CAMPING TIPS FOR WINTER TREK
If you love camping, you don't have to wait for the summer to enjoy it. Winter camping can be a rewarding and exhilarating experience, as long as you are well-prepared and equipped. To help you fill your winter with safe, enjoyable, and memorable adventures, we’ve put together a list of important camping tips.
Tip 1: Layer Up
One of the most important aspects of winter camping is packing the right clothes to keep you warm, dry and comfortable in harsh conditions. Here are some essential items to pack:
- Baselayer:- This is the layer of clothing that directly contacts your skin and the best materials for base layers are synthetic fabrics or wool, which can transport moisture away from your skin and dry quickly. Avoid cotton, which absorbs and retains water, making you lose heat and end up feeling wet, cold. A good base layer should fit snugly but not too tightly, and cover as much of your skin as possible. You can find base layers in various styles, such as long-sleeve shirts, leggings, turtlenecks, zip-necks and more. Choose the ones that suit your preferences and activities.
- Middle layer: The mid layer is crucial for keeping you warm and comfortable in cold weather. It should trap your body heat, but also let some air flow through to prevent you from sweating too much. You can improvise a mid layer with a sweater or jacket that is made of synthetic fibers or wool. These materials are good at retaining heat and wicking moisture. Avoid cotton, which can get wet and cold easily. Some examples of mid layers are fleece jackets, down vests, or synthetic puffy jackets.
- Outer layer: One of the skills that every outdoor enthusiast should have is how to improvise a shell layer. A shell layer is the outermost layer of clothing that protects you from the elements, such as wind, rain and snow. It is usually made of a waterproof and windproof material, such as nylon or polyester, and it can make a big difference in your comfort and safety when you are outdoors.
Tip 2:Layer Up When You’re Still Warm / Stay dry
One of the secrets to staying warm in cold weather is to improvise with your clothing. You don't need to buy expensive thermal wear or bulky jackets. You can use the clothes you already have to create layers that trap your body heat and keep you comfortable. The trick is to layer up at the right time, before you lose your body heat. For instance, if you are camping in the mountains, you should put on your extra layers as soon as you finish your hike and before the sun sets. And don't neglect your head, as it can release a lot of heat if left uncovered. A simple woollen cap can make a big difference.
Tip 3: Set up your sleeping bag for deep sleep / Boost sleep system warmth
- You need a sleeping bag that can withstand at least -10 degree Celsius. This is the minimum rating for a winter sleeping bag, but you may need a lower rating depending on how cold it gets at night. Make sure your sleeping bag fits snugly and has a hood to cover your head.
- A fleece liner to use inside your sleeping bag. This adds an extra layer of insulation and makes your sleeping bag more cozy. You can also use a wool blanket or a down quilt if you have one.
- Keep your water bottles, fuel bottles and electronics inside your sleeping bag or jacket to prevent them from freezing. Frozen water and fuel are useless, and frozen electronics can damage the batteries. You can also wrap them in socks or gloves for extra protection.
Tip 4: Stay warm and hydrated / Eat drink & be merry/ Stay hydrated and eat lots of calories
Winter camping can expose you to low temperatures, high winds and low humidity, which can cause hypothermia, frostbite and dehydration. Here are some tips to stay warm and hydrated during your camping adventure:
- Start your day with a hot, nutritious breakfast that will boost your metabolism and energy levels. Choose foods that are high in protein, fat and carbohydrates.
- Pack quick and easy snacks and lunches that you can eat on the go, without having to stop and cook. Opt for high-calorie foods that will provide heat and energy, such as nuts and chocolate.
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Dehydration can impair your body's ability to regulate temperature and increase your risk of hypothermia and frostbite. Drink water that is warm or at room temperature, or make hot drinks like tea or soup.
- End your day with a hot, hearty dinner that will replenish your calories and warm you up.