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Camp Clothing and Footwear

Shawn

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Do you bring any special clothing meant for changing into when doing an overnight backpacking trip?

This could also be clothing for sleeping in.

How about footwear? Do you bring anything extra for camp shoes?

Do you think these comforts are appropriate or often too much added weight?
 
When backpacking (almost always in cooler months) I wear a lightweight synthetic hoodie in my hammock. It fits snugly and comfortably around my neck & face, and has a kangaroo pouch for my Sawyer Squeeze (or similar) water filter (just the small filter element). Freezing can damage the membranes if they're moist, so body heat is needed overnight. Since I use a top quilt, I also bring a large warm beanie to keep my head warm. Usually some long bottoms as well.

Since I sometimes encounter below freezing temps I have a high quality lightweight Patagonia down vest for insulation, as well as a thin UL Montbell down jacket if needed. As I've gotten older these feel more necessary, and now I can afford them.

For camp shoes I carry a pair of sandals, which are good for creek crossing and hiking if necessary. I also have insulated synthetic booties, which I can wear with the sandals. Instead of the sandals, sometimes I'll bring an old pair of Crocks from which I removed the top forefoot so I can wear the booties with them. They're lighter than the sandals, but I wouldn't trust them for creek crossing.

Sometimes the line between comfort and necessity is thin. Warmth is essential. Don't really need sandals for crossing creeks, but in chilly weather I don't like to immerse my hiking footwear. When heeding the call of nature in the middle of the night, it's easier to slip into crocks or sandals than boots. My biggest weight indulgence is a Big Agnes Skyline chair, 27 ounces. These days I don't put in long miles, which means more time in camp. Logs & rocks or sitting cross-legged ground level on a pad or not for me anymore. I like to be off the ground (especially when ticks are present) and have a seat with some back support. Keeping my lower back happy has become as important as a good night's sleep.
 
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