Camping in cool weather is tricky. Ideally, you’re moving around a lot, so you’re staying warm. At the same time, a cool breeze or gust of chilly air can cut right through your clothes and wish you were standing near a fire.
The happy medium here tends to be a lightweight jacket: warm enough for when you’re not moving much, but not heavy enough to have you sweating and peeling it off when you’re hiking or being active.
Let’s look at a few of the best lightweight jackets for camping.
Columbia Ascender Softshell Jacket
The beauty of softshells is that they can layer so nicely with heavier coats for colder weather. But when worn by themselves, they make perfect, lightweight jackets. It’s both wind and water-resistant, keeping you warm and dry (two key elements of staying comfortable).
The Columbia Ascender is no exception. With Omni-Shield technology, a full-length zipper, and adjustable cuffs, it stands up to cool weather while still allowing full movement.
Carhartt Rough Cut Jacket
Just because a jacket is lightweight doesn’t mean it can’t be tough. The Carhartt Rough Cut Jacket is made to take a beating—if it needs to—while keeping you comfortable. It’s also rain repellent for any cool-weather storms that may blow up.
Plus a total of five pockets mean you can carry a good amount of small gear with you without requiring a fanny pack—because who wants that?
Striker ICE Lodge Fleece Jacket
Though traditionally a fishing jacket, the Striker ICE Lodge Fleece is made for ice fishing, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t operate beautifully as a camping jacket.
Really perfect for cooler nights around a campfire, it’s a sweater-knit fleece that’s also comfortably soft. And a full-length zipper makes it easy to vent if you’re getting warm.
Carhartt Gilliam Jacket
Who doesn’t love a good puffer jacket? The absolute definition of lightweight, the Carhartt Gilliam is water repellant and warm with a quilted Nylon lining.
While some puffer jackets have a tendency to be delicate, this CORDURA shell adds necessary durability, keeping it tough while you’re out in the woods. Insulated with Polyester, it breathes while keeping you warm—something that’s a must in a lightweight jacket.
Ready to go camping? Shop our full selection of lightweight jackets.
