winter backpacking tips: how to stay warm backpacking
my first backpacking trip!
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as a beginner backpacker, I’m still learning what works for me as far how to pack my backpack, best backpacking food, what to wear hiking - really, all of it! but since i’ve only backpacked in fall and winter, the one topic i’ve put the most thought into is how to stay warm while backpacking! so, if you’re just getting started, below are my own newbie winter backpacking tips and favorite backpacking cold weather gear.
staying warm while backpacking requires strategic layering and preparation. here are some essential winter backpacking tips i’ve been using:
layering: start with a base layer that wicks away sweat, add a mid-weight long sleeve shirt for insulation, and top it off with an insulating jacket for warmth at camp. don't forget about your lower body; consider long underwear for sleeping and extra warmth.
keep dry: always have a set of warm and dry clothing reserved for camp. avoid hiking in your insulated jacket to keep it dry; instead, use it to stay warm once you've stopped moving. it's crucial to keep your head warm as well, as we lose a significant amount of heat through our heads. a warm hat or hood can make a big difference.
waterproof backpacking apparel: I always wear waterproof hiking boots for backpacking. I also strap these tevas or these chacos to my pack for something more comfortable around camp.
wool socks: I also wear a pair of wool socks for hiking and pack an extra to be sure I have a clean, dry pair on hand. i have several pairs of these mid-height socks and this 1/4 height pair as well.
hat: a warm hat or beanie is important maintaining body heat while hiking and sleeping and can be counted among energy-efficient ways to stay warm outdoors.
on the trail: adjust layers as needed to avoid sweating, which can make you feel colder later. keep warm layers accessible and change into them before you feel too cold. consider the upcoming terrain and weather conditions to anticipate layer changes.
performance t-shirt: make to wear appropriate performance fabrics for layers to ensure appropriate thermoregulation. cotton will not keep you warm and dry! i started wearing wool t-shirts, and though they can be quite pricey, I’ve found it’s worth my comfort when i’m roughing it! :) i have a smartwool tee (that I got on major sale!), but this more affordable option has great reviews.
campsite selection: choose your campsite wisely to stay warmer. higher elevations are generally colder, but valleys can trap cold air too. look for sheltered spots in windy areas and try to find a site that will catch the early morning sun.
at camp: change into warm, dry layers as soon as you stop hiking. stay active with camp chores to maintain body warmth and eat a full meal before bed to fuel your body's overnight heat production.
insulated sleeping gear for camping: i got this XXX to place under my sleeping pad… i’ve used this sleeping pad on all my backpacking trips so far, but i recently used this sleeping pad for a camping trip with no tent and it is truly the most comfortable i’ve used. if you can spare the space and weight in your pack, it’s definitely warmer.
sleeping tips: keeping your feet warm is crucial, as is insulating your head from heat loss. sleeping on your back can be warmer than on your side, and changing into sleeping clothes inside your sleeping bag can generate heat.
wool socks: I wear a pair of wool socks for hiking and pack an extra to be sure I have a clean, dry pair for bedtime. i have several pairs of these mid-height socks and this 1/4 height pair as well.
hat: a warm hat or beanie is important maintaining body heat while hiking and sleeping and can be counted among energy-efficient ways to stay warm outdoors.
warm sleeping bag and sleeping liner for camping: a warm sleeping bag is a must for cool weather backpacking. this one is rated to 10 degrees (f) and is water-resistant. i also highly recommend adding a sleeping bag liner. this one adds up to an additional 20 degrees (f) of warmth. it can also be used alone for summer as an alternative to a bulky sleeping bag.
body warmers: for peace of mind I always bring a few packs of hot hands. i’ve now used them on half my backpacking trips. they are small, lightweight and bring a lot of warmth.
these tips should help you stay warm and comfortable while enjoying the beauty of backpacking in colder conditions. have fun, stay safe and get out wild!