Staying Safe When Camping in the Fall

 Fall camping offers some of the best weather with the most beautiful scenery that camping has to offer. Any time after Labor Day, during the months of October and November, you might enjoy warm sunny days followed by chilly evenings by a fire. Especially in November, you also might run into patches of rain, snow, and wind, depending on your location.

Here are some things you can do to improve your safety and prepare you for any weather when camping in the fall.

Prepare for wind - set up your campsite so that your tent is secure and firm in case of intense winds. Bringing extra stakes can be beneficial for this. To provide additional wind resistance and a sheltered eating area, you can hang a tarp between your tent and some nearby trees.

Invest in a good tent and camp bedding - a good three-season tent with a full rain fly is important for camping during this time of year. You will want a tarp underneath your tent as well to help prevent moisture from seeping in. That is never fun and no one wants a soggy, cold sleeping bag! For extra warmth, mummy sleeping bags and sleeping pads are a must when camping in the fall.

Be aware of wildlife fall mating rituals - practice wildlife safety and be aware that many animals become more aggressive as winter nears. Always eliminate trash from your campsite and never keep food in your tent. If you are car camping, the best place to keep your food is in a good rotomolded cooler to keep your food safe and protected. If you’re tent camping, it’s still a good idea to store your food in a rotomolded cooler, but for extra precaution keep it slightly away from your tent.

Know the risks of hypothermia - it is important to stay dry and warm when camping in lower temperatures. Make sure you have extra footwear, mittens, hats, and clothing in case your clothes get wet. Don’t forget rain gear and boots and always remember to keep yourself hydrated.  It is easier to get dehydrated in dryer, cooler temperatures so make sure to drink plenty of H2O throughout the day for strength in cooler elements. 

Pack a survival kit - you should always have a good survival kit when camping in any season. Your survival kit should include items such as:

• Flashlight, headlamp, and extra batteries

• First-aid supplies

• Pocket knife

• Duct tape

• Waterproof matches

• Aluminum foil which doubles as a reflector signal

• Water purification system

• Map of the area

• Compass and a weather radio

Remember to always let someone else know your itinerary, and when you plan to be back. This is especially important if you plan on camping alone.

Staying safe is important to enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Packing extra nutritious food in a quality rotomolded cooler is nice for warm meals by the fire. Packing a pair of lightweight, sturdy trekking poles for the whole family helps you enjoy long beautiful fall hikes together. 

Cascade Mountain Tech has everything you need for a safe and fun fall camping trip, with quality roto-molded coolers, trekking poles, camp bedding and camping chairs for the whole family.

Cascade Mountain Tech was founded on the belief that exploration belongs to everyone. Our experienced staff of outdoor enthusiasts are always available to help you prepare for your next adventure. Contact us to learn more about quality camping gear to stay safe when camping in the fall.