Camping in the Winter

Some of us are in such dire straits that we must live in a tent through the winter. Here are a few suggestions on how to make this happen.

Stay hidden. When picking a campsite for the winter, be sure no one can see you. Last thing you need is a group of teens or officers deciding that decide your camp is something to be trashed.

Use natural protection. Trees or brush can offer protection from the wind. Know which direction the wind usually comes from and get on the other side of it. Also, face your tent downhill, as an opening facing uphill will let the wind in.

Get a good sleeping bag. Without holes and a zipper that works (a bag without a zipper is simply a comforter). If you can, make it a winter bag. If you are purchasing it, look at the degrees on the bag-- that will be the temperature the bag will keep you warm up to. If the temperature outside is below the one in the bag, it won't keep you warm enough. Supplement your bag, if necessary, with blankets that fit within the bag or a hand warmer at night that can be placed at the foot of the bag.

Keep dry. Get rain gear, if you can, or a good waterproof coat. Thickness isn't as important as dryness, you can always layer clothes under the coat, if necessary. Also, get waterproof gloves and a hat. Change your socks as frequently as you can, putting on a dry pair.

Tenting. A good tent is important, but it isn't enough. You will need a windscreen or a tarp to prevent harsher winds or other items from breaking through the tent or making holes. Two tarps plus your tent is ideal-- one to place over the tent to protect it and insulate it and one to put under it to keep the tent dry from the wet ground.

Put an extra blanket under you. The ground is possibly colder than the air. Give yourself some insulation from the ground.

Eat well. You will need to eat protein, if you can get it. Cheese, nuts, or granola bars are good. Also, drink water (even if you drink beer).

Have a good flashlight. It gets dark early. Keep extra batteries if you can.

Look at our suggestions to keep warm. Keeping Warm

Get out of the tent sometimes and get warm. If your tent is in a safe place, then go to a public place to get warm and dry out. Don't coop yourself up, although you may feel lazy and just want to bundle up.