If you’re an outdoorsy person and love to explore, camping is the right activity for you. It’s a great opportunity to learn new things and have fun at the same time. It offers so many benefits, both physically and mentally. You can learn and practice new skills, like fishing, hiking, cooking, hunting, building and much more. It helps you become more social and understand people better.
Camping gives you the opportunity to connect with nature and get to know its every aspect. By being outside, surrounded by the serenity of the woods, you can relax and take away all the stress from your everyday life. Plus, camping is an opportunity to bond with your family and friends and make new memories.
But to embark on this journey you’ll need to be well prepared, and bring along gear such as a tent, sleeping bags, camping bags, a stove and of course, comfortable clothing to protect you from the elements. When it comes to camping clothes, here’s what it’s recommended to pack with you.
Rainwear
Buying waterproof clothing can sometimes be overwhelming because there are some unknown terms. All you want is something that will keep you dry on your journey, be comfortable and don’t break your budget. There are many camping rainwear options you can rely on these days. You have waterproof jackets, pants, ponchos, hats, boots and more. The rain jacket should be very light and made from durable materials. They are a must-have for any camper and should have a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. This strengthens the waterproof element of the jacket.
The poncho is another, simpler version of the jacket. It’s thinner and usually made from vinyl or nylon. It’s not that sturdy so you need to be careful where you walk, it may get ripped from bushes or branches. The poncho works well if there’s no wind. Once the wind kicks in, it’ll start flying around and you’ll get wet for sure. Pants, on the other hand, are a great option, wind or no wind. They keep your lower body dry in cold wet weather conditions. The only disadvantage is their bulkiness. You can combine a poncho with gaiters instead of wearing pants for example. They go from your ankle to the knee and are lightweight and easily packable.
All of these garments can be made from several materials or a combination of two or more. The pairing of rubber and vinyl is one of the most cost-effective options that are 100% waterproof. It’s very durable and can be used on many occasions. The only downside is that’s not breathable, you’ll feel your sweat under it. Coated nylon is another option. In this case, the nylon has a waterproof coating and tape to stop leakage. These clothes are light and easily packable but are not very waterproof and breathable. The 3-layered construction is the most popular. They’re waterproof, durable, breathable and protective. This camping rainwear can last long in severe weather conditions but can be a bit heavy to carry around.
The Arrival Clothes
Consider carefully what you’re going to wear on your way to the camping site. This is the outfit you’ll need to work with until you set up your camp. You’ll need to put up the tent, look for wood for the fire, hand the hammock and many other tasks to set you up for the wilderness vacation. Make sure you get something that’s comfortable and something that’s easily washable. You’ll come in contact with a lot of dirt, dust, mud, oil, grease and smoke so make sure it’s not very absorbable. If the weather is colder and rain is anticipated, wear rainwear just in case.
Going to Bed
After a whole day of work, setting up the camp and every utility, it’s time to go to bed a get a good night’s sleep. Whatever you wear when you go to bed, just make sure it’s not wet. It doesn’t matter if you were walking in the river, got soaked by heavy rain or you’re just sweaty from a hard day’s work, these clothes need to go. Store them away so you can dry them later, but don’t leave them on you. This includes your underwear as well. Even if it’s not wet, it’s unhygienic to keep it on you after a long day.
Don’t make the mistake of overdressing when you go to sleep because it can make you sweat. Sweat and enclosed places don’t go well together. Your sleeping bag can absorb all of the moisture and make it damp. This can make you feel even colder and you won’t have good isolation, which is necessary when you’re sleeping on the ground. Dress lightly and if you’re feeling chill, throw some blankets over the sleeping bag. If the mornings are chilly you can take your outfit for tomorrow and tuck it with you in the sleeping bag. Your body warmth will warm it up and you’ll be ready to put it on in the morning.
During the Day
When going camping, always pack more than one combination of clothes. The weather can change many times during the day and you have to be prepared for every situation, wind, sun and rain. You’ll want to be dressed in layers because changing can be a problem if you’re working or doing some fun activity. Going in the tent for a change of clothes can be a real party breaker. Prepare by planning out your outfit starting with your underwear. The best choice for this garment is wool. It’s breathable and moisture-absorbent. Silk is also a good option. Put on a t-shirt and pants or a skirt over the underwear if the weather is sunny and pleasant. If you get chilly just add a windbreaker and you’re all set up.
If it’s the colder time of the year, pick materials that’ll keep you warm, but not sweaty. Remember, sweat is not your friend while camping. Wool is also a good material to keep you warm. Synthetic materials such as polyester, have developed a lot and now have all of the means necessary to stand up to the cold weather. If you’re facing wind, rain and snow, a third layer, called a shell, is something you need. This layer should be waterproof, wind-resistant, breathable and durable. Jackets are the best option for this. Dressing in layers gives you the opportunity to customise your outfit during the day, and adjust it to the current weather.
In Summary
Carefully choose your camping clothes. Think about the weather conditions and pack accordingly. Being protected and warm is very important. You’re in a remote area and not many hospitals are nearby. By bringing the right clothing, you’ll save yourself a trip to the doctor for some cold medicine.
