Riding a camel? Getting dressed properly is important to ensure that you don't overheat or feel uncomfortable. This article explains what clothing to wear when you go camel riding.
Steps
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Don't worry about weight. The average pack camel can carry about 400 pounds over 25 miles (181 kg over 40 km) in a day. So it won't be bothered about how many clothes you've got on. You, on the other hand, might be, so don't overdo it, especially when it's hot.
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Wear comfortable clothing. Walking, hiking or climbing clothes are a good choice, as clambering up on a camel and staying on it requires flexibility. Choose baggy clothing as this helps with flexibility. The basic rule is: if you can sit in the clothing on the ground, you can sit in it on a camel.
- Prefer long pants, slacks or jeans. Camels have fleas, they can spit, and camel hair can be scratchy against a bare leg. By covering up, you will also protect your legs from the sunshine and the potential for getting saddle sores, caused by friction.
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Layer your clothing. Layering will let you remove layers if you get too hot, and put them back on if you're feeling chilled.
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Take a wind jacket. You're up higher, so you will get some wind reaction. Roll it up and place it in a pocket, or tie it around your waist.
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Wear a hat. Keep the sun off your face as you amble along on your camel. A hat with a tie-on is the best choice.
- Consider wearing a Legionnaire's style sun hat, with the long piece covering your neck as well.
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Wear sunglasses to keep your eyes shaded.
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Wear comfortable shoes. Bare feet are not recommended around an animal as large as a camel. It could step on your feet and cause a lot of harm. In addition, avoid wearing any shoes that are not strapped or tied on. Camels can jolt, and you don't want shoe loss holding back your enjoyment.
- Wear hiking or walking shoes, covered sandals, sneakers, etc.
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Expect the clothing to get dirty and perhaps a bit smelly. While a saddle might protect you from some odor transfer, expect some grime to mark your clothing, as is normal for any outdoor activity.
Video
Tips
- Consider local culture. If you're riding a camel where women are expected to cover up, be modest and don't be a tourist in skimpy clothing. Wear a t-shirt and pants at a minimum.
- Camels don't actually sweat much. However, they still have their own camel odor, so it's a good idea to wear easily washable clothes that will dry fast if you're traveling.
- For a little fun, you could indulge in the glamor look of Sex and the City but you will look out of place in the less than glamorous places you would normally expect to ride a camel. While the camel doesn't care what you wear, your friends might! Still, if you want this look, you could wear harem pants, gold turban and a crystal studded belt. And if you want to take it to the nth degree, you could even wear high heels if you want to emulate the camel riding exploits of Paris Hilton in Dubai. It's not advised but it might make for a fabulous photo opportunity!
Warnings
- Don't wear thong underwear when riding if you value comfort.
- Any part of your skin that comes in contact with the saddle can result in saddle sores. Avoid this happening by covering up!
- Camels spit and drool. Don't wear your Sunday best.
Things You'll Need
- Clothes
- Shoes
- Hat