What to Wear When Camping in the Cold and Wet

You probably already know this, but it bears repeating: Clothing makes all the difference in the outdoors. Wet, cold gloves can leave your fingers immovable. Your city sneakers are prone to slipping on wet and slimy tree roots. Jeans sop up rain, chilling you straight through.

The need for suitable clothing is amplified in the off-season as weather conditions can fluctuate rapidly. Some early fall afternoons are blistering; yet, evening temperatures can drop below freezing. Layers are the answer to these variations. You can think about layers in a few main groups.

The base layer is the foundation

Start with a base layer to insulate your core. We called this long underwear or long-johns in the old days, but today’s base layers tend to be lighter and more breathable. These are unlike cotton garments, which absorb sweat, leaving you cold. Modern base layers wick moisture away from your skin.

I recommend packing two sets (each base layer set includes a shirt and leggings) in case one gets wet. Plus, they’re so comfortable that I often wear them post-workout or around the house. I own merino wool base layers, but there are also synthetic options if you prefer.

Dial in the temperature with mid-layers

Next comes your mid-layer. These come in the form of sweaters, fleeces, and even softshells. It’s wise to pack a few different garments for this layer so that you can dial it in based on the current temperature. Remember: You can always remove a layer. If you didn’t pack it, though, you can’t add it.

I think most about my torso when packing my mid-layer. I generally carry along a light puffy (pro-tip: synthetic insulation breathes better than down). I rarely ever feel cold in my legs, but if my chest is under-insulated, I get cold all over.

A pair of fleece pants can add warmth, though. My nordic ski pants are great for this as they’re warm, flexible, and tapered. They also double as pajama bottoms.

Your outer layer creates a moat around your body

Then there’s your outer layer. Where I live (Vancouver), this is effectively one’s everyday garment as it’s worn to the mountain, grocery store, office, and everywhere in between. Regardless of your location, a well-built outer layer is a wise investment that’ll keep you dry and comfortable even when the conditions aren’t.

A hardshell jacket will be water-resistant, help block out wind, and trap heat next to your body. Good ones will have sealed zippers, heavier/reinforced panels in areas that see a lot of wear, and hoods for added protection. Great ones will have extended sleeves, articulated areas (for greater range of movement), and well-considered adjustment strings and straps.

Don’t cheap out on your outer shell pants. These can seem expensive (and excessive) at first glance. That said, they complete your outer layer. Just think through the fit. Shell pants used for skiing are made to accommodate boots. They also tend to be made of heavier material. A pair made for general use or hiking will be lighter, more fitted, and better-suited to most camping.

I should also note that waterproof garments fail if not maintained, losing their water-resistant characteristics. (Rain will almost race off properly maintained outer shell material.) So, regularly wash shell layers and reapply DWR if they start to wet out.

Protect your fingers and toes

Then there are your extremities. Unlike my teenage sons, who seem impervious to the elements, I hate when my fingers and toes are cold or wet. So, I have a wide variety of gloves and mitts depending on the need.

I always have a pair of work gloves in my truck door’s side compartment. These come in useful when setting up camp, chopping wood, or even carrying heavy things.

I use my lined nordic ski gloves when it’s below freezing. These aren’t waterproof, but they fit well and allow me to use my fingers. If it’s super-cold, I switch to lined mitts with a shell outer. Mitts keep all of your fingers in the same cavity, which makes them warmer.

Technical socks (made from wool or synthetic material) are often more efficient, durable, and warmer than cotton alternatives. A good pair of waterproof boots or trail runners are essential—especially on wet hikes. These too require maintenance and should be resealed if they start to leak.

Test your sock and shoe combination to ensure it’s suitable. Too thick of a sock can make for a tight fit. This snugness can reduce circulation, causing cold feet. Also, pack an extra pair of runners for around camp. These are nice when your feet are sore, post-hike. A spare set also allows you to dry out your wet and stinky hiking boots.

I wear toques (which you Americans still—boringly—call “knit hats”) from October through March. A toque keeps my ears from getting frostbite and my hair-barren scalp nice and toasty. Out camping, I sleep with one on—and it feels great! Add a Buff to keep your neck warm.

This system works year-round

The big takeaway with fall clothing is that it’s a system. The base layer is the foundation, while the outer layer forms a shield. You adjust your mid-layer based on the day, activity, and your personal preference.

I don’t think this system is about fall camping. It’s about all outdoor activity. Last summer, our campsite at Juan de Fuca park got cold when the mists rolled in. Despite the low temperatures, a province-wide fire ban limited us from starting a campfire.

It was the middle of summer, but we didn’t have sufficient clothing. By 7 PM, we called it a night and went to bed—mostly to warm up. I’m typically a shorts-only guy, but I changed my policy after that experience.

Crying kids make for bad camping trips

My last note relates to kids’ clothing. Anyone with kids knows how quickly they outgrow clothing, which can be expensive and frustrating.

That said, warm and high-quality gear will make them happy—and you, by extension. Remember that good outdoor clothing works in the playground and as everyday wear. You can also pass it along to siblings.

Another good approach is to check the used section of your local sports store. You could also join an online group where members sell, trade, and buy (often lightly used) items.

Pack This Essential Gear for Your Fall Camping Adventures is the next installment in our Fall Camping Guide.

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The photograph at the top of this post is of Bonaventure, Canada and it comes courtesy of Alex Guillaume.

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