Just because it’s getting cold outside doesn’t mean that your camping season has to be over. Sure, a lot of people only camp during the summer, but if you’re willing to brave the cold weather, you can find that inter camping is fun and adventurous in its own special way.
Of course, there are special considerations for winter camping that can’t be overlooked. Make sure you follow these simple tips to ensure your winter camping experience is one that’s fun and safe.
- If you’re going RV camping, prepare your RV for the winter – If you’re going RV camping, it’s absolutely essential that you winterize your vehicle before you hit the road. This will help protect your investment and ensure your safety. Your owner’s manual should offer a complete list of things to do to prepare your RV for the winter, but some of the basics include adding RV antifreeze, testing the furnace to ensure proper heating, and insulating the pipes.
- Pack the right winter camping gear – Make sure you bring the right winter camping gear to ensure a comfortable stay. Choose a sleeping bag that is rated for the temperature of your campgrounds, and if you’re staying outdoors in a tent, make sure your tent is rated for all seasons. Bring extra blankets for warmth during the cold nights.
- Bring the right clothing to keep warm – The right clothing can be you comfortable and protect you against getting sick. Some good winter camping clothing includes thermal underwear, thick wool socks, boots, jackets, wool cap/beanie, gloves, etc. Dress in layers to stay nice and warm.
- Make sure you have some form of heater – Whether you’re going RV camping or camping in a tent, it’s important that you have some form of heater to keep you warm. For outdoor campers, this means bringing plenty of firewood. For RV campers, it might mean bringing additional space heaters so you’re not just relying on the RV’s heater.
- Prepare warm and hearty meals – When you go camping during the summer, you might want things like cold fruit or sandwiches, but those aren’t ideal for winter camping. You need meals that will keep you warm and full throughout the day. Things like canned soups or meaty stews are perfect for camping in the cold, and make sure you bring plenty of hot beverages, like hot chocolate.
- Choose the right campgrounds – Not all campgrounds are open during the winter, so you need to choose wisely. Look for campsites that are open and that offer plenty of amenities to ensure a fun and comfortable stay while you’re out on your winter camping adventure.
While winter camping might not be for everyone, many campers find it to be a blast. The key to getting the most from your winter camping trip is to be prepared for the unique challenges it presents, and if you follow the simple tips in this article, you’ll be ready for a safe and memorable experience.