A successful camping trip requires sufficient planning. From selecting your meals to picking a tent site, these decisions can make or break your trip.

A massive consideration for camping is your clothing. Packing camping attire differs from packing for other vacations because you spend most of your time outdoors. Functional and comfortable apparel helps you enjoy the outdoors to the fullest. Learn more about how to dress for camping with our guide.

Why Is It Important to Pack Carefully for a Camping Trip?

The best clothes for camping boost your enjoyment of outdoor adventures. Packing carefully helps with:

• Preparing for weather: Outdoor weather is unpredictable. Sunny skies can quickly turn into rainstorms, and warm temperatures can suddenly drop. Without protective layers or extra clothes, you might be uncomfortable or even feel sick. It’s crucial to look at the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
• Protecting against bugs: If you camp in an area with many bugs, you can minimize their effects with protective clothes. Mosquitos, ticks, and other bugs can quickly make your trip uncomfortable. Long-sleeved shirts and pants keep bugs from reaching your bare skin.
• Equipping for activities: Whether you hike, swim, kayak, or anything in between, various camping activities require different clothes. By planning ahead, you can pack the apparel for all of your plans.

Camping Clothing for Every Season

Your camping trip season has the biggest influence on what clothes to pack for camping. When you pick clothes according to the temperature and weather conditions, you can enjoy optimal comfort during your trip.

Summer Camping Attire

Summer is a popular travel season for many because of the warmer temperatures. Campers can enjoy the beautiful outdoors without needing to bundle up. However, summer temperatures can vary from day to day, making it vital to plan your clothing appropriately.

Here are some essential summer clothes to bring camping:

• Rain gear: Even if the forecast looks dry, it’s best to prepare for rainy weather. A sudden rainstorm could soak through your clothes and leave you extremely uncomfortable for the remainder of the trip. Pack a rain jacket or poncho in case rain strikes. You might also consider extra clothes in case some of them get wet. Options like waterproof pack covers keep your backpack or other possessions safe.
• UV Protection: If you plan to hike in an area that does not have a lot of shade, maybe the desert or scrubland areas, then opt for long sleeve shirts, even in summer. A good UV protective shirt will shield your skin from sunburn and UV damage.
• Moisture-wicking clothes: If you’re out in the sun all day, you might start to sweat. Breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics keep you cool during summertime activities. They also dry quickly, letting you reuse apparel if necessary. Choose tank tops and T-shirts with moisture-wicking abilities to optimize your comfort.
• Sun hats: Hats keep the sun out of your eyes while you swim, fish, hike, or complete other hiking activities. They also keep bugs away from your eyes and face. Whether you choose a wide-brimmed hat or a simple ball cap, it can significantly increase your comfort levels.
• Layers: During the day, you’ll likely experience high temperatures. But evening and night temperatures can drop once the sun descends. By packing extra long-sleeve layers, you prevent yourself from becoming too cold.
• Swimming gear: If you’re planning on any water-based activities, remember to pack the proper gear. You might need a swimsuit, water shoes, or similar items.

Winter Camping Attire

Winter packing looks different from summer packing. Low temperatures and snowy conditions require extra layers and warm accessories. These are a few necessities for your winter camping trip:

• Wool socks: Warm socks are critical for keeping your feet and toes warm. Wool is a thick and durable material that regulates the temperature in your feet, allowing for optimal comfort.
• Gloves and winter hat: It’s also important to remember your gloves and winter hat. These shield your ears and hands from extreme cold. If you’re expecting snowy or rainy conditions, waterproof materials are excellent.
• Layers: Like summer packing, layers are a necessary addition to your winter packing. Campers often rely on three layers — the base, middle, and outer layers. The base layer is the first long-sleeved layer, such as a warm thermal shirt. The middle layer could consist of a flannel shirt or fleece, while the outer layer is your winter coat or jacket.
• Waterproof boots: If you plan to hike or interact with water on your trip, waterproof boots are essential. They keep your feet from getting wet as you walk through puddles or other wet areas.

What Not to Wear When Camping

While some items are essential for a camping trip, others are better left behind. These items can decrease comfort and functionality on your journey:

• Flip-flops: Flip-flops are easy to slip on and off, but they’re often unhelpful while camping. They don’t shield your feet from the earth or weather conditions. It’s better to bring a sturdy pair of sneakers or biking shoes.
• Jeans or denim: Denim is heavy and doesn’t respond well to moisture, making it an ineffective choice for camping gear. Synthetic materials are usually better choices for your pants or jackets.
• Expensive or cherished clothing: In most cases, it’s best to leave your favorite or most expensive clothes off your camping clothes checklist. They could become dirty, or you face the risk of misplacing them.

