Winter Camping Equipment List

Winter Camping Equipment List
Winter camping often evokes images of snow caves and icy forests. That is sometimes, but not always, the case. Winter camping also embraces the frigid winters of the desert (cold, but mostly dry) and the grasslands (bitterly wind-swept). The main concern in all winter environments is being prepared for the cold. That is what separates a winter camping kit from camping kits for other times of the year.

Clothing

The first clothing rule of winter camping is avoid cotton, if at all possible. Cotton loses its insulating properties when it gets wet. It also is slow to dry. Pack long-johns made of silk, nylon, polypropylene or wool. You also will need two or three pair of socks and sock liners, made from the same materials. Next, pack two pair of pants and shirts and a sweater, preferably all made of wool. The last item is your outer shell. If you're camping in the desert, you may need waterproof gear, but everywhere else it's essential. Gore-Tex is a popular material for shell pants and your coat, jacket or parka. Must-have accessories include mittens (not gloves), a warm wool or fleece hat and snow goggles.

Small Items

Even in a snowy forest, sunscreen is essential. Snow reflects the sun's rays very well, increasing your chances of getting a sunburn. You'll need a fire--and waterproof matches to start it. One of the quickest ways to get warm and have clean drinking water is to melt fresh snow. You also will need at least two cooking pots, one for hot beverages and the other for your food. Also, it gets dark quickly in the winter, so you'll need flashlights. And bring spare batteries and spare light bulbs.

Big Items

If you're camping in a snowy area, you will need snowshoes and/or cross-country skis. You'll need a good pad to insulate the ground, and a sleeping bag that is rated for the worst winter weather you can possibly encounter. Finally, remember that winter camping demands a lot of calories just to stay warm. Backpackers choose foods with a high calorie-to-weight ratio, such as nuts or pasta. You should too.

Article Written By Edwin Thomas

Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

    More Backcountry Camping...
  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

    More Beach Camping...
  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword