Bare Essentials: How I Prepare and Pack for a Nude Camping Trip
Practical tips for a comfortable, carefree experience in nature—without clothes but with plenty of planning.
There’s something truly liberating about nude camping, feeling the sun on your skin, the breeze through the trees, and nothing between you and nature. But while the experience itself may be simple, getting ready for a nude camping trip takes thoughtful preparation. I’ve developed a system that keeps me comfortable, safe, and stress-free when I head out into the wild without a wardrobe. Here's how I prepare and pack for a clothing-free camping adventure.
1. Start with the Shelter: Test Your Tent
Before every trip, I set up my tent at home, even if it’s the same one I’ve used dozens of times. Why? Because the elements can be unforgiving if you’re not ready. I check for any damage, wear, or most importantly, leaks. I’ve been caught in a rainstorm before, and nothing kills the peaceful naturist vibe like puddles where your sleeping bag should be.
I run a quick hose test to make sure the seams and zippers still repel water. I also take a moment to make sure the stakes and poles are all accounted for and in good shape. Peace of mind starts with knowing your shelter is solid.
2. Pack Light—but Smart
Even though I won’t be bringing much in the way of clothing, I still pack with care. My go-to checklist includes:
Quick-dry towel: Handy for sitting or drying off after a swim.
Wide-brim hat and sunglasses: Skin safety is key when everything’s exposed.
Sunscreen and bug spray: My must-haves for skin protection. I choose natural or fragrance-free options to be kind to myself and the environment.
Sandals or hiking shoes: The ground isn’t always foot-friendly.
Light layers for nighttime: I always bring a hoodie or light blanket in case temps dip or mosquitoes come out.
First-aid kit: Because nature isn’t always gentle.
And yes, I always throw in some shorts, not because I plan to wear them much, but it’s nice for sitting on public surfaces, quick coverage, or aiding in a cool rainy day.
3. Plan for Food and Fire
I usually pack a small camp stove or a fire-safe cooking kit, depending on the site. Nude or not, a warm meal makes all the difference. I prep some meals ahead of time in reusable containers to keep things simple.
For snacks, I go with easy-to-carry, non-messy items: trail mix, dried fruit, jerky, and protein bars. Nobody wants sticky fingers when you don’t have a shirt to wipe them on.
4. Hygiene Without Fuss
Just because I’m off-grid doesn’t mean I skip self-care. I bring biodegradable soap, a washcloth, and plenty of water for rinsing off. A small trowel helps with eco-friendly bathroom breaks, and I always follow Leave No Trace principles.
5. Leave the Shame at Home
Most importantly, I pack a mindset of openness, respect, and body positivity. Nude camping isn’t about shock value; it’s about reconnecting with the world in a raw, honest way. I always choose campgrounds or locations where naturism is welcome and understood, and I respect the space and those around me.
Nude camping might look carefree, but it thrives on preparation. By setting up my tent in advance, packing the right gear, and planning with intention, I make sure my trip is all about enjoying the moment, not scrambling to fix something I forgot.
Whether you're a seasoned naturist or just curious about going bare in the backcountry, a little planning goes a long way in creating a stress-free, clothing-optional experience. See you out there, just don’t forget the sunscreen!