Must-Have Camping Gear for Winter, According to the Pros

According to Pitchup.com, an outdoor accommodation booking website, bookings for outdoor winter trips are up more than 60 percent from last year. That said, travelers aren’t letting chilly temperatures and snowy forecasts stop them from spending time in the great outdoors. Dan Yates, outdoor expert and founder, Pitchup.com, shares his favorite gear for outdoor adventures like cross-country skiing, seeing the Northern Lights in Norway and snowshoeing through the Appalachian Mountains.

Insulated Phone Case

With a greater chance for unpleasant weather conditions in winter, it’s a good idea to have an insulated phone case, like one from Cold Case Gear. The case is made from a mix of space-age material and extends battery life, floats and is one of the most indestructible cases available for purchase.

Buff/Snood

A fleece hood is a gamechanger for outdoor travel during the winter months. It offers more protection from wind, sun and cold temperatures than a typical hat. The Anon MFI Fleece Helmet Hood has extra room to fit over a helmet for skiing or snowboarding and includes a magnetic connection that seals the face panel for goggles.

Backpack with Built-In Safety Whistle

When adventuring in the snow, it’s important to have back-up safety equipment in case your phone isn’t handy or service is low. The Talon 33 Day Hiking backpack has adjustable straps with a whistle, providing additional security while exploring the outdoors. The backpack is also small enough to not burden you on your adventure, with enough room to fit all your necessities.

Warm Jacket

A warm jacket might be the most important thing to bring while exploring the outdoors in the winter. Yates recommends the Micro Puff Hoody from Patagonia. This jacket features the best warmth-to-weight ratio, isn’t super bulky and folds for easy storage in smaller spots. The jacket is also made from recycled fishing nets.

Good Socks

Finding socks to keep your feet warm while also fitting into your boots can be hard. The Smartwool Hike Classic Edition socks offer the perfect amount of cushioning on the entire sock, keeping your feet warm. The socks also have a flat-knit toe seam for less bunching and blisters. The moisture-wicking material helps keep your feet warm and odors at a minimum.