What to pack for a night in a shelter

Short answer: A night in a shelter takes less than you think, but the right things must come along. Think in dry layers, something soft to sleep in and a few items that can handle the evening cold and the morning damp.

Start with sleep

A sleeping bag and a mat matter most, because a shelter usually has only three walls and a hard floor. Check the comfort temperature of the bag, and take a mat that insulates against the floor. If you get cold from below, a thick bag helps less than you hope.

Clothes to sleep in

Pack a set of clothes meant only for the night, and keep it dry in a bag. You sleep better in soft clothes without hard seams, and it is nice not to sleep in the sweaty layers of the day. Bring long legs and a long sleeved top, so the cold does not find you.

Evening layers against the cold

When the sun goes down, the temperature drops quickly, and you often stand still by the fire or the stove. Pack a warm sweater that is easy to put on, and something for the legs. A loose set in soft fabric is comfortable by the fire and in the bag, and you will find ideas among the bamboo jogging sets.

Dry socks and underwear

Moisture is the biggest enemy, so pack at least one extra pair of socks and one set of underwear in a sealed bag. Change into dry things as soon as you arrive, and hang the worn ones to dry. Dry feet make the night far more comfortable than an extra blanket.

Food, water and light

Bring food that is easy to make, a small stove and more water than you think you will need. Remember a headlamp and spare batteries, because darkness falls early in a forest. Pack out all your rubbish, so the place stays clean for the next person who stays overnight.

Small things that make it easy

A knife, matches in a waterproof bag, a small first aid kit and a piece of cord take up almost no room. Also remember toilet paper in a bag and a small bowl for washing up. Check the rules for fires and for the site before you go.

Clothing to your own needs

Pack according to the weather and to how sensitive you are to cold, because you know your own body. If you want an overview of the options, take a look at the range for men. Try the clothes at home, so you know they fit well.

Pack and distribute the weight

Put the heavy things close to your back and in the middle of the rucksack, and what you need first on top. Sleeping bag at the bottom, rain gear and headlamp on top. A pack that sits steadily makes the walk to the shelter much easier, and you avoid searching in the dark.

The morning and the way home

In the morning there may be dew and cold, so give yourself time to wake up and have something warm to drink. Air the sleeping bag so it can dry before you roll it up. Wash the clothes following the care label at home, and see the bestsellers from Copenhagen Bamboo too.

Frequently asked questions

How much clothing should I bring for a night in a shelter?

Pack one set for the night, one set of dry spare clothes and a warm sweater for the evening. Remember extra socks, because they take little room and are what you miss most if they get wet.

Should I sleep in the clothes I walked in?

It is best to change into dry clothes, because moisture from the day can make you cold at night. A soft set used only for sleeping is a good addition to the trip.

What is the most important thing to bring?

A sleeping bag and mat, dry socks and a headlamp are what most people miss most. You can adjust the rest to the weather, the season and how far you have to walk.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.