Winter Camping 101
- syd.adventures
- Feb 12, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 21, 2023
Camping Below Zero - Everything you'll need to know
Interested in winter camping but don't know where to start? This guide will share in detail everything needed to ensure comfort, warmth and safety.
Looking for a new outdoor activity to enjoy during the winter months? Winter camping is a great idea! However, due to the harsh weather conditions you will need to adjust accordingly... Not sure where to start? So was I, but after some research, numerous hours of YouTube videos and a few trial runs. I was able to camp successfully in February, on a frozen lake in minus 30 weather. Manitoba winters make up for more than one third of the year. This can be daunting to some, but I believe finding an outdoor hobby to enjoy during the winter months is essential, not only for our mental health but overall wellness! This ultimate guide will help others with get out of the "camping is only a summer activity" mindset and out exploring the snowy horizons!
Pack your things and hit the ice!
Winter Camping 101
Staying Warm
There are a number of steps you can take to stay warm while winter camping. The most important however, is staying dry. For starters layered clothing. A good fitted base layer provides warmth and helps keep you dry! Staying dry is extremely important because moisture increases your chances of being cold, which can lead to discomfort, in extreme cases hypothermia, frostbite or even DEATH! Always keep in mind body temperature. While setting up camp it is a good idea to remove a few layers to avoid sweating. This dampness can leave you with a cold lingering chill. Do not overlook packing an extra set of clothes, socks especially.
Winter throws a few obstacles while camping. Daylight is limited, winds may be stronger and trekking through deep snow is tiring. Keep in mind location, stay sheltered from the wind, level and pack the snow evenly at the base of your tent.
TIP! - Snow can also be used as a great insulator around the tent.
Before and after setting up make sure to stay hydrated and fueled. Dense food such as eggs, bananas, meat and potatoes are great options to keep full and energized. Dense foods prolong digestion. Digestion is our bodies natural way to generate heat, this process is called Thermogenesis.
PRO TIP - A thermos filled with hot water or herbal tea provides warmth and hydration!
The biggest factor while winter camping or any trip for that matter is comfort. So take the necessary steps to stay safe, dry, warm, protected, and hydrated all trip long.
Packing Essentials
The key is to be prepared for any and all encounters. Adjust this list of equipment according to how much space and or activities you enjoy.
Tent - Sturdy, water proof and insulated! I used the "Otter Vortex Pro Monster Lodge".
Heater - Mr. Heaters "Big Buddy Heater" kept me warm all trip long!
Sleeping Cot - Keeps you above the cold ground.
Sleeping Pad - Provides extra cushion.
Sleeping Bag - Rated for negative temperatures.
Pillow - Avoid memory foam as it carries moisture and can harden in the cold, opt for Wool or Polyester.
*Carbon Monoxide Detector - Can save your life! Do not over look this device when using propane.
Battery Operated Fan - Circulates heat around the tent. Helps conserves your fuel.
Headlamp - Make sure to check your battery power before every trip!
Stove & Kitchen Tools - Prep as much of the meals before hand for easy clean up.
Portable Table - Makes cooking a lot easier.
*Foam Mats - Keeps the tent floor comfortable, dry and adds another barrier of insultation.
As I was planning on camping on Lake of the Woods. I wanted to take advantage of the fishing opportunity, Nothing better than catching walleyes from bed. Packing a few extra pieces to allow yourself even more fun, is always a good idea. From rods, an auger and some tackle to go ice fishing, or a pair of snow shoes to go exploring. Take advantage of time outside, the adventures are endless.
Envision It!
Time to take action! One of my favorite aspects about planning trips is the imagination process that happens before hand. Going over everything to pack, thinking of what the night, day and afternoon will look like. What will be on the menu? How can I utilize my spare time to get organized and be off on the next adventure sooner than later. Then the really fun part! Actually experiencing the trip! Interesting enough, the best moments often pan out nothing like imagined.
Apply everything mentioned from this Winter Camping 101 guide and be sure to have a great adventure. Did I miss anything that you typically include in your camping rituals? Please share below! I'm always looking to perfect and add new additions to my trips to help make them as enjoyable as possible.
Looking for delicious meals to accompany you on your trips? Consider checking out one of my recipes!
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