Winter break provides the perfect opportunity for you and your friends to head outdoors in between holidays. While camping out in colder weather may seem intimidating at first, it can be incredibly exhilarating once you’ve settled in. Before you head out on your trip, look below to discover the essential tips for camping during the winter.
Everyone Needs To Layer Up
You need to ensure you’re wearing a thick enough base layer to trap heat inside your body. Examples are long johns or thermals. Have a layer of insulation on top, such as a down jacket, that you can take on and off as the temperature fluctuates during the day. Your outermost layer needs to shield you from the elements like wind, snow, and rain, so select a jacket with weather-resistant materials.
Be Smart With Your Tent Site
Set up your tent when you’ve found a site that’s relatively dry, flat, and shielded from the weather. If the conditions allow, remove excess snow to uncover the soil. Then, smooth the area with your tools or footwear. Use your knees to smooth out any inconsistencies inside your tent as soon as possible.
Give Your Sleeping Bag a Shake
One of the best tricks to stay cozy at night is shaking out your sleeping bag before heading to bed. Sleeping bags work by producing air pockets that retain heat from your body, keeping you warm. Before using your bag, give it a good shake to ensure it thoroughly expands and fills with air.
Always Keep Dry
When you’re out in rainy or snowy conditions, you need to stay as dry as possible. Damp clothing swiftly reduces your body temperature since water transfers heat easier than air. This puts you at risk of hypothermia. Pack extra clothing, swap out wet layers as needed, and wear weatherproof boots to combat potential threats.
Look Ahead at Potential Weather Conditions
You need to look ahead when it comes to potential environmental and weather hazards. You must not only be aware of the extreme temperatures you may face, but you must also be conscious of impending weather events and trends for the season and location. Carefully plan, and tell people of your whereabouts and expected return time.
When you’re out with your friends in the elements, know the essential tips for camping during the winter. This will ensure you remain as comfortable as possible. While trips like these can be fun and rewarding, you still need to protect yourself first.
