Functional underwear – When camping with a roof tent, functional underwear is very helpful, especially at lower temperatures.
As the name suggests, functional underwear is a special type of underwear.
There are different models which, on the one hand, draw perspiration to the surface so that you are protected from unpleasant odors and moisture.
On the other hand, there are thermal functional underwear to protect against hypothermia, which release heat more slowly thanks to their good insulating properties.
This is particularly practical in winter.
Here you can find out all about the different properties and advantages of the various models and materials.
Last but not least, there are also tips on how to care for them!
Camping Ratgeber:
Definition: What is functional underwear?
Are you active and soaking in sweat after your bike ride?
That’s exactly what functional underwear is for.
It is breathable, skin-friendly and lightweight.
Ideally developed for athletes, they release moisture to the outside within a very short time.
This means that bacteria and germs don’t stand a chance and your skin stays fresh and dry for a long time.
In addition to the underpants, there are also undershirts, BHS and nightwear.
Some of the items are particularly good against the cold.
The well-known onion look with several layers over the functional underwear protects against hypothermia.
So if you are planning to go camping in the great outdoors, this will protect you from the cold night.
It’s just as practical for winter sports enthusiasts.
Whether skiing, ice skating or tobogganing – ski underwear is an absolute must!
Onion look in winter & for athletes: advantages
That’s why it’s worth thinking about functional underwear if you’re a sporty camper or in winter:
- Quickly wicks moisture away to the outside
- Protects against bacteria & germs
- Some particularly suitable against the cold
- Onion look protects against hypothermia
- Practical for winter sports enthusiasts
Are you a camping beginner? Read all about the basics of packing lists, routes, costs, tips etc. here: Camping beginners.
When should functional underwear be worn?
Functional underwear can be worn on many occasions.
It is mainly intended for active sportspeople, as it offers optimum protection against hypothermia, unpleasant odors and perspiration.
It wicks away sweat, which is why the clothing dries relatively quickly.
The light and permeable fabric allows good ventilation, which protects against overheating.
There is also a thermal version, which retains heat and protects against hypothermia thanks to its insulating properties.
These are particularly useful for winter sports or camping in the great outdoors.
This means you always have reliable protection for sports such as mountaineering, hiking and running, where you can quickly work up a sweat, as well as for snowboarding or skiing.
The antibacterial finish also ensures that you don’t have to wash your clothing as often.
This gives you the advantage on your trips into the wilderness that you don’t have to take as many changes of clothes with you, your rucksack isn’t as heavy and no unpleasant odors disturb your adventure.
- During sport: For a dry feeling
- As protection against unpleasant odors
- Outdoors at night when camping (nightwear)
- For winter sports: protection against hypothermia
- Antibacterial function
Camping tip!
Not only functional underwear can keep you warm when camping, but also a camping heater.
This ensures that you don’t freeze, especially at night.
Take a look at an electric heater for campers here:
Functional underwear: material & care
The right material and the ideal care will keep your clothes looking like new for longer!
Find out here what properties the different materials have and what the advantages and disadvantages are.
Material: Synthetic & natural fibers
When buying, you should definitely pay attention to the synthetic and natural materials, especially with regard to their properties.
Polyester can absorb approx. 1 percent of its own weight in moisture, while natural merino wool can absorb up to 30 percent of its own weight.
Wool is also highly odor-resistant and does not lose its warming properties when damp.
Nevertheless, polyester takes less time to dry, is easy to handle and retains its shape well.
- Polyester (PES)
- Merino wool
- Polyamide (PA)
- Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene does not absorb moisture and therefore starts to smell more quickly.
There is no antibacterial protection here.
In contrast, polyamide is very robust and durable.
Most soft, skin-friendly clothing is made from this material.
Like polyester, the fabric is light, quick-drying and absorbs around 4 percent of its own weight.
Natural fibers at a glance: Care instructions
For the most part, synthetic fibers do not require any special handling.
They can be washed in the washing machine without any problems.
For natural fibers, such as merino wool, care instructions can usually be found on the label.
In most cases, you should select a gentle wool washing program and detergent.
Be careful: Merino wool should only be dried in the shade and protected from pests, moths and insects.
This is how you care for your functional underwear:
- Synthetic fibers: Uncomplicated care & easy machine washing
- Natural fibers (e.g. merino wool): Follow care instructions, usually use wool wash program & special detergent
- Drying merino wool: Dry in the shade, protect against pests, moths & insects
Reading tips!
Outdoor clothing for camping
To make sure you’re prepared for your vacation in the great outdoors, you can read more articles on the right outdoor clothing here.
These are the things you can use to build up your onion look and keep yourself warm.
Outdoor jacket: 3-in-1 function, wind & waterproof
Whether it’s a short weekend getaway or a longer trip, a suitable jacket is crucial to avoid freezing on vacation.
Regardless of the time of year, it is therefore advisable to always have an outdoor jacket with you to protect yourself from rain, wind and cold.
Read all about the different types and advantages of an outdoor jacket when camping here:
Outdoor pants: short, rain pants & zip off
To make sure you don’t just stay dry and warm on top, you should also think about suitable outdoor pants when packing your clothes.
These will effectively protect you from rain, wind and the vagaries of nature.
Find out everything you need to know about practical and suitable pants for your camping adventure here:
Trekking and hiking boots: Outdoor shoes
Last but not least, your feet!
Regardless of whether you’re only traveling for a short time, planning sporty leisure activities or generally spending time at the campsite – the right shoes are crucial for a carefree and eventful vacation.
That’s why they should definitely be on your packing list!
Find out more here about suitable shoes for camping so that you can step in puddles without getting your feet wet:
