Best Autumn Camping Gear Guide: 14 Items You Need in 2025

Discover the best autumn camping gear for 2025. Our expert guide lists essential autumn camping equipment you need for safe, comfortable outdoor adventures.

A family checking out their best autumn family gear. Source: Rebecca Campbell Ltd

Last Updated on 11 August 2025

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Autumn is one of my favourite seasons to camp with my family. I love waking up in the morning and feeling the crisp air outside our tent and watching the stunning foliage. And compared to summer camping, autumn brings fewer crowds. There’s something magical about waking up to frost-kissed leaves and breathing in that sharp, clean autumn air while enjoying a hot cup of tea.

One thing to realise is that autumn camping requires different gear than your summer adventures. The weather can be unpredictable, temperatures drop overnight, and that beautiful fall rain can turn your campsite into a soggy mess.

In this comprehensive best autumn camping gear guide, we’ll explore the autumn camping gear that’ll keep you warm, dry, and comfortable while you enjoy nature’s most spectacular seasonal show.

Let’s read on to find out more!

A group of families camping surrounded by their camping gear. Best autumn camping gear. Source: Rebecca Campbell Ltd
Source: Rebecca Campbell Ltd

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9 Best Autumn Camping Gear Essentials in 2025

1. Palmdale 600 Tent – 6 Person

The Palmdale 600 Tent. Source: Mountain Warehouse

Key Features

  • 6-person tent offering ample space for growing families
  • Standing height in the middle of the tent
  • Large side entrance with mesh

Product Pros

  • Good amount of space for family autumn camping with extra gear
  • Full mesh door in the entrance
  • Comes with a sewn-in groundsheet

Product Cons

  • It may be too big for some families

The Mountain Warehouse Palmdale 600 Tent earns its place among the best autumn camping gear options for families seeking reliable shelter during the cooler months. This spacious 6-person tent provides the weather protection and interior space that makes camping in autumn both comfortable and enjoyable for families with children.

The Palmdale 600 tent is one of our family tents we use during our autumn camping trips. The first time we used it in Wales for camping was when it was raining with strong winds. Yet, despite this our tent remained secure and kept us dry, making it great waterproof camping gear; pretty much two things I ask for in a good tent. We also like that this tent gives us plenty of room to store our stuff while the little porch area provides good protection when we go want to step out and see what the weather’s doing.

For families building their collection of the best autumn camping gear, this tent provides an excellent foundation for memorable cold-weather camping experiences.

2. Summit 250 Sleeping Bag

Summit 250 Sleeping Bag. Source: Mountain Warehouse

Key Features

  • Temperature rating suitable for 3-4 season camping (but we only use it for up to 3-season camping)
  • 100% polyester construction (shell, lining, and synthetic filling)
  • Full-length zip with mummy shape design for optimal heat retention

Product Pros

  • Great value for money at the mid-range price point
  • Synthetic filling performs well in damp autumn conditions
  • Easy to care for and maintain with machine-washable construction

Product Cons

  • The limit temperature of this sleeping bag is 0°C

The Mountain Warehouse Summit 250 Sleeping Bag is an excellent choice for autumn camping equipment, designed specifically for cooler weather adventures. We’ve used our Summit 250 on several camping trips, and even though it’s rated as a 3-4 season sleeping bag, we haven’t used it for cold weather camping trips.

What impressed me most about this sleeping bag is its practical design features that are perfect for autumn conditions. I found that the synthetic filling provides good insulation for me even in damp conditions. My feet generally get cold when I’m camping and I have had to wear a pair of socks in other sleeping bags, but with this one that hasn’t been the case.

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3. HiiPeak Sleeping Pad

Key Features

  • Built-in foot pump
  • The hexagon shape is designed to provide extra support on pressure points
  • Made from a waterproof and durable TPU material

Product Pros

  • Has side buttons to attach an additional inflatable pad
  • Takes around 30-50 seconds to inflate
  • 3.2″ and 4″ thickness provides good ground insulation

Product Cons

  • The pillow may be uncomfortable for some campers

The HiiPeak Sleeping Pad is one of the best autumn camping gear essentials that we have on our camping checklist.

We tried camping without a sleeping pad before our kids came along and I remember it not being the most comfortable night’s rest. Since discovering the HiiPeak pad, my sleep has improved with the added protection off the ground.

If you haven’t considered a sleeping pad, then you need to as this is definitely one of those autumn camping must-haves to own.

Having tested various camping mats over the years, I appreciate how the built-in pillow design saves precious packing space, but it does require getting used to, while the mummy shape maximises heat retention, essential features when temperatures drop unexpectedly during autumn nights.

