Everything You Need to Pack to Cook While Camping

May 13, 2021

The only thing that tops sleeping under the stars is roasting s'mores and hot dogs over the campfire. But before you can indulge in campfire cookery, you must remember to pack everything needed first, even if you prep a bunch of make-ahead camping meals or are assembling simple campfire veggie packets. To begin with, there's fuel, fire starters, and a cooler. We recommend car-camping (going to a drive-in campsite rather than hiking in) to effortlessly bring all of your supplies with you. As for the specific items to hit the site with? We've found the below are the essential items you should pack.

prep and cooking tools

Aluminum Foil: The kitchen staple comes in handy even if foil packets aren't on the menu. Line your grill if the grates look like they've never been cleaned. Wrap up leftovers and stash in the cooler. Or, cover your picnic table if it's looking a little too gross to eat on.

Chef's Knife: After struggling to use our dull spare knives, we realized that packing a sharp, all-purpose chef's knife is so worth it. Dull knives are actually more dangerous than sharp ones, because they tend to slip and skid. You don't want to get a cut while you're outside and away from medical attention or running water. Make sure you have a cover for your knife blade so you don't accidentally cut yourself.

Cooler: A insulated container will keep your food properly chilled before you use it. Hard-sided coolers are more effective than soft-sided coolers, and you can pack them with ice packs and dry or regular ice to keep your food at a safe temp all trip long.

Cutting Board: You don't want to have to rely on the surface of a campsite picnic table to chop your meat and veg. Bring a large, thin plastic cutting board that's easy to rinse off to safely prep. It's handy for cutting up meats once they're cooked through, and after you wash and dry it, your cutting board can act as a clean surface to set up your ingredients for s'mores.

Fire-Safe Pot and Skillet: If you're cooking anything other than grilled meats, veg, or foods in a foil packet, pack a pot or skillet wit fire-safe handles. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet works well on the grill or in the fire, and a stainless steel pot (not non-stick) can be used for liquid-y foods like beans or porridge and as a means to heat water for coffee, tea, and cocoa.

Spatula: A long-handled metal spatula is essential for flipping burgers or other items that would fall apart if you tried to grip them with your tongs.

Tongs: To safely get sturdy food on and off of your cooking source, be it a grill, a fire, or a camp stove, bring metal tongs. The kind made for grilling are helpful because they're longer than your average salad tongs, so you can stand a safe distance away from the heat source while you cook.

Utensils: If you don't want to pack what's in your kitchen, try saving the plastic utensils you get with take-out, washing them after first use and stashing them with your camping gear. Or, you can get a camping multi-tool that has a fork, spoon, and knife all in one device.

Pair of Tongs

Collapsible Cutting Board

Ultra-Light Cooler

Reusable Travel Flatware

essential food stuff

Cooking Spray: Spritz your meat with cooking spray before you put it on the grill, so it slides right off when it's done. Spray your foil packets before adding your ingredients, or add to your skillet to make sure nothing sticks. It's a lot easier than lugging a round a big bottle of oil… if that spills in the car, you're in for a huge mess.

Salt and Pepper: Even if you don't have a full selection of spices, salt and pepper can make anything taste good. If you have room to branch out, we recommend lemon pepper, Adobo, seasoning salt, or Old Bay.

McCormick's Salt and Pepper

Pam No-Cook Spray

Backpacker's Salt and Pepper

Pure Avocado Oil

cleaning supplies

Eco-Friendly Soap: A bottle of Dr. Bronner's or a similar brand goes a long way toward keeping clean in the woods. Use it to wash sticky marshmallow off your hands and to clean dishes after eating.

Paper Towels: For easy cleanup, bring along a roll of paper towels. They'll keep your cooking station tidy and free of leftover bits of food that can attract bugs, bears, and other creepy crawlies.

Trash Bags: Most drive-in campgrounds have an animal-proof dumpster, but you'll still want some garbage bags for collecting trash at your campsite throughout the day. Take a trip to the dumpster before bed to avoid unwanted guests during the night.

Water: Not every campground has running water. Apart from drinking water, get a big two-and-a-half gallon water jug with a spigot to use for washing hands and dishes.

Trash Bags

Beverage Dispenser

Reusable Biodegradable Paper Towels

Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap

fire

Lighter and Matches: Last but definitely not least, bring a way to light your grill or campfire. We always bring multiple sources of fire with us. Waterproof or strike-anywhere matches are reliable choices for the outdoors, while a long multi-purpose lighter gives you a consistent flame that's ideal for igniting charcoal or starting your campfire.

Wood, Charcoal, or a Camping Stove: Many campsites have fire pits and grills set up already, but be prepared and bring your fuel, either wood or charcoal. You can also bring a camping stove with you if you don't want to have to rely on stoking the flames yourself. Camping stoves are also handy if it might rain — it's a lot easier to set a tarp up or cook under an umbrella with a campstove than a fire, and you won't have to worry about lighting wet fuel.

Matches

Compact Stove

Lighter and Flashlight

Coleman Steel Stove

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(Photos via Brittany Griffin / Brit + Co)

This post has been updated.

72 Ridiculously Easy Camping Foods (With Recipes!) For Your Next Trip

Camping foods are a great excuse to cook creatively, since you're working with limited tools, unpredictable conditions, and fewer ingredients. Not to mention, there's nothing quite as lovely as cooking (and more importantly, eating) under a wide-open sky. As cool as brewing kombucha or mandoline-slicing veggies for campfire ratatouille sounds, you'll probably be happier making easy camping meals while you're living in a tent.

Not only are these dishes delicious, but they're also quick and easy, which gives you more time for hiking, relaxing, or just hanging out with your friends and family! From breakfast to dessert, these recipes make campsite cooking approachable *and* delicious.

What are good meals to make while camping?

