Just because winter is coming, it doesn’t mean that you have to stop camping. If you like sleeping outside and enjoy getting away from all the madness of city life, chances are you will love winter camping. We at Get Outside think winter camping is even more peaceful than the other seasons and in some ways, easier - if you know what you are doing and are prepared.
The trick to winter camping is comfort. That might sound like contradictory - winter camping and comfort, but once you get the hang of it, we think you might get one of the best night’s sleep of your life!
The trick to winter camping is comfort. That might sound like contradictory - winter camping and comfort, but once you get the hang of it, we think you might get one of the best night’s sleep of your life!
WHAT TO PACK
Like all adventures, you have to be prepared and pack accordingly. For winter camping, we can’t emphasize enough on how important it is to get a good sleeping bag. Spend the money, because a good night's sleep will make or break the trip. Always bring extra socks and always pack chemical hand warmers. They are a quick way to warm your feet or other parts of your body, plus they don’t take up much space. Bring dry layers just for sleeping in. If you stay in the same base layers to sleep in, you will get cold. Yes, wool and other synthetic layers dry fast, but your body oils will remain in the clothing and will keep you cool overnight. And, yes, again … make sure you bring extra socks! For a more thorough list, check out our Get Outside gear list here.
WHAT TO WEAR
Besides packing the right gear, wearing the right gear can be equally important. A pair of waterproof insulated boots is crucial. Keeping your extremities warm will make the difference between a fun, happy day and a sufferfest! That is why you should bring an extra pair of waterproof gloves. You are bound to soak at least one pair (even if they are waterproof.) Which leads to waterproof pants - it is super import that have waterproof pants because snow will quickly stick to you, and melt, leaving you cold and wet. Again, staying comfy is the goal and that is done by staying dry. Always wear layers. You can always remove a layer if you get hot and you want to remove layers to minimize sweating. Having options is key.
Pro Tip: Wear a thin pair of gloves inside your mitts or gloves. That way when you need to tie your shoe or adjust something that requires dexterity your bare hands won’t be exposed to the elements.
Pro Tip: Wear a thin pair of gloves inside your mitts or gloves. That way when you need to tie your shoe or adjust something that requires dexterity your bare hands won’t be exposed to the elements.
PACK DOWN A PLATFORM
This is where winter camping can be more easy than summer because you can always pack snow down nice and flat platform for your tent. No “princess and the pea” moments! Use your skis or your snowshoe and spend a good 10 mins stomping down the snow where you plan to put your tent. Let this area sit for an hour so the snow can harden. This prevents you from sinking in the snow while you are in your tent, which can also lead to rips in your tent. Take this time to make a hot chocolate or explore the area while you wait. You’ll be stoked when you get back and get to sleep on an even and firm plot, which will lead you to one of the best sleeps of your life.
If you want to come camp with us, we have Women’s Intro to Winter Camping courses this season
If you want to come camp with us, we have Women’s Intro to Winter Camping courses this season
HOW TO SLEEP WARM
This is the number one question! No need to get into a cold sleeping bag! A nalgene water bottle makes a great hot water bottle. Fill the bottle up with boiled water and toss it in your bag - just make sure the lid is tight! Sleeping bag liners are great too, they add that extra warmth and keeps the cool sleeping bag fabric off your skin. Toque - of all your extremities, most of your heat is lost via your head, so bring a night cap!
Pro Tip: We all feel lazy every once in a while. Not wanting to boil water? No problem. Toss an extra chemical hand warmer into the foot of your sleeping bag 10 mins before you crawl in. It will be super warm and toasty.
Pro Tip: We all feel lazy every once in a while. Not wanting to boil water? No problem. Toss an extra chemical hand warmer into the foot of your sleeping bag 10 mins before you crawl in. It will be super warm and toasty.
COOKING
Being able to run your stove in the winter is essential. Your stove is your lifeline for being able to eat and drink. Using white gas is best because pressurized fuel does not work well in cold temperatures. Always bring more fuel that you think. Melting snow for water uses A LOT of fuel. Aim for around 200ml per person per day. And never forget...always cook outside of your tent or vestibule. If you cook inside your tent you risk carbon monoxide poisoning.
Armed with these tips and tricks, grab a friend, and head out on an adventure that you'll never forget! Still think winter camping is crazy? No stress, it's not for everyone! Come join us for a snowshoeing series where you'll learn tips and tricks on how to have a blast on day trips.