You’ve visited a medieval market, heard the clang of swords, breathed in the scent of mead – and suddenly the thought struck you: I want to do that too. Welcome. Many newcomers find themselves wondering, on their first visit to a medieval market, how they’re supposed to find the right clothing and equipment. You’re not alone in this fascination, and getting started with the medieval hobby is less complicated than it seems at first glance. As specialist retailers for re-enactment, the Middle Ages and LARP, we at Vehi Mercatus have been helping people take exactly this step for years. In this article, we’ll show you specifically how to get started in 2026, which equipment really makes sense and how to connect with the scene.
The medieval hobby encompasses many different things – from clothing and equipment to everyday objects that shaped life in the Middle Ages. A simple outfit in which you feel comfortable is particularly important when starting out.
What to expect in this article
- Get started straight away: your first steps into the medieval hobby
- How do you want to ‘live’ the Middle Ages? Clarifying your role and expectations
- Your first outfit: simple, authentic basics
- First camp equipment: tent, sleeping, daily life on site
- Safety and responsibility in the medieval hobby
- Finding your place: groups, clubs & community
- Staying in the hobby long-term: budget, expansion & specialisation
Reading time approx. 18 mins.Get started straight away: Your first steps into the medieval hobby
The decision has been made – but what now? Many beginners make the mistake of spending money on equipment straight away, without knowing which direction their hobby should take. It’s a bit like buying a full set of climbing gear before you’ve ever seen the inside of a climbing centre.
The smarter approach involves observation, conversation and targeted research. Here’s some practical advice:
- Visit 1–2 medieval markets in your region specifically as an observer – the Kaltenberg Knights’ Tournament or the Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum offer a broad cross-section of the scene.
- Talk actively to people in the camps – most groups appreciate genuine interest and are happy to answer questions.
- Make a note of which characters appeal to you: simple peasants? Mercenaries? Craftsmen? Pilgrims?
- Have a look at the market stalls, but don’t buy anything yet – first work out what you need.
- Make contact with at least one group that interests you.
The most important thing to remember when you’re starting out: perfection isn’t a prerequisite. It’s about enjoying the hobby, being part of a community and having a coherent basic setup. Nobody expects a museum-quality 13th-century re-enactment at your first market. It’s best to do your research thoroughly before buying equipment, seek out different opinions and compare options – that way you’ll make the right decisions from the start.
How do you want to experience the ‘Middle Ages’? Clarify your role and expectations
Before you spend a single euro on clothing, you need to answer a fundamental question: what kind of medieval era do you want to portray? The scene is diverse, and the differences are significant.
A mere market visitor strolls through events in costume and enjoys the atmosphere. A re-enactor strives for historical accuracy and recreates a specific era. Living History goes one step further and conveys history through authentic lifestyles and crafts. The LARP sector combines medieval elements with fantasy and role-play – here, elves and wizards are just as much at home as knights. The fantasy scene, on the other hand, draws more heavily on works such as Tolkien’s than on historical sources.
These questions will help you decide:
- Would you prefer a simple role (peasant, maid, farmhand) or a specialised one (craftswoman, mercenary, herbalist)?
- Are you drawn to the Early Middle Ages (6th–11th centuries), the High Middle Ages (11th–13th centuries) or the Late Middle Ages (13th–15th centuries)?
- Is historical accuracy important to you, or are you more interested in atmosphere and fun?
- Do you want to fight, craft, cook or simply camp?
- Does your budget match your expectations?
- Are you prepared to join groups that set certain standards?
Our tip for getting started: Choose either the 11th–13th century or the 13th–15th century as your period. Avoid a ‘mixed period’ spanning 1,000 years of history – it looks haphazard and won’t fit into any serious re-enactment group.
The level of historical accuracy you aim for will largely determine your budget, the effort involved, and also which groups you’ll fit into. At Vehi Mercatus, we support both beginners with simple, market-ready outfits and advanced re-enactors with detailed equipment.
