Winter camping is a fun outdoor activity; however, preparation must be taken very seriously to avoid dangerous exposure to hazardous elements.
Below is an outline, complete with winter camping tips.
- Plan, Plan Plan! – This concise collection of winter camping tips will detail the importance of planning an outdoor adventure, a factor that should never be underestimated. Included are a raft of tips including: route planning, snow level, snow quality and elevati on changes. Also detailed is complications with increased energy use and time when moving through snow.
- Personal Equipment
- Learn how dressing in a variety of layers helps avoid excessive heat loss. Sweating creates a wet surface, which results in 25 times more heat loss than a dry surface alone! Layering in different types of layers – wool, fleece, hydrophobic fabric, down and cotton – can help retain valuable warmth, while minimizing the risk of sweating.
- Never forget to protect all areas of your body – including your head, hands and feet.
- Packs – Learn about the differences in packs and how internal frames are better for winter use as they hug the body more, making them ideal for snowshoeing and skiing.
- Sleeping Bags – Detailed information about staying warm in the brisk winter air. Valuable tips, including if the outdoor temperature can drop to 10 degrees below zero, it is best to have a bag rated for 20 degrees below zero.
- Sleep Pads – Explains the importance of insulating the body from the underlying snow. Foam and inflatable pads both work well.
- Stoves vs. Fire – While outdoor fires are possible in some areas, the higher the altitude in the winter, the less chance a fire will be a reliable heat and cooking source. A stove is the best option in winter. Learn the differences between these valuable energy sources!
- Fuel – If water will not be available on the trip, allow ¼ quart of fuel per day per person. If water is available, that amount can be reduced by half. Always be prepared!
Following these practical winter camping tips to ensure the safety of everyone in the exploration group.
