Winter Camping Essentials

For any camping trip, there are a few essentials to bring along, but winter calls for some special attention. Load the car and fill your backpack with these must-haves for your winter camping trip.

Navigation

Load up on your favorite mode of navigation, whether it’s a GPS device, compass or paper map. Be sure to protect your navigation tools with a waterproof case and safe storage place. Give in to technology and wear a GPS watch or carry a Garmin with you for easy access and easy navigation assistance.

Safety

Stay as safe as possible and bring along a few essentials including a first-aid kit, fire starter and a reflective blanket for emergency shelter and warmth. Your first-aid kit should always include basic care essentials like adhesive bandages, medicine and ointment, but on serious camping expeditions, be sure to add wraps, splints and more advanced care necessities.

Warmth

Dress warmly and prepare for cold weather with insulating apparel. Layer up with moister-wicking, thermal-based clothing from long sleeves, pants, socks, gloves and hats. Bring a face mask, heavy blankets and extra socks to layer up, or change out of wet clothing. Insulated boots will be a must on most winter camping trips, especially if you’re expecting heavy snow.

Shelter

Winter camping requires a warm shelter, like the Marmot Thor. For around $515–550, the Marmot Thor is made for high winds and winter weather. For more space, check out the Big Sky Chinook for $550. The Chinook adapts to all seasons and can upgrade for winter weather with additional pole options. The winterized version of the Chinook boasts withstanding capabilities against 60 mph winds.