Fall is one of my favorite times to camp, but those chilly nights and unpredictable temperatures require a little extra planning. These are my must-have essentials for staying warm, comfortable, and prepared on a shoulder season camping trip.
Sections
4
Layers, Layers, and more Layers
Miscellaneous Fall Stuff
Sleeping Setup
Campfire Essentials
Layers, Layers, and more Layers
Fall temperatures can change quickly. Pack layers you can easily add or remove as the day warms up or the evening cools down.
Start with the base and move on from there.
Moisture Wicking Base Layers | REI Co-op
T-shirts for the warmer afternoon.
Men's T-Shirts
T-shirts for the warmer afternoon.
Shop Women's' T-Shirts
When you need a little bit more warmth…
Men's Long Sleeve Shirts | Classic & Modern Fits
For when you need a bit more warmth.
Long Sleeve Cotton Shirts for Women | Old Navy - Gap
For when you are a bit more chilled.
Mens Hoodies and Sweatshirts
For when you are a bit chilled.
Women's Sweatshirts & Hoodies | Old Navy - Gap
Cold ears aren't fun - cover them up!
Beanie Hats
Warm feet are a must!
Men's Merino Wool Socks
Keep those tooties warm!
Wool Socks Womens
Have a rainy coat for drizzly days!
Women's Waterproof Rainwear & Jackets
Have a rainy coat for drizzly days!
Men's Rain Jackets, Coats & Shells
First thing to do when you've got cold hands.
Gloves and Mittens | REI Co-op
Miscellaneous Fall Stuff
The odds and ends that don’t fit neatly into another category, but can make a big difference on a chilly fall camping trip.
Hiking boots for some fall hikes.
Women's Hiking Shoes & Boots - Footwear
Hiking boots for fall hikes.
Men's Hiking Shoes & Boots - Footwear
A good blanket is one of those camping items you may not appreciate until you really need it
If it's wet out a waterproof blanket is a nice bonus item to have on hand.
Outdoor Picnic Blankets & Mats | REI Co-op
It gets dark early - a headlamp is a nice to have item if your hike brings you back a little later than expected.
Rechargeable and LED Headlamps for Camping
A lantern is nice to have around the campground.
Camping Lights & Lanterns
You might need batteries for a lantern.
Batteries Plus
I LOVE these - they work great! Slip them in your gloves for a quick warm up.
Electric Hand Warmer
Coolers are a must, even when it's cold outside!
Shop Official Hard & Soft Coolers
A daypack is nice to have when you venture out for a hike - you need someplace to carry snacks!
Daypacks: Small Day Hiking Backpacks | REI Co-op
Sunscreen - you always need this!
Face Sunscreen
Better prepared than not…carry a first aid kit.
First Aid Kits
Another nice to have - and probably almost necessary if you are staying off the grid.
Portable Power Banks & Chargers Perfect for the Outdoors
If you like to keep your drinks warm don't forget your thermos!
Thermos
Sleeping Setup
Nothing ruins a fall camping trip faster than being cold all night. These essentials help create a warmer, more comfortable sleeping setup when temperatures drop.
Make sure you pick a sleeping bag rated for the temperatures that you expect.
Sleeping Bags for Camping & Backpacking
Give you self some extra warmth and cushioning.
Insulated Sleeping Pad
Extra Blankets! You can always lay on top of them.
If your site has electricity an electric blanket can be a nice fall camping bonus.
BOMOVA Heated Electric Blanket Twin - 62" x 84 ...
Nice to have!
Does a tent need a footprint? What happens if I don't use ...
Don't forget sleepwear that is just a little bit warmer.
Camping Pajamas for Men, Toddlers & Kids
Warm jammies are a must for fall camping! That walk to the bathroom can be chilly!
Women's Pajamas
If you get cold easily a hot water bottle might be your best friend.
Hot Water Bottles
Hand warmers can also get your warmed up.
Hand Warmers - Up to 11 Hours of Heat ...
Campfire Essentials
Cool fall evenings are made for a campfire. These essentials make it easier to stay warm, cook a little something, and enjoy more time around the fire.
Easy way to start a fire (as long as they are dry).
Matches
Firestarter helps you get that fire going.
Fire Starters - SOL
Nice to have when adding wood to the fire.
Fire Resistant Gloves
Move wood around safely.
Fire Tongs
Be a good boy scout/girl scout - have a bucket of water nearby to put the fire out before you leave your site.
