Whether you plan on camping out in a tent, motorhome or caravan, winter touring can be a wonderful experience.
Cold nights huddled around a campfire, falling asleep to the silence of snowfall, waking up to that crisp winter air scent – sounds magical, doesn’t it?
However, camping in the cold weather requires you to take extra precautions to ensure harsh conditions don’t put a damper on your trip.
With that in mind, The Camping and Caravanning Club have put together a list of winter camping tips to help you stay warm on your next touring outing.
Set up camp in the daylight
The sun sets earlier during the winter months. To avoid any hassle setting up your campsite in the dark, be sure to arrive in time so that you still have plenty of daylight to work with when pitching your tent or hooking up your motorhome.
Pack extra blankets
There’s no such thing as too many blankets. Well, maybe there is if you’re camping in the sweltering summer heat, but in the winter months, you’ll be grateful for all the covers you can get. Pack extra blankets to ensure no one spends the night shivering. These can also be placed on the ground for sleeping insulation if you’re camping in a tent.
Wear layers
Wear plenty of layers made of materials that are designed to protect against the cold such as wool, silk and polyester. Be sure to invest in a good waterproof jacket too in case of any unexpected showers while you’re out and about.
Take suitable footwear
Winter camping often involves traipsing through the rain, mud and snow. Make sure you have appropriate footwear that will keep your feet warm and dry. Additionally, pack plenty of socks to keep your toes toasty.
Leave your shoes inside
It’s a good idea to keep your shoes inside to prevent them from freezing overnight. Be sure to clean them properly before doing so.
Eat to stay warm
Eating nutritious and balanced meals and snacks when camping can help to raise your body temperature and protect you against the elements. Foods that take longer to digest, such as oats and potatoes, are good options.
Choose your pitching spot carefully
One of the best ways to stay warm when camping in the winter is to choose your pitching spot carefully. Whether you’re sleeping in a tent or a motorhome, look for a sheltered spot to shield you from the wind.
Stay in touch when going solo
If you’re heading out on your own, be sure to let someone know your whereabouts. This is particularly important if you’re camping somewhere remote where there is limited phone service.
Check the weather forecast
Be sure to check the weather conditions before setting out. If you can be flexible to avoid heavy rainfall or snowfall, you’ll be much less likely to suffer from the cold.
Pack for emergencies
No matter the weather, it’s always a good idea to pack a kit of useful items before setting off on a camping or touring adventure. Include things like a shovel, a first aid kit, bottled water and an emergency blanket.
Image credit: Jordan Irving / Unsplash
