Top 9 Must-Have Camping Gear Supplies For Your Ute

Camping with your ute offers freedom, flexibility and easy exploration of remote locations. But you need the right camping gear supplies to make the most of your adventure.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the ute camping essentials that will turn your ute into the ultimate off-road basecamp.

Camping gear for utes that are a must-have for your next adventure

1. Ladder racks — carry more, worry less

A quality ladder rack expands your ute’s storage capacity, letting you carry bulky gear without compromising space in the tub. With a Ladder Rack, you can transport:

• Rooftop tents — Save space and enjoy a comfortable sleeping setup above ground.

• Awnings — Secure your awnings in your roof rack for quick shade solutions for hot days and rainy weather.
  
  
• Kayaks and canoes — Securely transport adventure gear for a fun-filled trip with your loved ones.

• Extra fuel and water — Fuel and water are essential supplies to stock up on for long-distance, remote camping trips.

Look for Ladder Racks made from aluminium or steel with a modular design for easy accessory attachment. A solid Ladder Rack ensures safe and secure storage, reducing the hassle of trying to fit everything in the back of your ute.

2. Lockable storage boxes — keep your essentials secure

Lockable storage boxes help protect valuable gear from theft and the elements. The best options include:

• Aluminium toolboxes

Aluminium toolboxes are a must-have for any ute owner who needs durable, secure and weatherproof storage. These boxes are designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, protecting your gear from rain, dust and extreme temperatures. They are lightweight yet incredibly strong, ensuring they do not add unnecessary weight to your vehicle. 

Many aluminium toolboxes also feature gas struts for easy access and heavy-duty locks to prevent theft. From camping gear to cooking supplies and other camping accessories for utes, toolboxes will keep all your camping essentials organised and easily accessible. 

• Under-tray storage

Under-tray storage is an excellent option for those looking to optimise space without sacrificing tray usability. These compartments fit seamlessly under the ute’s tray, providing discreet yet highly functional storage. They are ideal for keeping items secure and out of sight, reducing clutter in the main tub.

With dustproof and waterproof features, these storage boxes ensure your equipment remains in top condition, no matter how tough the conditions get.

3. Awnings & rooftop tents — shelter in seconds

Quickly setting up a shelter is essential when camping, especially after a long day on the road. Awnings and rooftop tents make this process effortless.

They offer:

• Instant protection from sun and rain.
• A versatile location for cooking, relaxing or setting up a workspace.
• Side or rear-mounted configurations to accommodate your needs. 
• Elevated sleeping to stay away from ground-dwelling creatures.
• Quick setup and pack-down compared to traditional tents.

Investing in a quality rooftop tent and awning combo makes overnight stays more comfortable and efficient for you and your loved ones. 

4. 12V fridge & power solutions — keep food fresh

Gone are the days of dealing with melting ice and spoiled food. A 12V fridge lets you store perishable food and cold drinks for days.

To keep it running, consider:

• Dual-battery systems — Ensure an uninterrupted power supply.
• Solar panels — Solar panels provide an eco-friendly way to recharge your setup.
• Power inverters — Convert DC power to AC for additional appliances in your camper trailer. 

A reliable power system means you can enjoy fresh meals and cold drinks no matter how far off the grid you venture.

5. Recovery gear — be prepared for any situation

Off-road travel comes with its challenges, making recovery gear essential for getting out of sticky situations.

Here are some must-have camping gear supplies to add to your list before venturing out on the road:

• Traction boards — Place these boards in front or behind your stuck wheel to help regain a grip on sandy and muddy terrain.
  
  
• Snatch straps & shackles — These straps connect a recovery vehicle to the vehicle in distress, essential to have handy when travelling off-road.
  
  
• Winch system — A winch system allows you to leverage cable tension to pull your vehicle out of a tough spot when travelling solo.

6. LED work lights — illuminate your campsite

Good lighting is crucial when setting up camp at night or navigating around your ute in the dark. LED work lights provide powerful illumination and have a range of mounting options:

• Fixed roof-mounted lights — Perfect for setting up larger campsites.

• Portable magnetic or clamp-on lights — These are versatile options to accommodate different needs.

• Handheld torches — Great for moving around the campsite.

With energy-efficient LED options, you get bright lighting without excessive battery drain.

7. Cooking setup — enjoy hot meals anywhere

Nothing beats a warm meal after a long day of adventure. A proper camping kitchen setup enhances the outdoor experience. Must-have items include:

• Portable gas stove — Compact and efficient cooking solution.
• Collapsible kitchen gear — Saves space when not in use.
• Rotisserie grill — Perfect for roasting meat over an open fire.
• Food prep station — A foldable table makes chopping and cooking easier.

8. Water storage & filtration — stay hydrated on the go

Clean drinking water is non-negotiable when camping. Depending on your trip length and location, you may need:

• Mounted water tanks — Ideal for long-term remote camping.
• Portable jerrycans — Easy to refill at stops along the way.
• Water filtration systems — Remove contaminants from natural water sources.
• Pressurised water pumps — Convenient for showers and washing dishes.

Having enough water storage ensures you stay hydrated, cook properly and maintain hygiene while exploring.

9. First aid & emergency kits — safety first

A well-stocked first aid kit and emergency gear can be a lifesaver during unexpected situations.

Ute camping essential items for an emergency include:

• Bandages, antiseptic and pain relief medication.
• Snake bite kit to stay prepared when camping in Australia.
• Satellite phone or PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) to stay connected in remote areas.
• Fire extinguisher in case of vehicle or campfire emergencies.
  

Upgrade your ute with the best camping gear

At Australian Performance Boxes, we provide high-quality aluminium canopies, dog boxes, lockable storage solutions and 4x4 accessories to make your ute adventure-ready. Explore our range today and equip your ute with the best camping gear for outdoor enthusiasts.