15 Fall Camping Essentials I Take on Every Trip

Camping in the fall has many perks, between the vibrant foliage, less competition for campsites, and fewer bugs. On the other hand, the changing weather brings cooler temperatures that merit greater consideration for the gear and apparel you pack. I live in the Catskills region of upstate New York and grew up in Buffalo, so I’m no stranger to frigid temperatures and unpredictable weather. 

At minimum, I prepare for the unexpected with an abundance of technical gear, multiple layers, and more waterproof protection than I would for a summer camping trip. Shorter days in the fall also mean more time spent by the campfire or in the tent, so it’s worth prioritizing accessories and clothing that’ll keep you cozy. From warm base layers and insulated blankets to plusher accessories, these are the essentials I recommend for staying comfy in the outdoors and raising the bar on campsite coziness this fall. 

The Tsillan Full Zip Jacket

Though soft and insulating, I’ve found that many fleece tops don’t fit my outdoor needs due to their pullover design. This full-zip fleece jacket completely bypasses those concerns. The recycled fleece material from the Californian brand feels substantial and warm. The relaxed fit can easily accommodate base layers, but it’s trim enough to wear under a heavier coat in winter. The fleece jacket comes in eight colorways and it’s also available in a women’s version. 

REI Ribbed Watch Cap

Having a warm hat is essential for preventing heat loss and keeping cozy. While I stick to wool or wool blends for my base layers, I prefer the synthetic fabric in this beanie because its soft texture doesn’t itch — and its stretchiness hugs my larger head size. Still, it’s just breathable enough to help avoid overheating, and I’ve found it to be relatively quick-drying. The unisex cap fits most and it comes in five colors at an affordable price point. One shopper said “it fits just right” and it “doesn’t lose its shape even after multiple washes,” adding that it still feels soft after all that washing, too.

Smartwool Performance Hike Crew Socks

These durable hiking socks are constructed with a wool and nylon blend that offers excellent warmth, performance, and breathability for active or casual wear. I find the socks have ample cushioning throughout, and I appreciate the reinforced areas in the heel and toe for added durability. “I bought these for a winter trip north of the Arctic Circle and never had cold feet,” said one shopper. 

Cotopaxi Mero Organic Flannel Shirt

Fall weather and flannel go hand in hand for both the warmth and aesthetic. This classic button-up is best worn with a base layer underneath, though it feels plenty soft against bare skin. It’s made with 100 percent organic cotton and is also available in a women’s version. The shirt has held up well against multiple washes and active use on outdoor adventures. Another camper called it “the best constructed, highest quality flannel” that they’ve ever owned.

Mountain Hardwear Mountain Stretch Tight

Although I wear these tights as a base layer for winter hikes and snowshoeing, they’re also a dependable and cozy option for fall camping trips. On a typical fall day in upstate New York, these midweight tights are warm enough to wear without another bottom layer. However, I tend to wear them under lightweight hiking pants when venturing beyond the campsite since there aren’t any pockets. The moisture- and sweat-wicking fabric feels soft to the touch and it moves well with my body when I’m hiking. I’m 6’ 5”, so the inseam runs a bit short for me — pairing these with higher socks is essential for taller campers. 

Marmot Precip Eco Jacket

I always pack this lightweight rain jacket for its durable construction and looser fit that pairs well with warmer base layers. Velcro cuffs, a chin guard, and an adjustable hem help enhance protection from water and wind. Pit zips come in handy for letting out excess heat during milder weather. I appreciate that it’s made with recycled, PFC-free nylon and that the jacket can be stuffed in its own pocket to help save precious space and weight in a backpack or camping gear storage. One reviewer, who called it “well made”, agrees. “This is an easy five stars if you’re looking for easy-to-pack water and wind protection that looks good and fits comfortably at an affordable price point.”

REI Campwell Camp Wrap

Of all my camping gear, this is the item that’s most frequently poached by my less-prepared, fellow campers. The wearable blanket spans 72 by 54 inches, accommodating campers of varying heights and sizes. The arm slots, hood, and front button give it enough structure to be worn rather than wrapped, so I move about my campsite without it becoming a tripping hazard or dragging along the ground. The denier recycled polyester lining is durable yet soft, and the exterior is treated with a durable water repellent finish. The compressible wrap can be flattened out to pack easily and be used as a blanket, too.

