Just because it is fall season doesn’t mean camping has to be over. In fact, fall camping can be beautiful with bursting colors, nice camping sites that would be next to impossible to score during the summer season. Yes, it may be cooler and the days shorter but all it takes is a bit extra preparation to ensure you are ready for a fall camping trip that will be epic under stars. Here are some tips to help you prepare and know what to pack so you can enjoy the outdoors without freezing.
1. Pack for Cold Weather
There are various pieces of gear you can focus on to keep you warm especially at night while sleeping. Some of these are:
· Sleeping bag. Always carry a cold-weather sleeping bag that protects against lower temperatures than expected. Nothing is worse than freezing throughout the night. If you get cold easily carry two sleeping bags.
· Insulated sleeping pads. It is essential to insulate the body from the cold earth. Get a good closed-cell pad, and if needed, double it up with another thin foam pad. This is one of the most important things you can do to keep warm at night in terms of heat retention.
· Carry a mix of clothing for layering. The key to staying warm and comfortable while camping in the fall season is layering. Pack layers of water-resistant and breathable clothing. Fleece, wool, and synthetic materials will help stay warm and dry. Cotton clothing should be avoided. If you are backpacking, it is good to beware those extra clothes add additional weight.
Make a Camping Checklist
No matter the season, any camping trip requires some preparation work. Whether you are camping at a campsite or backpacking, you will want to follow a checklist. You will require basic items such as personal care items, food, a tent, and sleeping bags. Check the campsite checklist and modify it to fit your needs.
Prepare Your Campsite for Inclement Weather
The weather in the fall season is unpredictable. Once you have found the perfect campsite, it is good to ensure you are protected from the elements. Search for a spot with a natural shelter to help block out the wind. Hanging a tarp between trees near your campsite will also help block cold gusts of wind. Hanging a tarp over your eating area is also a great idea, especially if there is going to be rain.
Find Ways to Stay Warm
You will obviously want to dress appropriately for the fall weather. A flannel shirt or sweatshirt, thermal underwear, and a windproof softshell outer layer always help. Bringing a winter hut to keep the cold and wind at bay is a good idea. Other ways to keep warm when camping in the fall are hand warmers. They are especially good for days spent hiking. Sipping hot beverages like coffee or hot chocolate throughout the day can keep you warm internally.
Bring a Headlamp
Shorter days mean you will have to be extra careful about preparing to cook and other camp tasks before sundown. A headlamp is extremely useful when managing tasks in the dark. A good lantern is also helpful. The ultra-light and packable solar-powered blow-up LED lamps to work well as you don’t have to worry about batteries.
Camping in the fall is a good way to spend time with family and friends while enjoying everything nature has to offer. If you decide to venture into the good outdoors this fall, Camp Live Oak has everything you need to have a fun and memorable trip. For more information, get in touch with us.
