If you are going camping in summer for the first time, you need to have the proper summer clothes.
Many people don’t realize the importance of having proper clothing; they worry more about other camping essentials like tents, shoes, and other camping equipment.
However, your clothes can make a big difference in making your trip enjoyable. The question is, what to wear camping in the summer?
Since it’s summer, you should be picking clothes that can keep you comfortable day and night.
Summer is the best time to go camping as nature is at its best during this time. As the days are warmer, you must wear light yet comfortable clothes during the day.
However, the temperature may drop at night, so you must also have warm clothes to survive the chilly nights.
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What to Wear Camping in the Summer?
It becomes tricky to choose the proper clothing as the weather conditions are sometimes unpredictable.
Therefore, you should prepare yourself for every situation and take several clothes with you even if you are only going for two days.
Here are some tips so that you can pack your clothes accordingly.
Daytime Camping Clothes
When it’s summer, the heat of the day can become unbearable sometimes.
Since you’re out there enjoying your trip, make sure you don’t catch sunburns or become too sweaty.
What should you wear then? Light and soft clothes!
These are comfortable, as they don’t prevent the flow of air from keeping you cool.
When we say light clothes, we don’t mean you should wear anything that overexposes your skin.
Remember, the scorching summer heat can cause sunburns, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Daytime summer camping clothes should be light and cover your entire body to keep you protected from the sun’s UV rays.
One advantage is, you don’t have to apply sunscreen again and again. Another advantage is that long sleeves will protect you from mosquitoes and some harsh plants.
Camping Clothes for Nighttime
You must avoid carrying separate clothes for sleeping, such as pajamas.
Instead, you can bring sweatpants.
As it is quite cold at night, you can bring jackets and hoodies to keep yourself warm.
Layering is a great idea when you are camping, as you can use clothes in multiple ways.
During sunset and sunrise, the temperature is still low, so two layers, or sometimes three, are a must.
Also, you can take sleeping bags with you; they will keep you warm at night, and you will be able to sleep peacefully.
Check the Weather
It is better to check the weather of the place before visiting so that you can go well-prepared.
Unforeseen weather changes, like rain, can happen anytime.
You should carry a waterproof jacket with you if rain is in the forecast.
If you don’t want to carry an additional jacket, bring a warm jacket with a hood as it will do the job.
Is Layering Necessary?
Layering is the best way to use your clothes when you go camping, irrespective of the weather.
You can stay cool in the daytime and warm at nights if you do layering, as it provides adaptability with the temperature.
The first layer should be a tank top, ideally made of moisture-wicking fabric so that you can feel fresh all day.
The second layer must be a t-shirt, which should be breathable so that you don’t feel too hot during the day. Two layers are enough for the daytime.
You can wear the third layer in the early morning or evening if you feel cold, and that could be a light fleece.
For bottoms, you don’t need to layer; a sweatpant, trousers, or jeans would be enough.
You can wear shorts, but there’s the added risk of exposing your skin to the elements, so it is better to avoid them.
Which Fabrics Are Best to Wear When Camping?
Some fabrics are considered best during summer as they are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable.
You can wear cotton and linen in the daytime as they are an excellent choice for warmer days. Why are these so good choices?
Cotton and linen fabrics have a small amount of polyester, just enough to let the air pass through and keep you fresh.
You should completely avoid warm fabrics like wool in summer.
Does the Color of the Clothes Matter?
Many people don’t care much about the color of the clothes they are wearing while camping, but it has some effects.
During summer camping, you can wear bright or neon colors as they keep you cool and look vibrant as well.
The best choice is to wear light and pastel colors, like white, sky blue, and the likes, as they are breathable.
You should avoid dark colors, like black and brown, because they absorb heat and don’t let the air pass through the fabric.
What About Footwear?
Footwear is also an essential part of your camping experience. Many people don’t wear anything in the camping area, which can be dangerous.
You can bring your flip flops or crocs when camping, as they are quite comfortable. Sneakers are mandatory to wear when you go to the camp area so that you can easily walk.
If you are planning to hike, you should bring hiking boots with you; else, you will injure your feet. One thing you should keep in mind before going camping is to bring your old shoes, not the new ones.
New boots are often difficult to walk in; you must break them in first before hiking.
Which Socks Should I Carry?
Socks are also an essential part of your summer camping attire. The goal is to keep your feet dry and protected.
You should bring synthetic or wool socks with you, which can keep you warm during the night.
Also, the material should be quick-drying, so in case they get wet, you can dry the socks as soon as possible.
We recommend that you carry multiple pairs of socks, no matter how many days you are going camping.
Which Accessories Can I Bring to Summer Camping?
If you think that summer camping is not complete without some accessories, then you’re not the only one.
For many, comfort is essential when camping, but there’s no reason why you can’t do it with style.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are mandatory to wear if you want to protect your eyes from UV rays. No matter if you are going camping in summer or winter, it is a must-have accessory.
If you want to make your style game on point, you can opt for some funky sunglasses.
Bandanna
The bandanna is a handy accessory, especially in summer camping.
You can wear it around your neck to protect your skin from sunburn, or you can wear it on your mouth if there’s too much dust around.
Most people keep it to wipe off their sweat during camping as you can’t carry tissue rolls.
Above all, it makes your outfit look chic and adds a bit of style to a dull look.
Sunscreen
You surely don’t want to damage your skin during camping. Wearing sunscreen is mandatory all the time.
Since you’re going to stay in the open air for extended periods, you should reapply it from time to time.
Insect Repellent
There are many insects in the forest, so whenever you go camping, make sure to take an insect repellent with you.
Don’t forget to apply the repellent at night before sleeping as that is the time when insects, especially mosquitoes, bite you the most.
Cap
A cap can protect your face from getting sunburnt; therefore, you should wear a cap during camping.
Swimsuit
There are chances that you will find a lake or a river nearby camp area. Why not go swimming?
It is a great idea to carry a swimsuit if you like to enjoy swimming while camping.
Towel
Towel, whether big or small, is a necessary accessory to have in your camping kit.
It doesn’t only dry wet skin but also helps you stay cool under extreme heat.
Since it’s a knitted cloth, a towel captures more water (or liquid) than a plain cloth. Those tiny fiber-like threads don’t lose water so easily.
Therefore, when it’s too hot to bear, you can put a wet towel on your head to avoid catching heat-stroke or dehydration.
Jewelry
You can wear light jewelry for camping as well. Many prefer to wear earrings or headbands when they go camping.
Conclusion
Camping in summer is not only exciting but adventurous, as well. To make your experience better, the right choice of clothes is essential.
We have written a detailed guide to help you decide what to wear camping in the summer.
In short, you should wear light color clothes featuring long sleeves, even if you are going to camp in the shade.
Lastly, don’t take unnecessary clothes, so you don’t have to carry a heavy backpack.