What to Wear When Camping in the Summer

by Alex Wittle

 

If you're going on a summer camping trip, it's important to dress appropriately. Your choice of clothing can make the difference between a good time and a bad one. 

If you're confused about the type of camping clothing that you need to pack for your next summer camping trip, you've come to the right place. In this handy guide to camping in the summer, we'll cover everything from the best summertime outfits to other topics. Let's get started.

 

Tips to Remember While Packing Clothing for a Summer Camping Trip

 

Before you start to pack your summer camping outfits, here are some tips that you need to keep in mind:

 

1) Consider the Environment and Weather

different weather icons on a yellow background

Credit: Envato Elements/ LunaKate

 

Not every summer day is sunny and warm. So, make sure to check the weather forecast before going camping in the summer. Consider packing extra garments in case it is cold or windy at night. You need to always be equipped to handle any weather condition.

 

2) Bring Separate Outfits for Day and Night

man standing on hill hiking with hiking poles looking at view

Credit: Envato Elements/ Galyna_Andrushko

 

When you prepare for a camping trip, you should remember to include specific daytime and nighttime outfits. This is because the temperature in some places may drop dramatically in the evening. Plus, since your clothes are probably muddy, damp, and sweaty, you’ll be glad that you carried extra outfits.

 

3) Avoid Cotton

woman hiking with proper hiking clothes and backpack

Credit: Field Mag

 

Avoid fabrics like cotton since it absorbs sweat easily and takes time to dry. When camping in the summer, you want to wear clothes that are made out of moisture-wicking and quick-drying materials such as Merina wool and synthetic fabrics.

 

Essential Summer Time Camping Clothes

 

Summer is among the best seasons for exploration. It's the ideal time to pack up your car, head off, and take a nature getaway. Here are our top picks for warm-weather camping clothes to help you enjoy your camping adventure:

 

1) Tops

man in yellow hiking shirt and backpack

Credit: Envato Elements/ bluejeanimages

 

When packing for tops, pick light-colored shirts that can deflect UV radiation. Additionally, make sure that it is long-sleeved so that you get some extra protection. This is especially important if you are extremely sensitive to the sun.

 

2) Bottom Wear

bottoms of four mens hiking pants and hiking boots

Credit: Envato Elements/ Johnstocker

 

The bottom clothing you intend to bring should fit loosely to promote airflow. Cargo pants, leggings, and yoga pants are all suitable bottoms to wear. If you plan to pack shorts, be sure to check the weather forecast in advance.

 

3) InnerWear

woman hiking in active wear sports bra and leggings

Credit: Envato Elements/ Image-Source

 

You might think that your choice of innerwear is not important when camping but this is far from the truth. Make sure that any innerwear you bring, such as a sports bra, is made of synthetic materials. Avoid wearing inner clothing that contains lace or that could chafe.

 

4) Hats

woman hiking wearing hat

Credit: Envato Elements/ leungchopan

 

By wearing the right headwear, you can shield your skin from the sun and keep mosquitoes away from your face. Pack a variety of hats, such as wide-brimmed hats, ball caps, sun hats, and more. When choosing a hat, look for features like a UPF rating, lightweight, and breathability.

 

5) Shoes

man hiking in hiking boots

Credit: Envato Elements/ Kegfire

 

Your footwear will directly impact how comfortable you will be when camping. Camping requires time spent outdoors, so athletic shoes and hiking boots may be your best option. If you intend to climb up narrow, steep terrain, you should bring water shoes. Additionally, don't forget to carry flip-flops.

If you're carrying socks, think about packing lighter materials. Thick socks could soak up all the sweat, take a while to dry, and begin to smell.

 

What Not to Bring When Summer Camping

 

You should consider what camping gear you shouldn't bring. Avoid the urge to pack clothes you don't need and other unnecessary items to save space in your backpack. The following items are not necessary to bring when summer camping:

 

1) Jeans

stacking different colored folded jeans

Credit: Envato Elements/ margaritaylita

 

Jeans may seem like a natural item to pack, but there are better choices for camping. In addition to being stiff, hot, and heavy, jeans also take a very long time to dry. Instead carry pants that will dry very quickly, such as joggers, leggings, or yoga pants.

 

2) Dressy Clothes

laid out outfit of fancy dress clothes

Credit: Envato Elements/ Beo88

 

The outdoors are not the place for dressy attire. Delicate fabrics will not fare well in the hot sun. Keep your luxury clothing—including leather, suede, and silk—in the comforts of your house.

 

3) White Clothing

white tshirt with dirt marks on it

Credit: Mulberrys Garment Care

 

Camping is messy. You should be prepared to walk on muddy or dusty paths and sit on rocks. Therefore, if you cherish your whites and want to keep them white, leave them at home.

 

How to Survive a Summer Camping Trip

 

Even though having the proper summer camping wardrobe is important, this alone won't guarantee that your trip will be comfortable. To be sure of this, here are some tips that you should follow:

 

1) Purchase the Right Tent

tent lit up in night campsite

Credit: Envato Elements/ leungchopan

 

A tent is an essential part of every camping trip. If you want to spend a few nights outside in the heat, consider how comfortable your tent will be. The type of tent you use is important; polyester and nylon tents should be avoided due to their propensity to trap heat. Pick a cotton tent as an alternative. Additionally, it's a good idea to bring along an emergency tent in case your primary one breaks or malfunctions.

 

2) Stay Hydrated

man drinking bottle of water while on hike

Credit: Envato Elements/ svitlanah

 

During the summer, staying hydrated is crucial. Dehydration can result in heat strokes or even heat exhaustion. In order to prevent dehydration, have plenty of water bottles on hand so that you can have a sip whenever your throat feels parched. You can even bring a small cooler with you to enjoy some ice-cold drinks.

 

3) Have Proper Food To Sustain Energy

healthy snacks on hand nuts dried fruit raisins

Credit: Envato Elements/ Fresh Off the Grid

 

Camping in the summertime can be exhausting. To refuel, you will need to pack the right food. Consider bringing foods like energy bars, trail mix, and dehydrated foods that are easily absorbed and will help you regain your energy quickly.

 

4) Have a First Aid Kit on Hand

small compact first aid kit

Credit: Envato Elements/ svitlanah

 

Accidents whilst camping are common. While not always detrimental, it is good to be prepared especially given the possibility that help may be hundreds of miles away. To prepare yourself to face anything, always carry a first aid kit when camping.

 

Summary

 

Summer camping adventures may be rather adventurous and entertaining, despite the heat. To shop for first aid kits, emergency tents, sleeping bags, and more for your next camping trip, check out Emergency USA.

Back to Emergency Update