4. Sea to Summit Frontier UltraLight Two Pot Set

Key Features

  • Complete 2-person cook set with 2-litre and 3-litre Frontier Pots plus bowls and cutlery
  • Hard-anodised aluminium with ceramic non-stick coating for superior heat distribution
  • Click safe handle folds over when not in use and locks into place for use

Product Pros

  • Premium quality with excellent build construction and materials
  • Complete set removes the need for separate purchases of pots, bowls, and cultery
  • Ultralight design perfect for camping

Product Cons

  • Higher price point compared to basic cooking sets

The Sea to Summit Frontier Ultralight Two Pot Cook Set is a great piece of kit that can form part of your autumn camping equipment.

With its 2-litre and 3-litre pot combination plus the included bowls and cultery, this gives anyone starting out camping a great starting point for their autumn adventure gear. I like that it all folds nicely inside the pots, taking up as little space as possible when it’s time to head home. I also love that you have everything you need while still being lightweight.

We’ve been using our Sea to Summit products in the UK and abroad for years. They are a good size for those filling autumn meals when you want something hot and substantial during the chilly nights. I think these are among the best autumn camping gear to have for your next trip.

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5. YETI Roadie 24 Cool Box

Key Features

  • 24-litre capacity that is tall enough to fit wine bottles upright
  • Heftyhauler handle for easy carrying
  • YETI’s signature permafrost insulation for superior ice retention

Product Pros

  • Great ice retention keeps contents cold for multiple days
  • Perfect size for family camping without being too bulky for car storage
  • Comes with an interlocking two-pin design that prevents breaking

Product Cons

  • Expensive

The YETI Roadie 24 Cool Box is a piece of autumn camping equipment that’s become a game-changer for our family cool weather adventures. We used this YETI cooler on a camping trip to Scotland last year for four days, and it kept our food and drinks nice and chilled for the duration. We did add ice packs and pre-chilled everything before leaving, which we believe helped out with its performance.

What do I think makes this cooler brilliant and one of the best autumn camping gear to own? I think it’s its robust construction combined with YETI’s legendary ice retention capabilities. Having tested various coolers over the years during camping trips across the UK, I can say this cooler delivers consistent performance even when temperatures fluctuate.

And the 24-litre capacity is perfect for families; it’s large enough to store essentials for several days, but compact enough to fit in most car boots without dominating your packing space.

6. Black Diamond Storm 450 Headlamp

Key Features

  • 450 lumens maximum output
  • Three coloured night vision modes plus peripheral white lighting for close-range tasks
  • Powered either by a rechargeable Li-ion or 3x AAA batteries

Product Pros

  • Good brightness and battery life tracking with a six-setting LED meter
  • Brightness Memory feature maintains your chosen setting between uses
  • Lightweight, compact, and easy to carry

Product Cons

  • You’ll have to remember to take spare AAA batteries with you

The Black Diamond Storm 450 Headlamp is part of our autumn camping equipment that performs great during the shorter daylight hours in autumn.

This headlamp delivers 450 lumens of bright light with robust waterproof and dustproof housing. We’ve been using our Black Diamond headlamps for years across various outdoor activities, and their reliability in challenging conditions is impressive.

For autumn camping safety, I like the headlamp’s dual-fuel compatibility and comprehensive lighting options. The Storm 450 can be powered with a rechargeable BD 1500 Li-ion battery or three standard AAA batteries, giving you peace of mind on those autumn camping trips when charging options might be limited.

The PowerTap Technology for instant maximum brightness and the six-setting battery meter are those great additions that make real-world camping easier, especially on those chilly autumn mornings. Because of this, I think it’s worthy of being on the best autumn camping gear list.

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7. Campingaz Chef Folding Double Burner Stove and Grill

Key Features

  • Two powerful 1,500W burners plus a separate 1,500W grill burner for versatile cooking options
  • Compact folding design with integrated carrying case for easy transport and storage
  • The lid acts as protection against the wind when it’s open

Product Pros

  • Great versatility with both cooking and grilling capabilities in one unit
  • Compact folding design perfect for camping and festival use
  • Match free gas cooker with push and turn piezo ignition for convenient lighting

Product Cons

  • Some family campers might want a smaller camping stove to carry

Also making it on the best autumn camping gear guide is the Campingaz Chef Folding Double Burner Stove and Grill. This is something that we always take on our camping trips, whatever the season. If you’re after reliable camping cooking during your autumn camping adventures, then you can’t go wrong with this one.

We love the fact that there are two gas stoves and a grill underneath, perfect for making my morning toast to start the day.

Having two stoves rather than one also takes the stress away when you’re cooking after a long day exploring. There’s nothing better than boiling water on one side and cooking a hearty meal on the other, making it the perfect autumn camping gear to have. It also folds up nicely and can be stowed away securely when it’s not needed.

