It’s prime time for spring camping! We are so excited to get back outside and stretch our legs. But don’t get ahead of yourself– post-winter sunshine can be deceiving! While the sky may be blue, temperatures in the early spring tend to stay low. Sunny afternoons often turn rainy, and nighttime temperatures drop significantly. Learning what to pack and how to dress for these quickly changing conditions can improve your overall experience in the outdoors. These dressing principles can apply year-round, too! Take what you learn here and adjust it according to where you plan to be and when. Spring is awesome for trying new methods of dressing and outdoor wear because the elements throw just about everything at you!
Table Of Contents
So keep on reading to learn all about the basics of technical outerwear, building an outdoor wardrobe, how to pack, and getting outside!
Let’s Talk About the Basics
There are a few key basics to know when it comes to technical outdoor wear. From layering techniques to proper sun care, midweight pieces, and waterproofing. You’ll be an expert in dressing for whatever the elements throw your way!
Layering
Layering is an art and a science– but really, it’s not complicated at all! It starts with considering what you’d wear in various temperatures and conditions. A lightweight, wool, base layer is perfect for underneath. It’s breathable yet insulating. Next, a midweight fleece layer like a vest or a comfy pullover adds a heavier warmth. Finally, a waterproof shell keeps precipitation from seeping in. It’s a simple matter of strategic dressing.
UPF
On a spring day in the mountains, the sun’s harmful rays are extra strong– reflecting off of snow. It’s easy to get a burn! Proper sunblock doesn’t stop at SPF. In addition to sufficient zinc on your skin, UPF clothing is an essential line of defense. The Ultraviolet Protection Factor measures the effectiveness of sun-protective fabrics. Look for sun protective clothing at most outerwear companies.
Merino Wool
When it comes to activewear and layers, natural materials are best against the skin. Merino wool is breathable yet insulating, quick-drying, and odor-resistant. Its fine fibers are soft, cozy, and hypoallergenic. Merino wool is really a one-stop shop in many ways for layer pieces. An ideal fabric for hiking socks, its qualities prevent blistering and chaffing. As you consider your spring wardrobe, consider natural materials like merino wool!
Waterproofing
Sufficient waterproof outerwear is imperative for spring camping. If you’re caught in the rain– and it’s highly likely that you will be– the last thing you want is to be soaked through and freezing. Heavy-duty waterproofing includes sealed seams and waterproof zippers. Read the specs on your jacket and rainpants to be sure what level of waterproofing they are. Don’t be confused by water resistance! As this is not as densely coated in a blocking finish.
Essential Spring Camping Apparel
It’s time to build your spring camping wardrobe! Again, packing for the spring means packing for anything. We’ll talk about the best of each article to bring that will support you through rain or shine this spring!
Tops: Base layers, UPF, and Tees
Merino wool or natural material base layers should be the foundational piece of your spring camping wardrobe. A fleece layer like a vest, or even just a comfy crew neck is perfect overtop your base layer. This middle piece also adds a bit of wind resistance. A few T-shirts will come in handy on exceptionally sunny days! Be sure to look for sufficient UPF layers. Some sun-protective tops come with a hood or collar for added coverage.
Technical Pants
Having a good pair of tactical pants makes all the difference when spring camping! A convertible, windbreaker pant helps with temperature regulation as the weather fluctuates. A pant that is durable and flexible– like nylon with elastane– offers great stretch while hiking and moving around camp.
A fleece-lined pant or tight as a base layer helps to insulate on especially chilly days. And don’t forget a rain pant! Just like a rain jacket, a waterproof outer shell helps keep rain or snow from soaking through.
Footwear: Waterproof Boots
Waterproof boots are a must in the springtime. Mud, snow, slippery trails– you name it. You’ll likely be encountering it all, as well as low temperatures. An insulated, waterproof hiking boot will be your best friend on all your adventures!
Nothing is worse than the feeling of damp feet or freezing snow in your shoes! The higher ankle on the boot is designed specifically to protect your feet from debris and add extra warmth. The sole of the shoe is designed for stability. Make sure you’ve got a sturdy boot that is comfortable to you, has excellent tread, and a high ankle for extra protection.
Having a pair of “in-between” shoes or slippers is a must! Bring a pair of flip-flops (which come in handy at camp showers), insulated slippers, or slides. These can stay indoors in the tent so that you have warm footwear that won’t be tracking mud or dirt inside.
Outer Rain Shell
This is where the real heavy-duty gear comes into play. A hefty waterproof rain shell is a must in the spring rain and snow. Whether this is your rain paints or a jacket, this layer breaks the wind and provides essential protection from the elements. Without a waterproof layer, you’d be soaked through with rain, snow, and frigid winds. So seal in your insulation with a rain shell!
As we discussed earlier, true effective waterproofing comes down to the seams. If you look inside your rainjacket, you can see whether or not there is a sealant over the inner seams! Heavy-duty zippers are another quintessential trait of a good rain shell. Pit-zips and other technical features are great for adding breathability when needed. Double-check for these qualities in your rain jacket to determine if it’s sufficient for your spring adventures!
Accessories
Accessories make all the difference when dressing for the outdoors. And in the spring, once again, you will need a little bit of everything! Sunglasses, fleece-lined gloves, merino wool socks, a beanie, and a wide-brimmed hat. For dealing with snow hiking, microspikes or snowshoes may even be a smart addition. It’s always a good idea to have a multipurpose item in your bag like a bandana! You can use this to wipe sweat and protect your face from wind, dust, and the cold.
Loungewear
Don’t skip out on this! If you’re camping in the spring, you’re likely spending lots of time outside hiking, exploring, or doing other physical activities. Just as much as you prioritize technical wear, remember to include comfy loungewear. A good night’s sleep requires peak comfort and warmth. So bring your favorites! A big cozy sweatshirt, jogger pants, and fuzzy socks are great to wear around camp, in between hikes, at the campfire, and snuggled up in your sleeping bag.
Learn to Pack Like a Pro!
Packing all these layers, shoes, and accessories can feel like a game of Tetris! Tempting as it is to shove everything into a bag and call it a day, it’s important to organize your outdoor wear like you would any other gear. Folded, dry camp clothes are easier to access, cleaner, last longer, and prevent mold and mildew. Use packing cubes in your camping duffle bag to separate loungewear from hiking gear.
Pro Tip: Utilize vertical storage solutions in your camping tent like hooks and hangers. That way, damp outer layers can drip dry completely before being put away. This prevents mold and mildew in the tent and on the clothes, extending the life of the articles.
Final Thoughts
Having the proper clothing and technical wear seriously enhances your outdoor experience. Shifting weather conditions, temperatures, and more means you will be exposed to all the elements. Spring is the perfect time to try out and perfect layering techniques and bundle up in midweight items. Break out your waterproof gear like boots, jackets, and rain pants, and hit the trail!
Practice being a good packer with pro-organizational tips! Packing well sets you up for success and, not to lose any essential items of clothing or accessories. Inside the tent, take care to let things dry before putting them away again. And don’t forget your comfy clothes! Nothing beats changing into warm dry slippers after a day of trekking outside.
Don’t let flaky temperatures and precipitation keep you inside this spring. With the right clothing, layering, and packing, you will be all set for all the outdoor camping adventures you could dream of! Get out and enjoy the best parts of spring– the sun, rain, wildflowers, animals, and so much more. We’ll see you out on the trail, rain and shine!
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