A cold night in your tent can ruin even the best camping trip. Camping in a valley or mountain in the winter will be warmer and more restful with this advice. Right cold-weather gear, affordable, is important. Many camping veterans contributed their knowledge to this article so that you can sleep like a baby under the stars.
● Invest in a Decent Sleeping Mat
A good sleeping mat is as important as a warm sleeping bag because it protects your body from the ground. Winter camping requires a sleeping mat with at least 3 R-values. Inflatable insulated mats with synthetic or even downfill that loft out when inflated are your warmest bet. If you camp a lot in winter, they’re worth it.
● Take a Warm Sleeping Bag
It would be best to have at least a three-season sleeping bag for camping in the winter. A down bag is the most comfortable and efficient choice. These were historically quite pricey, but in recent years, a few manufacturers have introduced significantly cheaper models. Those who are easily chilled should, once again, consider purchasing a high-quality down sleeping bag with a fill weight of 600–800 grammes and a fill power of at least 600. These may be too expensive, but other ways exist to increase internal heat. A sleeping bag liner can help keep the inside clean and prevent dirt and moisture from building up.
● Build Up the Base Layers
As the old Scouting adage goes, a layer underneath is worth two on top. This advice is spot-on, and the Scouts know camping. Be sure to put a footprint under your tent’s ground sheet. This keeps the ground beneath your tent clean and warm. Many high-end tents have footprints, but you can buy a cheap tarp at a hardware or DIY store and cut it to size. A blanket or an extra set of clothes underneath you inside the tent will provide additional insulation. This is more effective than piling on more blankets at night.
● Pack a Thin Blanket
Consider purchasing a down quilt that is both lightweight and portable. This is a flexible choice because you can use it year-round by pairing it with a lightweight sleeping bag or on its own for summer camping. Wrapping one around your shoulders while relaxing outside is a wonderful way to enjoy the night sky.
● Buy a Down Jacket
A good down jacket is the warmest, low-weight camping clothing you can pack for cold weather. A jacket with a fill power of 700 or higher, a good hood, hand warmer pockets, an adjustable hem drawcord, and elastic-bound or Velcro-adjustable cuffs will keep you warm. Since you’ll spend most of your camping time sitting or standing, you can choose a bulkier jacket with thicker baffles over one with finer micro-baffles without worrying about how it looks. Quality down jackets is available from outdoor brands. The best time to shop for deals is spring because stores are clearing out winter inventory. This applies to insulated jackets. In extreme cold, you can sleep in a jacket.
● Wear Thermals in Camping
Wearing thermal pants to bed is another way to stay warm while sleeping. Wear tights, leggings, long johns under your sleeping bag, and a long-sleeved baselayer; it’s miserable to have toasty arms but icy legs. Don’t go to bed fully clothed, as this can prevent your body heat from helping to warm the sleeping bag’s insulation.
● Get a Hat and Some Socks
When camping in the winter, thick socks and a warm beanie hat are essential. A warm pair of socks can make a difference when the cold weather sets in, especially for the toes. Similarly, your head loses a lot of heat, making a beanie a must-have. Wearing anything too snug will restrict blood flow to the extremities.
● Go to Bed Warm
Returning to your sleeping bag as soon as the sun goes down may be tempting, but keeping your body temperature up before bed will help you get a good night’s sleep and avoid getting cold. Do some jumping jacks, windmills, or star jump before you crawl into your tent.
● Enjoy Some Steaming Food
Some people find eating a high-calorie dinner before bed helps them sleep more. Trying to save weight by eating less while backpacking is often a false economy. Due to digestion inefficiency, high-fat foods, in particular, help your body generate heat. In the words of legendary climber Andy Kirkpatrick, who has spent time in some very cold places overnight, this is fueling the fire.
Conclusion
Dressing properly won’t keep you warm while camping. Visit the mountains in summer or winter for cold, wet, and windy weather. Use the above methods and warm clothing to maximize your equipment.