8. Berghaus Windstop

Key Features

  • 5-panel, 6-metre structured windbreak with clear window panels for visibility
  • Steel pole construction with sectioned design for stability
  • Easily folds up for quick storage

Product Pros

  • Great wind protection and privacy
  • Clear panels maintain visibility whilst providing shelter
  • Easily portable with a carry bag

Product Cons

  • One might not be long enough

There’s nothing worse than getting to your campsite when the weather is windy and having no protection from it. When we first started camping before our kids, we went to a campsite in Cornwall by the coast and didn’t bring a windbreaker with us. Looking around, we saw most of the campers did, and soon realised why when the wind picked up and we had no shelter outside of our tent. As soon as we got home, I ordered a windbreak ready for our next camping trip.

We have the Berghaus Windstop, and it has been amazing! I bought two for a bit of extra length and protection, and can’t imagine camping without them. The last time we went camping, we had a couple approach us to find out where we’d bought ours, as they didn’t realise it was something they needed until they needed it. I can’t imagine camping without these, which is why I think it’s one of the best autumn camping gear items to have.

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9. 2 Litre Stainless Steel Whistling Kettle

Key Features

  • 2-litre capacity stainless steel construction suitable for outdoor cooking
  • Traditional whistling mechanism prevents over-boiling and alerts when ready
  • Compatible with camping stoves, open fires, and home cooking surfaces

Product Pros

  • Generous capacity perfect for family camping and multiple hot drinks
  • Durable stainless steel construction built to withstand outdoor conditions
  • Heat-resistant handle and flip-up spout for safety

Product Cons

  • May be heavier than some other camping kettles

If you’re anything like me, having a cup of tea is a must when camping, and it’s especially needed when you’re autumn camping. That’s why this 2-litre kettle has been a part of my best autumn camping gear for years! There’s nothing better than waking up to a chilly morning, filling the kettle, and waiting for that familiar whistling sound that lets you know your hot cup of tea will soon be warming you up.

Not only that, but it’s also a great size, providing plenty of water for my family or when you need to prepare hot water for cooking. The camping kettle is one autumn camping gear item you don’t want to leave behind for your next trip.

5 Best Autumn Camping Gear Clothing Essentials in 2025

10. Merino Womens Top & Pants Set

Key Features

  • 70% merino and 30% polyester
  • Quick-drying materials with natural odour resistance
  • Uses IsoTherm technology to help retain heat

Product Pros

  • Good temperature regulation for autumn camping
  • Can be used for several activities, from camping to skiing
  • Wicks moisture and dries quickly

Product Cons

  • Merino wool blends require careful washing and care than synthetic alternatives

The Mountain Warehouse Merino Women’s Top & Pants Set is my go-to base layer for cold weather clothing. These are the base layers I wear whether I’m snowboarding, hiking, or camping. The merino wool blend set provides the ideal foundation for autumn camping clothing when temperatures start dropping and you need reliable warmth that won’t let you down.

What makes this set great for camping thermal wear is the natural properties of merino wool combined with the durability of polyester. I’ve tested these base layers in everything from frosty October mornings in the Lake District to cold snowboarding trips in Europe, and they consistently deliver good temperature regulation and moisture management.

The quick-drying properties mean you’re not stuck with damp, uncomfortable layers after a day of autumn hiking, while the natural odour resistance of merino wool is a game-changer for multi-day camping trips.

The alternative Merino Men’s Thermal Top & Pant Set can be found here. The Kids Merino Colour Block Set is here.

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11. Women’s Reflective Waterproof Fleece Lined Jacket 2.0

Key Features

  • Revolutionary REFLECT360 fabric with millions of reflective glass beads for 360-degree visibility
  • 5,000m waterproof rating and fleece-lined for extra warmth
  • Inside, chest, and side pockets

Product Pros

  • Great 360-degree reflectivity for safety during low-light conditions
  • Versatile design perfect for camping, hiking, running, and everyday outdoor activities
  • Weighs only 600g

Product Cons

  • Expensive compared to other basic waterproof jackets

The Proviz REFLECT360 Women’s Outdoor Fleece Lined Jacket has become one of my best autumn camping gear that I originally didn’t think I’d like as it’s so different from my other waterproof jackets. I eventually caved and bought this jacket from Proviz last year after seeing a friend wearing one, and seeing how well it lights up at night. The 360-degree reflectivity is game-changing for early morning or evening camp activities.

With its 5,000mm waterproof rating and taped seams, this jacket delivers reliable protection that makes it perfect cold weather outdoor gear for families venturing into autumn adventures.

