14 Tips for Fall Camping to Make Your Trip Safe and Sound

Camping isn’t just about summer. The versatility of this lifestyle makes it an ideal hobby, since with a tent you can get outdoors at any time of the year.

Fall is one of the best seasons for camping, especially in the early weeks when temperatures are a little cooler, there are fewer lines at campgrounds, and you can enjoy a bug-free experience.

However, fall trips may require more equipment and a well-protected tent, like a 3-person all-season tent, to feel comfortable and safe in case of bad weather.

Planning a camping trip is a key step where many aspects need to be taken into account to avoid mistakes and ensure that your trip is a success.

We’ve put together some helpful fall camping tips that you can use when planning your next journey to avoid any issues.

1. Choose a campsite

Usually, finding an interesting spot that you would like to visit is not a difficult task. You can easily find affordable campgrounds near you or visit a place you have long dreamed of. The key is to choose your campsite in advance, as some campgrounds may be closed or require advance reservations during the fall months. And if we are talking about popular destinations, then it is worth booking several weeks or even months before the expected travel date.

2. Find out about discounts

In most places, rent in the fall is lower since the high summer season has ended. When choosing between multiple campground options, even within the same park, look for discounts so you can get the perfect site for a lower price.

3. Select the month of travel

Fall camping attracts many lovers with the charm of autumn and the scenery of colorful foliage on the treetops. And the most beautiful foliage is usually from September to October, so if you like fall landscapes, it is best to plan your trip during this period.

4. Pay attention to the weather forecast

A key feature of fall weather is that it changes quickly. Always check the forecasts for regions you plan to visit in advance. Remember that warm weather can change dramatically. Therefore, when packing your items, take enough warm clothes and raincoats.

5. Make a checklist

Any trip or move becomes much easier and more organized if you have a checklist. Make a list in advance of what you might need or look for ready-made checklists on the Internet.

Before leaving, be sure to check your luggage with the list so as not to miss anything.

6. Choose the right sleeping bag

When planning fall camping, you need to take a sleeping bag suitable for low temperatures, even if the forecast calls for warm weather.

It is best to take a sleeping bag that protects against temperatures lower than you expect. A good option for fall camping is a bag that says “0-30 degrees Fahrenheit.”

Apart from this, you can even take two sleeping bags: sleep in one, and use the other as a blanket, since the temperature can drop significantly at night, especially if you are camping in an area with high humidity.

7. Test your shelter

If you suspect that your tent may not be secure enough for fall camping, you can set it up in your backyard and spend the night there to make sure it retains heat well and everything works as it should. In the same way, you can check other equipment you plan to take with you.

8. Invest in a good tent

When choosing a tent you should not save money. It is important that your shelter is made of reliable materials and provides high protection from rain and moisture, and also retains heat inside. In this case, it is best to take all-season tents.

Also, you can additionally purchase a footprint and tarp for extra protection of the tent from cold, moisture, and water.

9. Use sleeping pads and mats

Sleeping mats are a great idea for better insulation. It is best to use a closed cell pad. If necessary, you can also add another mat to better insulate your tent.

10. Dress in layers

Layering is key to staying comfortable while camping in the fall.

When choosing clothes, be aware that you should have two layers: an outer layer to protect from moisture, water, and wind, and an inner layer to retain body heat.

For the outer layer, it is best to buy clothes made from synthetic, water-resistant materials from sports stores. For the inner layer, synthetic fabric is also preferred. However, you can use wool or fleece clothing. It is important to avoid cotton and other breathable fabrics as these materials lead to rapid heat loss.

In case of low temperatures or even frost, pay special attention to protecting the following areas of the body: head, neck, hands, and feet, as these areas are most susceptible to heat loss.

Lastly, this is a good idea to wear thermal underwear when camping as it can be more comfortable and retain heat well.

11. Take insect repellent

Although there are usually significantly fewer insects and bugs in the fall, there can be quite a lot of them in some places. Therefore, stock up on repellent and also take a mosquito net if necessary. Additionally, store food in closed containers.

12 . Stock up on firewood

Many campgrounds have sites where you can purchase firewood for a fire. However, some places may not provide this service. In addition, the firewood you can find on-site may be damp due to moisture. Therefore, you should take firewood or coal with you in advance to avoid hassle.

13. Take a first-aid kit

A first aid kit is a must-have for any outdoor trip, regardless of the season. While camping, you may be in remote areas where there are no pharmacies or hospitals. Therefore, be sure to purchase a first aid kit or take medications with you from home. In addition to the medications prescribed to you, your first aid kit must contain the following items:

• Plasters and bandages
• Antiseptics
• Medicines against poisoning and diarrhea
• Antiviral drugs
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Painkillers
• Antipyretic medications
• Allergy remedies
• Wet wipes, cotton pads, cotton swabs
• Scissors, medical gloves, thermometer, syringes

You can also put an asthma inhaler and insulin in your first aid kit.

14. Bring a portable heater

Portable heaters can greatly improve your camping comfort. Using them, you can maintain warmth in the tent, as well as dry clothes and shoes, which is especially useful during fall camping since the likelihood of getting caught in the rain and getting wet is extremely high.