Fall Camping Gear Guide: 16 Must-Haves for Shoulder Season
- Campspotter
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Shoulder season camping comes with cool mornings, warm afternoons, crisp nights, and maybe a little rain thrown in for good measure. While fall might be one of the best times of year to camp, the changing weather means your summer camping setup may need a few upgrades. Use this fall camping checklist to make sure you’re ready for whatever the forecast throws your way.
1. Layers, Layers, Layers
Fall camping is basically a master class in layering. Temperatures can swing significantly throughout the day, so instead of packing one giant winter coat, bring several lighter layers you can add or remove as needed.
Pack:
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- T-shirts
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Fleece or sweatshirt
- Lightweight jacket
- Warm outer layer
- Beanie or warm hat
- Extra socks
The goal? Be ready for a chilly 7 a.m. coffee run and a sunny afternoon hike without having to pack your entire closet.
2. Weatherproof Jacket
Even if the forecast looks clear, a rain jacket is worth the space in your bag.
Fall weather can change quickly, and a lightweight waterproof or water-resistant shell can protect you from rain, wind, and unexpected temperature drops without taking up much room.
Bonus points if it packs down small enough to keep in your daypack.
3. Warm, Dry Shoes
Your summer sandals can take the season off. For fall camping, bring a pair of sturdy hiking shoes or boots that can handle damp trails, muddy campsites, and cooler temperatures. Waterproof or water-resistant footwear is especially helpful if rain is in the forecast.
And, as always, bring an extra pair of socks. Because there are few things less cozy than spending the evening in wet socks.
4. Cozy Camp Blanket
A good blanket is one of those camping items you may not appreciate until you really, really need it. Bring a warm outdoor blanket for sitting around the campfire, lounging in a camp chair, or adding an extra layer to your sleeping setup. Wool or other fire-resistant blankets are especially useful around the campsite.
And if you have room? Bring an extra. Fall camping is prime blanket weather.
5. Headlamps and Lanterns
The days are getting shorter, which means darkness arrives earlier than it did during summer camping season. A headlamp keeps your hands free while you’re setting up camp, walking to the bathroom, or searching for that one thing you swear you packed. A lantern can help light up the campsite after sunset.
Pack extra batteries, too, or opt for rechargeable lights and make sure they’re fully charged before you leave.
6. Good Sleeping Setup
You can enjoy crisp fall air without becoming one with your sleeping bag. For cooler nights, consider upgrading your sleep setup with:
- A sleeping bag rated for the temperatures you expect
- An insulated sleeping pad
- Extra blankets
- Flannel or other warm sheets
- Warm pajamas
- A hot water bottle for especially chilly nights
If you’re RV camping, extra blankets and flannel sheets can make the transition from summer to cooler temperatures much more comfortable. The trick is to check the expected overnight temperature (not just the daytime high) when deciding what to bring.
7. Campfire Essentials
Fall and campfires go together like marshmallows and chocolate. Before you leave, make sure you have everything you need for a safe, comfortable fire, including:
- Matches or a lighter
- Fire starters
- Firewood, if permitted and available
- Fire gloves
- Fire tongs
- A water bucket
Always check your campground’s current fire regulations before your trip. Some destinations may have restrictions depending on weather and fire conditions. And, of course, don’t forget the s’mores supplies.
8. Cooler (Yes, Even in Fall)
Cooler weather doesn’t mean you can skip the cooler. You’ll still need somewhere to keep food and drinks at safe temperatures, and a good cooler can double as extra seating when you’re hanging around camp.
Fall also happens to be an excellent season for hearty camping meals. Think chili, soup, Dutch-oven meals, roasted vegetables, and anything else that tastes even better when you’re eating it outside on a crisp evening. Pack versatile cookware like cast-iron skillets and Dutch ovens for all your camping recipes, from savory meals to desserts.
READ NEXT: 8 Must-Have Items for Your Camping BBQ
9. Daypack
Fall camping often means getting out and exploring. Whether you’re hiking through changing foliage, checking out a nearby town, or heading out for a scenic drive, a small daypack gives you somewhere to stash your essentials.
Keep it stocked with:
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Extra layer
- Rain jacket
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- First-aid essentials
- Headlamp
- Phone and portable charger
That extra layer may feel unnecessary when you leave camp, but you’ll be happy you brought it when the sun goes down.
10. Portable Power Bank
Shorter days mean you’ll probably be relying on your phone for everything from trail maps to photos of peak foliage.
A portable power bank can keep your devices charged when you’re away from hookups or spending a full day exploring. If you’re bringing rechargeable lanterns, headlamps, cameras, or other gear, it’s even more useful.
Just remember to charge everything before you leave home.
11. Hand Warmers
Keep a few hand warmers in your camping gear bin. You might not need them, but on a particularly chilly morning, you’ll be very glad they’re there.
They’re small enough to stash in jacket pockets, sleeping bags, or daypacks and can provide a little extra warmth when temperatures dip. They’re especially handy for early-morning hikes, leaf-peeping drives, or sitting around the campfire after sunset.
12. Thermos
Fall camping calls for warm drinks. A good insulated thermos or travel mug can keep coffee, tea, cider, or hot chocolate warm while you’re out exploring. Fill one up before a morning hike or bring it along for a chilly drive through the fall foliage.
13. Waterproof Storage Bins
Wet weather and camping gear aren’t exactly best friends. A few waterproof or weather-resistant storage bins can help keep clothing, food, electronics, and other essentials protected from rain and moisture. They’re also useful for keeping muddy or damp gear contained instead of letting it take over your tent, RV, or cabin.
14. Doormat or Outdoor Mat
Fall means leaves. And mud. And probably a little more dirt than you’d like to track inside. Place a durable outdoor mat at the entrance to your tent, RV, or cabin to give everyone a place to wipe their shoes before coming inside. It’s a small addition, but it can make a surprisingly big difference when the ground is damp.
15. Good Pair of Gloves
You may not need full-on winter gloves yet, but a lightweight pair of gloves can make a chilly morning much more comfortable.
Look for gloves that are warm enough for your destination while still giving you enough dexterity to make coffee, start a fire, set up camp, or use your phone. They’re small and easy to pack, and you’ll be happy to have them when the temperature drops.
16. A Gear-Drying Strategy
This isn’t technically one item, but it might be one of the most important things to bring into your fall camping mindset. If rain is in the forecast, think ahead about where you’ll dry wet clothes, shoes, towels, and other gear. A few carabiners, a compact clothesline, or a packable drying rack can help keep damp gear from becoming a bigger problem.
Pack Smart, Camp Cozy
Fall camping is all about finding that sweet spot between summer and winter, and your gear should do the same. Pack layers instead of bulky clothes, prepare for changing weather, and prioritize the little comforts that make chilly mornings and crisp nights more enjoyable. With the right setup, you can spend less time worrying about the temperature and more time enjoying everything that makes shoulder season so good.
Now, all that’s left to do is pick a campsite, pack the car, and go find some fall.
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