Spring camping in the UK is glorious – longer days, birdsong at dawn, and that first morning cuppa outside the tent with the sun on your face. But let’s be honest, British spring weather is notoriously fickle. One minute you’re basking in sunshine, the next you’re reaching for an extra layer as the temperature drops faster than you can say “April showers.”
The secret to truly enjoying those early season camping trips? Having the right cosy gear to hand. We’re talking the kind of snuggly essentials that transform a chilly campsite evening into an experience that’s genuinely enjoyable – no suffering for the sake of the outdoors adventure required here, thank you very much.
Whether you’re pottering around the tent at sunrise, reading bedtime stories in a chilly sleeping pod, or simply want to feel warm and comfortable whilst cooking dinner on the camp stove or beside the fire, the right layers make all the difference. Think oversized hoodies that feel like a warm hug, fleece onesies that are practical and ridiculously comfortable, and insulated puffy hut slippers that’ll keep you toasty warm whatever the weather.
This season, we’re championing camping comfort. Because staying warm and cosy doesn’t mean sacrificing style or that sense of adventure – it simply means you’ll actually enjoy every moment of your camping trip, whatever the great British weather throws at you.
Here are our top picks for warm, cosy camping gear that’ll see you through spring and beyond…
Printed Fleece Jacket £52 – £65This fleece is the kind of layer you reach for when you want warmth without bulk. It’s lightweight but insulating, making it ideal for mild evenings at camp, early-morning coffee runs, or as a comfortable mid-layer. The soft fleece traps heat nicely while still being breathable, so you don’t feel overheated once you start moving. The subtle printed design also gives it an edge over plain fleeces.
The Tog24 Nanford women’s padded overhead jacket is the ideal choice for chilly days at the campsite. It’s design makes it super versatile and is perfect as an extra layer or for popping on over a fleece. This jacket features a cosy diamond-quilted design and insulation made from recycled plastic bottles – a gorgeous colour and a stylish layer for spring camping and time spent outdoors in the colder months.
Impact Cribou Pplu Waterproof sneaker Boots £101 – £116These boots hit that sweet spot between trail-ready and street-style. They’re waterproof and insulated enough to handle wet grass, muddy paths and unpredictable campsite weather, while the cushioned sole and sneaker-like feel make them comfortable for all-day wear. What really makes them stand out is the chunky, modern design – you get proper grip and protection underfoot without sacrificing style. Ideal if you want one pair of footwear that works for exploring during the day and still looks good sat by the campfire or heading into town.
Cloud Warm Sherpa Blanket £33 – £55This sherpa fleece blanket is a camping essential for unpredictable spring weather. Chuck it on top of your sleeping bag for extra warmth on chilly nights, or wrap it around your shoulders by the campfire. It’s machine washable (essential for campsite life), reversible, and compact enough to pack without hogging all the boot space. The ToastyTek fleece lining means it’s genuinely warm too, not just decoratively fluffy.
II Cropped Sherpa Half Snap Printed Fleece £52 – £65We’re big fans of Columbia fleeces, and this one is all about easy warmth with a bit of personality. The plush sherpa fabric makes it feel like wrapping yourself in a blanket, perfect for chilly campsite mornings or winding down in the evening, while the half-snap front lets you vent heat if you’re on the move. The cropped cut keeps it feeling modern and relaxed rather than bulky, making it a great layering piece over a base layer or long tee. It’s practical enough for camp life but stylish enough that you’ll keep wearing it long after your spring camping trip is over.
This robe coat is perfect for throwing on over pyjamas for night time toilet block trecks or as a layer when the temperature drops around camp. The fleece lining brings serious warmth, while the relaxed, robe-style fit makes it feel like wearing a blanket you can walk around in. Ideal for slow mornings, evenings by the fire, or padding between tent and facilities – it’s comfort, warmth, and personality all in one.
This mini duvet is ideal for adding an extra layer of warmth without the bulk, whether it’s popped over your kids sleeping bag or used on its own during milder summer nights. It’s compact, cosy, and instantly makes a tent or glamping bed feel more like home – great for anyone who sleeps cold or just loves that tucked-in, hotel-bed feeling even when camping.
This overhead fleece is a great choice for relaxed layering at camp, offering soft warmth without feeling heavy or restrictive. The easy pull-on style makes it ideal for cooler mornings and evenings, while the distinctive print adds a bit of personality compared to more technical-looking fleeces. It’s comfortable, practical, and the kind of piece you’ll keep wearing long after the trip’s over, always a good sign when choosing camping layers.
This mat is all about turning camping sleep into something genuinely luxurious. The thick, supportive design smooths out uneven ground and keeps you properly insulated from the cold, making it ideal for longer stays, spring trips, or anyone who values a good night’s sleep above all else. It’s the kind of mat you choose when you want to wake up rested rather than cold and stiff, especially well suited to car camping or glamping setups where comfort is king.
Slipper £45 – £75These slippers are all about bringing indoor comfort into your tent or glamping pod, especially on those chilly spring mornings and evenings. The soft lining keeps feet warm the moment you step out of your sleeping bag, while the structured sole gives enough support to pad around comfortably without feeling flimsy. They’re easy to slip on and off, perfect for night-time loo trips or slow mornings with a brew, and they add a real touch of luxury to camp life. A small pack item that makes a surprisingly big difference to how cosy your setup feels.
Currently on sale for just £60, the Mardale hooded jacket makes an ideal choice for chilly spring camping trips and time spent outdoors. The broad, fused baffles are packed with ThermoPro insulation and are designed to lock in body heat when temperatures plummet. The waterproof fabric with H2OShield finish provides effective wind and water-repellent coverage in changeable weather. Available in dark viridian (as above) and navy blue. See my review of the brilliant Craghoppers Ladies Kendal Jacket here.
Original Space Oversized Fleece Wearable Blanket £39 – £65The classic oversized hoodie blanket that’s become a campsite staple. With its sherpa fleece lining and genuinely roomy fit, it’s perfect for throwing on over your clothes when the temperature drops. The oversized hood and extra-large front pocket are brilliant for keeping warm whilst you’re pottering around the tent in the morning or settling in for the evening. Available in the OOD size (one size fits most), it’s OEKO-TEX certified and machine washable – so campsite dirt isn’t an issue.
We are utterly obsessed with these Hoka shoes that are ideal for keeping your feet warm, dry and comfortable around camp in colder conditions. The insulated, fleece-lined interior and waterproof GORE-TEX make them perfect for frosty mornings and damp ground, while the easy slip-on design means no faffing with laces when you’re half awake. Supportive enough for pottering about, cosy enough to feel like slippers – a great upgrade for wintery or shoulder-season trips.
Ridiculously good value for money, this mens fleece is on sale for just £20 currently. Everything from Tog24 is excellent quality and ideal for popping on when you’re camping or spending time outside chilly spring days. Made from luxuriously soft sherpa fabric, this fleece holds onto warmth like a flask of tea on a winter walk.
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