Winter Camping Tips
November has arrived, the air is becoming crisp, and the sky is growing darker, which can only mean one thing: winter is near. But that is no reason to pack away your camping or backpacking gear and call it quits for the year. Winter camping can be a rewarding and challenging way to experience a season we typically spend indoors. Here is a short list of basic winter camping tips.
Winterizing your tent
Choosing a good spot to put your tent up in the winter is crucial. You will want to choose a place with some tree blockage to prevent any harsh, cold winds heading in your direction.
If there is a lot of snow on the ground, shovel a clear, flat spot before setting up your tent and check for any debris that could poke holes in the tarp or make the ground rough. Tip- You can also use any extra snow and build a wall barrier to help block out some of the wind.
Now that you have found and secured your spot, you must first lay down a tarp. This will keep the bottom of your tent warm and dry. Be sure not to stretch the tarp past the edges; this will let in moisture.
Winterizing you pack
Backpacks are already expensive as it is. Instead of going out and buying a heavy-duty pack just for winter, here are a few tricks to keep your pack dry while out in the snow.
Whether you are backpacking, camping, or just taking a day hike during the cold and wetter months, keeping everything in your backpack dry is essential. A cheap and easy way to do this, is to bring large, heavy-duty garbage bag and line your pack with it. Additionally, we highly suggest investing in a pack specific rain cover, which can also be used when it snows. Once at camp, this rain cover can be used on the ground where you lay your pack down as you unpack.
Another way to keep items inside the pack dry are stuff sacks. Sometimes, they can be expensive, depending on the size. Try up-cycling old gear storage bags that have a waterproof seal. Ziploc bags always work in a pinch as well!
A small tarp is gold. It can be used as an emergency shelter if your tent breaks beyond repair, it can act as a staging area for gear packing, and can also be used as an emergency bivouac.
Winterizing your sleep system
All our gear rental packages here at Outdoor Mavens come with an inflatable sleeping pad. A sleeping pad will not only keep you off the ground, preventing you from getting cold, but it also keeps you from not having to sleep directly on hard ground.
Want some extra comfort? Get yourself a cell foam pad to put under the already provided sleeping pad, and you will sleep under the stars like a baby come nightfall. Close cell foam pads increase the R-Value (re: insulation value) of your sleep system. They can also double as a seat when you are out cooking your meals.
If you have a three season rated sleeping bag, a great way to add warmth is to invest in a thermal sleep sheet. These can increase the temperature rating of your sleep system without investing in a costly winter bag.
Make sure to bring a nalgene for your winter outing; this can be used on those deeply cold winter nights. Simply heat water on your camp stove before bed, place the hot water in your nalgene, seal it tight, and snuggle with the hot bottle. Placing the hot bottle near your armpits or groin area will heat you up fast and efficiently. (Note: never place the hot bottle directly on skin)
Winter camping can be fun and a wonderful way to beat those dark day blues. Make sure to always plan ahead and prepare. Rather go with a guide? We love winter and would be happy to plan your next trip.
