Best Outfits to Wear When Camping in the Backyard
If you’re inspired to go camping but don’t necessarily want to venture into the wilderness, you’ve got other options — namely the backyard. Your outdoor space serves as a prime location to set up camp. Whether you’re a parent who wants to introduce your kids to the wonder of the great outdoors or you’re just inspired to do something a little different with your significant other, there are so many advantages to spending the night outside, even if you’re just steps away from your abode.
The key? You’ve got to be prepared, just like you would be if you were camping somewhere miles away from home. That means gathering everything you need in advance so you don’t spend your entire camping “trip” running back and forth from the house. It also means dressing in your best comfy clothes so you stay cozy for the duration of your adventure. Here are a few style suggestions to keep in mind for the entire family.
Protect Your Skin
One of the few downsides of camping is dealing with the occasional mosquito or gnat. Unwanted pests fluttering around your face and biting your arms and legs can greatly take away from the joy of the experience. Make sure you have a bug repellent spray on hand so you can create an essential barrier between your skin and those pesky insects. You should opt for lighter colors, too, as they’re less likely to attract bugs and they’ll keep you cooler when it’s warm outside.
It’s equally important to dress appropriately if you’re particularly concerned about warding off little bugs. Look for women’s and men’s pants designed as activewear. Those with cuffs at the bottom are ideal, as they’ll prevent insects from making contact with your skin. What if it’s too hot for long pants? A pair of shorts works for the period when you’re outside (don’t forget the repellent spray!), but bring some lightweight pajamas that you can slip into when it’s time to zip up inside your sleeping bag.
Prioritize Sun Safety
While you’re probably more likely to venture outside after sunset so you can roast marshmallows over the campfire or tell spooky stories in the dark, you should consider how sunlight may affect your comfort, too. If you start your adventure earlier in the day, make sure to apply sunscreen and to wear clothing with a built-in ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) so you can efficiently ward off potent ultraviolet rays and avoid sunburns.
You can find sun-protective clothing for everyone in the family! From boys’ and girls’ shirts to tops and bottoms for parents, apparel enhanced with UPF adds an extra layer of protection and will give you some peace of mind. Since you’ll also encounter sunshine in the morning, it’s a good idea to be prepared, even if your time outside is limited before you head back inside.
Wear Breathable Fabrics
There are so many enjoyable ways to transform your backyard camping trip into a true adventure for the entire family. You might take the kids on a nature hunt through the neighborhood and encourage them to seek out different objects, like acorns or certain types of flowers. Or you might hide something in the yard and go on a flashlight scavenger hunt when the sun sets. Whatever your plans for this epic camping trip, make sure you’re all prepared in clothes that are lightweight and breathable.
The right fabrics are vital to everyone’s comfort. Supima® cotton is light and airy, allowing maximum flexibility and promoting easier movement while you’re exploring the neighborhood or running around in the backyard. Jersey fabrics work, too, provided they aren’t too heavy. A light women’s summer shirt paired with pull-on pants will never steer you wrong.
Focus on Accessories
It’s easy to forget the value of accessories, but they can make all the difference, whether you’re camping in your backyard or headed to an actual campsite. A hat is vital for keeping the sun out of your eyes and for minimizing sweat. Both baseball caps and visors are great options for everyone in the family.
Don’t forget about your footwear! That’s one of the most important factors of all — it plays a huge role in your comfort and it can be the make-or-break factor when it comes to neighborhood exploration and backyard playtime with the family. Opt for sneakers with thick, sturdy outsoles. Not only do they look great with comfy casual pants, but they’re also perfect for completing your camping look!
Taking steps to safeguard your skin and minimize the likelihood of bites and sunburn goes a long way in giving parents some peace of mind knowing that everyone in the family is safe. When you wear the right clothing, you can trust that your backyard camping trip will be more enjoyable than ever!