Fall camping can be a great experience, even for novices. Fewer people camp in cooler weather, so you'll find less commotion and more wildlife. Autumn colors are another bonus, and generally there are fewer fire restrictions in the fall. Stargazing is top-notch this time of year as well.
The main challenge for fall camping is keeping your body warm. About 90 percent of your body head radiates from your head, so wearing a hat makes a remarkable difference. Avoid sitting on the cold ground, and protect your skin when it's windy.
Use a cold weather rated sleeping bag with a barrier between the ground and sleeping bag. You may need more than one barrier layer — a foam mat with an air mattress, for example. Buy a sleeping bag with a temperature rating several degrees below the lowest temperature you expect. Take into consideration your own comfort level with the cold, as well as your body size. A small body in a large bag might not create enough heat; a large body in a tight bag can crush the insulation and reduce the bag's performance.
Consider using a tent heater, which operate on propane or electricity. Remember that an electric heater will only be useful at a campsite with an outlet. Propane heaters need ventilation as they give off deadly carbon monoxide gas, and should never be run while sleeping.
To stay warm when you're outside your tent, wear water resistant, breathable clothing in layers. Air trapped between layers reduces heat loss, and you can remove or add layers as the temperature changes during the day. Cover your extremities — wear a head covering, scarf and gloves, and two layers of socks with waterproof boots. Then, stay active! Hiking and other activities will keep you warm.
A few other items are helpful to have:
- Watertight containers for food.
- Plastic zipper bags to keep socks and other items dry.
- Extra shoes in case the ground is wetter than expected.
- A waterproof tarp.
- Extra fuel, if using a propane heater.
