Are you ready to embrace the chill and embark on a winter camping journey? Winter camping can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially keeping warm. So if you’re heading out on your first winter camping trip, be sure to check out our 10 winter camping tips to ensure you stay toasty on your frosty escapades!
10 Winter Camping Tips
1. Choose The Right Camping Spot
The first step towards a successful winter camping trip is choosing the right spot to pitch your tent.
When finding the perfect winter camping spot, be sure to look for a spot that is sheltered from the wind and the rain or snow. Think of pitching your tent in a forest if possible and avoid setting up in the valleys where the cold air settles. And it goes without saying that you should set your tent up before it goes dark if you can, though that’s easier said than done in the winter.
2. Choose the Right Sleeping Bag
There’s nothing worse than trying to get to sleep when you’re freezing and your sleeping bag is your first line of defence against the cold. When choosing a sleeping bag for a sleeping bag rated at least 10 degrees lower than the coldest temperature you expect to encounter.
3. Vent your Tent
It might seem a little counterintuitive, but ventilating your tent is essential. One of the biggest issues with winter camping is the build up of condensation in your tent. Specially overnight when you’re sleeping condensation builds up on your tent and makes it a nightmare to keep your clothes and other gear dry.
By opening your tent and getting a bit of fresh air in you’ll be letting the humidity out, keeping you warm and dry inside your tent.
4. Layer Up
Layers, layers and more layers. Dress in moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Avoid cotton as a base layer as it retains moisture and use polyester instead for the layers that are in direct contact with your skin. Thermal tops and long-johns, thick wooly jumpers or hoodies and a heavy waterproof jacket or coat will be sure to keep you warm.
And don’t forget your wooly hat and gloves!
5. Stay Dry
Wet clothing loses its insulating properties so staying dry is key. It seems pretty obvious, but avoid break a sweat if you’re hiking during the day, even if it means slowing down. And keep a set of clothes exclusively for sleeping. Always change into dry clothes before getting into your sleeping bag at night.
6. Wear the Right Footwear
When you’re out and about, be sure to wear the right footwear. A pair of fur-lined hiking boots and thick, wooly socks will help keep your toes warm. And be sure to take extra socks in case they get wet.
7. Stay Active
Unless you’re in your tent catching up on some much needed sleep, the key to keeping warm is to stay active. Moving around is a great way to generate body heat and get your blood flowing to your hands and feet. Though be sure not to work up a sweat as the last thing you want is damp clothes.
8. Fuel Your Body
Your body burns more calories in the cold so you’ll need to keep your energy levels stocked up. When packing for your winter camping trip, include high-energy, high-fat foods. Hot meals and drinks can also help maintain your body temperature.
9. Hydrate
It’s easy to forget about hydration in the cold, but staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining your body heat. Use insulated bottles to prevent your water from freezing and a thermal flask filled with hot tea or coffee can be your best friend.
10. Get Warm Before you Get Cold
Take action before you’re cold. If you notice your hands and feet are cold, move around to move some warm blood into your extremities. If you body starts to feel cold, be sure to add an extra clothing layer or stop for a sip of your hot drink before you cool down too much.
Bonus Tip: if you have some extra space in your backpack, take a hot water bottle. Fill it with hot water and lay it inside your sleeping bag a little while before you crawl in and it will keep you cosy all night long.
And there you have it! With these winter camping tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a cosy and memorable winter camping experience. Remember, preparation is key, and always prioritise safety. Happy camping! 🏕️🌲❄️
