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Ah fall - the perfect time to camp and explore the outdoors! Zero bugs, crisp air, beautiful fall colors... and cold temperatures. As beautiful as the season is, staying warm and comfortable can make or break your outdoor adventure. Whether you're camping under the stars or trekking through frosty trails, these tips will help you stay cozy and enjoy the great outdoors, no matter the chill!
1. Layering: The Key to Staying Warm
The secret to staying warm outdoors is layering your clothes properly. Layers allow you to adjust your body temperature as you move and the weather changes. A good layering system will keep sweat away from your skin, trap body heat, and shield you from the wind and rain.
Breakdown of Layers:
Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer made of merino wool or synthetic materials. These fabrics pull sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and warm. If opting for wool, note that merino wool comes in various weights; merino wool is typically categorized as light (150-190 GSM), which is great for temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, medium (200-300 GSM) for 5°C to 15°C, and heavy (300+ GSM) for colder conditions below 5°C.
Mid Layer: Your insulating layer, such as fleece or down, is what traps body heat. This is your “warmth layer.”
Outer Layer: Top it all off with a waterproof, windproof shell to protect you from the elements like rain, snow, and cold winds.
Pro Tip: Avoid cotton—it holds moisture and will make you colder faster. Stick to quick-drying fabrics like wool or synthetics.
2. Sleeping Warm: How to Set Up for Cold Nights
Even when you're bundled up, cold nights can steal your heat while you sleep. The right setup is essential for a good night’s rest and staying warm in the great outdoors.
Tips for Sleeping Warm:
Sleeping Bag: Make sure your sleeping bag is rated for colder temperatures than you're expecting. For example, for 0°C weather, I usually use a bag rated for -6°C to -9°C for extra warmth.
Sleeping Pad: Don’t forget a sleeping pad! It insulates you from the cold ground, which can drain body heat fast. My partner and I have the Big Agnes Insulated Sleeping Pad which inflates to 9cm thick and is insulated for three-season camping.
Extra Tips: Wear a hat to bed, slip a sleeping bag liner inside for added warmth, and toss in a hot water bottle for extra coziness.
Pro Tip: Change into dry clothes before bed. Even slightly damp clothes from sweat can chill you during the night.
3. Campfire Comfort: Staying Cozy Around the Fire
After a long day outdoors, a campfire is the perfect way to relax and stay warm. But while the fire warms your front, it’s easy to lose heat from the ground below. Staying cozy around the campfire requires more than just stoking the flames—it’s about creating a warm, insulated seat too.
Tips for Staying Warm Around the Fire:
Clothing Around the Fire: Dress in layers and make sure your outerwear is fire-safe (no loose, flammable fabrics).
Insulated Seat: One of the best ways to stay warm is by using an insulated seat pad or cushion. Your body quickly looses heat to the air or ground, so having a barrier is essential to staying comfortable. I bring a foldable butt pad for around camp and for putting on my chair for added warmth.
Pro Tip: Bring a packable blanket to make camping even cozier! I use a packable insulated blanket, like the ones from Rumpl, for colder nights and for cozying up in my hammock.
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4. Hands, Feet, and Head: Critical Areas to Keep Warm
Your extremities—hands, feet, and head—lose heat the fastest. Keeping them warm is crucial to maintaining your overall body temperature and comfort.
Tips for Keeping Hands, Feet, and Head Warm:
Hands: Insulated gloves or mittens are a must. If you’re prone to cold fingers, toss in some disposable hand warmers for extra heat.
Feet: Wool socks and waterproof boots are essential. Change into dry socks often, especially after hiking or canoeing.
Head: Your head loses heat quickly, so a warm beanie or hat will help trap warmth. Don’t forget to wear it to bed, too!
Pro Tip: Don’t over-tighten your boots—restricting circulation makes your feet colder.
5. Warm Meals and Drinks: Fueling Your Body for Heat
Your body burns calories to stay warm, so eating the right foods and drinking warm liquids is essential for keeping cozy. The colder it gets, the more your body needs energy.
Tips for Staying Warm with Food and Drink:
Warm Meals: Opt for hearty meals like soups, stews, and oatmeal. They’re not only comforting but will warm you from the inside out.
Hot Drinks: Sipping on hot tea, coffee, or cocoa is a great way to boost your core temperature. Plus, it’s a cozy addition to any outdoor setting.
Snacks: Keep high-calorie snacks like nuts, energy bars, or chocolate handy for quick energy boosts, especially during colder evenings.
Pro Tip: Skip the alcohol—it gives a false sense of warmth but can actually lower your core body temperature.
6. Invest in Cold-Weather Gear
Good gear can make all the difference in staying warm and comfortable outdoors. If you're planning regular cold-weather adventures, it’s worth investing in high-quality, weather-appropriate gear.
Essential Cold-Weather Gear:
Insulated jackets: Down or synthetic insulation provides excellent warmth.
Thermal leggings and tops: These make for a great base layer. Merino wool is best!
Waterproof, windproof outerwear: A solid shell jacket and pants are essential for bad weather.
Cold-weather boots and gaiters: Keep your feet warm and dry in snow or slush.
Extras: Pack heat packs, insulated gloves, and an emergency blanket for extreme conditions.
Pro Tip: Prioritize key items like a quality sleeping bag and a waterproof jacket if you're on a budget.
Conclusion: Stay Warm, Stay Happy
Embracing cooler weather doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. With the right layering system, sleeping setup, and gear, you can stay warm and cozy on all your outdoor adventures. Remember, preparation is key—pack smart, dress appropriately, and enjoy the beauty of fall and winter without the chill! Stay safe, stay warm, and keep exploring!
Great tips! Love me some merino wool - it is signifcantly less itchy than your cheaper stuff.
I am a huge proponent of cup-a-soups; takes 2 minutes and will warm you and others up instantly. Great for kids, too. The head, hands, feet tip is so true! Protect the extremities.
Best way to stay warm = keep moving. Gathering/sawing firewood can keep you warmer than the fire!