Fall camping: 6 tips to extend the season safely

1. Sleeping bag and pad: your go-to for cozy nights

It’s hard to enjoy your trip when you spend the night shivering, and that’s where a warm sleeping bag and insulating pad come in handy!

Sleeping bag

Your summer sleeping bag won’t cut it.  For fall camping, pick one rated for at least 
-10°C. Synthetic sleeping bags are a smart pick because they’re more resistant to moisture than natural down. Skip fleece liners as they trap moisture, which only makes you colder. 

Already have a sleeping bag? Add a liner or go with a “mummy” bag that keeps everything but your nose tucked in.

Sleeping pad

It’s just as important as your sleeping bag. A good sleeping pad keeps you warm and dry by blocking cold and moisture from the ground. For fall camping, choose one with an R-value of R3 to R4.  Whether it’s inflatable or foam, what matters most is how well it insulates.

Some pro tips

Fall camping means temperature swings so make sure to pack smart:  

• Compact thermal blankets
• Electric blankets 
• Certified propane heaters (make sure there’s proper ventilation)

2. Dress in layers

Fall days can swing from 20°C at noon to 5°C in the evening. The best way to stay comfortable? Dress in layers, like an onion!  Add a layer when you’re cold, take one off when you’re warm. 

A solid layering system includes: 

• Base layer: It pulls moisture away from your skin and regulates your body temperature. Merino wool is a fall camping favourite: it’s warm, breathable, and naturally antibacterial. Synthetic options are just as effective. Cotton?  Leave it at home—it traps moisture and works against you when the cold sets in. 
• Mid-layer:  This layers helps retain body heat and keeps you warm and it’s the one you’ll take off if you get too hot. Fleece, down jackets, or synthetic insulated garments are all great options.
• Outer layer: It protects you from the wind, rain, and even snow.  A waterproof or water-resistant jacket is essential for fall camping.  

And don’t forget gloves or mittens, a warm hat, and a neck warmer. 

Pro tip: Slip your next day’s clothes into the bottom of your sleeping bag overnight.  They’ll stay warm and dry and ready to wear when you get up. 

3. Weather-proof your setup

Want to stay cozy? Keep moisture out and stop air from sneaking in, whether you’re in your tent or RV. A few small tweaks is all it takes so you can adjust your setup to fall conditions. 

• Place a tarp or mat under your tent to block ground moisture. In an RV, add foam tiles and a thick rug for insulation.
• In a tent, zip everything up and plug small gaps with towels. In an RV, check and reinforce door and window seals.
• Set up a tarp or awning over the entrance to protect against rain and reduce humidity.
• Use foam mats, thermal blankets, or curtains to trap heat. In RVs, reflective panels trap warmth inside.

Shorter days mean less light so pack a lantern or headlamp to comfortably enjoy your evenings.

4. Heat safely or not at all

Heating is where things can get dangerous fast.   A fire pit in a tent or a poorly vented propane heater? Not a good idea. Carbon monoxide is odourless, invisible, and can be deadly in minutes. The Centre antipoison du Québec recommends the installation of a CO detector whenever a combustion appliance is used.

• Do not use a portable fireplace or heat with wood, oil or gasoline inside a tent.
• Keep propane or electric heaters clear of fabrics and flammable items.
• Always ventilate and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Using a small electric heater or an electric blanket are safe bets.

5. Managing humidity and condensation

Staying warm starts with staying dry.   Humidity clings to clothes, builds up on tent walls, and makes the cold feel even colder. 

Pro tip for keeping it in check: 

• Air out your tent, even in the cold. A bit of airflow in your tent or RV helps prevent condensation caused by breathing or heating the interior.  In an RV, open a window slightly or turn on the roof vent fan to improve air circulation. 
• Use dehumidifying products such as silica gel packs or moisture-absorbing containers. They’re easy to carry and help dry out the air in enclosed spaces like trailers.
• Find a space to dry your wet clothes. In a tent, hang them under the awning or in a ventilated corner.  In an RV, use hooks, a drying line, or a small foldable rack.

6. Know when to pack it in

Check the forecast before you head out, and know when to head back.  Sometimes, the smartest move is cutting your trip short, especially when temperatures dip below zero or the wind picks up. 

Watch for signs of hypothermia: 

• Constant shivering
• Loss of coordination
• Confusion
• Extreme fatigue

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait—warm up and consider heading home early. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Peace of mind also means being properly insured

With the right gear, fall camping can be both enjoyable and rewarding when you’ve done all the prep work. Beyond warm gear and a snug setup, peace of mind also comes from knowing you’re covered. 

At L’Unique, we get that the unexpected is part of the adventure. That’s why we offer insurance designed for real life, including recreational vehicles, so you can extend the season safely, summer or fall.