There is something enchanting waking up with the air being crisp, with unbroken snow, and with winter’s silence. It is refreshing, serene, and quite a different experience from fall and summer camping. And camping in extreme cold weather takes up a bit more preparation.
Choosing The Right Location
Where you are camping can be the best thing about your journey. A location where wind can be sheltered, not where cold air pools. Avoid low valley floors, where air drops and can drop the temperature considerably after dusk.
Gear That Keeps You Warm
Regular camping gear does not suffice when the temperature drops. A sleeping bag for summer, for example, will be of very little use other than leaving you shivering for half the night. A sleeping bag with a rating of 10 degrees lower temperature from what you are expecting.
A proper sleeping pad is every bit as important as your sleeping bag. The ground steals heat from your body, and hence, covering a closed-cell foam pad with an insulated air pad adds warmth.
Staying Warm Without Using A Campfire
A roaring fire can be the best way of staying warm, but relying on one is not always possible. Burn bans, rain-soaked wood, and gale-force wind can leave you without the warmth of a cozy fire. Instead, focus on maintaining your body heat.
Cooking Without Freezing
Trying to cook when outside temperature drops below zero? That is when individuals get irritable. Low temperature slows down fuel efficiency, and if cooking with a canister stovetop, then keep your canister inside your jacket when not in use. Liquid fuel stoves perform better under harsh cold.
Keeping Electronics Functional In Freezing Weather
Cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly, and moisture from temperature variations can destroy sensitive electronic devices, such as hearing aids. Keep them warm and dry.
Store extra batteries in your sleeping bag or inside your jacket pocket where they will not drain their charge when not in use. If you use a hearing aid, cover it from moisture with a dehumidifier case when not in use. If winter-specific use has raised questions, read the latest expert takes on Tips for Using Hearing Aids During Winter Sports to make sure your devices stay safe and functional no matter the conditions.
Little Comforts That Matter A Lot
Even the tiny stuff can be what transforms a cold evening into a comfortable evening. Socks for sleeping is a must. A sleeping bag’s fleece liner, on the other hand, can be a game-changer.
Hand warmers are not just for your hands, of course—a couple of them in your pockets or your boots can be a real lifesaver. Nor should you rule out the worth of a comforting, hot drink. A soothing, steaming mug of tea, coffee, or cocoa feels like a big hug after being outside on a cold day.
Winter Camping Does Not Have To Suck
With the right preparation, winter camping can be one of the greatest outdoor experiences. With these easy tips, you will be comfortable and thoroughly enjoy the experience—without counting down the seconds till you leave.
