1. Fake crocs (I've only used them on one trip but I'm a convert!) I used to go barefoot around sites - no socks to get wet! Tried the crocs - FAB!
2. Waterproofs (esp. trousers). These were added to the list after putting the tent up in what is honestly the worst rain I have seen (apart from that time I was hunkered down in my in-law's house in America whilst a hurricane went by - now THAT was scary!!) It seems I spent most of the time with big muddy patches on the knees of my trousers and so whenever the ground is damp, I wear the waterproof trousers whilst on site (unless I'm wearing shorts).
3. shorts or 3/4 length trousers - these avoid the inevitable WACS (Wet Ankled Camper Syndrome).
4. Fleece - A half decent chunky warm one for the night-time. Put it on BEFORE you start to feel cold.
5. A hat to keep sun / rain off. Usually also a wooly hat to keep my head warm (I don't use it much but for something so compact and light, I take it just in case)!
I also take walking boots / socks & underpants / t-shirts / couple of hoodies.
Like everyone else I take very practical clothes when I am camping and dont give a stuff what I look like!!
Last night I slept in a pair of thermal long johns, a long sleeved t-shirt, a thin jumper, a fleece and socks. Oh, and as my hubbie pointed out my sleeping bag is supposed to be suitable for temperatures of -20!!
3-in-1 jacket: a waterproof shell and a detachable fleece. Wear the fleece when just a bit of warmth is needed, wear the shell when only waterproofing is required. Wear both together when warmth and waterproofing are required.
Since I am unlikely to spend long hours walking in the rain etc., I find the Regatta range very good value for money and adequate for my needs. I am fortunate to have a Regatta outlet shop near where I work, and get 3-in-1 jackets at good prices.
Also need a pair of waterproof trousers just in case it pours down.
And a pair of waterproof walking shoes for early morning walks with the dog when the grass is still wet, or when it rains! I hate soggy cold feet, and these shoes make a lot of difference! I only started to wear them since I got my dog full time in Nov 08, and my feet got soaked when I went out for a short walk in pouring rain with the dog. One of my colleagues who walks all the time suggested waterproof walking boots, and I now have a spare pair waiting in the wing just in case my current ones are worn
Hats in case it is sunny.
At my age, comfort and practicality are far more important than style and fashion - you won't find me trotting around gravelled grounds in wedgies and risk twisting my ankles, as observed during my camping trip recently!
DK
------------- Apple The Campervan - A Van For Work, Rest & Play!
- 2027: ? NL+DE+FR
- 2026: FR+DE
- 2025: 17/77
'24: 10/49; '23: 9/47;'22: 8/46; '21: 9/34
* Ex-tenter
* Treat life events like a dog: if you can't eat it, play with it or hump it, p1$$ on it and walk away!
Crocs!!
I was SUCH a Croc-hater until I realised they did pink fluffy ones (I'm SO shallow ) and bought a pair to try.
Now I have half a dozen pairs of various styles and my kids also have pairs. They've been invaluable for camping. They're great if it's sunny, wet, muddy, sandy, whatever!
THE most comfortable shoes ever.
(Have just had to import a pair from the USA as I couldn't find the style I wanted here)
Tracey - British Ambassador for Crocs (not really )
------------- Mum to two boys - 17 and 14 yrs.
Seasoned campers in the UK up to 2010 when we moved to Portugal and back again in 2015. Now using a campervan which we converted ourselves in 2016.
I love my crocs and wear them all the time, in fact the whole family has them and it makes me smile when I see them all lined up in the porch (yes sad I know!)
Quote: Originally posted by anorak on 23/6/2009
I love my crocs and wear them all the time, in fact the whole family has them and it makes me smile when I see them all lined up in the porch (yes sad I know!)
woohoo, I'm not alone!
In fact, I took delivery of some Havanas from the USA this morning. My new babies (got my Olivias last week)
Apologies, however, have digressed from original topic.
'Nuff said
------------- Mum to two boys - 17 and 14 yrs.
Seasoned campers in the UK up to 2010 when we moved to Portugal and back again in 2015. Now using a campervan which we converted ourselves in 2016.
Ah - what did we do before crocs? Also a hoodie, or even two - if it gets really cold at night put up the hood to keep your head warm, warm PJs, jeans of course, 3/4 trousers / boardies that will dry quickly and the madly optimistic shorts that ususally go home unworn.
------------- Anyone who says anything's possible never tried slamming a revolving door ...
for the cold weather: buff (so versitile). base layers, fleece, windproof, waterrepllent jacket, and rainproof coat. walking socking socks and shoes. fleece-lined cragghoppers. (I am warm and snug for taking the dog for a walk). and usual others.
summer: lightweight cragghoppers, (sip off ones) 3/4 lenghth trousers, T-shirts and blouses.socks, trainers, crocs (when i remember) usual sundries.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.