Your first outfit: simple, credible basic kit
The good news: a solid basic kit can be put together realistically over a weekend. Focus on the basics – everything else will come in time.
For an early or high medieval portrayal, we recommend the following basic kit:
- Men: Tunic made of cotton (not as authentic but cheaper), linen or wool (more authentic, but more expensive), simple trousers, leather belt, leg wraps (optional), leather shoes
- Women: Ankle-length dress, leather belt, headscarf, simple leather shoes
When it comes to materials, there is a simple rule: favour linen and wool, and consistently avoid synthetic fibres and panne velvet. Natural materials look more authentic, are more comfortable to wear in changing temperatures, and experienced re-enactors recognise them immediately as ‘the real thing’.
Tip for beginners: Cotton is also a natural fibre and therefore looks good and reasonably authentic. In fact, cotton dominates the range of medieval clothing nowadays, simply because it is cheaper than linen or wool. We believe this is perfectly suitable for beginners, even though cotton fabric only arrived in Europe after the Middle Ages.
A few things to bear in mind when putting your outfit together:
- Start with an under-tunic or an under-dress – this way you protect more expensive outer garments and can vary your layers.
- Modern underwear is perfectly fine, as long as it remains invisible.
- Invest in a good belt early on – it makes a huge difference visually.
- Shoes are more important than many people think: trainers ruin even the finest garment.
- Headwear (bonnet, hood, straw hat) completes the look.
- A simple cloak or hood offers protection from the weather and looks medieval.
These four key pieces create the ‘medieval’ look: belt, shoes, headwear and bag. Cutting corners here is a mistake.
Vehi Mercatus offers suitable starter sets and individual items tailored precisely to these requirements.
Avoiding mistakes: What won’t go down well at any medieval market in 2026
A little knowledge of typical no-gos saves you from embarrassing moments and ensures you’re taken seriously by the groups. Especially on their first visit, many beginners face the question of what they should avoid:
- Trainers under your robe – the most common and obvious mistake
- Combat boots or other modern shoes
- Velvet capes – the material screams carnival, not the Middle Ages
- Neon-coloured or garishly bright fabrics – historically non-existent
- Synthetics of any kind – they shine unnaturally and feel out of place
- As a beginner, starting straight away with a high-ranking character without having the necessary knowledge or experience
- Failing to research the chosen era and culture sufficiently before deciding on a costume
On historical accuracy: split tabards, harem trousers and shoulder pads originate from the fantasy genre or later periods. They are unsuitable for a serious High or Late Medieval portrayal and are perceived by experienced re-enactors as a farce.
A practical tip regarding modern ‘atmosphere-breakers’: glasses, watches and mobile phones should ideally be tucked away in a belt pouch or bag. Nothing ruins the atmosphere faster than a glowing smartphone screen.
Vehi Mercatus deliberately avoids overly carnival-like polyester garments and places value on sturdy, market-ready attire that also meets high standards.
Essential equipment for the camp: tent, sleeping gear, daily life on the site
There is a significant difference between “strolling through the market in costume” and “spending the night in camp”. Camp life reveals a completely different side to the medieval hobby – community, daily routines and authenticity are the focus here. This step requires significantly more equipment, but it is also the moment when the hobby truly comes to life.
Our tip for 2026: Don’t buy your own tent for the first one or two events. Borrow a tent and equipment from friends or your group. That way, you’ll find out what you really need before making any major investments.
The basic kit for your first camping weekend includes:
- A sleeping mat or foam mat as a base
- Wool blankets for the night (it gets colder than you think)
- Weatherproof clothing for nights and rainy days
- A simple wooden cup
- Wooden bowl
- Wooden or horn spoon
- Knife – ideally a plain table knife without fancy decorations
You can gradually add historical-looking cooking and eating utensils such as iron pans, pots and jugs. The bare essentials will suffice to start with.
