No matter where (or how) you journey, every traveler learns that the weather is unpredictable. That can be a hard lesson to learn first-hand—especially if you prefer to pack light, say only shorts and flip-flops when the sun is beating down. But as someone once said, “Smart people learn from their mistakes. Wise people learn from someone else’s.” If you’re new to packing for your RV, please trust us when we tell you to add long underwear for women to the packing list—even before the weather’s expected to chill. (Yep, we learned the hard way…)
You see, even when the sun is blazing during the day, if you’re heading up into the mountains, deep into the desert, or along breezy coastlines, once the sun dips below the horizon, temperatures can drop fast.
And when they do, you’ll be oh so happy you packed a cozy yet lightweight base layer. Not only do long underwear for women take up minimal space, but they’re also one of the most versatile clothing items you can pack. Slip them on before sipping your morning coffee outside your RV. Or layer them under hiking gear if the weather takes an unexpected turn. They can even keep you comfortable on the road as you travel beyond summer into fall and winter. Indeed, thermal underwear is a secret weapon every RVer eventually needs.
Why Long Underwear for Women Is Essential
The weather has a mind of its own and doesn’t feel compelled to listen to even the most seasoned meteorologist. One minute, the sun is keeping you warm as you navigate a paddleboard or kayak across the lake. The next, you’re rushing to shore to grab something warm enough to stave off the chill.
Let’s count some of the reasons why women’s thermal underwear is worth its weight in gold:
- Comfort When It Gets Cool: Wrapping yourself in a cozy base layer prevents the chill from setting in. So, you can linger outside longer to catch a breathtaking sunset, hang with the family roasting marshmallows, or simply turn down the temps in the RV as you sleep to save propane. Best of all, the best long underwear for women lacks bulk, unlike sweats, so it’s just as comfortable as a base layer as under a blanket.
- Versatility for Four Seasons: Of course, you’re going to pack your thermal underwear for winter trips. But long underwear shouldn’t just be relegated to deep winter treks. Long underwear is one of the most versatile clothing options. It can double as sleepwear, provide a warm layer if you want to prolong your evenings outside, and can even be worn as a backup outfit in some cases. Think of thermal underwear as your insurance policy against cold snaps year-round.
- Space Saving Wardrobe Supplement: RVers are all too aware of the limits for their onboard wardrobes. Especially if your rig is more on the compact side, every single piece of clothing must earn its spot. Fortunately, because it’s so lightweight, long underwear for women packs down small. Plus, it can be mixed and matched with the rest of your clothing.
How to Choose the Right Long Underwear
If you’re of a certain age, you likely remember the saggy bottom, high (like to your boobs high!) waisted styles of the past, and thick, confining layers. Fortunately, the heavy, ill-fitting, bulky, and uncomfortable long underwear that was only worth pulling out on the coldest days is now mostly a memory.
Today, you have options. Options that are comfortable and fit well on their own and under your clothing. You can even choose mid, low, or high-waisted, depending on your comfort and style.
When shopping for the right long underwear for you, it helps to know when, where, or how you’ll be wearing it. A few things to consider:
What’s It Made Of?
Fabric is the biggest factor in how your thermal underwear performs.
- Merino wool is considered the gold standard. It’s warm, soft, breathable, and naturally odor-resistant. Better yet, this natural fiber keeps you cozy without overheating, and it works well over a wide range of temps, which is why you even see sunshirts made of this material.
- Silk: Smooth as silk is a saying for a reason. Silk is so light, it feels like it’s barely there. It stays comfortable under everyday clothing and is also pretty comfy to sleep in.
- Bamboo: Such a versatile plant. Fabric made with bamboo is not only super soft, moisture-wicking, and breathable; it’s also eco-friendly.
- Synthetic blends (e.g., polyester, nylon, and spandex): These more budget-friendly options have several pros. For example, they’re stretchy and fast-drying, so they’re great for active adventures. They may, however, not be as odor-resistant as natural fibers. Yet when made from post-consumer recycled materials, they can still be eco-friendly.
One material you’ll definitely want to steer away from is cotton. While cotton may be “the fabric of our lives”—after all, it’s a soft, natural, versatile fiber—it also traps in moisture. And if it gets wet, or even damp, from sweat or getting splashed, it can leave you chilled. That’s the last thing you want when you’re enjoying your RV adventure.
