The weather might be getting colder but that doesn’t mean you have to stop camping! With a few useful items, a good supply of propane and some cozy habits, you can enjoy the great outdoors in any season.
Five must-have items for cold weather camping:
1. Ground Pads
Although air mattresses are usually the comfiest thing to sleep on, if you’re camping in cold weather, you’ll want to invest in ground pads. They create an insulating layer between you and the cold ground whereas air mattresses allow the cold to seep through.
2. Stainless Steel Water Bottles
Hot water bottles go a long way in keeping you warm at night but when you’re camping, you always want to save on space. Instead, pack a stainless steel water bottle. At night, boil water and fill it up, then place it at the bottom of your sleeping bag. It will act as a hot water bottle during the night and a regular water bottle during the day.
3. Propane Heater and Camp Stove
A campfire is a highlight of camping out. But in the winter, you’ll likely need some backup. A propane heater is a must for cold-weather camping. You may also want to bring a portable camp stove to enjoy a hot meal and some warm drinks when you’re out in chilly weather. Plus, you’ll need some way to heat the water for your hot water bottle. Fill up your tanks at your local Co-op Gas Bar.
4. Toque
For really cold nights, head to bed with a toque on. It’s true that previously studies overestimated how much heat you lose through your head (in reality, heat loss from your head is only 7 - 10%). However, your head is still exposed when you zip up into your sleeping bag.
5. Layers
When it comes to clothes, you’ll want to avoid cotton and go for wool. Wool keeps you warm by trapping heat and wicking sweat. Wool actually pulls moisture away from your skin which keeps you warm — it’s great for damp and cold conditions. Try not to sweat too much, though — wet clothes are not ideal. If your clothes get wet, don’t suffer through it. Take them off and hang them (if possible) to dry. And always bring extra socks.
If you’re camping with someone you’re close with, cuddle up! Sharing body heat is a great way to stay warm when sleeping. That being said, don’t zip your sleeping bags together because you’ll end up creating air pockets that are difficult to warm up. The larger your sleeping bag, the harder your body has to work to fill the space with heat. If you do have a bag that’s a bit too big, fill it with your extra clothes. That way, when you wake up in the morning, you won’t have to put on cold clothes!
The most important thing when camping in the cold is your safety. Make sure you know the area, have enough precautions in place in the event of a storm and have lots of supplies. As always, before you leave for your trip, tell someone where you’re going. The Canadian wilderness is beautiful, but it can also be dangerous.