An important note: Too much luggage means more transport, longer set-up times and more maintenance. It’s better to start with a small, clean set-up and expand it gradually.
At Vehi Mercatus, we can advise you on how to progress step by step from a beginner’s setup to a complete camp kit – without making unnecessary purchases or wasting time.
Your first camp packing list – what really makes sense
For anyone who wants to pack quickly, here’s the essentials at a glance:
- A change of clothes (at least one set)
- Warm layers (woollen doublet, under-tunic, leggings)
- Rain gear (hood, cloak, waxed coat)
- Eating utensils (cup, bowl, cutlery)
- Candles or a lantern for the evening
- Toiletries in a discreet bag or pouch
Choose everything as neutral and timeless as possible: woollen blankets in natural tones rather than brightly coloured camping blankets, wooden tableware rather than plastic, simple bags rather than modern rucksacks.
Important to note: None of this is strictly mandatory. Every group has its own standards, and this article is intended to provide useful guidance. You should discuss any specific requirements with the relevant camp group in advance – for example, whether open fires are permitted, whether you are expected to bring your own cooking equipment, or what weapon regulations apply.
Safety and responsibility in the medieval hobby
Whether at a medieval market, a LARP event or a living history camp – safety and mutual consideration are the foundation of the hobby. Especially at large events, where many people with a wide variety of equipment come together, a few simple rules ensure that everyone has a good experience.
Clothing and equipment: Make sure your costume is not only authentic but also practical and safe. Loose ribbons, belts that are too long or dangling accessories can quickly become a tripping hazard. Before every market visit, check that everything fits well and is securely fastened – this is particularly important in LARP, where movement is part of the experience.
Weapons and protection: If you’re carrying weapons – whether a display sword, dagger or bow – safety comes first. Weapons should always be properly secured and only drawn where permitted. During combat demonstrations or LARP scenes, protective gear such as gloves or padding is mandatory. Check the rules for the specific event in advance.
Health and hygiene: Wash your hands regularly, keep your eating utensils clean and make sure you drink enough – especially on hot days at the campsite. Take breaks when you need them, and don’t underestimate how tiring a day in full costume can be.
Respect and consideration: At the heart of every scene is treating one another with respect. Treat other performers, visitors and groups with kindness. Aggressive behaviour and overstepping boundaries have no place in this hobby – whether you’re a beginner or an old hand.
Guidance and support: As a beginner in particular, you’ll benefit enormously from the experience of others. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for help – most groups and organisers are happy to offer tips and show you how to use equipment safely and find your way around the market. This way, you’ll grow into the scene step by step.
Those who take the hobby seriously and look out for one another ensure that it remains a positive experience for everyone – and that is exactly what makes the difference.
Finding your place: Groups, clubs & the medieval reenactment community
The step from market visitor to active re-enactor almost always involves joining a group. Camping alone is possible, but the sense of community is a major part of the hobby. Many groups are open to new members, are happy to answer questions and support beginners as they take their first steps.
You can find camping groups in various ways:
- Medieval markets in the region – approach them directly there
- Local history societies with a focus on the Middle Ages
- Online forums and social media (Facebook groups, Discord servers, specialist internet forums)
When approaching groups, bear these points in mind:
- Be polite and show genuine interest – not just in the equipment, but in the people.
- Ideally, turn up with a basic costume and some initial specific questions.
- Show respect for the group’s rules, even if you don’t know them all yet.
- Ask if you can camp as a guest before becoming a member.
- Check whether the group’s ethos, period and dynamic suit you.
- Accept it if a group isn’t right for you – there are plenty of others.
Many groups prefer simple roles for beginners, such as farmer, maid, farmhand or simple craftsman. There are practical reasons for this: the costume is cheaper, the requirements are more manageable, and you can concentrate on the essentials. Experienced members often help with costumes or lend items for the first few events.