Image via Brit + Co

Chili hot dogs, mac and cheese, grilled corn, pancakes, campfire nachos, roasted salmon, and sloppy joes are all easy meals to make while camping.

What is the best food to bring for camping?

Image via Brit + Co

Eggs, rice, bread, beans, canned tuna, cereal, tinned veggies, jams, crackers, protein bars, and fresh fruit are all the best foods to bring for a camping trip. Ensuring your camp is stocked with grains is helpful in sustaining your energy down the line.

What food do I bring for camping for a week?

Image via Brit + Co

You'll want to stock up on some easy-to-use groceries if your camping trip is a week long (especially if you bring your pup!). Bring eggs, bacon, cereal, and potatoes. Don't forget the coffee, either. Load up some peanut butter and jelly, bread, granola bars, chips, hummus and other dips, hot dogs, and canned chili and soups. Fruits that can be stored easily like bananas, apples, and clementines make for good camping and hiking snacks.

What is classic camping food?

Image via Brit + Co

Franks and beans, grilled chicken and hamburgers, and campfire chili are all considered classic, traditional camping meals because the recipes are accessible and simple. Of course, s'mores are always on a classic camping menu.

The Easiest Recipes You Need To Make The Best Camping Food Ever

3-Ingredient Protein Pancakes

All you need are bananas, eggs, and your favorite protein powder to make these quick and healthy pancakes. They're super customizable, meaning you can top yours with anything from a chocolate smiley face to a blueberry heart, or do a different topping every day. For a camping trip, prep the batter ahead of time and carry it in a closed container so you're not scrambling to bring a campsite breakfast together. (via Brit + Co.)

Campfire Peach Cobbler

If you never thought canned peaches and refrigerated biscuit dough could make you sing, you're highly underestimating the two. When dusted with cinnamon sugar and cooked over the fire, they form a sweet, buttery cobbler. This camping food is the perfect vehicle for copious amounts of whipped cream. (via Brit + Co.)

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wraps

These chicken wraps are super versatile because you can grill them or leave them cold if you prefer. Grab some rotisserie chicken to make this camping recipe even easier. The real star of the show is the buffalo sauce – it adds a nice kick that complements the creaminess of the ranch and cheese. Yes, please! (via Brit + Co.)

Superfood Egg Sandwich

This hearty sandwich is a great way to start off a day full of hiking, swimming, or just hanging out at the campsite. Chia seeds, avocado, spinach, and Greek yogurt give a regular egg sandwich a seriously nutritious upgrade! (viaBrit + Co.)

Keto Cheesy Brussels Sprouts ssels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are great for getting in vitamin K, antioxidants, and fiber. A cheesy bacon topping takes them to the next level in this camping recipe. To get ready for your trip, just make them ahead of time, cover them, and store your dish in the fridge until it's time to leave. Reheat them over the campfire, and dig in! (viaBrit + Co.)

Asparagus + Goat Cheese Frittata

If you've never had a frittata before, think of it like a cousin to omelettes, or a quiche without the crust. Asparagus and goat cheese make this pick *extra* springlike, but you can sub for your favorite cheese, or even skip the cheese (and sub the cream) for a non-dairy alternative. This is one camping breakfast recipe you can make right over the fire. (viaBrit + Co.)

Chicken + Broccoli Foil Dinner

Foil dinners are a camping staple because you can just throw them on the fire and let them cook while you're playing cards, telling stories, or catching up on your latest read. This camping food is totally customizable, so pick soy sauce for an Asian flavor or go with your regular ol' hot sauce. You can also swap the chicken and broccoli for different meats and veggies until you find your favorite combo! (via Brit + Co.)

Easy Instant Pot Tuscan White Bean Soup

Hot soup is one of the best camping dinners because it's filling and it'll keep you warm after the sun goes down! This one is chock full of carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, onions, and kale. It also calls for sausage, but you could easily leave that out to turn it into a meat-free dish. Make it beforehand with your Instant Pot, or just use a big pot over the blazing campfire. (via Brit + Co.)

Cast Iron Pizza

Store-bought pizza dough is going to help you save a ton of time with this camping food. You can cut the slices as big or small as you want, and with lots of cheese and veggies, this pie will bring a smile to everyone's faces! Load up a cast iron skillet with the pizza, and you've got yourself a hearty post-hike dinner. (via Brit + Co.)

Lemon Chicken Skewers Camping Food

Before you head off on your adventure, cut up some chicken and veggies and store them in different containers. Then, when you're in front of your campside grill, you can just arrange 'em and cook! Moroccan flavors and the creamy feta sauce in this camping recipe are a match made in heaven. (via Brit + Co.)

Campfire Chilaquiles

Turn a bag of tortilla chips into breakfast with these hearty chilaquiles! This Mexican-inspired dish is basically a breakfast lasagna, as it comes together so easily with layers of salsa, beans, chips, and cheese — plus some eggs on top. (via Brit + Co.)

Egg Muffins

Okay, so we'll admit that this might not be the easiest camping recipe once you're actually at your campsite, but prepare them beforehand, and you'll have a filling and cost-effective breakfast at your disposal. The veggies add a healthy edge and flavor that's worthy of two thumbs up! (via Brit + Co.)

Grilled Fluffernutter Sandwich

Peanut butter, chocolate chips, and marshmallow spread come together for one of the best dessert sandwiches known to man. This is a super-sweet camping recipe that will satisfy kids and adults alike. (via Brit + Co.)

Triscuit, Prosciutto, Drunken Goat Cheese, + Tomato Bites

These finger foods look and sound super fancy, but are as easy as assembling any other no-bake snacks! Layer the ingredients ahead of time for a snack in the car, or wait until you're curled up inside your sleeping bag with your book to indulge. Either way, these will taste amazing! (via Brit + Co.)

