Winter Camping - Gear Up To Beat the Cold
Experienced hikers, campers and backpackers, do not allow the weather to spoil the thrill and fun that accompanies an adventure activity.
Winter camping, although highly challenging, can prove a dangerous endeavor if campers are not fully prepared for the hardships brought on by the cold weather.
We've picked 5 things to consider when you are pondering a winter camping trip.
Clothing A winter camping trip means multiple packing bags stuffed with clothing to the top.
Pack several pairs of thick long pants, long-sleeved tops, woolens, fleeces, jackets, socks, gloves and woolen caps.
If you go skiing, you need sweaters, waterproof ski-jackets and waterproof pants and a ski-hat.
Do not pack cotton clothing and those made of moisture wicking fabrics.
They absorb body sweat and increase the risk of hypothermia.
Dress in layers to keep the body warm.
Clothes tend to become wet faster.
Change wet clothes immediately as wet and cold extremities can cause frostbite.
When you sleep at night, you should cover your head with a woolen cap.
It prevents the escape of heat and helps you stay warmer.
Footwear Your sneakers may be your first love, but they can be your worst enemy on a winter camping trip.
Boots are the ideal footwear choice.
They should be ankle-length or knee-length.
The length is ensures that snow and moisture do not gain entry into the shoe.
When buying boots, you should inspect the bottom.
It should offer good traction on ice and snow.
Protective Eyewear There are not many of us aware of the fact that the glare from the snow is harder on the eyes than normal sunlight.
You must protect your eyes with a pair of wraparound sunglasses or ski-goggles.
Shelter and Tent Gear There are season-specific tents available on the market.
It is a good option to invest in an "all-season" tent.
Tents designed for cold weather are equipped to handle strong winds and have stakes that anchor well in snow.
The tent should have an easy set-up.
To be safe, purchase a rain fly in case of inclement weather.
Bring along a tarp, large enough to fit under the tent.
The sleeping bag should be designed for extremely cold weather.
A camping heater helps warm the interiors of the tent.
There are different types of heaters - electric, battery or propane.
Food An increase in calorie intake is a must in cold weather.
You can cook at the campsite.
However, carry enough camping ready to eat food and ready meals.
In addition to the items mentioned above put in a flashlight, extra batteries, headlights, extra fuel, a handheld water purifier, gas stove, frying pan, coffee filters, salt and pepper, condiments, hot pads face masks, toilet paper, lip balm and sunscreen, duct tape, knives, basic tools rope and a first-aid kit.
Carry a radio to get updates on the weather.
Winter camping, although highly challenging, can prove a dangerous endeavor if campers are not fully prepared for the hardships brought on by the cold weather.
We've picked 5 things to consider when you are pondering a winter camping trip.
Clothing A winter camping trip means multiple packing bags stuffed with clothing to the top.
Pack several pairs of thick long pants, long-sleeved tops, woolens, fleeces, jackets, socks, gloves and woolen caps.
If you go skiing, you need sweaters, waterproof ski-jackets and waterproof pants and a ski-hat.
Do not pack cotton clothing and those made of moisture wicking fabrics.
They absorb body sweat and increase the risk of hypothermia.
Dress in layers to keep the body warm.
Clothes tend to become wet faster.
Change wet clothes immediately as wet and cold extremities can cause frostbite.
When you sleep at night, you should cover your head with a woolen cap.
It prevents the escape of heat and helps you stay warmer.
Footwear Your sneakers may be your first love, but they can be your worst enemy on a winter camping trip.
Boots are the ideal footwear choice.
They should be ankle-length or knee-length.
The length is ensures that snow and moisture do not gain entry into the shoe.
When buying boots, you should inspect the bottom.
It should offer good traction on ice and snow.
Protective Eyewear There are not many of us aware of the fact that the glare from the snow is harder on the eyes than normal sunlight.
You must protect your eyes with a pair of wraparound sunglasses or ski-goggles.
Shelter and Tent Gear There are season-specific tents available on the market.
It is a good option to invest in an "all-season" tent.
Tents designed for cold weather are equipped to handle strong winds and have stakes that anchor well in snow.
The tent should have an easy set-up.
To be safe, purchase a rain fly in case of inclement weather.
Bring along a tarp, large enough to fit under the tent.
The sleeping bag should be designed for extremely cold weather.
A camping heater helps warm the interiors of the tent.
There are different types of heaters - electric, battery or propane.
Food An increase in calorie intake is a must in cold weather.
You can cook at the campsite.
However, carry enough camping ready to eat food and ready meals.
In addition to the items mentioned above put in a flashlight, extra batteries, headlights, extra fuel, a handheld water purifier, gas stove, frying pan, coffee filters, salt and pepper, condiments, hot pads face masks, toilet paper, lip balm and sunscreen, duct tape, knives, basic tools rope and a first-aid kit.
Carry a radio to get updates on the weather.