Winter camping can be a great way to get out and explore your surroundings in the colder months. This article will give you some advice on general winter camping supplies,/equipment, and information relating to the dangers you should be aware of when being outside in the cold winter months.
  As stated in the first sentence winter camping can be a great experience as long as you bring the proper clothing tents and other supplies to keep your safe during this excursion. You want to make sure that your clothing is not only resistant to water, but wind as well. Gore Tex products provide great protection from the winter elements; however can also be very expensive. Try to dress in baggy layers and you will still be comfortable in some of the coldest weather.

  The tent you pick for winter camping really depends on how long you will be out camping and how much tearing down & putting up camp you plan on doing. I always suggest something that can be put up quickly but still provide you with enough room for not only you, but all your gear. The typical dome tent with the quick put together aluminum sticks will be sufficient, just remember to pick something that is larger than what you would use for the summer months.

  Cooking can also be a challenge during the winter months. Try to bring along a small portable camping gasoline or kerosene burner to cook on. As far as food goes, you can bring along anything you would during the summer months, just keep your pack weight in mind when planning for food. In other words if you plan on walking/backpacking - pack light, if you plan on using a snowmobile to get around don't worry as much about weight.

  When your out in the winter elements, here are some dangers you should be aware of. The first one is hydration. Make sure you keep your self well hydrated in the winter. If you find your self-getting excessively cold, even cold water can warm you up. Second try to keep snow off you. In the winter snow will not melt when it lands on your clothing, simply brush it off your clothing or boots to keep you self from getting colder faster. Thirdly don't sit in the snow or potential wet areas. Also stay away from sitting on a bare rock. Stone tends to suck heat away from you, so if you sit on a rock try to put something between you and the rock. Fourthly use common sense when your outside in the winter, dress properly, pack properly, plan ahead of time, and always let someone know where you are going - when you will be leaving - and when you will be back. Lastly keep your self-safe at all times and you will have a great winter camping experience.

Nathan Dunleavy
www.CampMonkey.com
Get out and explore your surroundings today!