Don’t let winter keep you cooped up inside this year! Just because the temperatures have dropped, doesn’t mean you have to become a couch potato. Winter is actually one of the most beautiful seasons to go camping, as everything becomes calm and quiet beneath a scintillating layer of snow. Though lovely and peaceful, winter camping does require a bit more preparation than a traditional spring or summer camping trip. We at Airstream have compiled a list of five tips to stay warm and cozy while camping this winter:
1. Choose the Right Clothing.
The right clothing is the crucial to stay warm during a winter camping trip. The most important thing to remember is to dress in layers. Layers allow you to better regulate your temperature through exertion and rest. It is also important to choose clothing that will help you stay dry and warm, so make sure to wear clothes that wick moisture and dry quickly. Both your outer layer and your boots should be waterproof and insulated, since moisture puts you at greater risk for frostbite and hypothermia. Don’t neglect your hands, feet or head either! Pack extra gloves, socks and hats in the event that you lose them or they get wet.
2. Make Fire a Priority.
Remember that it gets dark earlier in winter, so you need to make your fire early. You do not want to be struggling to get your fire lit in the dark, and temperatures will begin dropping exponentially once the sun goes down. Fires are invaluable when camping during winter, so make sure to bring a fire starter, even if you don’t typically use one. You don’t want to risk it!
3. Use Petroleum Jelly on Exposed Skin.
Lather petroleum jelly on any areas of exposed skin, such as the face, wrists or neck, in order to prevent windburn and frostbite. This method comes from the Inuits who have been using animal fats to combat the cold for generations.
4. Sleep in Your Boots.
Consider sleeping in your boots, or at least your boot liners, in order to keep your feet toasty throughout the night, and to keep your boots warm for the next day. If you boots are clunky and cumbersome, an alternative option is to sleep with your boot liners in your sleeping bag next to you. Frozen boots greatly enhance your risk of hypothermia and frostbite, so you never want to leave your boots out in the cold overnight.
5. Don’t Forget to Hydrate.
You may not feel very thirsty in cold weather, but you need to drink just as much water as you would during summer camping. If you don’t feel like packing a bunch of water, snow is a great, easily accessible source of water. Even newfallen snow is not always clean, so make sure to boil it in order to sterilize before drinking. You can also warm up and hydrate simultaneously by drinking tea or hot chocolate. Yum!
So don’t let winter weather prevent you from #LivingRiveted! It may take a little more preparation, but the winter camping experience is well worth it! Be sure to share your favorite winter camping stories and tips with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
Photo via: Gilson Boards
