When you head out on a camping trip, have you thought about what goes in your pack? Taking the RV out of storage, or just using the tent, either way your comfort level will be enhanced with the right clothing. Here are several simple checklists of appropriate clothing to bring when you head into the woods.
Warm Weather Camp Clothing
Remember that the weather can change suddenly and that forecasts are often wrong. Also, the weather out in the mountains may differ from the weather near the weather station (like the Chilliwack airport) because of elevation differences and the effect of valleys and other topographical features on wind, rain, and other weather patterns.
Just because it is warm when you head out on Friday does not mean it will be warm Sunday morning. In the Lower Mainland we must always plan for rain ahead.
Here is a list of clothing appropriate for a warm-weather outing.
- Thick socks
- Jeans or canvas pants
- Long sleeve light shirt
- Short sleeve light shirt
- Hat with wide brim to sun protection
- Hiking Boots
- Jacket (rain resistant)
- Undergarments
- Swimming suit
- Sleep wear
Cold Weather Camp Clothing
The key to cold weather camping comfort is to dress in layers. This will allow you to control your temperature better.
In cold weather, you do not want to sweat, because that will soak your clothing and than you will chill you. If you find yourself working up a sweat, remove a layer of clothing, or open a zipper to reduce your body heat.
Choose wool rather than on cotton, because wool stays warm even when wet. There is a popular saying among experienced outdoorsmen that “Cotton kills.” This is because when cotton gets wet, it steals the body’s heat which can lead to hypothermia and death. Make your outer layer wind-proof to increase the warmth of your clothing.
Here is a check list:
- Thermal Underwear
- Light shirts (polyester or some other synthetic)
- Heavy Shirts
- Wool Sweater
- Wind Breaker
- Fleece Pants (synthetic)
- Nylon Pants (as the outside layer) or snow pants
- Overcoat
- Wool Socks
- Hiking Boots
- Warm Hat or toque
- Swimsuit (for showering/bathing at least)
Sleepwear
For comfortable sleeping and for modesty on overnight trips, bring pajamas or for more warmth, a sweat suit. While it might be warm during the day the temperature may drop at night. You might have to get out of your sleeping bag to attend to something so dress warmly.
Personal Items to Pack
Personal Gear
- Sleeping bag
- Foam ground pad or air mattress
- Flashlight
- Pocket knife
- Quarter roll of toilet paper
- Coins (for campground showers)
- Bible and/or other reading material
- Camera/Phone
- Notepad and pencil
- Toiletries (Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
- Washcloth & Towel
- Mess Kit