General Tips for Packing Camping Clothes

Here are a few more tips for camping clothes:

• Pack separate outfits for morning and night: It’s usually best to have different clothes for day and night. Daytime clothes might become sweaty during the day, and having a fresh pair of clothes would make you more comfortable. Remember to bring layers for nighttime in case temperatures drop.
• Bring sunscreen: Whether you camp in the summer or winter, it’s important to protect yourself from UV rays. Using sunscreen and wearing protective clothes helps shield your skin. Sunscreen can reduce the chance of skin cancer and prevent irritation.
• Remember bug spray: Bug spray keeps away annoying or dangerous bugs during your camping activities. Pack enough for multiple applications each day. You can keep it in your backpack or tent for easy access.

Shop for Camping Gear With DutchWare Gear Today

The right packing techniques and clothes for camping improve your camping experience. No matter the time of year, extra packing preparation helps you stay comfortable during your trip.

If you need high-quality and durable camping gear, shop with DutchWare Gear today. We carry a wide range of hammocks, camping gear, tarps, and other outdoor gear. We are committed to limiting our environmental impact, and we use a minimalist approach in production.

Browse our camping apparel today for high-quality, moisture-wicking materials. Choose our waterproof materials to protect against wet conditions. Use our search and filter features to narrow options to the products you need.

Hammock Safety 101 — A Beginner’s Guide to Staying Safe and Sound in a Hammock

Recreational hammocks are fast becoming must-haves for camping and hiking trips. They’re comfortable to lounge in, lightweight and easy to carry, and quick to set up.

Whether you’re just starting out or consider yourself a veteran “hanger,” here’s everything you need to know about hammock safety.

Is Hammock Camping Safer Than Tent Camping?

Most people feel pretty safe camping with a roof over their heads, separating themselves from the elements and the animals. But picture this: You’re gently swinging between two trees, enjoying a slight breeze, looking over a stunning view as the sun sets for the day. This sort of experience is only accessible with a trusty hammock. And while many campers usually feel safe in a tent, hammock camping can be just as secure.

A hammock provides a comfortable place to sleep no matter where you set up your home base. There are countless types of top quilts, under quilts, and tarps you can use to keep yourself cozy and dry, no matter the weather conditions. Being raised off the ground avoids dozing off on rocks, tree roots, or damp soil. Plus, animals will have more difficulty reaching you when you’re a couple of feet off the ground. Regardless of your concerns with hammock camping, there’s sure to be a solution for a safe and sheltered experience.

Is Hammock Camping Safe From Animals?

While you should always try to find a campsite with lower levels of animal activity away from food or water sources, there’s always a possibility that raccoons, bears, coyotes, snakes, or squirrels could find their way into your things. Hammocks are often great since you’ll be off the ground between two trees. Pair this elevation with a capable bug net, and you’ll be on your way toward an enjoyable experience.

Being suspended helps prevent animals from wandering into your bed at night, allowing you to get a full night’s rest before the next day’s adventures. If you’re in a particularly active area and have durable tree straps, you can elevate your hammock higher than usual as long as you can comfortably get in and out.

7 Hammock Safety Tips

Are hammocks dangerous? How do I stay safe in a hammock? If you’re planning an outdoor trip and are asking yourself these questions, you’ve come to the right place. Follow these safety tips to ensure an enjoyable outing.

1. Have First Aid on Hand

Having first aid and medical supplies on hand will help you in case of any unexpected accidents. Look for a first aid kit explicitly made for camping. One with waterproof matches and a reflective blanket would be best.

2. Inspect Gear

Follow our hammock camping checklist to make sure your gear is in good shape. Before your trip, be sure to:

• Ensure all seams are in place in your hammock.
• Ensure your hammock does not have holes, UV fading, or weak areas.
• Check all quilts and blankets for rips, tears, and punctures.

3. Prepare for Subpar Weather

Before you head out for a hammock camping trip, make sure you have everything you need to stay safe in bad weather. Bring a raincoat, even if no rain is forecasted. You should also be sure to wear layers and bring some warmer clothes just in case you need them in the winter.

4. Have a Means of Communication

Make sure you have a means of communication on hand. You’ll want to be able to get in touch with first responders as fast as possible in the case of an emergency. Examples of communication devices are whistles, satelight communication devices, and cell phones.

Always tell at least one person close to you where you are going before your trip. Travel with another person if possible.

5. Survey the Location

Avoid hanging your hammock over water, rocks, briars, or other sharp or unsafe objects and areas. You’ll want to look for signs of animals, too.

As for the height at which you hang your hammock, most hammocks have tags with recommendations. In general, we suggest positioning your hammock at a sitting height no more than 3 feet above the ground and sagging at a 30-degree angle.

