EXTREME WINTER CAMPING!!!!
Tips to Survive the Night and Keep You Warm from Your Wild Winter Camping
Camping in a bell tent during winter looks very romantic. You huddle up with your partner with hot chocolate in on hand while poking at your woodstove. You imagine stepping out into the first morning of frost while taking in the winter wonderland in front of you.
But, winter camping is not that easy. You wake up in freezing temperatures and your flapping tent sides don’t seem to cooperate with you. Instead of appreciating the snow-capped landscape at its best, you end up miserable.
Don’t be ill-prepared. Here’s how to survive the night without getting frostbites.
Tips to for winter camping
Camping is one of the greatest escapes you ever have from the hurly-burly of the city life. Whether you’re looking for a short break at work, or you just missed being with your friends and family, camping is the best option for you to unwind.
Nothing compares the scent of pine during winter against snow-covered trees. Winter in Sussex means the stars shine brighter, as they dip lower to the hills’ tip point. So, get your gears and stay warm against subzero winter extremes.
Know the weather and any potential hazards
Check the local weather conditions whether the extreme temperatures will worsen during your winter getaway. There are loads of different app for your smartphone that can keep you updated.
- Keep checking in with your phone
- Have a copy of your itinerary if you plan a big trip
- Leave camp information to your family or friends if you are going wild camping.
- Keep emergency contacts with you
- Bring chargers and extra batteries
Always have contacts on more than one phone who will help you out. Always inform your family of your whereabouts and anticipated return.
Secure your site
Choose a site that’s dry, flat, and away from heavy snowfall or rain. Prepare your sleeping structure and clear away any snow from where you’ll be camping. It’s best to expose the soil and flatten your site before pitching the tent.
- If you’re with friends or family, reduce your ambient space to bring in more heat.
- Pack your gear and items inside to insulate the tent.
Choose a waterproof and airtight tent
Our bell tents will stand against windy conditions of the season. We suggest packing a smaller bell tent of about 4 meters and anchor it properly with longer pegs for the higher winds.
Prepare the right gear if you are wild camping in winter
The gear you need for summer camping is far different from your winter. If you are wild camping in the winter, here are the items, and equipment you need to bring.
Snow and travel gear:
- Pack liner
- Headlamps or flashlights
- Personal first aid kit
- Whistle, GPS monitor, watch, or compass
- Multifunctional knife
- Trip plan left with family or friend
- Lightweight packable pillow
- Hammock or lightweight chair
Dress appropriately
Keep yourself warm and put on a knitted sweater, scarves, a layered pants and shirts, gloves, bonnet, socks, and boots. Avoid tight-fitting clothing that may restrict your blood flow or give you too much warmth. The moisture from sweat will get trapped on your sleeping bag and will cause a drop in body temperature.
Here’s what to bring and wear:
- Quick-drying undergarments
- Base layer clothing
- Fleece jacket or wool sweater
- Waterproof and breathable jacket
- Gloves
- Extra pairs of socks
- Boots
Stay hydrated
If you think not drinking water on winter is okay, then you’re wrong. You still have to drink to fuel your energy in surviving the inclement weather. Don’t get too annoyed if you have to get up and take a potty break.
- Bring water bottles
- You can melt the snow for drinking, but boil it up for 20 minutes before drinking.
To stay hydrated, take a sip of hot water throughout the day. You can also brew hot drinks like tea or coffee.
Stock up some warm food.
Heat up some soup to get you warm during dinnertime. An easy-to-heat soup will do fine if you can’t seem to cook much outside. However, eating proper nutrition helps you stay warm and full. Aside from soups, you can make hot, delicious oatmeal, stew, or noodles even while at camp.
Remember to do the following while at camp:
- Plan your meals before leaving
- Prepare foods good high in calories, protein, and carbohydrates
- Take lunch breaks
- Store food away from preying animals
- Always clean your meal preparation areas and leave no trace behind
Why not go glamping?
Winter camping can be rough for first-timers. Sleeping on the cold ground at sub-zero temperatures is less-than-ideal and can be a drag on most people after a while. Glamping offers you a more convenient way to camp with real beds that assures the best sleep in.
Your bell tents are more spacious and you get that hotel-like hospitality while making you feel at home on during winter time. Plus, the fire stove and electrical outlets are to die for!