10-Minute Vegan Stir Fry

If all you have time for ahead of your trip is to stop at a Trader Joe's, you're in luck with this camping food. This 10-minute stir-fry comes together with three main ingredients and requires zero advance work. (via Brit + Co.)

Campfire Veggie Packets

Bring chopped peppers, onions, and potatoes to camp, dump them into foil packets with your favorite sausage, and enjoy an exquisitely fragrant meal. Not only is this camping food a tasty way to intake lots of veggies, but they also make for easy camping meals for larger groups. It's a win-win! (via Brit + Co.)

Gooey Banana Boat Camping S'mores

Step up your usual s'mores by crafting them inside halved bananas! Once you've assembled all of the ingredients (and even more sweet toppings) inside a foil pack, let your dessert sit above the fire for a few minutes. That way, everything becomes deliciously gooey and melty! (via Brit + Co.)

Sweet Potato + Black Bean Chili

Love chili, but not a huge fan of ground beef? This vegan recipe (which features sweet potatoes, black beans, mushrooms, and tomatoes) is just the thing to satisfy your craving. Since there's no meat or dairy products, you don't have to worry about it going bad, either. (via Brit + Co.)

Chicken Pepperoni Casserole

A make-ahead dinner that brings pizza and chicken together? Count us in. This low-carb recipe features tomato sauce, three different kinds of cheese, and pepperoni for a tasty dish that will make your inner child cheer. (via Brit + Co.)

Shakshuka

This Middle Eastern dish is full of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices (along with some eggs), and makes for a wonderfully warm and filling addition to your camping foods list. Leave as-is, or top with a little bit (or a lot) of cheese. (via Brit + Co.)

Pineapple Chicken Skewer Lettuce Wraps

Bring some pre-marinated chicken and wrap fixings to your campsite, then unload everything onto a tray for this easy camping recipe. Your fellow campers will have a blast customizing their own skewers and lettuce wraps! (viaBrit + Co.)

Fruit Skewers with Mason Jar Whipped Cream

Behold, exhibit number 7,043 why butter and sugar make everything better. Here, they're slathered onto your favorite summer fruits, which are formed into finger food skewers and grilled in foil packets. While the fruits cook, have fun shaking up some mason-jar whipped cream! (via Brit + Co.)

Campfire Cones

When it's time to break out dessert, consider these delicious cones. All you have to do is stuff an ice cream cone with your favorite chocolate candies, marshmallows, and nuts, and wrap it up in aluminum foil. It becomes its own campfire packet! Just set it over the fire for a few minutes to melt the chocolate. (via Brit + Co.)

Triscuit, Almond Butter, Banana, + Honey Camping Bites

When snack time rolls around, you want something healthy that also tastes delish and will satisfy you until dinner's ready. It's harder than it should be to find a recipe that does all three! Enter: these bites. The almond butter offers protein, while the banana adds some fiber, and the honey keeps things sweet. Done and done. (via Brit + Co.)

Jackfruit Burrito Bowls

This jackfruit recipe is the perfect way to get everything you love about burrito bowls, without the meat. Once assembled, top your bowl with bouts of avocado, corn, onions, and salsa. (via Brit + Co.)

Make-Ahead Spinach Mushroom Gnocchi Casserole

Casseroles are one of the ultimate comfort foods, and this camping recipe (complete with three different cheeses, mushrooms, and plenty of thyme) is as cozy as it gets. Make it at home, or cook it up in a skillet right over the campfire. You won't be disappointed. (via Brit + Co.)

Strawberry Arugula Walnut Salad

Sometimes you prefer a lighter lunch, especially if you're camping on a hot afternoon. This camping food also makes for good fuel during a day hike! The salad has plenty of strawberries and walnuts, plus a nice dose of balsamic dressing that satisfies without weighing you down. (via Brit + Co.)

Colorful Peep S'mores

You can't have a camping trip without s'mores... right?! It's a requirement. If you want to change up your usual s'mores recipe, consider swapping regular marshmallows for Peeps instead for some extra color! And while the chocolate dipped graham crackers are optional, we 100% recommend them. (via Brit + Co.)

Chickpea Salad Sandwich

If you're somewhat... challenged... when it comes to starting a campfire, have no fear! This budget-friendly vegetarian meal comes together in minutes, and no heat's necessary. This is especially great for camping trips in the dead of summer. (via Brit + Co.)

Chrissy Tiegen's Pork Bánh Mì with Quick Pickles and Roasted Broccoli

Carrots, cucumbers, and broccoli offer some nutrients, and the soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar give this simple camping meal some serious flavor. Plus, look at all that color! If you're not a fan of sandwiches, you can make the pickle mix (with the cucumbers, carrots, and shallot) for a healthy side dish. (via Brit + Co.)

One-Pot Beef Stroganoff

If you're camping, but still want hearty camping food that tastes just like grandma used to make, turn to this simplified beef stroganoff. It's the most high-effort recipe on this list, but it only requires one cast iron skillet. The minimal advance prep will go a long way in this camping meal idea. (via Fresh Off The Grid)

Homemade Oven Beef Jerky

Whether you're in the car on the way to your campsite (roadtrip!), or you're already around the campfire, you need some snacks! This DIY beef jerky is an easy way to make your own – no dehydrator required. The key to getting jerky that everyone is sure to love is actually in how you cut it. Slice along the grain for chewy, or against the grain for tender jerky. (via Barley & Sage)

DIY Pizza Lunchable

Make a healthier (and not to mention cheaper) version of our favorite childhood meal (AKA Lunchables) with pita bread, cheese, and tomato sauce. This is a great pick for the car or the campsite, and since you can customize the veggies, it's a surefire way to keep everyone happy! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Grilled Garlic + Parmesan Potato Packets

