It’s that time of year again, jeez how the time flies. Those scorching summer days have made way for icy winter ones, which in turn brings with it some epic winter camping adventures. This is an exceptional time of year for camping enthusiasts and first-time pitchers, filled with misty mornings and drop-dead gorgeous sunsets that’ll knock your socks off just thinking about them. You’ll definitely see a difference in the landscape, with many of our furry friends chomping at the bit for the cool winter change. Packed with the right mindset and a bit of prep work, cold weather camping can become a family favourite. The BCFing experts want to help you make the most of your Winter touring escape, by throwing together 5 great tips that anyone can use. Pull up a seat and let the BCFing fun begin!
1. Get a campfire started - a winter camping must-do!
Staying toasty is one of the key ingredients for success on your winter camping adventure and can make or break the whole trip. It’s no secret that temperatures are a little cooler during this time of the year but throw camping in the mix and things really start to get chilly. This is where any form of heating solution is worth its weight in gold, whether it’s a fire pit or portable heater, even an open fire, you can’t go wrong. As fire restrictions come and go it’s crucial to check your local area before lighting her up. There’s nothing quite like sitting back and enjoying the warmth of a crackling fire with family and friends. But if fires are off limits at your campsite, don’t stress! There’s a range of quality gas appliances that’ll keep the heat and the yarns lasting all night long.
2. Cook up a hearty campfire meal
While looking after the frame is mighty important during a winter campout, it’s not a bad idea to warm the insides as well. Try wrapping your laughing gear around a hearty winter feast to bring that temperature up a notch. As mentioned above, if get the campfire going and get the camp oven involved, you're in for a treat! Whether it’s a mouth-watering slow cooked stew or the ever-reliable roast chook, they’re meals fit for a king or queen. When it’s time for desert is it possible to go past a bag of marshies!
3. Separate for sleeping arrangement from the ground
As the frosty night air has a habit of sneaking into the beds of unsuspecting campers, it’s important to insulate yourself from the ground to ensure your time counting sheep is as comfortable as can be. While a blow-up mattress can be the ideal bedding solution during the summer months, when things start getting chillier there’s nothing separating you from the ground except cold air. This is where a self-inflating mattress can be the perfect alternative as it’s thick foam construction helps in retaining heat. Camp stretchers are another great option that also keep you elevated, just be sure to get your hands on a foam mattress and a solid sleeping bag to put some distance between yourself and the stretcher below.
4. Take time choosing a camping spot
This is a topic that comes up time and time again, but that’s because it’s worth noting. The importance of setting up camp in a choice location is second to none. Taking full advantage of the suns heat and being aware of the effects that other elements can have on your campsite is super important. Wind is not your friend during winter, and neither is rain, so keep away from the base of hills or you could be waking up in a swimming pool. The tops of hills are also a no-go and although it allows the sun to make its presence felt, it will also be exposed to the chilly winter winds.
5. Dress for the conditions, don’t dress to impress
Style points should be the last thing on your mind when touring in winter - the most important thing is to stay warm. Bring along warm clothes and pay attention to the materials that they're made from. In winter, layering up is a great way to make sure you're staying warm and comfy. Check out our tips of layering up for winter here.
So there you have it folks, five handy hints for camping in the colder months. This time of year couldn’t come fast enough for many campers, but if you prefer things a few degrees warmer maybe these tips will help you. Get out there and enjoy some teeth chattering BCFing fun, just make sure to leave some hot choccie in the pot for us!
About the author
BCFing Experts
The BCFing Experts have done more than their fair share of boating, camping, fishing, hiking, four-wheel driving and much much more! Whether you're tackling tough tracks in Tassie or chasing big barra up North, the BCFing Experts have the know-how to make your next outdoor adventure a pearler
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