Strategies recommended by an outdoor specialist for migrating camping from the summer season to autumn
Autumn is a beautiful time for camping, with fewer bugs, less crowded trails, and vibrant scenery. However, it also brings its own set of challenges that require some adjustments to your camping gear and strategies. Lorna Preston, an Outdoor Expert from Trekitt, shares five essential tips for transitioning from summer to autumn camping.
- Choosing the Right Campsite Seek natural shelter, such as tree lines, boulders, or gentle folds in the land for a campsite. Avoid exposed ridgelines, which can be cold and windy during autumn. Also, it's crucial to check drainage to avoid waking up in a pool of muddy water.
- Insulation is Key Navigation mistakes are more common in fading light during autumn, so a paper map and compass are recommended. Half of your body heat disappears into the ground during sleep in autumn, making an insulated sleeping mat important. For a comfortable night's sleep, look for a mat with an R-value of at least 4, as a higher R-value indicates better insulation.
- Dress in Layers Autumn temperatures can fluctuate significantly, so it's important to bring more layers to adapt to the changing temperature. A moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer (like a fleece or lightweight synthetic jacket), and a windproof outer layer (which could be a waterproof jacket or a windproof jacket) are recommended.
- Upgrade Your Sleeping Bag The sleeping bag's temperature rating is important for autumn camping, with a lower rating indicating it is suitable for colder temperatures. It's recommended to use a sleeping bag rated to at least 0 degrees for autumn camping.
- Prepare for the Unexpected A reliable headtorch and spare batteries are important to carry during autumn camping. In freezing conditions, canister stoves may struggle, so consider using a liquid-fuel stove. Also, a phone may not be reliable in sleet or when its touchscreen stops working, so a paper map and compass are still important.
Before heading out, always alert someone of your plans and check forecasts to stay safe. Autumn camping offers a unique and beautiful experience, and with the right preparation, it can be an unforgettable adventure. Happy camping!