You simply can't beat a warm serving of cheesy potatoes, no matter where you are. Luckily, you can have a big ol' scoop of spuds right at the campfire with this camping recipe! (via This Wife Cooks)

Biscuits and Gravy

Flavorful, filling, and warm, biscuits and gravy make for one of the best camping recipes. There's nothing like smelling the gravy and feeling the chill of the morning air. We love it so much. Prep the gravy ahead of time, so that you don't have to do as much work at your campsite, or you could spend time making it with the whole fam! (via Culinary Hill)

Easy Campside Ham Roll-Ups

These bite size roll ups are literally one of the easiest camping snacks you'll ever make. All you need is ham, cream cheese, and pickles, and you've got yourself one salty, creamy bite. Make this camping food ahead of time to nail down the presentation, or just pile everything together once you've set up camp. (via Culinary Hill)

S'mores Snack Mix

De-s'more-ify your go-to s'mores for this mess-free version that's definitely just as yummy as the OG. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Caprese Chicken Foil Packets

This camping recipe only requires a few minutes, which makes it the perfect dinner after a hike or while the rest of the fam is telling scary stories around the fire. Not only is it bursting with flavors of cheese, pesto, and tomatoes, but there's basically no cleanup required. Big thumbs up from us. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad

Brussels sprouts are great for getting some extra antioxidants and fiber, though you may not think of them as camping food. With parmesan cheese and a DIY Caesar dressing, this veg just got a whole lot tastier. Chop the sprouts and mix up the dressing beforehand so when dinnertime rolls around, you can just assemble the salad and dig in. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Backpacking Ramen

Skip the sodium-clad instant ramen packs, and opt to make your own instead. This version is elevated using dried veggies, soy, and sesame oil for maximum flavor enjoyment. (via Completely Delicious)

Nut Free Granola Bars

Granola bars are a guaranteed camping food, and you don't even have to buy them from the store. This recipe makes making your own granola bars super simple, plus gives a nice option for nut-free bars for anyone who can't eat nuts or just doesn't like them! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Mediterranean Salmon Foil Packets

Cool pesto and crumbly feta on top of silky salmon filets will always feel restorative, no matter how hot it is outside. This is definitely on our best camping foods list! (via The Seasoned Mom)

Spicy Beer BBQ Chicken Skewers with Avocado Corn and Feta Salsa

Everything about this camping recipe is a good idea. Simmer some beer, ketchup, and honey with chipotle chilis for a sauce that will go great with burgers, fries, and all your summertime sandwiches. Spread some of the sauce on chicken cubes before grilling them to get some extra flavor, and add even more once the skewers are plated! Gotta love some sauce. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Campfire Apple Crisp Foil Packs

Prep this campside dessert by day, then indulge in sweet, gooey goodness by night. It's fairly easy to bring along in your backpack! (via Averie Cooks)

Chili Dogs Dogs

Hot dogs are one of the best classic camping bites, and the only way you can make them better is by adding chili and cheese. Good thing this recipe has both! This is a super easy camping recipe to assemble, plus it's easy to customize. Picky eaters, welcome! While the recipe calls for a DIY chili, you should simply grab a can from the store to make meal prep faster. (via Culinary Hill)

Campfire Banana Boats

How cute are these kid-friendly banana boats? You can prep this camping recipe a full nine different ways, including flavors like Strawberry Hazelnut, S'Mores, Banana Split, and Honey Ginger. We'd like to try every single one, please and thank you. (via Fresh Off The Grid)

Salmon + Potatoes Foil Packs

Camping with your boo? Make fireside date night even better with this fancy AF salmon dinner – camping-friendly, of course! (via Vikalinka)

Raspberry Dark Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats

Pretty much nothing could be simpler than prepping a jar overnight oats ahead of time and eating them for breakfast while you're camping. And by the way, feel free to use whatever fruit you'd like for your oats, from strawberries to blueberries and beyond. This camping food is also meal prep-friendly for when you return to reality. (via Annie's Noms)

BBQ Chicken Foil Packs

Prep this camping meal ahead of time, and then throw these bad boys in the fire once you're on your camping trip. Two notes of caution: 1.Keep these in a cooler until you're ready to cook them, so the chicken doesn't spoil, and 2. Make sure to wear heat-proof gloves when taking these out of the campfire! (via Life In The Lofthouse)

Cajun-Style Grill Foil Packets

You might notice that there are a couple of foil packet recipes on this list, mainly because they're *so* perfect for camping. This easy camping recipe offers a Cajun take on things. (via Favorite Family Recipes)

Chewy S'mores Granola Bars

These s'mores bars are easy to pack in and emulate your fave campside snack! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Bailey's Dipped Toasted Marshmallows

Going camping with your S.O.? We're pretty sure that this insanely delicious (and adults-only) dipped marshmallow snack is about to be the hit of the weekend. (via BS' In The Kitchen)

Prosciutto and Edamame Pasta with Lemon Glaze

This might be the fanciest pasta salad we've seen. The bright colors and tangy flavors make it the perfect warm weather recipe, and a healthy lunch on any camping adventure! Prosciutto, edamame, and cantaloupe come together for a sweet and salty camping food that you have to taste to believe. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Energy-Boosting Trail Mix with Toasted Coconut and Dark Chocolate

So, we've already covered some ideas for what camping recipes to eat around the fire, but what about when you're on the trail? Cue this high-energy snack loaded with coconut flakes, raw almonds, dried cherries, dark chocolate, cashews, and more. (via Kristine's Kitchen)

Hot Ham & Swiss Croissants

Sure, these are technically sandwiches, which is why they're so easy to make for a camping trip. But the twist is that you wrap them in foil and throw them on the heat, allowing the cheese to get all melty and gooey. Better than your average sammie, no? (via Life With The Crust Off)

