Camping is one of the many joys of summer, and the right gear can really make or break the whole experience! Now, campers deal with high temperatures, prolonged sun exposure, and more. It is really a whole different ball game than other seasons. But don’t worry! We are going to cover all the basics of prepping for warm-weather camping.
Table Of Contents
Starting with the Ten Essentials, learn how to adjust your gear for summer camping. We’ll even talk about the right materials for shelter, clothing, and sun protection. From foods that keep you cool to after-sun care. Learn to pack all the best gear for summer camping, and get ready to enjoy the longest days of the year in the outdoors!
Packing List for Warm-Weather Camping: The Ten Essentials and More
Wondering where to start? The Ten Essentials! This list was developed by The Mountaineers over the last ninety-some-odd years. You can read more about it here. Today, it’s regarded by outdoor industry organizations, like the National Park Service, as your guiding light on what to pack in any season. Each category is necessary for safety, yet customizable for comfort.
Your summer packing list will include the basics that don’t really change season to season. Reliable communication, navigation, a repair kit, and the list goes on. But certain categories like shelter, hydration, and sun protection shift. Adjust these categories to the right seasonal gear and you’re on your way to a great summer camping trip!
Summer Shelter: A Canvas Oasis
A canvas camping tent is the ideal shelter for summer camping. Canvas is durable, insulating, and breathable. That means it’s fully up to the task of summer camping. Your canvas oasis will protect you from the sun, keep you comfortable all night, and cool you during the hot days.
You may think that because it’s summer, you’re not dealing with much weather. But in reality, you’re camping in high UV, intense temperatures, and more.
Canvas that’s been treated for the elements includes built-in sun protection. A UV-resistant finish is ideal for sweltering days. Meanwhile, the interior of the tent remains cool. Thanks to roof vents and mesh-covered windows and doors, the ventilation works wonders. At nighttime, sleep comfortably all night without worry of condensation or stuffiness. Additionally, a strong, shock-absorbing grounding system acts as a firm foundation in high winds.
Dusty desert days are no problem! Canvas is easy to clean, too. With a sweep and a little soapy water, things are as good as new. So your tent will last you through this summer, and the next, and the next! This is probably one of the best long-term investments you can make for summer camping gear, and it will be used for years to come.
Sun Protection: SPF, UPF, Etc.
Sun protection is super important all the time, but especially in the summer! What do days on the trail, at the beach, and kicking back at camp all have in common? Extensive sun exposure! Besides sunburns, too much sun can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, or even sun poisoning. The good news is this is all preventable!
Be prepared by packing lots of SPF. Bring enough to share with friends! Don’t forget to apply it to your ears, lips, scalp, and the tops of your hands and feet– all those places you don’t normally think to apply are usually the most exposed to the sun anyway. UPF clothing is the next best line of defense against the harsh rays. We’ll talk more about that later on.
Be cautious of how much direct sun you’re getting, because sometimes the effects from heat don’t hit until later in the day. So create shade! In your tent accessories, bring a tarp that you can use as shade. A sunshade tarp can be a serious lifesaver. It not only protects you from the sun but also helps maximize your outdoor living space.
Hydration and Nutrition
One of the greatest ways to stay safe and healthy in the heat is by hydrating! Pack plenty of clean water, electrolytes, and fruits and veggies. A reusable water bottle makes it easy and fun to remember to drink throughout the day. Electrolyte packets are cheap and easy to pack, and go further than just quenching your thirst. Electrolytes enhance the body’s overall ability to absorb hydration. Especially after you’ve been exerting yourself.
Pack at least 2 gallons of drinking water per person, per day, and then some more for other needs. It may sound like a lot, but that’s the best way to prevent emergencies and ensure everyone is getting plenty to drink. Speaking of, in case of an emergency, don’t forget your water filter and iodine. Keep them in your day pack. These are essentials if you find yourself in a pinch.
Keep cool by packing fruits and veggies, which have high water content and fiber. And we all know a little fiber goes a long way for the gut when camping. And remember to eat lots of protein to sustain yourself on your trip. When you’re too hot, your body works overtime to keep cool, so high-protein, hydrating foods and electrolytes are the keys to success.
Tailoring First Aid to Summertime Needs
First aid is never something you should forget or leave off your list. Even a mild weekend camping trip holds its risks! Your basic kit should include a number of regular items. Bandages, alcohol wipes, splints, and any medications you find necessary are just a few. Scissors for trimming bandages, gauze for bleeding, and gloves for safety. Check out this comprehensive list from REI to learn about the best ways to pack your first aid kit.
First aid in the summertime is going to involve a few more heat-related items. Sun poisoning, heat exhaustion, and sunburns need to be attended to as soon as possible. Have these items at the ready! After-sun care, aloe for cooling, and burn relief are essentials. Sunburn relief spray is a good option for contact-free relief.
Remember that being far away from amenities and hospitals means being extra careful. Getting help for even small things is going to look different. Take precautions and don’t push yourself if you’re feeling dehydrated or tired from too much sun.
Clothing: UPF, Merino Wool, and More
Did you know you can wear a lot of your sun protection, too? It’s true! Lightweight, UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) clothing works wonders. Don’t be scared of sleeves, either! These layers can do wonders in protecting you from sun damage. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses finish things off!
Your layers should be breathable and moisture-wicking. Merino wool– yes, wool in the summertime– is your best friend. It may sound counterintuitive, but merino wool is like magic on hot days. This fabric is lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant. So sweaty days on the trail become a breeze! And the same goes for your socks. Say goodbye to blisters and chaffing.
Opt for tall socks to protect your feet from dirt, dust, and debris as you hike and walk around the campsite. And be mindful of environmental factors like wind and temperature. Wear warm sleeping layers for those drastic temperature drops at night. And don’t forget a windbreaker for high peaks and hectic winds.
Final Thoughts
Camping is a great way to soak up the sun with your friends and family, and this year is as good a time as ever to make it happen! With the right gear and a positive mindset, camping is worry-free and rewarding in any season. And in the summer sun, it’s even better!
If you’re looking for a place to start, try the Ten Essentials. This list helps guide you so you don’t forget anything important on your trip. With it being summertime, you can adjust your gear to support you during the warm season! From sunshade tarps to extra drinking water, proper clothing, first aid, and more. Tailoring your camping list to fit these needs is the key to a successful summer trip!
Educate yourself on the benefits of canvas for a tent– they are seriously the best! Camp in a breathable, UV-protective shelter and you won’t regret it. Say goodbye to waking up in a stuffy tent and say hello to ventilation and cool sleeping conditions.
Enjoy the sunshine without putting yourself at risk. Lather up that SPF, layer in UPF clothing, and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Campers should be able to enjoy everything the sunshine has to offer. Just do it strategically and with your health in mind. Every camper should have enough drinking water and nourishment for all the adventures.
With the right preparation, summertime camping is easy breezy! Eliminate the worry by packing the right gear, shelter, and more. Learn how to pack for it now, and continue to refine your list over time. Get better at camping in the summer this year, and you’ll be able to spend much more time enjoying yourselves!
Happy camping!
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