Winter camping has its charms, stunning clear sunsets, perfect mountain views, and less crowd. But camping in winter is challenging too, with the temperature falling sharply, the risk of illness or overall miserable experience increases. Here are some tips to make your winter camping safe and memorable.
Check overall conditions
The first thing you need to be sure of is the weather. Check the forecast with the local authorities and be prepared for the worst. Also, keep in consideration the road conditions. Be it the local roads to reach your camping site or the camping trail. Be prepared with the right gear like clothing, shoes, and other supplies to meet any eventuality.
Identify the right camping site
Choosing the right spot, especially in the colder months sometimes makes all the difference between a cozy enjoyable camping or a miserable one. While looking for a camping spot, choose one that has sturdy trees and rocks that can block the wind. You need to ensure that the trees are not rotting or dying and even the branches are sturdy. You don’t want something falling on your head in case of rough cold weather.
The dressing is extremely important
Layering is the best way to ensure that you are neither too hot and sweaty nor too cold when your body temperature drops. Have a base layer made of synthetic material or wool, a middle insulation layer that retains body heat, and an outer layer like a jacket offering protection against wind and water. Importantly, change into dry clothes while sleeping.
Choose a right tent
Always go with a three or four-season tent while camping in winter. A three-season tent is perfect for milder winters allowing more ventilation, thus reducing condensation. When it’s really harsh winters, pack a four-season tent that can endure heavy rain and high-speed winds. A tip, if usually two people camp, choose a tent for three people so that you can easily fit in extra gear.
Consume lots of calories
Always carry a good stove and lots of high-calorie food items. You would want to consume high calories food so that your body can stay warm in the cold weather. Further, make sure to be hydrated as the chances of dehydration are more in winters than in summers. To tackle the risk of hypothermia, always pack hot beverages such as hot chocolate. Essentially you need to keep it simple yet ensure high-calorie intake, one-pot meals work perfectly.
Lastly, pack extra batteries as alkaline batteries drain faster in cold conditions. Never risk power disruption in the middle of the wilderness.
