A Guide to Cold Weather Camping

(Thank you for reading - this is a work in progress. Please refer back often)

Started on January 31, 2022


First - a definition - what do we mean by "Cold weather" camping?

For this discussion, cold weather camping refers to when temps drop below about 45 degrees F at night. You might adjust this depending on expected wind or rain/snow. Temps near Easton, WA in February could be in the mid-20's and are strongly weather dependent. Check your own favorite weather service and prepare accordingly. (We should be doing this on every trip, right?)

Quick Guidance

Most critical items for sleeping outside in the cold:

  • Sleeping bag (rated to maybe 30 deg F)
  • Sleeping pad - must insulate you from the cold ground
  • Tent/Shelter - block the wind and rain/snow, trap some warmth around you
  • Proper clothing - see below


Dressing for the Outdoors (Cold Weather)

Use the 3-layer clothing system

  • Base Layer - inner-most layer
    • Thin, synthetic, wicking layer (long sleeve top and bottom). Should be soft, comfortable and mostly form fitting, but not too tight. Costco has an excellent deal on these, right now (Jan 2022)
  • Insulating Layer
    • Fleece, down or synthetic insulated layers are great options. This layer should have thickness to it. Costs/benefits to each will be discussed later.
  • Shell Layer - outer-most layer
    • Thin shell that repels moisture and wind. Recommended that this is separate from the insulating layer. Goretex (or your favorite waterproof breathable brand) or some type of raincoat are good options. A shell coat with a hood is strongly recommended. 
Cover up
  • Hat - again, fleece is an excellent, inexpensive option
  • Gloves - very dependent on the activity
  • Good socks - often overlooked. Please no cotton! Merino wool is a new-ish material that provides excellent warmth and performance in socks. 


Tips for Staying Warm at Night:

  • Wear a hat - fleece or a similar soft, insulating fabric
    • Why? Your body heats your head first. Lots of body heat is lost through your head. Heat your head and it will help the rest of your body stay warm.
  • Wear a coat with a hood (if you are "that" cold)
    • Why? This traps the heat around you most efficiently. Warmth should trump any thoughts of "I can't sleep with a coat on" or "I never sleep with a coat at home." Again - this is an option to keep you warm. 
  • Wear warm, dry socks
    • Why? Cold feet = no sleep. That is all. 
  • Still worried you might be cold?
    • Bring an extra fleece or down blanket - wrap up in it, inside your sleeping bag
    • Wear a neck gaiter - this is usually a fleece tube - a hat with no top.
    • Wear gloves to bed - yes, this is if you are worried or you want to stay extra warm
    • Talk to a youth leader - we have plenty of extra warm gear and we're happy to share. All you need to do is ask. 
    • Don't worry - you will be just fine.


Final Thoughts

This is meant as a guide. Everyone is different and you might find you need to adjust for your own preferences. This is something to get you started. You should review after every trip by asking yourself:

  • Was I warm and comfortable enough?
  • What did I bring that I didn't need?
  • What didn't I bring that I wish I had?
You may add your own questions to help refine your experience. Try something slightly different on the next trip. Knowledge is power. And knowledge comes from experience. 


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