An outdoor vacation is a different animal from a resort trip. You will be heading into the wilderness, dealing with unpredictable weather, and relying on your clothing to keep you safe and comfortable. To stay active, protect your health, and prevent injuries on the trail, here is how to dress for your next outdoor getaway.
Table of Contents
- Wear Sturdy Footwear
- Prioritize Function Over Fashion
- Wear Layers
- Accessorize
- Check the Weather Beforehand
Wear Sturdy Footwear
If you are not used to outdoor vacations, you will not know the importance of appropriate footwear. However, what you wear on your feet is the most important element of how you dress. Without the right footwear, you could easily twist an ankle or take a fall when you are handling uneven terrain. This means that you should look around for durable boots that will last beyond your trip and that are made from high-quality and breathable material. For instance, whether you are heading to the Wild West or into the mountains, you should consider investing in men’s cowboy boots, as these are still regularly used for activities such as hiking and walking.
Look for boots with Vibram or similar rubber outsoles for superior grip on wet rock and loose gravel. Waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex keep your feet dry during creek crossings and unexpected rain, while a stiff midsole provides the ankle support you need on rocky terrain. Break in any new boots at home before your trip. Blisters on day one can ruin the entire week.
Prioritize Function Over Fashion
An outdoor vacation is not about fashion. If you look ready for a runway, you are dressing wrong. Opt for clothes that are comfortable, functional, and suited to the weather. Otherwise, you might find yourself in pain and desperate to return home before the day is over.
Focus on moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics or merino wool rather than cotton, which absorbs sweat and stays wet against your skin. Nylon and polyester blends dry quickly and resist abrasion on the trail. A Smartwool merino wool base layer works year-round: it regulates temperature in both warm and cold conditions, resists odor even after multiple days, and feels soft against skin. Research trusted outdoor brands like Patagonia, Arc’teryx, and REI Co-op, and do not be afraid to ask staff at outdoor retailers for guidance specific to your destination.
Wear Layers
Although you might believe that layers are frustrating, they can help you adjust to the changing temperatures outside and will ensure that you can always dress appropriately. For instance, you might decide to add a thermal undershirt under your sweater, or a warm coat over that. However, you should think about how you are going to carry these layers if you do choose to take these off halfway through the day, and the greater washing load that these can produce.
The proven three-layer system works best. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to pull sweat away from your skin. Add an insulating mid layer, like a fleece or lightweight down jacket, for warmth. Finish with a waterproof and windproof shell to block the elements. When temperatures climb and you start shedding layers, a compact daypack like the Osprey Daylite gives you a place to stash everything without weighing you down.
Accessorize
There are many accessories that are just as essential as the clothes that you wear on your next outdoors trip, from gloves, scarves and hats in winter to caps and sunglasses in summer. However, you should be aware that these accessories can easily be lost or get trapped on hanging branches and other natural features, meaning that you should stay aware of them in relation to the activity that you are performing.
Polarized sunglasses protect your eyes from UV exposure at elevation, where sun intensity increases roughly 10% for every 1,000 feet of altitude gain. In cold weather, insulated gloves and a buff or neck gaiter are small items that make a noticeable difference. Clip accessories to your pack with a carabiner so they do not disappear into the brush when you take them off.
Two items worth adding to your packing list: a waterproof dry bag for storing layers, electronics, and anything you want to keep bone dry during creek crossings or sudden downpours, and a waterproof phone pouch so you can keep your phone accessible for navigation and photos without risking water damage. Both pack flat and weigh almost nothing.
Check the Weather Beforehand
You should not dress the way that you believe you should dress. Instead, you should dress in a way that is appropriate for the climate and weather that day, no matter the outfit that you have planned. This means that you should always have a reliable weather app installed on your mobile that can help you prepare for the conditions ahead. This will prevent you from getting caught out and feeling too cold or too warm all day long.
Mountain weather changes fast. Sunny mornings can turn into afternoon thunderstorms with little warning, especially at higher elevations. Check the forecast the night before and again in the morning, paying attention to wind chill, precipitation probability, and temperature swings throughout the day. When the forecast looks uncertain, pack for the worst-case scenario. An extra layer weighs almost nothing in your pack but can make the difference between a great day and a miserable one.
