This Clever Clothing Hack Makes Changing At Public Campsites So Much Easier

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One of the best parts of camping is getting away from the chaos of everyday life. No Wi-Fi, no buzzing phones, just peace and quiet. Now picture this: You're relaxing by the campfire as a cool evening breeze rolls in. The shorts that kept you comfortable during the hot summer day suddenly aren't enough to keep you warm. You reach for your favorite pair of sweatpants, ready to change, but all the private changing areas are occupied. No worries! There's a clever clothing hack that makes changing at public campsites quick and discreet — all so you can stay cozy without the stress.

TikTok users @lets.do.it.all and @keisha7788 recently shared videos showcasing a handful of genius camping hacks. This includes separate clips that demonstrate how to change from shorts into pants at a public campsite without the worry of flashing other campers around you. 

In the viral TikTok videos — which have amassed 1.9 million and 555,000 views respectively — the creators illustrate a clever way of putting on a pair of sweatpants without ever removing their shorts. To do so, start by slipping one leg into the sweatpants. Then, take the other pant leg and pull it up through the crotch of your shorts. From there, slide your bare leg into the sweats and pull them right up. At this point, your shorts will be hilariously sitting on top of your pants — kind of like a pair of oversized underwear. Just make a quick adjustment, pull your shorts down, and voilà! You're now warm, cozy, and have managed a smooth outfit change without any awkward wardrobe malfunctions.

Even though doing your research to try and choose the best campsite at your campground may be your top priority when heading to the great outdoors — along with learning useful tips on how to prevent mosquito bites and how to make an easy and effective DIY camping air conditioner — knowing whether or not you'll have enough privacy is just as important, especially when it comes to changing in and out of your clothes.

That said, as helpful as this changing hack may seem, TikTok users had mixed reactions to the clothing change hack. Some questioned why the method was even necessary, while others defended it by explaining that it allows people to change without being completely exposed. Several commenters pointed out practical scenarios where the hack could be useful — such as when you're sharing a tent with friends or family members, or when someone else is already using the tent for changing or napping. 

However, not everyone was convinced by all the twisting, turning, and tugging involved. A handful of commenters suggested simpler alternatives, like just changing inside your tent, while others jokingly recommended staying in a hotel instead of camping altogether.

Campers needing to change clothes at public campsites have several more practical alternatives that offer privacy, convenience, and affordability. One popular option is a portable pop-up pod, available on Amazon for under $40. Acting as a portable dressing room, shower, or even a toilet stall, it's a compact solution that sets up in seconds and offers the privacy you need to go about your business.

Alternatively, if you need to change clothes quickly and don't have a privacy tent, you can improvise with what's available, like your car. To do this, simply park strategically to create a bit of cover, open one or more car doors, and then change behind them. For extra privacy, you can even drape a blanket or towel over the open doors to create a makeshift barrier. While not perfect, it's a quick and practical solution when you're in a pinch at a public campsite.

Whether you're sharing space with others or just prefer a little privacy, finding the right setup can make all the difference. And, luckily, changing at a public campground can still be quick, private, and stress-free — even if your tent is not available in the moment.