Italian Sausage and Veggies Foil Pack

Looking for a good camping food, but want to keep things healthy and low-carb? Spring for this yummy (and filling) Italian sausage and bell pepper combo. Mix in as many different colored peppers as you possibly can to maximize enjoyment. (via Chelsea's Messy Apron)

Lemon Tahini Cashew Granola

Lemon and tahini team up to form the tastiest camping breakfast topper you've ever had! This camping food goes great on top of fruit or yogurt bowls to fuel you up before the day actually starts. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Sausage, Potato, and Green Bean Foil Packs

Camping with your dad? He'll love this classic meat-and-potatoes combo, and so will everyone else. (via Damn Delicious)

24 Hour Fruit Salad

Anything that can be made overnight is going to get a stamp of approval from us, especially on a camping trip. This sweet and fruity recipe is the easiest camping snack to add to your trip, especially if the rest of your meals are heavy and salty. (via Culinary Hill)

Camping Mac and Cheese

The key to making this campfire mac and cheese recipe is to pre-cook the noodles before you leave home. Once you've done that, it's all downhill from there. This is a one-pot recipe that uses barely any dishes, so cleanup time goes by a lot faster. (viaHapa Nom Nom)

Best Frito Chili Pie

If you've never had a Frito pie, it's time to fix that, like, right now. This camping recipe includes making your own chili, then filling the Frito bags, but you can also just stuff with store-bought ground beef, cheese, and salsa to make things even easier. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Grilled Halloumi Breakfast Sandwich

The halloumi on this meat-free sandwich promises all the heartiness and none of the greasiness of bacon or sausage. When fried for just a few minutes, it gets perfectly golden on the outside and remains toothsome throughout. Enjoy your camping breakfast with a pot of fresh campfire coffee! (via Fresh Off The Grid)

Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups

Ham and cheese is a tried-and-true pinwheel combo, but this camping recipe takes it to the next level with a mix of chiles, olives, onions, and garlic. They'll make for an excellent camping food and lunchbox addition, come the end of the season. (via Culinary Hill)

Foil Packet Nachos

You’ve tried them in the oven, you’ve tried them in the microwave at 2AM, and now it’s time to try them camping-style in a foil packet over a crackling fire. These nacho packs seal in a lot of heat, so everything melds to the chips, and the cheese melts perfectly. (via The Cookie Rookie)

Vegan S'mores

As it turns out, elevating classic s'mores is as simple as making some vegan swaps. If you're feeling extra adventurous, top your campfire dessert with a few potato chips! Their saltiness draws out even more sweetness from chocolate, and their crispiness is the perfect contrast with pillowy marshmallows. (via Fresh Off The Grid)

Foil Pack Garlic Fries

Fries can totally be a meal. We can attest that this camping recipe is as delicious as it sounds. Enjoy these well-seasoned spuds post-hike, and you’ll forever be a believer in the power of campfire potatoes. (via Kirbie's Cravings)

Cheesy Ranch Chicken Potato Foil Packets

Ranch dip seasoning really lets this mix of chicken, veggies, and cheese stand apart from the crowd. This dish is a delicious meal for your camping adventures, but it's also great during other times of the year — you can break out the recipe again once tailgate season rolls around! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Campfire Grilled S'more Calzones

Not in the mood for traditional calzones? This is the perfect campfire recipe for you – in the form of grilled s'more calzones. Filled with gooey chocolate and marshmallows, you'll love eating this sweet treat for dessert by the fire. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Salmon and Potatoes in Foil

Similar to the way you'd cook salmon and potatoes at home, this campfire recipe is super easy to make and has the perfect amount of mouth-watering flavor. (via Vikalinka)

Chicken Tinga Tacos

Nothing turns our gears more than succulent chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, and tacos. When you put them together, you get this iconic chicken tinga tacos recipe that'll be a hit around the campsite. (via Averie Cooks)

Caramelized Onions & Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Grilled cheese sandwiches work for just about any setting. Make sure you gather your the tools you'll need to make them over your campfire! (via Cozy Cravings)

Camping Hot Dogs with Caramelized Onions

While you're at it, add a few caramelized onions to your camping hot dogs – you won't regret it. (via The Endless Meal)

What did you make on your last camping trip? Tag us in your favorite camping foods on Instagram and follow us on Pinterest for more recipes!

Additional reporting by Meghan Alfano, Chloe Williams, and Meredith Holser.

This post was updated from an earlier version.

Header image via Kathryn's Kitchen.

camping easy recipes Camping

"A Family Affair" Is The Hilarious Summer Rom-Com You Can't Miss

I love sappy, sweet-as-candy rom-coms. You know, the ones where two leads spend the entire movie pursuing other people only to realize they were in love with each other the whole time. The movie usually takes place in a big city or a small town (and sometimes both), there's a quirky best friend, and there's always a big declaration of love before the credits roll. And while these straightforward movies are always on my watchlist, I also love the wacky movies that involve hilarious misunderstandings, ridiculous fight scenes, and gravity-defying Dirty Dancing movies (yes, I'm talking about Emma Stone & Ryan Gosling'sCrazy Stupid Love here). Humor always makes a movie even more enjoyable to watch, and A Family Affair is as wacky as they come. The movie reunites Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron, who played opposite each other ten years ago, and this time, Joey King's added into the mix. Here's everything you need to know about the new summer movie.

What is the movie A Family Affair about?

Image via Netflix

Like any good rom com, A Family Affair is all about a surprising romance — just not the kind Zara might be hoping for. When her mother (Nicole Kidman) and her famous actor boss (Zac Efron) fall for each other, their newfound relationship complicates everyone's ideas of sex and identity, and Zara's entire life. And, just like you might expect when your boss and mother hook up, chaotic hilarity ensues.

When does A Family Affair come out?

You can watch A Family Affair on Netflix starting June 28.

Who's in the A Family Affair movie cast?