As I use it for my autumn adventure gear, I like its innovative REFLECT360 fabric combined with the full fleece lining that keeps me warm during those crisp autumn evenings. Having tested this jacket during several camping trips in Scotland, I can say the temperature regulation has been great, the soft cotton mesh lining creates excellent climate control, while the fleece interior provides added warmth.

12. Adventurer Women’s Waterproof Walking Boots

Key Features

  • Entry-level walking boots that are great for day walking and day trips
  • Waterproof membrane with cushioned support
  • Durable outsole with a good grip for wet conditions

Product Pros

  • Great value for money for a walking boot
  • Provides stable ankle support on tricky terrain
  • Excellent waterproofing performance during wet weather walking

Product Cons

  • Only an entry-level boot

The Mountain Warehouse Adventurer Women’s Waterproof Walking Boots have earned their place as essential best autumn camping gear for families who refuse to let cooler weather stop their outdoor adventures.

These boots represent excellent autumn hiking gear with their waterproof construction and durable design that’s built to handle the unpredictable conditions that make autumn camping both challenging and rewarding. I’ve been wearing these boots for a few years, and despite their entry-level label, they have delivered when I’ve been on muddy trails, walked through wet leaves, and encountered surprise autumn downpours.

What makes these boots good to wear as part of your autumn outdoor gear is their focus on keeping your feet dry while providing the support needed for uneven terrain covered in slippery autumn debris. Having tested various walking boots over the years, these boots strike the perfect balance between affordability and performance. At their current price, they represent some of the best autumn camping gear for families building their collection of reliable autumn outdoor kit without breaking the bank.

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13. Marmot Men’s Minimalist Pertex Rain Pants

Key Features

  • 2.5L Pertex® Shield Revolve fabric with waterproof, windproof, and breathable properties
  • 3/4-length side zips for easy on/off over boots with articulated knees for mobility
  • Lightweight and comfortable to wear

Product Pros

  • Water-resistant hand pockets and easy boot compatibility
  • Takes up minimal space in your pack
  • Fully taped seams and zippered pockets

Product Cons

  • The price may be higher compared to some basic rain pants

The Marmot Men’s Minimalist Pertex Rain Pants have become a cornerstone piece of cold weather clothing in our family’s outdoor kit. My partner wears these on our camping and hiking trips and has found that they’ve kept him dry during light showers. This is thanks to the 2.5L Pertex® Shield Revolve fabric that’s waterproof, windproof, and breathable.

These ultra-packable rain pants represent exactly what serious autumn outdoor gear should be: reliable protection that doesn’t weigh you down or take up precious pack space.

My partner has worn various rain gear over the years, but he particularly likes the 3/4-length side zips, enabling him to get them on and off over his boots if the weather changes or he doesn’t want to create a muddy mess at the tent entrance.

The alternative Marmot Women’s Minimalist Pertex Rain Pants can be found here.

14. Hiking Gaiters

Key Features

  • Lightweight and easy to put on and take off
  • Anti-tear, waterproof material
  • Designed with an elastic band and a snap fastener

Product Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Lightweight and easy to pack for family autumn camping trips
  • Effective protection against water, debris, and snow

Product Cons

  • The elastic straps can come off

These hiking gaiters will protect your legs during your autumn hiking adventures. Lightweight, they are designed to keep debris, water, and snow out of your boots as you explore the great outdoors during camping in autumn conditions. Made from anti-tear Oxford cloth, they’re built to handle the challenging conditions, making them essential items on your autumn camping checklist.

I don’t leave home without mine and have found they’ve kept my boots dry in the wettest conditions during autumn hikes. Another bonus is that they don’t cost much either, making them one of the best autumn camping gear for families who want to keep their load manageable and costs down.

Final Thoughts on Best Autumn Camping Gear

Autumn camping offers some of the most rewarding outdoor experiences of the year, but only when you’re equipped for the season’s unique challenges. From three-season sleeping bags that’ll keep you cosy through frosty nights to waterproof boots that’ll handle muddy trails, the right gear transforms potentially miserable conditions into comfortable adventures.

Remember, the best autumn camping gear is the kit that matches your specific camping style and local conditions. Don’t feel pressured to buy everything at once; build your autumn gear collection gradually, prioritising what you need first.

Ready to experiencebest autumn camping gear guide the magic of autumn camping? Start with the essentials and work your way up to a complete cold-weather camping system. Your future self will thank you when you’re warm, dry, and comfortable while others are shivering in inadequate summer gear!

For more outdoor inspiration, check out our related guides:

Happy hiking!


Have you found this best autumn camping gear guide useful? What things do you take with you? Is there anything we should add to our list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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4 Comments

  1. Your list reminded me that I needed to upgrade my sleeping bag, and since I’m sensitive to the cold, I think this one would be perfect for me.
    Thanks for the helpful list!

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