Essential kit for stargazing, from cosy clothing to clever astronomy tools

1. Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130 

An excellent beginner’s telescope, this Celestron model comes with a smartphone app. Not only does it list celestial objects you can view, it also has on-screen arrows to point you in the right direction. Once your target is in view, the app shows a green bull’s eye, prompting you to look into the eye piece. £399 

2. Philip’s Planisphere

Is that the Big Dipper or the Little Dipper? Banish all confusion with this moveable disc map of the night sky, which can show your exact place in the universe no matter the time of year, thanks to a dial adjustable to the date and time. To go deeper, pair it with Philip’s Stargazing 2024, a guide to the year ahead. £12.99

3. Fatboy Lamzac 3.0 lounger

Stargazing is best done flat on your back — and this inflatable lounger makes it incredibly easy. The Lamzac fills with air in seconds: just scoop air in swiftly through the open end of the lounger, then seal and twist until you’ve got the perfect level of puff, no pump required. Once inflated, it’s like a sofa-meets-beanbag for the outdoors. Packable and water-resistant, it’s a dream companion for long nights under open skies. £89

4. Sheep Inc. The Over Shirt

For warm-weather walks that turn into cooler evenings, this soft wool overshirt strikes the right balance between breathable and insulating. With a relaxed fit, it’s easy to layer over a T-shirt or under a jacket once the temperature drops. Made from 100% regenerative, ultra-fine merino wool and produced in partnership with carbon-negative farms, it feels good both ethically — and on skin. £270

5. D_b_ Hugger Backpack 30L

This Scandinavian-designed backpack is built for ease on the move, whether you’re scrambling up a trail or settling in for a night beneath the stars. The clamshell full-length zip panel lets you open it like a suitcase — ideal when you're unpacking in the dark or on the go. The internal rib cage structure adds protection without bulk, and a quick-access top pocket keeps essentials such as a compact camera, head torch or midnight snacks within easy reach. £189

6. AeroPress Coffee Maker

A compact coffee kit is essential on stargazing trips to keep you warm and awake for long, starry nights. Easy to carry and easy to use, the AeroPress brews a rich and smooth cup in under a minute: just add ground coffee, top up with hot water, let it sit a little while for optimal infusion and press. The new transparent design adds a touch of fun, with vibrant colour options that would look great in moonlight. £54.99

7. Danner Mountain Light boots

With nearly a century of boot-making behind it, Danner has built a reputation for footwear that stands up to harsh conditions. Originally designed for alpine trails, the Mountain Light boots pair the brand’s original heritage design with practical tech: a full-grain leather upper, waterproof lining and shock-absorbing outsole. Despite the rugged build, they break in fast and stay comfortable on long days — or nights. £430

8. Peak Performance Pile Zip Jacket

This warm fleece is the kind of midlayer you’ll reach for when spending a long time beneath the stars on a cold night. The thick, teddy-style texture traps heat without weighing you down. Zip pockets keep essentials secure and hands warm, and the relaxed cut makes it easy to layer over or under as conditions change. £140.