Autumn and winter get a bad rap, as people see them as the chilly, hostile months when it's best to stay indoors wrapped up under a blanket with a warm cup of tea. I beg to differ. As I sit indoors sipping on my cuppa, I stare longingly out of the windows and imagine the adventures that I could be having in the great outdoors, free from the searing threat of heat exhaustion, which plagues me in the summer months. I think the problem is that many people simply go about backpacking in the colder months of the year incorrectly, so here are a few tips of mine which have helped me to have some thoroughly enjoyable hiking experiences in the autumn.

Keeping Warm in the Tent

Ideally, you want a tent that is not only lightweight, but that also offers you the crucial all-weather protection that you really need in autumn and winter. Depending on where you're camping, wind can be an issue at any time of the year, but it certainly tends to pick up in the colder months. Make sure you've got a good set of tent stakes to keep your tent in place no matter how hard the gales blow!

As you need to prevent the cold ground from sucking up your body heat, you'll also need a comfy sleeping pad that is made using a lightweight fabric and is heavily insulated. Being too cold to sleep can really ruin the whole camping trip, so make sure you get this right!

Equipment and Accessories

To add extra warmth to your sleeping bag, you can use a hard-sided bottle that is filled with hot water. Just make sure it's screwed tightly so that you can place it in your bag. Regarding food, you should be prepared for longer cooking times when the weather turns cold. You may also need extra fuel for heating water and lighting bonfires apart from cooking. I always carry extra fuel, as purchasing it from a distant location during camping can be expensive.

Make sure you have a good headlamp, as the sun can set earlier than you expect and leave you scrambling around in the darkness. Bring spare batteries if your headlamp takes them.

Emergencies

You should always carry maps and compass during trips to explore new locations. Carrying an altimeter and keeping GPS guidance handy is also a good idea. A well-organized first aid kit is indispensable as the harsh weather conditions may create some health concerns.

Food Items

Meals should be kept simple during these trips, so opt for pre-packaged boil-and-go options. You can also pack appetizers, desserts, hot beverages and food rich in carbs & fats to keep yourself energized. Carrying adequate water is very essential as water sources may dry up towards the end of the summer season.

Apparel

I always prefer wearing bright clothes for high visibility, and also ensure that my clothes are quick-drying. As you cannot predict the weather, wearing gaiters to keep my feet dry always works for me. Socks should be chosen according to breathable comfort and moisture-wicking ability. Packing innerwear thoughtfully is extremely essential and you should do it in accordance with the temperature of the place you are heading to. Carrying hats, gloves and similar clothing accessories is always advisable. You should also keep sunscreens and other toiletries handy, just in case. Packing a rain jacket is important to safeguard yourself from sudden rains and to add an extra layer of warmth to your outfit when the temperature goes down.

Packing for outdoor adventure trips is tough, but if you plan it well then you will enjoy heading out for such trips time and again. The only thing I keep in my mind while travelling is that whatever I need to survive should be with me, as looking out for basic essentials is troublesome in such scenarios. The places to visit during these trips should be planned in advance so that you can enjoy your trip to the fullest and save yourself from last minute glitches.