Speaking of sleeping at camp, invest in an insulated sleeping pad, preferably one with a high R-value. The higher the R-value of your pad, the greater it will resist your heat transfer and keep you insulated. One of the main ways to lose your body heat at night is laying on the cold, hard ground. Doing this literally sucks all the warm air away from your body! If you have a proper barrier like an insulated sleeping pad between you and the cold ground, your pad will help your body stay nice and warm, reflecting that heat right back to you. This is definitely a step I would not skip. You can also get a “closed-cell foam” pad to put under your inflatable pad. Doing this will add extra warmth to your sleeping experience and will also protect you from rocks or anything on the ground that could potentially puncture your precious pad!

Now let’s discuss layers and no, I don’t mean those fluffy, buttery croissants you’re dreaming about! I’m talking about a winter clothing layering system! In the outdoor industry, we are always reminding everyone to layer up properly. What does that mean exactly? Well, first you should have a thin layer that is close to your skin that is moisture-wicking. Merino wool is one of the best base layers you can get. It regulates your body temperature and wicks the moisture off of you simultaneously. Your second layer will be your “mid-layer.” This could be a lightweight synthetic fleece or lightweight jacket of some kind that traps your body heat in while allowing moisture to escape. Lastly, you want a heavier layer like a down jacket with a rain shell over it or even a heavier jacket like a gore-tex parka. Keep yourself warm out there and remember hypothermia is no joke and could easily catch up with you when you least expect it!