Winter Camping Provides New Scenes And Solitude

When most people think about winter camping, there first thought is the local motel with heat and a nearby restaurant. For others, their passion for being outdoors far outweighs any inconvenience or discomfort sometimes associated with winter camping. They all agree, however that to enjoy being outdoors in the wintertime, you have to be prepared.

Having the right winter camping equipment can mean the difference between having a great time and a miserable time, as well as possibly being the difference between life and death. Many things can happen in the outdoors during the winter and being ready for any circumstance will make your winter camping experience more pleasurable. The right sleeping bag and knowing how to keep it warm and dry are necessary as well as making sure your tent stays vented to minimize ice from forming inside due to moisture buildup.

Your clothing for winter camping should be in layers which can be used to maintain your body temperature. One layer should be comfortable against your skin while the second layer can serve as an insulating layer. The outer layer needs to be waterproof and possibly windproof to protect you in case of a heavy storm. Do not use cotton materials when winter camping as it loses insulating qualities when wet and takes a long time to dry. Wool or synthetic materials are friendlier to camping in the winter.

Protection From Unexpected Elements Is Crucial

Even with a good weather forecast, Mother Nature can sometimes turn a beautiful day into a nightmare with unexpected storms or winds. Being prepared for such likelihood can help you survive your winter camping trip. If you are using a tent, set it up in an area protected from the prevailing winds to avoid the disaster of having a sudden heavy gust tear it away with all your belongings with it.

Remember that everything happens slower when winter camping except your water becoming frozen. It is important to stay hydrated in the winter, as the drier air will suck the moisture out of your body quicker. Do not plan on eating snow for hydration as all that does is drop your body temperature. If you count on the snow for a water source, make sure you have a means of melting it before it is consumed.

For your food supply, a diet high in carbohydrates will provide the needed energy for being outdoors in the winter. Any meals you plan should be simple and yet appetizing and preferably able to be cooked in a single pot.