5 Effective Ways To Keep Warm When Camping In Cold Weather

Camping is great year-round, but many people like to plan their trip during the fall season, where nature’s sights come in stunning shades of red and orange. Some people also prefer to spend time outdoors during the winter, since the campgrounds are less crowded.

But camping during these cold seasons is quite different compared to warmer seasons like summer and spring. There are more things to consider. More importantly, your goal is to stay warm.

Follow these effective ways to stay warm when camping in cold weather:

know before you go

It is very important that you know what you will be dealing with when it comes to weather during your trip. The best way to stay warm is to be informed beforehand, so you know what to prepare, what to bring, and what to expect.

Check weather forecasts and trends. You can also research recent terrain changes and trail closures for your chosen location. Better if you contact the park ranger to be updated.

Pack the essentials

Proper clothing and sleeping gear are essential to help beat the cold outdoors. When you pack your clothes, bring layers, preferably synthetic and wool base layers. Gloves, thick socks, boots and a hat for the cold are important.

When it comes to sleepwear, a closed-cell foam sleeping mat, a sleeping bag (with the appropriate temperature rating), and a thermal/space blanket are ideal.

urinate before sleeping

You don’t want to get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom when it’s really cold. Also, your body will expend a lot of energy keeping urine inside your body when your bladder is full, so it’s best to empty it before bed.

Keep a hot water bottle inside your sleeping bag

During winter or very cold nights, one thing you can try to help keep warm is to fill your water bottle with hot water and then put it inside your sleeping bag between your legs. Wrap it with a cloth if it’s too hot. It will act like a sauna inside your sleeping bag.

Stay above the ground

For camping in cold climates, it is ideal to bring 2 mats to place between the sleeping bag and the ground. Basically, the further you get from the cold ground, the warmer you will be!

Consider these 5 effective ways to stay warm when camping in cold weather!