What to Wear Camping in the Summer?

Planning a summer camping trip requires careful consideration to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The warm and sunny days are perfect for outdoor activities, but the heat can be overwhelming if you don’t have the right gear and clothing. So, what to wear camping in the summer. When packing for a summer camping trip, it’s important to choose lightweight and breathable clothing and gear to help you stay cool and comfortable.

Your daytime attire should include moisture-wicking fabrics, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to protect you from the sun. To stay safe and healthy, you should also bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit. For nighttime camping, pack warm and cozy clothing, as the temperatures can drop significantly. Don’t forget to bring a good sleeping bag and a comfortable sleeping pad to ensure a restful night’s sleep. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your summer camping adventure to the fullest.

Planning Your Summer Camping Outfits

When putting together your summer camping travel wardrobe, focus on versatility, comfort, and protection from bugs and sun. Here are some tips:

Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics

Look for clothing made of lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking synthetics. These will help keep you cool and dry. Avoid thick, heavy fabrics that could cause you to overheat.

Loose, Layerable Items

Pack items you can layer on cooler mornings and evenings and shed during hot afternoons. Loose-fitting shirts, shorts, and pants will allow better airflow.

Long-Sleeve Shirts

Protect yourself from the sun and bugs with lightweight long-sleeve shirts. Look for button-ups with vented backs or moisture-wicking athletic shirts.

Quick-Dry Shorts

Choose lightweight nylon or polyester shorts that will dry fast if they get wet. Avoid heavy cotton shorts that take forever to dry.

Lightweight Pants

For cooler evenings or activities like hiking, pack a pair of lightweight convertible pants. Look for breathable nylon/spandex blends.

Sun Protection

Don’t forget sunglasses, sun hat, and SPF 30+ sunscreen. Protect all exposed skin from the summer sun.

Insect Repellent

You’ll want bug spray with DEET or picaridin to ward off mosquitoes, ticks, and other pesky insects.

Accessories

Round out your outfits with useful accessories like bandanas, buffs, belts, and lightweight socks.

Daytime Summer Camping Attire

During the day, you’ll want breathable, versatile layers that can be adapted to changing temperatures and activities. Here are some key items to wear:

T-Shirts

Pack several lightweight cotton or synthetic T-shirts in both short and long sleeves. Neutral colors are the most versatile.

Tank Tops

Breathable tank tops are great for really hot days. Look for moisture-wicking athletic tanks with UV protection.

Hiking Shorts

Quick-dry nylon hiking shorts allow a free range of movement. Cargo pockets provide storage space.

Hiking Pants

Lightweight convertible pants with zip-off legs are perfect for changeable weather. Wear pants or shorts.

Hiking Shoes

Low-ankle hikers or trail runners are ideal for summer hiking. Look for breathable mesh uppers.

Sandals

For campsite lounging and water activities, sandals are a summer necessity. Chacos, Tevas, and Keens are popular options.

Sunglasses

Protect your eyes from glare with 100% UV-blocking sunglasses. Styles with side shields or wraparounds are best.

Sun Hat

Shield your face and neck from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat. Look for lightweight nylon or canvas options.

Bandana

A colorful cotton bandana has many uses – headband, sun protection, washcloth, sling, and more.

Nighttime Summer Camping Attire

The temperature can really drop once the sun goes down. Have clothing and layers ready for cooler evenings:

Long-Sleeve Shirt

A lightweight flannel or button-down shirt provides warmth and bug protection after dark.

Fleece Jacket

Pack a mid-weight fleece jacket for chilly nights. Look for quarter-zip pullovers that are easy to layer.

Pants

Quick-dry nylon pants or sweatpants will keep your legs warm when temperatures drop.

Socks

Wool or polyester blend socks will keep your feet warmer at night than cotton.

Beanie

A knit beanie helps retain body heat by keeping your head warm. Merino wool or acrylic options are cozy.

Gloves

Lightweight fleece gloves come in handy for chilly mornings and nights.

Headlamp

An LED headlamp allows for hands-free lighting around the campsite after dark.

Insulated Jacket

For really cold nights, pack an ultralight down or synthetic insulated jacket for extra warmth.

Footwear for Summer Camping

Choose versatile footwear suitable for hiking, water activities, and relaxing around the campsite. Here are some top picks:

Hiking Shoes/Boots

Look for waterproof low hikers or trail runners with traction soles for summer hiking. Focus on breathability.

Sandals

Pack a pair of rugged sports sandals like Chacos or Tevas for wading, lounging, and campground showers.

Water Shoes

Lightweight mesh water shoes work well for activities like kayaking, canoeing, and swimming.

Camp Shoes

Have a second pair of old sneakers or sandals to wear solely at the campsite. This protects your hiking shoes from dirt and damage.

Hiking Socks

Choose moisture-wicking merino wool or synthetic blend socks specifically designed for hiking. Avoid 100% cotton.

Neoprene Socks

Optional for water activities – neoprene socks add warmth and protection when swimming or water hiking. Wear them over polyester liners.

Other Helpful Summer Camping Gear

In addition to clothing and footwear, be sure to pack these other useful camping items:

• Portable camp chairs – for lounging comfortably around the campfire
• Inflatable sleeping pad – for cushioning and insulating your sleeping bag
• Pillow – for comfort and support while sleeping
• Camping blanket – an extra layer for the evenings or picnic lunch
• Folding table – provides space for cooking, playing games, etc. Battery-powered fan – for staying cool in your tent on hot nights
• Collapsible cooler – to keep food/drinks cold without taking up space
• Dry bags – waterproof bags to protect items from rain, splashes, etc.
• Portable solar charger – supports phones/devices charged without electricity.
• Biodegradable soap – for washing up without polluting
• Camp kitchen tools – plates, mugs, cutlery, cutting board, pots, etc.
• Camp stove and fuel – for cooking meals at your site
• Lanterns and flashlights – illuminate the campsite after dark
• Lighter/matches – for starting the campfire

With breathable, versatile clothing, supportive footwear, and helpful gear, you’ll be fully equipped for camping out on sunny days and starry nights this summer!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is cotton a good fabric choice for summer camping?

While cotton is a comfortable natural fiber, it dries very slowly and won’t keep you warm when wet. Synthetic fabrics or wool that wick moisture and dry quickly are better options for camping.

2. Should I wear shorts or pants during summer camping?

Quick-dry nylon shorts work well for hot days, but convertible pants offer versatility as the temperature drops. Having both on hand gives you options.

3. Do I need special hiking shoes for summer camping?

Look for lightweight hikers or trail runners with good traction and breathable mesh uppers. Don’t just wear any old sneakers.

4. How many pairs of socks should I pack?

Bring 2-3 pairs per day so you can change into dry socks as needed. Focus on wool, polyester blends, and hiking-specific styles.

5. What’s the best way to stay warm on cool summer nights?

Pack versatile layers like a fleece jacket, long-sleeve shirt, warm socks, and a beanie. An insulated coat can also help on really cold nights.

Conclusion

Planning your summer camping wardrobe takes some strategic thinking to ensure you stay comfortable, protected, and versatile in changing conditions. Learn how to Pack Your Bags  Your Complete Checklist for a Stay at Our Camping Resort Focus on quick-drying, breathable fabrics, lightweight layers, sun protection, bug repellent, and supportive footwear. Remember to pack for both hot sunny days and potentially cool evenings. With the right mix of clothing, gear, and supplies, you’ll be ready to enjoy all that summer camping has to offer!