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10 Must-Have Winter Camping Gear Essentials for Your Next Adventure

Updated: 4 days ago

What ever your plans are for winter camping, these ten pieces of gear have to be in your pack, Not including them will at best result in a disappointing trip, at worst, add you to a list of statistics you don't want to be on.


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1. Insulated Sleeping Bag


Insulated Sleeping Bag

A high-quality insulated sleeping bag is your best friend during cold winter nights. Look for a bag that is rated for sub-zero temperatures to keep you warm and cozy throughout the night. Keep in mind that some sleeping bags have ratings for "you'll be cold, but won't die" and other for "you'll be honestly warm in this bag". Read reviews, ask experts at REI, etc., to make sure you get the latter.


Sleeping Bag: Sea to Summit Trailhead Synthetic Sleeping Bag




2. 4-Season Tent

4-Season Tent US military surplus

Invest in a sturdy 4-season tent that can withstand harsh winter conditions, including heavy snowfall and strong winds. A reliable tent is essential for providing shelter and protection from the elements. You'll likely spend a little more, but it's worth it to not have your tent collapse on you.


Tent: US Military Surplus Combat Shelter (https://amzn.to/4gaU5Tq)


3. Insulated Sleeping Pad


Insulated Sleeping Pad

An insulated sleeping pad acts as a barrier between you and the cold ground, helping to retain body heat and provide a comfortable sleeping surface. Choose a pad with a high R-value for optimal insulation. I recommend leaving the inflatable pads at home. The air in them cools quickly after you've inflated them and that makes for a cold bed. Better to bring two roll up/fold up pads and stack them.



Sleeping pad: Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sleeping Pad


4. Warm Clothing Layers

A man wearing a base layer to keep warm

Layering is key when it comes to staying warm in cold weather. Pack thermal base layers, insulated jackets, waterproof outer shells, gloves, hats, and wool socks to stay comfortable and protected from frostbite and hypothermia. Avoid cotton. Cotton will hold your sweat and start cooling your body, which is the last thing you want.


Base Layer: Thermajohn Long Johns Thermal Underwear Fleece Lined




5. Portable Stove


Small camp stove for a isobutane fuel cannister

A portable stove allows you to cook warm meals and make hot beverages, boosting your morale and energy levels during winter camping trips. Opt for a stove that runs on a fuel source suitable for cold temperatures. This is important, make sure to get isobutane or butane fuel and to help keep it warm, put the canister in your jacket pocket.

Stove: Fire-Maple Titanium Stove


6. Headlamp or Lantern


Black Diamond head lamp

As daylight hours are shorter in winter, a reliable light source is essential for navigating your campsite after dark. Pack a headlamp or lantern with long battery life to illuminate your surroundings. Bring extra batteries as well. The cold drains batteries, shortening their life. If you normally bring three extra AAA batteries, bring six.


Headlamp: Black Diamond


7. Snowshoes or Crampons

Retrospec snow shoes

Traversing snowy or icy terrain can be challenging without proper footwear. Snowshoes provide flotation over deep snow, while crampons offer traction on icy surfaces, ensuring safe and stable movement. I normally take both and swap out between them depending on the ground conditions.


19 spike crampon


Snowshoes: Retrospec Drifter Plus 23/25 Inch


Crampons: WIN.MAX 19 Stainless Steel Spikes




8. First Aid Kit


Small first aid kit in a case with a handle

Accidents can happen anytime, so a well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have for any outdoor adventure. Include essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications. Also consider that maintaining internal body temperature is part of preventing winter specific medical situation. Put a couple of candy bars in the first aid kit.


First Aid Kit: 228 pcs for individual or small group.



9. Emergency Blankets


 A black case containing two mylar emergency blankets

Compact and lightweight, emergency blankets are invaluable for retaining body heat in case of unexpected overnight stays or emergencies. Keep a few in your pack for added peace of mind. Those little 'once and done' mylar blankets are standard in any backpackers winter kit for a good reason.


Blanket: Frelaxy Emergency Blanket 2 Pack




10. Knife


Gerber Gear Survival Knife

If things go awry, and you have to improvise, a knife is you best friend. You can create an ad hoc shelter, create tinder and kindling, chip through ice to the water, etc. I recommend either a fixed blade with the tang going all the way through the handle or a folding knife with a locking blade. Minimum of 3 1/2 inches in length.


Knife: Gerber Gear Survival Knife


With these 10 winter camping gear essentials in your pack, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the cold and enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure. Stay warm, stay safe, and embrace the beauty of the winter wilderness!



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