In our advisory practice at Vehi Mercatus, we see which questions crop up time and again in groups. It is precisely these questions that we have specifically addressed in this article.
Building knowledge: research, books & museums
Historical knowledge makes the difference between simply dressing up and authentic re-enactment. You don’t need to study history, but a bit of research is well worth it. It’s best to compare different sources to get a solid overview to help you get started.
Specific German-language introductory resources:
- Making Medieval Clothing Yourself (books for anyone who wants to sew their own)
- Illustrated books on finds from Haithabu, Birka and other archaeological sites
- Current museum exhibitions with a medieval focus
For local re-enactments, regional museums and archaeological parks are ideal – such as the LVR Archaeological Park Xanten, the Viking Museum Haithabu or the Oerlinghausen Open-Air Museum. There you can see original finds and study details that no book can convey.
An important principle: primary sources (archaeological finds, contemporary visual sources, manuscripts) always carry more weight than film costumes or TV series images. What looks medieval in a TV production often has little to do with the actual living conditions of the time.
Create a notebook or digital folder for cuts, colours, accessories and other details. This way, you’ll keep track of everything and can shop with a clear purpose.
The product range at Vehi Mercatus is based on such sources – we do not cater to pure film fantasies, but supply equipment that meets historical standards. The range extends from entry-level or beginner models to advanced equipment for medieval re-enactment.
Staying in the hobby long-term: budget, expansion & specialisation
The medieval hobby can be started on a budget. A simple costume, shoes and basic accessories are available for a few hundred euros. However, as accuracy increases and your equipment grows, it becomes more expensive – you should factor this in from the outset.
The sensible order of purchases:
- Solid basic costume and shoes: the foundation on which everything is built
- Weather protection such as a hood or cloak
- Dining and cooking utensils
- Tent and sleeping gear
- Specialised equipment (weapons, armour, tools)
A budget tip: It’s better to buy a good pair of shoes or a high-quality belt from the start, rather than buying cheap ones several times only for them to end up being useless. Cheap shoes fall apart after two events, whereas a good leather belt will last for decades.
Possible specialisations for the future:
- Archer in the 13th century
- Peasant woman around 1250 with knowledge of herbs
- Knight of a religious order in the 12th century
- Merchant in the 15th century with merchandise
- Mercenary with authentic armament
The beauty of this hobby is that you can develop your character over the years. From a simple farmer to a prosperous craftsman, from a farmhand to a mercenary – your story grows with you.
Vehi Mercatus supports you every step of the way – from your first visit to the market to a detailed character portrayal, with advice on site or online.
Motivation & Community: Why it’s worth getting started in 2026
What makes this hobby so special that people have stuck with it for decades? It’s more than just dressing up:
- Camping together creates genuine connections – you get to know people who share your interests.
- Cooking over an open fire, trying your hand at historical crafts, experiencing other eras.
- Role-playing and the deliberate escape from everyday life have a relaxing and enriching effect.
- The mix of learning, trying things out and community keeps your interest alive for years.
Make 2026 your starting year. Set yourself specific goals: “Spend the night at my first camp this summer” or “Put together my own basic costume by autumn”. Small steps lead to great experiences.
The scene is active, events are plentiful, and the community welcomes newcomers. Your first medieval market awaits – and with the right preparation, you won’t just be a visitor, but part of something vibrant.
Start planning now. Look for a market in your region, talk to the first people you meet, and if you have any questions about equipment – we at Vehi Mercatus are happy to help you find the right path into the medieval hobby.
Conclusion: Your medieval adventure begins with the first step
Getting started in the medieval hobby isn’t a giant leap, but a series of small, conscious decisions. Anyone who starts by observing, finds a role, puts together a solid basic outfit and seeks contact with the community has already laid the foundations.
The hobby combines history, craftsmanship and genuine community in a way that few other pursuits can match. With the right preparation and a good partner by your side – such as Vehi Mercatus – nothing stands in the way of a long and enriching adventure.
