Camping in the cold: 5 tips to keep you warm!

Camping in the cold – Camping is not just for summer, it is also becoming increasingly popular in colder seasons.
Despite all the advantages of camping in spring, fall and winter, when the temperatures drop, it can be uncomfortable and even dangerous.
That’s why you should keep yourself and your tent, roof tent or tent trailer sufficiently warm.
Here you can find tips on the right clothing and outdoor activities.

Why go camping in the cold?

Nobody likes to freeze, so for some campers it is initially contradictory to go camping outside the main season.
However, there is much less going on at the campsite and the prices are often lower.
Did you know?
Researchers have found that the best temperature for sleeping is between 16 °C and 18 °C.
It can therefore be a good idea not to go camping in summer.
And of course you can also be a little proud if you’ve conquered temperatures below that.

Tip!
You can find out more about camping in the different seasons here: Camping in spring, summer, fall and winter camping.

Like an onion: dressing correctly

First of all, you should dress appropriately.
This can already help when you arrive at your destination.
Thermal underwear, thick socks, warm fleece jackets and hats will keep your body warm.
It’s best to put on several layers so that you stay warm enough.
Start with a thin layer, such as a breathable long-sleeved shirt, followed by a thicker layer, such as a fleece sweater or down jacket.
A waterproof and windproof outer layer will protect you from the elements.
Avoid thick cotton fabrics as they can absorb moisture and get cold.
Instead, use materials such as wool, synthetic fabrics or down.
When you’re out in the cold, your body loses a lot of heat through your head and hands.
Therefore, always wear a hat and gloves.
Keep your feet warm with waterproof, insulated shoes or boots.
You can also use heat patches for your toes.
A hat and scarf can provide additional warmth and comfort.
Here is a brief overview of what you should look out for when choosing your clothing:

• Thermal underwear & thick socks
• Pack fleece jackets & hats
• Put on several layers
• Avoid thick cotton fabrics
• Wear a hat & gloves
• Waterproof, insulated shoes
• Using heat patches for the toes

Warm nights & a good night’s sleep

Of course, the right camping accessories are also crucial.
A sleeping bag that is designed for the expected temperatures is crucial.
You can recognize this by the so-called comfort range, which indicates the temperatures at which you can still sleep comfortably in the sleeping bag.
Down is a popular material for keeping the sleeping bag warm.
However, it clumps together in high humidity (e.g. in fog) and then the warming effect is lost.
Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, are much more water-resistant but more difficult to pack.
There are now even hybrid combinations of both materials.
A sleeping mat not only protects against hard, uneven ground, but also prevents the cold from penetrating from the ground into the sleeping bag.
A mat with good insulation is therefore essential.
The simple rule of thumb here is: the more filling material, the more insulation from the cold ground.
Everything you need to know is summarized here:

• Choose the right sleeping bag (comfort range & warmth-to-weight ratio)
• Pay attention to the filling material (down, synthetic fiber or a mixture of both)
• Choose a sleeping pad with good insulation (more filling material = more insulation)

Generate & retain heat: Heating & Insulating

If you also want to provide warmth in your sleeping accommodation, this is also no problem when camping.
Tents are somewhat thinner and harder to heat than a camper.
You can create additional insulation with blankets.
Or you can protect yourself from the cold from the ground with an insulating mat.
Or you can choose a roof tent that doesn’t rest on the ground at all.
You can find a cozy roof tent for any weather here: 👉 Skycamp roof tent Outside of DIY insulation, there are so-called 4-season tents that are specially designed for lower temperatures.
These often have thicker fabric, fewer seams and reinforced tent poles.
However, they can also be a little more expensive as a result.
A tent heater or an outdoor fire can also make your stay at low temperatures much more pleasant.
However, please make sure that you always use the fire safely and responsibly.

Tip!
You can find out more about heating when camping here: Heating.

How to ensure warm nights – at a glance:

• Insulation mat protects against cold from the floor
• Ceilings can provide additional insulation (on the walls & floor)
• Roof tents do not rest on the ground (therefore warmer)
• 4-season tents for lower temperatures, but often more expensive
• For more warmth: tent heating or an outdoor fire

Warmth from within: Drink tea

Still cold?
How about a hot cup of tea, coffee or cocoa to warm you up again from the inside.
Making tea or coffee is also super easy on the campsite.
Here you’ll find everything you need to make yourself a hot drink: Tea or coffee.
Or you can try the delicious Campwerk coffee directly from our store: 👉 Campwerk coffee To stay warm, it also makes sense to make sure you always eat and drink enough.
When your body is cold, it burns more calories and you will become exhausted more quickly.
To ensure you have enough energy on the campsite, you can find everything you need to know about cooking here: Cooking on the campsite.
If you’re already on the road, you can find out which snacks provide the best benefits here: Snacks.

Unforgettable experiences: despite the cold!

If it is very cold outside, you should adapt activities to the conditions.
For example, plan walks or hikes to keep your body moving.
If it’s so cold that it’s even snowing, winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding are also very exciting.
Nevertheless, it is better to avoid being outdoors in extreme weather.
We recommend these activities for cold days:

• Ice climbing
• Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Go for a walk
• Hiking
• Winter sports
• Winter hiking