Image via Netflix

Joey King, Zac Efron, and Nicole Kidman lead this new rom-com, and they're joined by a few of our other favorite actors! A Family Affair also stars Liza Koshy and Kathy Bates.

What does A Family Affair mean?

Image via Netflix

A family affair refers to a situation that's connected to someone's family in one way or another. For me, being an adult has been all about establishing work-life balance, and I'm sure the same is true for Zara. I can't wait to see how this movie's unexpected romance turns everything upside down.

What else did Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron star in?

Image via Netflix

Before they were cast in A Family Affair, Zac Efron and Nicole Kidman played lovers in The Paperboy in 2012. Familiarity and comfort are two super important things in any romantic role, and I can already tell from these first look images that Zac and Nicole not only have awesome chemistry, but they're comfortable enough around each other to just have fun. And that's all we can ask for from a good movie!

What would YOU do if your boss and one of your parents hooked up? Let us know in the comments and on Facebook!

Lead image via Netflix

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15 Insanely Refreshing Rosé Cocktail Recipes To Try This Spring

Live up to the “rosé all day" slogan this season by shaking up one of these refreshing rosé cocktail recipes we've gathered from bars, recipe developers, and winemakers across the country. This list includes a twist on the classic French 75, a rosé mimosa, and a new version of frosé... and yes, they all star everyone's favorite pink wine! Cheers to these delightful sips when the days are long and the temps are hot. Scroll for the recipes!

Frozen Watermelon Rosé Sangria Slushies

We can't wait to combine a few of our favorite things with this drink. Slushies, booze, and watermelon – all in one sip! Freeze sliced watermelon and fresh raspberries ahead of time to make sure that the finished drink has that perfect frozen consistency. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Pink Sangria with Rosé Wine

Prep a big pitcher of this rosé-infused sangria to share with all the besties. (via Barley & Sage)

The Pink French 75 Cocktail

This rosé cocktail is a great choice for every flirty and fun cocktail drinker. And with elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and vodka or gin, it's a quick and easy fix! Pink cocktails for the win. (via The Beauty Blotter)

Raspberry and Pomegranate Rosé Cocktail

This sweet, tart drink makes for a relaxing summer evening. Pomegranate juice, fresh lime, and raspberries give the glass a fruity kick, and the gin and rosé give it the right amount of edge. (via Foolproof Living)

Always Sparkling from Ruffino

Ingredients (serves 1):

1 ounce cognac
3/4 ounce lemon juice
3/4 ounce strawberry purée
1 dash rose water
Ice
1 1/2 ounces Ruffino Sparkling Rosé
Fresh strawberries, to garnish

Instructions:

Shake all ingredients together except for the rosé.
Strain into a lowball glass with ice and top off with sparkling rosé.
Garnish with a strawberry.

Lavender Lemonade Rosé Cocktails

Lemon and lavender is a match made in heaven, and we can't wait to try this cocktail! A pinch of sea salt rounds out the flavor for a full-bodied drink. (via Plays Well With Butter)

Watermelon Rosé Paloma

This fizzy, sweet sip partners up with a salty, spicy rim that'll keep you coming back for more. (via Half Baked Harvest)

No-Wait Frosé

For anyone who's a *little bit* impatient when it comes to devouring delicious recipes (we totally understand), then this is for you. This drink — which features rosé, frozen strawberries, and vodka — only takes 5 minutes to make, which makes us love it even more than we already did. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Rosé Wine Granita

The hottest of summer days deserve a sweet icy treat like this rosé slushy. It's like a snow cone, but better! (via Feast + West)

Rosé Mimosa from Kim Crawford Wines

Ingredients (serves 4):

For the syrup:

1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup water

For the cocktail:

1 bottle Kim Crawford Rosé
1/2 bottle prosecco
8 rosemary sprigs, to garnish

Instructions:

In a small saucepan bring the sugar and water to a boil, simmer for 5 minutes until dissolved.
Cool and mix in the rosé, then freeze in a loaf pan, breaking up occasionally until frozen solid.
Process in batches in a food processor until smooth, then freeze again until firm.
Scoop into coupe glasses and top off with Prosecco.
Garnish with rosemary and serve.

Rosé Raspberry Sorbet Mimosas

These mimosas are a unique and colorful addition to brunch or weekends with your gal pals. The drink might have sorbet in it, but we'll still pair it with dessert. (via Fox and Briar)

Strawberry Peach Frosé

As far as we're concerned, peaches are the *ultimate* summer fruit. They're juicy, sweet, and taste amazing in a variety of summer dishes. Add it to your rosé recipe to give your drink even more of a summer feel. (via Culinary Hill)

Summer's Perfect Rosé Spritzer

With strawberries, mint, and lemon, this rosé cocktail is like summer in a glass. (via The Sweetest Occasion)

Frozen Peach Rosé Slushy

Decadent peaches get frozen then blended with your best rosé wine for a drink that keeps things extra cool. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Strawberry Frozen Rosé

Because this cocktail has fruit in it, that means it's a healthy option, right?! Either way, this frosé recipe is delicious and super fitting for summertime – day or night. (via Barley & Sage)

Next time you need a drink for an evening on the front porch or brunch, grab one of these rosé cocktails. Any of these recipes will add some flavor to your spring or summer day!

Follow us on Pinterest for more classic cocktails.

This article has been updated from a previous post.

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Hey Mamas! Enter To Win A Diaper Genie + A Refill Bundle

From running on 3 hours of sleep to constant diaper changes, mamas do so much. We've teamed up with @diapergenieofficial for a special Mother’s Day gift to make things easier for new moms: receive a FREE Diaper Genie Select Pail with square refill technology, plus enough refills to get you off to a great start! The giveaway will consist of one Select Pail + four Jumbo Refills for an associated value of up to $118. Say goodbye to diaper odors in style with this sleek, easy-to-use pail. The winner will also receive a $500 Amazon gift card to shop for all their baby and household needs. Check the deets below!

