We’re lucky enough to have some seriously enviable weather here in Australia, but that doesn’t mean that the winter chill doesn’t get to us when we’re camping out in it…we’re only human, after all! If you’re looking to plan an exciting trip, outside of peak season, follow this winter camping guide to keep you healthy, safe and toasty, all season long…
Pack properly
First things first, you need to bring the right gear with you! By nature, heading to a campsite during the winter is just going to involve more kit, the sooner you accept that, the better. By embracing the cold through wise dressing, planning and packing choices, you’re ensuring that you’re actually going to enjoy yourself properly! Neglecting the realities of winter camping is a one-way ticket to miserable shivering in your tee shirt and shorts, wishing you stayed home instead. This means bringing an insulated sleeping bag, thermals, plenty of socks, beanies, a down jacket – everything you could possibly need to keep warm.
Tweak your plans
Again, you need to embrace your conditions and adjust your expectations in order to really have the adventure that you’re looking for. Coastal camping will still be beautiful during winter, just don’t put the pressure on yourself to be surfing or splashing around in the water all day long. Instead of your usual routine, look at doing those hikes that perhaps you put off in the summer because the heat was way too intense. The campfires will be more welcoming, and the significant lack of humidity will be more forgiving, so take full advantage of the unique benefits that cold camping trips have to offer rather than sticking to your tried and tested guns.
Bring the inside, out
A camper trailer is going to provide you with all the warmth, protection, comfort and safety you could possibly dream of, whatever the weather. If you don’t already have one and you’re a bit of an outdoors enthusiast, then you absolutely need to start hunting down a model. The Explorer from Cub is a fantastic entry-level trailer to look into if you’re just starting out! Gone are the days of suffering from teeth-chattering cold in a sleeping bag, hating yourself for forgetting your protective pad. With a trailer on your side, you’ll be able to cosy up safely when the weather gets too much, and your nights will be continuously comfy. You’re also going to have the freedom to venture a little further than you would with just your tent, so it’s well worth the money in the long run.
Invest in smart materials and tech
That old woollen jumper that you’ve had for years? Yeah, that’s not going to cut it when you’re camping in the middle of winter. Skip the neglected clothing from the back of your wardrobe and treat yourself to some high-tech threads that are going to keep you perfectly insulated. Yes, they’re more expensive, but smart materials that are designed for winter are going to last you for many, many trips to come. Look for products made from Gore-Tex, thermal wool blends and Down to get the most out of your gear. Tech such as a portable heater and a water filter will make your life easier, and hotter, too!
Always layer
Layering is essential for staying nice and warm, particularly if you plan on jumping in any water during your cold-weather adventure. Make sure you’re always sufficiently wrapped up, whether you’re doing a workout, chilling by the campfire or having a snooze, you need some layering action of some sort going on to stay safe and in good health.
Pre-cook your food
You’re potentially going to have to be dealing with a fair amount of wind, rain, hail and even snow (depending on your destination of choice) during your trip, which is not the best elements to have on your hands when you’re trying to cook up a tasty meal! A few dry treats and pre-cooked meals will really be your saviour when the weather is severe, or you just can’t face cooking. Make and freeze a couple of options and bring plenty of non-cook snacks to stash in your camper to keep the looming “hangriness” at bay.
Well, now that you’re an expert on all things winter weather camping, it’s time to pack the camper and hit the road. No matter the weather, with these tips, you’re ready for anything!