Car Camping in Winter: Top Tips for an Unforgettable Adventure

Camping can be a year-round adventure with some planning and preparation. Our tips will help you get out there and enjoy the outdoors regardless of the season.

Check the Weather

Basic tip but really the top one that cannot be ignored. You can't be prepared if you don't know what to expect (snow? wind? rain? clear skies and cold temperatures?). Knowing the weather will allow you to choose the best campground (mountains or coastal), best camping set up (winter tent? yurt? cabin?), and the best gear to keep you comfortable and safe.

Choose the Right Winter Camping Gear

Once you've looked at the weather and selected where you want to go, it's time to select your camping gear. A well-insulated sleeping bag, layered clothing, and a sturdy cold-weather tent will make all the difference in ensuring comfort and warmth.

If using a tent heater, be careful to follow all safety instructions to maintain good air flow and reduce fire risk.

Insulated Sleeping Bags

Investing in a quality insulated sleeping bag is crucial for any winter camper as it ensures your comfort and warmth, so you wake up refreshed and ready for the day's adventures. Go warmer than you think you'll need - if it's going to be 30 degrees, get a bag rated down to 15 degrees. Always use a sleeping pad as it adds significant warmth and comfort. Ready to upgrade? Consider a sleep cot.

• Nemo Forte Synthetic (Men's and Women's): This sleeping bag provides excellent warmth and breathability and comes in 20 and 30 degree options. The "Spoon" shape offers extra room for side sleepers.
• Nemo Tempo Synthetic (Men's and Women's): This sleeping bag strikes a balance between comfort and price. It comes in 20 and 35 degree options and is a solid choice for those seeking value. The women's version offers added insulation in strategic areas for extra warmth.
• Nemo Jazz Sleeping Bag: The Jazz is a luxurious sleeping bag offering ample room and built-in bedding-style sheet. It's incredibly comfortable but heavy and bulky, making it best for car camping. Also comes in a double size.
• Nemo Disco (Men's and Women's): This down bag will provide additional warmth, rated down to 15 degrees. The "Spoon" shape has extra space at the shoulders and knees so you can turn to the side and not feel cocooned into your bag.

Warm Clothing and Layering

It's a no-brainer that warm clothing is crucial for winter camping, but it's not just about piling on layers. The science behind layering your clothing efficiently can mean the difference between a comfortable outdoor adventure and a frosty misadventure. Remember, your body warmth is your best asset in cold weather camping.

• A moisture-wicking base layer (Long Johns or Thermal underwear) to keep sweat away from your skin, preventing it from freezing up.
• A heat-insulating middle layer (Fleece or Wool) to retain your body heat.
• A waterproof and wind-resistant outer layer (Insulated Jackets or Winter Coats) to shield you from the elements.
• A warm headwear and a neck gaiter as up to 70% of your body heat can be lost from your head and neck.
• High-quality winter boots, wool socks and insulated gloves to protect your extremities, which are more susceptible to frostbite.

Cold-weather Camping Tents

When considering tents for winter camping, durability, insulation, and wind-resistance become crucial. Your tent should act like a second layer of skin against the winter elements.

• Double-walled tents for extra insulation
• Strong pole structures for stability against strong winds
• Tents with a vestibule for gear storage and cooking
• Vents to prevent condensation buildup
• High-denier fabric and strong zippers for durability and heat retention

Remember, many campgrounds offer yurts or cabins, and camper van and RV rentals such as Peace Vans or Moterra are an option, too. Don't let not wanting to sleep in a tent deter you from venturing out this winter!

Plan and Prepare for Safety

A safety checklist will increase your chances of a comfortable, fun, and safe winter camping trip.

Check the Weather Forecast

This was mentioned at the top but worth reiterating. Before you step foot outside, make sure you're up-to-date with the most accurate and timely weather information. Start with Outdoorithm's campground weather map, which displays actual week-of forecasts and also allows you to adjust the date to see historical averages.

