Why go camping during winter?

Winter camping can discourage even the most eager camper. As temperatures begin to drop, people write off any outdoor activity plans and typically put away their camping gear until spring. The situation during winter camp can be quite tricky and uncomfortable. The trip can take twice as long and will surely be twice as hard. So why camp during winter?

Camping during winter provides a different experience to camping during any other season. With campsites mostly empty, the silence and stillness of nature can be relatively peaceful. The sight of fresh white snow covering the landscape and the tranquility can take any camper’s breath away. A break from the busy city life indeed is a trip worth considering.

Being prepared will save your life

Camping in winter is hard, and the simplest mistake can put your party in danger. It’s best to go with someone with experience and someone you know. Like any other trip, choose the right location and check the weather. Find the best camping spot that suits your skill level and provides the activities you’d like to enjoy.

Get the right equipment for your trip, double-check everything, and bring a spare of essential gears like hats and mittens. Trust us. There’s a good possibility you’ll lose a thing or two. Make a list of all the things you need to bring to avoid leaving something important behind.

Dress for the occasion

Make sure to wear several layers of clothing. You will have to take off or put on more layers to get yourself to an ideal temperature to prevent yourself from heating up or getting too cold. Don’t forget to put on a hat that covers your ears, mittens, and warm socks.

Don’t forget the batteries!

Use lithium batteries for electricals as they work better at lower temperatures than alkaline or nickel batteries. They also last longer and weigh less. Make sure to bring a spare or two.

The right tent will keep you from freezing

Pick out the right tent to bring. Whether it be a 4-season tent or an upgraded 3-season tent, choosing the right one for your trip is essential. 

A 4-season tent will be the best choice. Winter tents are dome-shaped and steeper to prevent snow loading. They also can withstand harsh conditions, including strong winds and heavy snow loads. But these tents tend to be bulkier and heavier than your standard 3-season tent. You may have to consider this factor if your trip involves hiking up to the campsite.

3-season tents, on the other hand, are lighter and suited for hiking. But you’ll probably have to camp near the tree line for protection against the weather. You’ll also have to “winterize” your 3-season tent by insulating the floor, using a lot of guylines, windproofing, waterproofing, and adding a tarp or two to cover the top.

Staying dry is the key

Water conducts heat better than air. That means wet clothes will lower your body temperature faster. Even sweating can do the same. Pace yourself and peel off layers to avoid perspiration. Invest in waterproof boots to prevent getting your feet wet while trudging through the snow. Bring lots of spare clothing. It’s better to overpack than to run out of dry clothes.

Where calories are a good thing

When cold, our bodies have to burn more calories than usual to keep warm. Consider stocking up on calorie-rich foods for the trip. Hot chocolate can get you warm and boost your energy at the same time. Bring ready to eat, high energy snacks with you. You might suddenly want a quick bite in the middle of a hike. You would want to eat straight away after a long day of activities, so make sure to keep your meals simple, and don’t bother yourself with something challenging to prepare.

Leave no trace behind

Lastly, leave the campsite the way you found it as if you were never there. Dispose of waste properly and bring along any trash you have. Minimize campfire impacts and leave whatever you see in its place. Be considerate of the next set of happy campers who wants to experience what you have. Leave no trace behind.