Fall camping is a truly exciting and unique experience that is well worth it. Usually, when talking about camping, it is often about summer, and sometimes about winter. However, trips in the fall are also a great option, and there are many reasons for this.
Among the main benefits of fall camping are lower prices and more camping options available after the peak season ends. Moreover, the absence of annoying mosquitoes and other insects that are often seen in summer is also an advantage for many travelers.
Although autumn is characterized by cooler weather and noticeable temperature fluctuations at night, the fall season is still good for overnight trips. The main things here are to prepare in advance, get the necessary gear and take a warm 2-person tent to feel comfortable day and night when the temperature drops sharply.
Fall camping is easier and less extreme than winter trips, especially for beginners. So, if you are interested in camping as a lifestyle and would like to learn more about it and get a new interesting experience, then camping in the autumn is a great opportunity to start with!
Whether the trip is successful or difficult depends on how well-prepared you are, what equipment you plan to take with you, and where you are going. Let’s take a look at some of the main things to keep in mind when planning your fall camping trip to get the desired result.
What To Pack
The main issue of the autumn season is the fluctuation in temperature from warm and sunny during the day to cool and wet at night. While camping in early, mid, or late autumn is different, there is still a list of basic items you should definitely bring with you to stay comfortable and warm.
Clothing
As with winter trips, it is also recommended to dress in layers in the fall.
The first thing you should pay attention to is the base layer. Its main job is to retain body heat, so it is best to look for clothing made from materials such as polyester, wool, nylon, fleece, etc. A common mistake is to use cotton clothing as a base layer. The problem here is that cotton absorbs moisture and sweat, which can make you feel cold and lose heat faster.
The outer layer should consist of clothing that is primarily water-repellent and can protect you from moisture. Such clothes are often better to buy in camping and sports stores. It’s also a good idea to bring a raincoat, even if you’re traveling early in the fall and the forecast says it won’t rain.
The body loses heat most quickly through the head, neck, arms, and legs. Therefore, when choosing clothes for camping, be sure to take things for these parts of the body with you. A hat, scarf, gloves, and warm socks will help keep you warm and protect you from the cold at night.
During autumn trips, it is often recommended to travel by car in order to be able to take more items. Due to sudden changes in temperature, rain, and humidity, there is always a risk that your main pair of shoes and clothing will get wet and you will not be able to dry it. So always take spare clothes, especially socks and shoes.
Summing up, you need to take with you:
- Base layer for keeping warm
- Outer layer for protection against water and moisture
- Headwear, gloves and socks (several pairs)
- Waterproof shoes (plus a spare pair)
- Raincoat
Gear
In addition to the right set of clothes, the gear also matters. The comfort and success of your camping often directly depend on how high-quality and functional your equipment is.
The first and essential point is to get a reliable tent. For autumn-winter camping, a tent with wood stoves is best suited. Such models are made of durable and resistant materials, which provides protection from the weather, and these tents also have a stove, so you can always warm up and maintain a comfortable temperature inside the tent.
The next item is the sleeping bag. Pay attention to models made of down or its imitation, as such bags are light and do not take up much space. In addition, an important parameter is that the bag provides thermal insulation at low temperatures from 0 to 20-30 degrees. It is a good idea to bring a warm blanket with you, which will provide additional protection and insulation from the cold.
You can also protect your tent with a tarp and footprint, which will help prevent condensation and keep moisture from building up on the tent walls.
Another tip: buy waterproof bags with a zipper for your gadgets, power banks, cameras, batteries, etc.
Depending on what you plan to do, the list of necessary gear may vary. However, it is crucial to remember about the first aid kit, which must be on every trip, since in nature there is always a risk of injury or catching a cold.
So, the basic gear you should take with you on the fall camping includes:
- Autumn/Winter tent
- Sleeping bag with good insulation
- Blanket and comfortable pad
- Tarp and footprint
- Waterproof gadget bags
- Stove, heaters, and other equipment for keeping warm
- Thermos, first aid kit, moisture-proof matches, campfire liquid, etc.
In Conclusion
Any camping is always a new experience. When planning a trip, we also plan different activities, so the necessary set of clothes and equipment can always vary. However, when we talk about fall camping, in each case, the main criterion is to provide warmth, comfort and safety.
That’s why when going camping, first of all, take warm things, spare clothes, and a high-quality waterproof tent with you.