Enter to win a new Diaper Genie Select Pail and four Jumbo Refills here. Giveaway ends on May 31. One lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 5.

Good luck mamas! #DiaperGenie #MothersDayMagic

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Reese Witherspoon's Book Club Just Announced Its Rom-Com Pick For May!

After compiling my vacation reads, I'm *finally* ready to start combing through Reese Witherspoon's Book Club list. Her revelation about reading books in her cover feature interview with Harper's Bazaar made me realize I need to step my game up ASAP.

Her admirable hobby - that's since led her to create a bourgeoning book club— continues to highlight books with women at the center, girl does she have a great eye for stories that fit every mood. To date, her book club list has amassed over 90 titles of romantic beach reads, thrillers, and more.

Since it's a new year and we're sure you not ready to tackle that many titles, I went through the list to pick the top 26 books worth diving into. Buckle up because they're sure to take our emotions on a ride! After you finish your TBR (To Be Read list), check out 24 Standout Reads From Jenna Bush Hager's Book Club, 20 Captivating Shondaland Book Club Picks, and 16 Must-Reads From The Oprah Winfrey Book Club!

May 2024: How to End a Love Story

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

Trigger warning: This book mentions suicide and grief.

Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard are bound by an event that changed their lives forever. Before you ask, it's not a steamy one night stand where one of them ghosted the other.

Their paths actually crossed because of a pivotal accident that neither of them saw coming and it caused Helen to view Grant as her worst enemy for years. However, time passed and they moved on to separately create lucrative careers. What they couldn't have expected was for their paths to cross, especially not at work.

Given the amazing opportunity to be a writer for the TV adaption of her own successful YA books, Helen anxiously travels to LA to accept the position and hit the reset button on her life. She has a brief moment of euphoria until she realizes that Grant will also be in the writer's room.

Now they'll have to confront their complicated feelings for each other in order not to derail their jobs and lives. They know it's impossible for them to have a true love story, but sometimes the messiness of life is all it takes for two people to find common ground and decide how they want their stories to end.

April 2024: The Most Fun We Ever Had

The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo

When Marilyn Connolly and David Sorenson fell in love, all they knew is that nothing could shake their foundation. Despite their unwavering hope in the past, their current reality looks differently than they imagined. Their four daughters — Wendy, Violet, Liza, and Grace — each have a unique set of problems that creates of chaos for the family. From the loss of one's husband to the secrets the youngest daughter keeps, the Sorensons are never quite sure what to expect.

In a shocking turn of events, a young man — Jonah Bendt — shows up and reveals that one of the daughters is his mom. He was placed up for adoption some time ago, but he's ready to come home to learn more about his biological family. There may be drama in The Most Fun We Ever Had, but there's still a family who finds a way back to the love that Marilyn and David have always believed in.

March 2024: Anita De Monte Laughs Last

Art student Raquel only comes Anita de Monte's story after she starts feeling like she's starting to make a name for herself among College Hill's socialites. The more she learns about how Anita's life was horrifically cut short, she starts drawing parallels between their lives. It's almost like history is repeating itself and it's hitting too close to home.

As Gonzalez alternates between both of their perspectives, Raquel and Anita's lives begin to intersect in a way that makes Anita de Monte Laughs Last the kind of novel that'll have you thinking about it longer after you finish the last page.

February 2024: "Redwood Court" by DéLana R.A. Dameron

Redwood Court reads like a historical love letter to Black families and contains relationships that remind me of my own family. When Mika Tabor starts asking questions about her family's history, she receives much more than her class assignment asked for. The more she listens to her grandparents and observes her parents, she realizes they've been telling her meaningful stories all along. From tales of racism to the sweet grasp of a world that began moving past obvious racial tension, this novel offers a glimpse into the homes of many Black families.

While I often say I'd like to pass down books to my kids, Redwood Court has become something that I feel is mandatory to read.

January 2024: "First Lie Wins" by Ashley Elston

Reese's Book Club is coming in hot with their first pick of the year! This thriller of a reader is all about "Evie Porter" and her separate identities. One paints the picture of who she truly is, but her job places her in the position of assuming a new name in order to complete the mission given to her by Mr. Smith. She's never met Mr. Smith, her boss, but she has the inkling that her latest mission hits a little too close to home.

Does he know more about her than she realizes and can she successfully fulfill the goal he has for? Buy your copy of First Lie Wins today to find out!

December 2023: "Before We Were Innocent" by Ella Berman

What would you do if you knew a terrible secret that involved the death of one of your best friends? In Before We Were Innocent, Bess and Joni find themselves trying to escape answering this. However, some things are hard to bury — especially when the past comes knocking in the form of Joni. Will the two former best friends be able to maintain their innocence or will they have to accept the truth about themselves?

November Pick: "Maybe Next Time" by Cesca Major

If the past few years have felt like you've been stuck in a weird time loop, you'll love this page turner by Cesca Major. Maybe Next Time follows Emma as she navigates being a busy literary agent, wife and mother - except she only seems to have time for her career. When her husband is involved in a tragic car accident, Emma finds herself distraught only to wake up and see him alive again.

As the scenario continues to repeat, Emma will have to dig deep inside herself to correct patterns she's been a part of her to save not only her husband but life as she knows it.

October Pick: "Starling House" by Alix E. Harrow

Starling House is a daring tale of what happens when dreams meet determination, grit and evil. All Opal wants to do is create a haven for herself and her brother Jasper but she'll have to fight for it once she finds herself in the mysterious mansion of author E. Starling. In the depths of the shadows, she'll come face to face with things that'll test her resilience.