6. Pack Food and Water

Always make sure you have clean, healthy food and water when planning a trip with your hammock in tow. You should never drink water found in nature without adequately treating it first. You can do so by using purification tablets or by boiling the water.

7. Practice Wild Animal Safety

Cook as far away as possible from your camping area to keep wild animals away from your hammock. Lighting a campfire at night can also help scare animals away. As for supplies, a bear bag can help conceal food smells and keep your camping site safe.

How Can I Make My Hammock More Comfortable?

DutchWare offers DIY hammock insulation you can use as padding to make your hammock more comfortable. We also include a 100% satisfaction guarantee with every purchase to ensure you have the best outdoor experience possible.

Buy Comfortable, Durable Hammocks From DutchWare

DutchWare has all the supplies you need to stay safe and sound in a hammock. Browse our inventory for a selection of comfortable, long-lasting equipment, from hammocks and tarps to camping stoves and tents.

Feel free to contact us if you have questions about the gear you need to stay safe on your next trip.

Check Out These Hammock Beginner Articles

• 16 Different Types of Camping 
• Camping: Hammocks vs Tents
• Pros and Cons: Underquilt vs. Sleeping Pad
• How To Set Up A Camping Hammock – Guide

Overcoming Hammocking Claustrophobia

After a day adventuring in the great outdoors, you’ve been looking forward to slipping into your hammock. Setting it up was simpler than you thought. In fact, it looks incredibly inviting!

As you get yourself into place, a feeling of panic overwhelms you. This doesn’t seem natural at all. You want to be able to enjoy the sensation of being hugged by your hammock, but you’re overcome with what can only be claustrophobia.

Sound familiar? It’s not uncommon for some newcomers sleeping in a camping hammock to experience claustrophobia symptoms. The good news is that you can tackle hammocking claustrophobia successfully in a number of ways.

Understanding Typical Claustrophobia Symptoms

Though claustrophobia is frequently associated with being in crowded or closed-in locations like elevators, it can happen in any confined environment, including a hammock. Before you can overcome your claustrophobia, you’ll want to acknowledge all the physical and psychological reactions related to this condition.

The first indicators of claustrophobia could include sweating, a tight chest, dizziness and an upset stomach. After a few moments, your head may throb, causing confusion due to heightened blood pressure and rapid heartbeats.

After realizing you probably have claustrophobia symptoms, you should get out of your hammock. Allow yourself to calm down. Then, you can move on to some proven methods to reduce your claustrophobic fears and sensations so you can get a terrific sleep in your hammock.

How to Overcome Hammocking Claustrophobia

Want to make your claustrophobia a thing of the past? Be patient with yourself above all else. Claustrophobia isn’t just mind over matter. It’s a reflexive feeling that comes from your body and brain.

If you want to move past hammocking claustrophobia, implement a few strategies prior to getting into your hammock for the evening:

• Breathe deeply: Taking slow, deep breaths while standing or seated allows you to lower your heart rate and calm your nerves. During 10-15 minutes of deep breathing, meditate and keep your mind in the moment. Focus on being present and attuned to your surroundings. Your goal is to feel at peace by the time you’re finished.
• Practice positive self-talk: Before approaching your hammock again, remind yourself of all the benefits of sleeping in a hammock, such as being able to safely enjoy the outdoors. Hammocking keeps you off the ground and away from curious critters and many ground-based insects. Plus, it can be a soothing way to get those much-needed zzzs when you’re on the trail.
• Explore your hammock: Did you know that hammocks are actually very roomy? You might be surprised at how much space you have in your hammock, despite feeling as if the hammock is “cramped” during a claustrophobia episode. By looking at the hammock with fresh eyes, you can gain a better perspective on its true size.
• Sleep diagonally, not straight: When you climb back into your hammock, resist the temptation to lie straight like you would in a traditional bed. Rather, lie on the diagonal. You won’t sink as much, the hammock walls won’t feel as clingy and your back will thank you in the morning.
• Try a different hammock: Do you have a cramped-feeling hammock, or one that has a top closure fabric you don’t like? Consider upgrading to a larger hammock or a more open-air hammock-tent combination. Alternatively, you may want to slightly unzip the netting on the top to reduce the feeling of being cocooned.

Check out all of our tips for sleeping well in a hammock.

Resting Comfortably in a Hammock During Camping Journeys

Remember that you may need to go through these steps a couple of times to free yourself of claustrophobia. That’s to be expected. After some trial and error, you’ll get used to the hang of hammocking and leave your claustrophobia behind.

Want to try hammocking? DutchWare makes it simple and affordable to get all the durable, reliable hammock equipment and DIY camping gear you need. Contact us today to learn more.

Written & Reviewed by Dutch