In addition, avoid any materials that trap heat. A good pair of thermals moves sweat away from your body. And this is even more important when you’re active or just don’t like the feeling of clammy layers. I’m pretty sure that’s all of us.
What’s Its Weight?
Long underwear comes in different weights, i.e., how thick and, therefore, warm it is. Choose lightweight options for mild climates or when layering when you just need a touch of warmth.
Midweight is often considered the “just right” choice for RVing. It’s great for cooler nights, mountain trips, and fall camping. (One of our favorite times to RV!)
Only when the snows begin to fall or if you’re looking to adventure in really cool (temperature-wise) locations should you go with heavyweight thermal underwear. It’s just not needed the rest of the time.
How Does It Fit?
Thank goodness we’ve said goodbye to the baggy, scratchy thermals of old (especially those with the awkward drop seat!). Today, women’s long underwear is designed with our bodies in mind, so it moves with us. No bulking, bunching, or tugging.
Look for long underwear that fits snugly but doesn’t squeeze you. It should feel like it hugs you rather than like you’re stuffing your body into a sausage casing.
Even if you’re just moving around the campsite, you want it to move with you, stretching when you stretch as you bend over to hook up a hose, scramble up a rocky trail, or curl up to read a good book. Look for women-specific cuts for better mobility and less bunching under the rest of your clothing.
Finally, look for layer-friendly lengths. For example, you want to pick tops that are long enough to tuck in, bottoms with a flat waistband that won’t dig in under other layers, and sleeves and legs that won’t ride up when you’re moving around.
Long underwear should fit like a second skin. That is, supportive, smooth, and completely forgettable once it is on.
Top Recommendations: Best Long Underwear for Women
If you don’t already have a set (or two) of thermals in your RV wardrobe, here are some of the best options out there for comfort, performance, and, of course, RV packability.
- Smartwool Merino Classic Thermal Base Layer: Merino wool is a go-to for durability and warmth. This set is designed to keep you totally cozy, without overheating. Better yet, they resist odor—even after several days on the road.
- Icebreaker Oasis Crew & Leggings: Another merino wool favorite, these women’s long underwear are soft and high performing with a comfortable cut. Again, for breathability and versatility, merino wool is a great choice—whether you’re kicking back or layering up for a cool hike or day on the slopes.
- Patagonia Capilene Midweight: Sustainable 100% recycled polyester makes these thermals lightweight, moisture-wicking, soft, and supremely packable. Worried about odor? HeiQ Mint odor control helps keep it fresh. Plus, these are highly rated for comfort and fit.
- REI Co-op Lightweight Base Layer: Looking for a more budget-friendly option? We get you. This store brand offers reliable warmth and breathability. Made from 94% recycled polyester, it feels soft and silky and also provides sun protection. Yet, it’s a bit easier on the wallet.
- Terramar Thermasilk: If you’re looking for a lightweight silky layer, why not consider silk? This set fits smoothly under any outfit and feels so comfortable, you may want to live in it.
- L.L. Bean Women’s Cresta Wool Base Layer: Another timeless option (made with soft merino wool) from a trusted, classic brand. These highly rated women’s long underwear come in different styles and weights, so you can find the right fit and warmth to suit your RV lifestyle.
Long Lasting Long Underwear for Women
Once you find that perfect pair or two of women’s long underwear, you want to make sure they go the distance. With a little care, they can last for years of adventure.
- Gently wash them in a little cold water with mild detergent. On the road, a quick sink wash and rinse will keep them fresh.
- Avoid using fabric softener as it clogs the fibers and reduces their moisture-wicking properties.
- Air dry by laying them flat to keep the fit and stretch intact. If you’re in a pinch, you can tumble dry on LOW heat. However, make sure you avoid trying to speed up the process by turning up the temp as that’s the enemy of any elastic.
- Rotate sets if you have more than one pair to give them time to rest between wears.
- Lastly, keep them clean and dry in your RV, especially when in humid climates, which will help prevent musty odors.
Your investment in quality long underwear for women is an investment in comfort in a small, packable package. Then, if an unexpected cold snap rolls in, or you just want to spend some extra time outdoors before sunrise or after sunset, you’ll be more than prepared with a snug, comfortable layer to keep you cozy and warm.