September Pick: "Mother-Daughter Murder Night" by Nina Simon

Image via Target

The women of the Rubicon family have a lot to tangle with in Mother-Daughter Murder Night. When powerful matriarch Lana's granddaughter Jack becomes the prime suspect in an unsolved murder, Lana becomes determined to find a killer instead of waiting for her disease to have it's last say. Find out what Nina Simon has in store for the town the Rubicons find themselves living in.

August Pick: "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett

Image via Target

Tom Lake weaves a beautiful tale of remembered love and viewing the humanity of one's parent. When Lara begins to regale her three daughters of a former romance she shared with actor Peter Duke at Tome Lake, they begin to take stock of what they know about their mom as well as their own love lives.

"Romantic Comedy" by Curtis Sittenfeld

Heartbreak has the potential to make you swear off love, which is something that late night writer Sally Milz knows all too well. She's also a firm believer in the "Danny Horst Rule," the phenomenon where average looking men exclusively date women more attractive than them — until pop star Noah Brewster shows up to host the late night show. Join her for an intoxicating love ride that makes her change her perspective.

"Where The Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens

If you love a good romance-murder mystery, you'll fall in love with Kya's story. After the town's golden boy winds up dead, everyone in town begins blaming Kya for his murder. With heartbreak and triumph woven throughout, Where The Crawdads Sing will become the summer read you can't put down.

"The House of Eve" by Sadeqa Johnson

Even when forbidden, love seems to find a way in The House of Eve. 15-year-old Ruby is set to be her family's first college attendee, until it appears a scandalous affair will bring her back into poverty. Meanwhile, Eleanor's in love with William, a member of an elite Black family in D.C. that doesn't let just anyone in. The lives of both women will collide in an unexpected way as they forge their own paths.

"The House in the Pines" by Ana Reyes

Maya witnessed her friend's sudden death in the woods seven years ago. Now, with nothing except a few hazy memories, she's determined to figure out what she saw, and who's behind it. The House In The Pines is proof that sometimes our past — and their secrets — don't stay dead.

"Tiny Beautiful Things" by Cheryl Strayed

Life can feel like a dumpster fire sometimes which is why Tiny Beautiful Things feels like a soothing hug. If you love advice columns, you'll love the beautiful compilation of questions "Dear Sugar" answers within the pages as Clare sets out to offer advice while her own life falls apart. After you read the book, check out our interview with Sarah Pidgeon, who stars in the Hulu series!

"Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng

New friends Mia and Elena are pitted against each other when everyone in town splits over a custody battle. Adapted into a mini-series on Hulu at the beginning of the pandemic, Little Fires Everywhere is a tale that shows everything isn't always what it seems, and there are always secrets to be discovered.

"Wrong Place, Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister

Wrong Place, Wrong Time is a novel that explores the lengths a mother is willing to take to prevent her son from doing something unspeakable. Will she be able to piece together clues in time or will all hope remain lost?

"Daisy Jones and The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This titular novel turned Emmy award-nominated Amazon Prime series Daisy Jones & The Six explores the rise — and fall — of a legendary (and fictional) band.

"True Biz" by Sara Nović

This heartwarming book about life at the River Valley School for the Deaf, and all of its students with completely different backgrounds, will make you laugh and cry with its beautiful depiction of human connection.

"The Club" by Ellery Lloyd

If you've never liked hearing "How can you hate from outside the club? You can't even get in," you'll be glad you're not a part of this members-only society. The club has been pushed to its limit and everyone has something to hide.

"The Christie Affair" by Nina de Gramont

Nan infiltrates Agatha Christie's home in 1925, intent on luring her husband away. There's something about love, affairs, and dark secrets that make for a good read, and you won't be able to get enough of this tale where things aren't always what they seem.

"Lucky" by Marissa Stapley

"She's so lucky" ...or is she? Lucky redefines what it means to be honest when the titular character completes a million-dollar heist, and is left stranded by the very people who taught her how to scam.

"Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo

When Anna learns the father she never knew is still alive, she travels to West Africa in search of answers. The tale of self-discovery through one's history, as well as the themes of home and belonging, is something we all long to understand at some point.

"L.A. Weather" by María Amparo Escandón

Families can be complicated, and the Alvarados are no different. If you're looking for a little break from your own family dynamics, you'll get a kick out of reading along as they navigate evacuations, relationship problems, and their father's obsession with the Weather Channel.

"The Paper Palace" by Miranda Cowley Heller

What happens when desire spills over and threatens to unravel everything two friends have built? The Paper Palace answers that as Elle must choose between continuing the life she has dedicated herself to and the life she never got to live.

"Seven Days in June" by Tia Williams

When former lovers Eva and Shane reunite in the midst of their successful literary careers, they find that their chemistry is still as strong as it used to be. But, will the flame fizzle before their lingering questions are answered or will Eva choose vulnerability before Shane disappears again?

"The Last Thing He Told Me" by Laura Dave

What would you do if your significant other disappeared without a trace, only leaving a cryptic note behind? In Hannah's case, she sets out on an unpredictable mission for answers — regardless of what lies ahead. After you read the book, check out our interview with Angourie Rice, who stars in the Apple TV+ series!

"The Sanatorium" by Sarah Pearse

Le Sommet is a sanatorium-turned-luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Detective Elin arrives to celebrate her estranged brother Isaac's engagement to Laure, and her discomfort turns to all-out horror when Laure goes missing.

"You Have a Match" by Emma Lord

DNA tests can reveal new information about our ancestry, but when Abby learns that she has an older sister — and that her older sister is an Instagram star — the women decide to meet up and get to the bottom of why their parents split them up in the first place.

"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell'Antonia

Nothing brings families together like food and age-old rivalries, something that sisters Amanda and Mae learn firsthand when they end up on opposite sides of a cooking competition. If you love hit TV series The Bear, you'll love The Chicken Sisters.