Other important weather tips:

1. Weather changes, so recheck before you go in case there have been any updates.
2. Understand key meteorological terms such as 'blizzard', 'wind chill', and 'freezing rain', which are commonly used in winter weather forecasts.
3. Always have a backup plan in case unexpected weather moves in.

Inform Others of Your Plans

Staying safe during winter camping involves more than just packing the right gear; it requires informed planning as well. One significant step you can take is to inform others about your camping plans, leveraging technology to improve safety.

• Invest in a reliable GPS tracker, like Garmin InReach Explorer satellite communicator. This satellite communicator ensures you stay connected even in remote locations (many campgrounds have little or no reception, so don't assume you'll be able to use your regular phone). This GPS unit supports two-way texting, GPS, and SOS functions. The subscription fee for satellite service is an additional cost to consider.
• Share your winter camping itinerary with trusted loved ones; include details like expected departure and return times, camping site details, and planned activities.

Pack Emergency Supplies

Always bring extra food and fuel when winter camping, make sure your first aid kit is well stocked, and don't forget your headlamp. Keep an eye on the weather and learn the signs of frostbite and hypothermia.

Stay Warm and Dry

Campfires serve the dual purpose of heat and campsite ambiance. Read more on how to start a warm and safe campfire. A significantly easier alternative is a propane campfire. We love the Outland Firebowl, and with this added fire reflector you and your family will be toasty at camp.

Keeping warm consists of a combination of factors, from warm wool underlayers and insulated coats to sleeping pads that keep your body heat from seeping into the ground. Heating up your tent using propane heaters or stoves is a game changer, providing you with consistent, dry (i.e. low condensation), warm air for a comfortable night’s sleep.

Stay Nourished and Hydrated

Your body needs water for complex heat-generating processes. Sipping warm liquids increases your body's warmth while keeping you hydrated. Similarly, high-calorie food fuels your internal heating system. Keeping well-fed and sufficiently hydrated forms an essential strategy in maintaining your body warmth on any winter camping adventure.

Bring High-Energy Food

An ideal winter camping list should include high-energy foods. Dried fruits, nuts, and jerky are great snacks. Hearty grains and pasta provide needed carbs. Consider pre-making chili at home and warming it up at camp, or bringing ramen, noodle cups or freeze dried meals that only require adding boiling water (these are surprisingly tasty, are easy to pack, and remove the need to cook and clean up with cold fingers. Win-win-win).

Stay Hydrated in Cold Weather

It's important to consciously consume enough fluids in cold weather, even if you don't feel thirsty, to compensate for the water lost through respiration and perspiration and to support overall bodily functions. If cold water is too much, consider tea, broth, and other warm liquids to keep you well hydrated.

Enjoy Winter Outdoor Activities

If your winter adventure includes snow, soak it up! Snowshoeing is an easy and accessible way to explore the outdoors and get in some hiking in the winter months. Sledding is always a family favorite that doesn't require fancy gear, and gets your family out there and moving for hours.

No snow? If you're camping along the coast in the winter months, don't forget that the beach is still beautiful in cold weather (though you should skip the water unless you have the proper gear and have checked local notices regarding the water's safety on any given day). Beach combing and looking at tide pools are fun activities year-round. Put on a warm coat and rain boots and you're good to go!

Don’t let the winter cold deter you! Utilize your next family camping trip as a thrilling opportunity to explore different winter activities. Get your sleds ready for some gliding fun, or strap on your snowshoes for an icy adventure. So, pack that thermos with a warm drink, embrace the chilly outdoors, and let the frosty fun begin!

Winter camping can be a fantastic adventure for families looking for a unique and exciting experience. It's a great way to explore new campgrounds or to revisit family favorites and see them in a new light. By planning ahead so you know what to expect and then preparing accordingly, you can make the most of your trip and create lasting memories. So, don't let the cold weather deter you! Embrace the frosty fun and enjoy the beauty of the winter outdoors on your next family camping trip.