Winter Camping
Winter camping is both challenging and rewarding as an adventure for the brave. How you prepare for the winter getaway can make the difference
between a wonderful experience and an uncomfortable memory. There are two main areas that need to be addressed. Choosing the right clothing and
shelter can help you on your way to a great weekend of winter camping.
You need lots of layers of clothing to embarking a winter camping adventure. Just about every school teacher and just about every mom will
tell you that dressing in layers is a must during the cold season. Doing this will insure that your will be able to regulate your body
temperature. You can remove layers when feeling warm and add them when you get a little chilly. Everyone knows this basic rule of winter
camping.
The method you use to layer the clothes to maximize effectiveness is the core strategy of winter camping. Begin with a bottom layer against
your skin. This is usually long johns or something similar. The next layer is for insulation and usually consists of fleece. The outer layer
should be waterproof and windproof to insure that you will be protected from the elements. Try not to wear cotton on your winter camping
adventure. Cotton loses its insulating qualities very easily. When cotton gets wet, it gets cold. When it gets wet and cold so do you. The fabric
takes a relatively long time to dry out as well. This is not the ideal material for outings in the frigid temperatures. Stick with fleece and
wool on your winter camping trip for maximum warmth that lasts.
Shoes are a crucial aspect of your winter camping clothing. Make sure that you choose waterproof boots or shoes. Most prefer plastic or
leather treated with oil instead of regular leather or those that have Gore-tex linings. These shoes and boots may absorb water. That water will
freeze in the cold temperatures leaving your feet cold and wet. This is a bad combination on your winter camping trip.
Your shelter is also of utmost importance. Some like to use three season tents but these may not hold up to cold temperatures. They are
well-ventilated and winds can easily penetrate the fabric. You can opt for the three season tent if you are planning winter camping trip during a
mild season.
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