5 of the Best Pieces of Gear for Underwing Camping

Whether at AirVenture or sleeping under the stars, here's what you'll want to have with you.

Thursday, September 11, 2025 at 12:42 PM ET

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The right gear helps to create the perfect underwing soirée at EAA AirVenture in July at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. [Courtesy: Bella McFarland]

Key Takeaways:

The author's experience at EAA AirVenture has evolved from focusing on aircraft to prioritizing social connections, leading to the creation of a comfortable "underwing patio" as a gathering spot.
Essential gear for an optimal underwing camping setup includes high-quality reclining chairs for comfort, solar-powered string lights for ambiance, a durable cooler for cold drinks, a portable camp table for organization, and a robust power station for charging devices.
The article also offers a broader guide to fly-in camping, emphasizing the importance of researching destinations and amenities, packing light with essential gear, ensuring adequate shelter, managing power needs, and adhering to "Leave No Trace" principles.

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Over the years, I’ve learned that the more you attend the EAA AirVenture fly-in at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, the more the event becomes about the people rather than the airplanes.

When I first visited in 1998 or so, my mind boggled at the incredible variety of flying rarities on display, and with my cheap film camera in hand, I pursued them all with ferocity. Now, having stalked and captured the most intriguing specimens—and having met new friends every year—AirVenture has become an annual reunion of some of my favorite people in the world.

Jason McDowell

Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.