Hello, campers. If you’re new here – you might be thinking, “Wow, does she talk about anything other than her love for winter?”
Well, the answer could go either way. Just kidding – I mainly talk about outdoor adventure, cozy living, and plus size style. Hello and WELCOME to my little slice of pie, better known as the blog.
Lately, I’ve been stuck on an never ending roller-coaster of fall and seasonal content. Can you even blame me though? Anyways, it’s time to get back to my roots and chat about outdoor adventure.
Here are some of my GO-TO tips for outdoor enjoyment: cold weather camping & hiking edition.
Research the Weather
This might be an obvious place to start, but let’s try and be smart here. Checking the weather before any trip is something we all do, right? I can’t be the only one. Either way, JUST DO IT! When going cold weather camping, you want to make sure you are prepared for just how cold it may get!
Layers, Layers, Layers
If you plan on spending anytime in the outdoors during the fall and winter season, then my first tip would be to always wear and pack layers. Obviously, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
I can’t begin to count the number of times I’ve had to change my clothes during a winter hike. If you’re new here, fun fact: I SWEAT! (lol) I sweat so much, that my clothes will eventually start to freeze, causing the beginning stages of hypothermia. NOT GOOD! It’s always key, to have dry, backup layers for any case or scenario.
Cold weather camping wise, it’s always smart to have layers, as the temperatures tend to drastically drop during the fall and winter months. A few extra pair of cozy socks can work magic during the colder seasons. Plus, a multi-season sleeping bag and gear is a MUST!
Multi-Season Gear
Fun fact: a fire pit can only keep you so warm during the night. This is one of the main reasons that investing on better gear is well worth the extra expense. Don’t ever go to bed cold: WINTER CAMPING RULE #1!
Over time, Jeff and I have been able to curate a very impressive selection of multi-season and all-weather camping gear. My all-time favorite sleeping bag is a two person, goose feather quilt, that helps trap in warmth for any condition. As a plus size woman, it’s very impressive and heartwarming to me that companies are now becoming more inclusive, and that a two-person sleeping bag comfortably fits mine and my companion’s body size within its model.
Campsite Preperation
It’s always a priority to make sure you set up your campsite properly, no matter what time of the year it is. Personally, I never leave for camping without tarps, extra towels, sustainable cleaning supplies, and plenty of water. A good water purifier is also good to have as backup, just in case your supply gets low and you need an emergency re-fill.
Next on the cold weather camping packing list is a first aid kit. I make sure to always have one of these in my hiking pack and camping pack. Safety is always a priority, no matter how experienced and prepared you might be. This is the same for spring and summer, as well. You won’t find me leaving the house without first aid safety and a pocket knife. A knife is always something you should have when taking part in outdoor activity. Not just for safety, but you never know when a handheld tool can come in handy.
A waterproof tent is also an investment worth saving up for and splurging on. We currently use a lightweight, backpacking tent. Don’t worry, being light weight doesn’t mean it isn’t made with the best technology and integration. Today, tents can come in all shapes and sizes. We prefer to use a two person tent, but depending on your family size and accommodations needed, there are many variations available.
This might be a little excessive of me, but I always have a couple pieces of dry firewood in the trunk of my car. You never know when you’re going to get to a campsite that has been dampened or freshly rained and wet. I feel like the theme of this blog post has turned into “better safe than sorry” but who can blame me? Honestly, it’s smarter to use your better judgement than try and be a showoff that can light the best and quickest fire. Don’t be too proud and make sure to pack extra lighters, a few dry pieces of wood, or a professional fire starter. Yes, I am capable of starting a fire under an emergency situation, but I’ll keep those skills in my back pocket until that particular situation actually arrives.
Bundle Up & Have Fun!
If you’re anything like me, a little colder weather won’t get you down. I live for nature walks and hikes during colder months. Nothing beats a snowy landscape with a roaring fire indoors or outdoors. Yes, I get that some may call me crazy. As long as I am well prepared and safe, why not enjoy the activities that bring me the most joy.
Majority of my favorite camping items can be found in my Amazon Shop. I am constantly trying new things and adding items, that I personally use, to this list often. Plus, I am always available via Instagram DM – if you ever want to chat about a specific product.
HAPPY CAMPING!!!
**Disclosure: Some of the links included in this post are affiliate links. That means that I could earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you click through and make a purchase.