Sea to Summit Ascent Sleeping Bag

I love this mummy-style sleeping bag for its comfort and versatility. It’s filled with goose down for insulated warmth, while the exterior nylon shell has a durable water repellent finish to block out wind and moisture. It’s equipped with baffles that keep the down filling distributed evenly, and on colder nights, the adjustable hood can cinch tight for a snug fit. If temperatures are mild, a free-flow zip system allows you to unzip various parts of the bag for ventilation.

The adjustable zipper system also enables the sleeping bag to be worn around the campsite, and many campers highlighted its warmth and cozy design. “I have never been kept so warm and comfortable while camping,” said one shopper. “It feels incredibly soft and cozy, ensuring a restful night’s sleep even in cooler temperatures,” chimes in another. 

Therm-a-rest Neoair Sleeping Pad

As temperatures drop, having additional insulation between you and the ground is essential for staying warm in your tent at night. I use this inflatable sleeping pad for backcountry and car camping alike. It expands to three inches when inflated, and comes in three sizes — the largest of which accommodate my tall frame. Its insulation has a 7.3 R-value. Translation? It qualifies as a four-season sleeping pad. “It is lightweight, compact, easy to set up and take down and most of all comfortable and warm,” said one shopper. “Why did I suffer for so long? This sleeping pad is like heaven,” quipped another.

Solo Stove Cast Iron Griddle Cooking Bundle

This portable bonfire provides a cozy place to gather at my home in the Catskills and on car camping trips. Known for its smokeless design, this Solo Stove fire pit also puts off plenty of heat and can be configured to prepare meals. I pair it with the brand’s cast iron griddle to make everything from pancakes and eggs to turkey burgers. A removable ash pan makes cleaning up a breeze when it’s time to pack up.

Yeti Rambler French Press

Morning coffee is a must for me. To keep fresh brew hot for longer, I use this insulated French press to keep coffee warm through the morning. The one-liter press can prepare up to four cups of coffee and the double-walled vacuum insulation keeps my beverage warm for hours. Many shoppers praised the press’ heat retention and performance. One shopper noted that it “keeps liquid hot for significantly longer than” their glass press. Another praised the press’s durability, adding that “it’s built to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures and has held up beautifully against rough terrain and frequent use.”

Teva Reember Terrain Mid Booties

On cooler nights, these insulated booties provide the ultimate “hygge” feeling of cozy comfort. The pull-on design makes for easy on-and-off when getting in and out of the tent. I love that the bootie fabric, soles, and lining are made from recycled materials and the rubber outsoles offer excellent traction — something I expect from Teva footwear having worn their sandals through my Peace Corps service in Cambodia. The interior is plenty soft and comfortable enough to wear these without socks, and they’re treated with an anti-odor treatment to stay fresh. 

Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket

This insulated blanket is well-suited for braving cool fall weather. Spanning 75 x 52 inches, it’s a great size for one person to be fully wrapped or for a couple of campers to share by the campfire. The insulation is substantial and the durable shell effectively sheds debris and moisture, and as a nature lover, I appreciate that the entire blanket is made from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. 

Eddie Bauer Packable Chair

Sitting on a log by the fire may be quintessential camping, but I opt for a seat off the ground when temperatures dip. This chair does the trick, plus it’s compact and portable. Being tall, I was impressed with the level of support it offered me despite the low-back design. Though it’s a bit lower to the ground, it cradled my sit bones and lower back to maintain my posture while seated. Setting up the chair is quick and simple, as the interconnected frame just needs to unfold and lock into place. When packing up, I had no trouble sliding it back into the carry case. 

REI Campwell Folding Cot

I typically opt for a sleeping pad when camping, but I’m now on board with the fact that being off the ground allows for clothes and gear storage underneath. The cot felt supportive and sturdy. The steel construction can support 300 pounds and the wide feet distribute weight to keep it balanced, preventing damage to the tent floor. Many customers also praised the cot’s durability. One shopper noted they were “very impressed with this cot”, adding that “it is sturdy and comfortable and feels very durable.” This cot includes cord loops to attach the Campwell Sleeping Pad, too.