t need to go overboard to enjoy nature—you can have a comfortable, memorable experience without breaking the bank. This guide walks you through exactly what you’ll need, where to source it affordably, and how to spread out the costs (even over a long weekend).
A Beginner’s Essential Gear List
To keep things manageable, build your gear list around three core categories: shelter, sleep & storage; cooking & food; and comfort & safety. According to the state parks authority in Victoria, essentials include a tent, mallet, sleeping bag designed for the climate, and camp chairs.
Shelter, Sleep & Storage
Your tent is your home base, so pick something simple and reliable. A two- or three-person dome tent typically does the job. Add a lightweight sleeping bag matched to the season, a sleeping mat for insulation, and a small pillow or stuff sack.
Budget tip: Many retailers run mid-season sales—look for older models or clearance tents.
Estimated budget: ~$120-$400 for tent, ~$60-$150 for bag, ~$30-$80 for mat.
Cooking & Food Gear
A small camp stove or portable grill, a good cooler (esky), and basic cookware will cover meals. You also need bowls, utensils, a cutting board and a fuel source. Stores like BCF, Anaconda and even Kmart often have entry-level kits for under $150.
Budget tip: Borrow a cooler or buy second-hand. Reuse one you already have if possible.
Estimated budget: ~$80-$250 if new, significantly less if second-hand or borrowed.
Comfort & Safety Accessories
Better sleep and a smoother trip come down to comfort: a fold-out camp chair, headlamp or lantern, insect repellent, and weather-proof clothing layers. Don’t skip basic safety gear either. The NSW National Parks blog emphasises packing a torch, spare batteries, a small first-aid kit and checking your vehicle for remote trips.
Budget tip: Use what you already own—old towels, pillows, and outdoor gear from home can be camp-ready.
Estimated budget: ~ $40-$120 for new items; much less if you already own some.
How to Keep Costs Under Control (and Not Overspend Before You’ve Even Launched)
Getting fully kitted out for a weekend in the bush can feel like a big upfront purchase. If you don’t have all the cash yet, a small loan can be a simple way to get all the gear you need at once before a long weekend.
ust make sure you choose one with manageable repayments and realistic interest rates.
Smart Purchasing Tips
- Shop off-season; many stores discount camping gear in spring or early summer.
- Consider second-hand: Check Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or local outdoor forums.
- Rent high-cost items like a large rooftop tent or luxury air mattress until you’re sure you’ll camp often.
- Prioritise quality for things that impact comfort and safety (e.g., sleeping bag rating, tent waterproofing); you can skimp on tableware or chairs.
Final Thoughts
Your first camping trip doesn’t need to cost a fortune. With the right planning, you can build a functional kit for under a few hundred dollars and reuse items for many trips to come. The joy is in the experience—around the campfire, stars overhead, and time away from screens.
If you do need to borrow a bit to get started, make sure it’s a loan you’re comfortable with and that you’ve budgeted the repayments into your regular spending. With thoughtful purchases and sensible planning, you’ll be ready for the great outdoors without blowing your budget.