If you enjoy camping but have never tried it in the winter, you are missing out on a great adventure. Camping during any season takes planning and preparation but it takes on a new meaning when done in the winter months. I hope the ideas I share here will help the first timer have a safe and enjoyable experience.

The first thing you want to do is to choose where you want to camp. For the beginner I would suggest a state or government run park with campsites. These are convenient to get to and most provide restrooms. They also have hiking trails and some have wildlife displays to enjoy. Many of these campsites are closed during the winter months so be sure to do your research. If you want to do your camping in the “wild” it would be best to go with an experienced winter camper. They will know the good camping spots and what it will take to enjoy your camping trip safely.

Next you need to ask yourself what you will need to keep warm. Two of the greatest dangers in winter camping are frostbite and hypothermia. Be sure to pack supplies that protect you against the cold. This may sound so obvious but it is an area that deserves a lot of thought. Several changes of warm clothing that can be layered is ideal for keeping warm. Be sure to pack an extra pair of gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm. A good pair of waterproof, insulated boots will keep your feet dry and warm. Although mittens are hard to work in, they keep your hands warmer than gloves. Only wear gloves when you need your fingers to be free to move around. Your boots should be insulated, waterproof and lace up to at least the mid-shin.

Another very important part of planning your winter camping experience is what you will eat to keep your body fueled and warm. When your body becomes cold it uses more calories as it tries to bring the body temperature up to normal. It is important to eat healthy by planning healthy meals to keep your body’s energy level up to fight the cold. A general guideline for a winter camping diet is half complex carbohydrates and simple sugars; 30 percent fats and 20 percent proteins.

It is best to avoid taking fresh foods with you such as eggs, vegetables or fruit. These can freeze very easily and are heavy to transport. It is best to pack backed goods, dried foods and freeze-dried ingredients. Fresh running water can be hard to come by in the winter so you need to be sure to bring enough water to last the entire trip. Assuming there is snow It can be melted over a fire or on a stove for drinking.  Your body uses a lot of energy to melt the snow when you eat it which can quickly lead to hypothermia. You should never, ever eat snow to satisfy your thirst. Snow should be boiled to insure its safety.

Also you need to consider what type of shelter you will use. A shelter should not only keep you out of the elements providing safety and warmth but also light weight and easy to set up. A roomy dome tent is a good choice because the tent’s shape prevents snow from accumulating on the roof. Be sure to have a tent large enough for the occupants and any camping gear. There isn’t much you will want to leave outside in the elements.  A good rule of thumb is to have a tent that will sleep next highest suggested occupancy. In other words if you are planning a 2 person camping trip you should have a 3-4 person tent. A tent that is equipped with a rainfly is ideal for preventing condensation in the tent, keeping you warm and all camping supplies dry.

It is a good idea to stomp around on the snow to trample down an area to place your tent. Be sure to have a tarp to place between the ground and the tent to prevent moisture from seeping through the bottom of the tent. This will also serve as added padding and insulation for the floor of the tent. Once the tent is set up, pack snow alongside the outside bottom of the tent walls to provide additional insulation. Avoid getting the inside of your tent wet by carefully brushing all of the snow off before entering your tent.

Besides a good shelter a good sleeping bag is as important for staying warm at night. Any good sleeping will be rated for different temperatures. Choose a tent that is rated for a lower temperature than what you actually plan to be sleeping in. For example, if you expect to be sleeping in 32 degree temperatures, have a sleeping bag that is good for 0 degree temperatures. The mummy style sleeping bags are ideal for lower temperatures. No matter which style of sleeping bag you chose be sure it is roomy but not too roomy. A sleeping bag that is too big and baggy will let in cold air so be sure you fit comfortably into the sleeping bag.  It is also a good idea to wear warm clothes even when sleeping for added warmth. An inflatable mattress or full length foam pad to lay down on takes some of the rough out of roughing it but is perfect for comfort and protection.

These are just some tips I have found to be helpful when camping in the winter. If it will be your first time winter camping be sure to plan well and prepare. Make a checklist and check each item as you are packing. This will help you to avoid forgetting important gear you may need. Plan well, prepare and have a good time winter camping, it can be fun.

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3. Winter Survival: Introduction and the Basics
4. Surviving the Frozen Tundras of Alaska
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