How to Stay Warm Around Camp Without Sitting by the Fire All Day
Campfires are great, but they're not the only way to stay warm while camping. These simple tips will help you stay comfortable around camp, even on cool fall evenings.
Kat Culler
9/7/20263 min read
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Introduction
One of the best parts of fall camping is spending time outside on crisp mornings and cool evenings. But once the temperatures start to drop, many campers find themselves sitting as close to the campfire as possible just to stay warm.
While campfires certainly help, they're not the only way to stay comfortable. In fact, there are several simple things you can do that will keep you warmer—and let you enjoy more of your campsite instead of feeling glued to the fire ring.
If you're new to camping, The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Car Camping is the best place to start before planning your trip.
Dress in Layers Instead of One Heavy Jacket
One bulky jacket isn't always the most comfortable solution.
Instead, wear several lighter layers that you can add or remove as the temperature changes throughout the day.
Layering gives you more flexibility if you're:
Walking around camp
Cooking dinner
Relaxing in your camp chair
Taking an evening stroll
You'll stay much more comfortable than if you're constantly putting on and taking off one heavy coat.
Keep Moving Every So Often
When you sit still for long periods, your body naturally begins to cool down.
Every once in a while:
Walk around the campground
Gather firewood (where permitted)
Stretch your legs
Refill your water bottle
Tidy up your campsite
A few minutes of movement can help you warm up surprisingly quickly.
Choose a Spot Out of the Wind
Sometimes it's not the temperature that makes you cold—it's the wind.
When setting up your camp chair, look for a spot that's naturally sheltered by:
Trees
Large rocks
Your vehicle (if appropriate)
Natural terrain
Even a light breeze can make a cool evening feel much colder.
If windy conditions are expected, How to Handle Wind While Camping (Without It Ruining Your Trip) has additional tips.
Enjoy a Warm Drink
There's something comforting about wrapping your hands around a warm mug on a cool camping morning or evening.
Some popular options include:
Coffee
Tea
Hot chocolate
Apple cider
A warm drink won't replace extra layers, but it can certainly help you feel more comfortable while relaxing around camp.
If coffee is part of your camping routine, How to Make Coffee While Camping explores several easy brewing methods.
Use a Blanket Around Camp
Many people think of blankets as something that stays inside the tent.
Instead, consider keeping one nearby while you're relaxing outside.
A simple blanket can make:
Morning coffee
Evening conversations
Stargazing
Reading in your camp chair
much more enjoyable.
It doesn't need to be fancy—just something warm and easy to grab.
Stay Dry
Even slightly damp clothing can make cool temperatures feel much colder.
If your clothes become wet from:
Rain
Dew
Spilled water
change into something dry as soon as you can.
Staying dry is one of the easiest ways to stay comfortable.
If rain is part of your trip, What to Do on a Rainy Camping Day has ideas for making the most of the weather.
Eat a Warm Meal
A hot meal can make a cool evening feel much more comfortable.
Fall camping is a great time to enjoy simple comfort foods like:
Chili
Soup
Pasta
Stew
Not only are they satisfying, but they also give you another reason to gather around the picnic table and enjoy the evening.
Know When It's Time to Head Inside
Part of enjoying camping is recognizing when you've had enough of the cold.
There's no rule that says you have to stay outside until bedtime.
Sometimes the most comfortable choice is to:
Read inside your tent
Play a card game
Turn in a little earlier
Get a good night's sleep
Camping should be enjoyable—not an endurance test.
Remember That Comfort Looks Different for Everyone
Some campers are perfectly happy wearing a sweatshirt on a 45-degree evening.
Others reach for a blanket and a warm drink much sooner.
Neither approach is right or wrong.
The goal isn't to prove how tough you are.
The goal is to stay comfortable enough to enjoy your time outside.
Final Thoughts
Staying warm around camp doesn't have to mean spending the entire evening sitting inches from the campfire.
By dressing in layers, staying dry, moving around occasionally, enjoying a warm drink, and making small adjustments to your campsite, you can stay comfortable throughout the day and evening.
Fall camping has a slower, cozier feel than summer camping. A little preparation goes a long way toward making those cool mornings and evenings some of the most enjoyable moments of your trip.
Keep Camping Simple
Camping doesn’t need to be complicated. A few thoughtful choices make all the difference.
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