Are you going winter camping because if so then this gear guide is the perfect blog for you to read. We will go over 30+ unique items that you should bring with you camping in the winter. Making sure you have the best winter camping gear is a good first step to take. One of the biggest obstacles to winter camping is obviously low temperatures so a lot of our products will help you stay at a comfortable temperature. Let’s start with the winter camping basics.
Your tent serves as your shelter and protects you from the elements, which in winter, can be extreme. Winter storms often bring high winds and heavy rain too, for this reason, you’ll need a good 4-season tent that can withstand all of it.
Winter Camping Gear: 4 Season Tents:
#1. Mountain Hardwear Outpost 2 Tent
This is an expedition-ready 4 season tent built for long base camp adventures and cold temperatures. The D-molded entryways open and close without any problem. The 2 double covering and lattice entryways provide security during inclement weather. They also provide fantastic ventilation in most climates. All tent materials are free from fire-retardant synthetic substances. It’s very roomy for a 2 person shleter and has space to cook or store extra gear.
#2. Mountain Hardwear Trango 2 Tent
The Mountain Hardwear Trango 2 Tent is a great choice for inclement weather and spacious camping. This tent was made for trips where a waterproof design and roomy inside are more important than having a lightweight tent. This is more of a tent for fall/winter months but it can be used in any of the 4 seasons. The tent is solid and incredibly weather resistant. However, if you need a bigger tent for a large group of people then I would go with the mountain hardwear space station tent.
#3. Exped Orion III 4-Seasons Tent
Camping in the winter can mean strong winter wind. The Exped Orion III has 21 different anchor points to keep the tent stable in the wind. The flooring material in a winter camping tent is also important to keep moisture out and heat inside the tent. The Orion III uses a waterproofing nylon material for the floor of the tent to keep water and moisture out. The tent is pitched at the center to maximize head space while staying compact enough for winter conditions.
#4. GEERTOP Backpacking Four Season Tent
The inner floor is waterproof with a rubbery feel that is also present on the underside of the rainfly. I really love the size of the two doors because you won’t have to climb over each other to get out. The two doors/windows offer a cross breeze and the aluminum poles are sturdy and
were not difficult to get in place. The stakes are sturdy, it weighs just over 6 pounds making it usable for hiking and camping and other nature related activities. Plenty of room for two with gear inside and in the vestibule and we slept well despite changeable weather. Geertop really performs well. With the snow flaps, the tent maintains heat much better than any other tent I have ever used.
Winter Camping Gear: Sleeping Recommendations
#5. Mountain Hardwear Phantom 0 Sleeping Bag
When selecting a sleeping bag for winter camping, it’s important for the sleeping bag to be rated 10F to 15F degrees below what the coldest expected temperature will be outdoors. Bag shape also plays a role in keeping in warmth when sleeping. The Phantom 0 offers a mummy shape for improved insulation when sleeping. Where winter sleeping bags fail is when warmth is lost at the head opening of the bag. The Phantom 0 hood design helps to stay tight and close around the head to reduce heat loss. Finally, the outer material of the sleeping bag is water resistant. This helps to keep moisture from absorbing into the sleeping bag through the night.
#6. Coleman Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag
This winter sleeping bag is inexpensive, but when it comes to keeping you warm, this bag can hold its own against bags that cost so much more. Ideal for families, who don’t have a lot to spend, or just about anyone looking to save some dollars. For the average camper looking to spend some winter nights under the stars each year, there aren’t a lot of reasons to spend more when you can get this bag at this price. Super soft inside, quality features, and a temperature rating of 20 degrees Fahrenheit and it’s pretty lightweight too.
#7. The North Face Eco Trail Down 20F
This bag is affordable, it gives you maximum comfort and you can easily be packed into a stuff sack. It features its fully recycled material and it is insulated with 600- fill power recycled down. It offers many features like a wraparound J-zip that permits better mobility and venting. The draft collar adds comfort and avoids heat loss. Its tie-down loops protect the bag from a sleeping pad though you have to buy the sleeping pad separately. It’s a great sleeping bag for outdoor winter camping!
#8. Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad
In the cold of winter, you will need a sleeping pad and your body will thank you for this purchase without a doubt! It’s lightweight and breathable, but it’s also insulated enough to prevent any heat loss. With an innovative v-chamber design that’s filled with synthetic insulation, this pad will provide exceptional warmth. With a clever body mapping design as a side sleeper I have always been terribly uncomfortable on campouts; with this pad, I can once again sleep on my side, hooray!! The Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad is an excellent choice for anyone who needs comfort and extra warmth on those cold winter nights.
#9. REI Co-op HunkerDown 20 Sleeping Bag
The HuckerDown 20 is designed with an oversize hood to accommodate a home-size pillow, as well as an interior stash pocket for storing small, quick-access items. Plus, the 600-fill-power RDS down provides lightweight warmth and compresses small.
Winter Camping Gear: Glove Recommendations
#10. Outdoor Research Alti Mittens
Its shell is insulated and it has a removable liner mitten that gives you warmth and maximum comfort. This is extra-long and it extends to the wrist area. It includes removable wrist cords that lock the mittens to your wrists. Its gauntlet closures are adjustable and seal out cold air. Alti mittens are water-resistant and it dries quickly and insulates when it is moist.
#11. Hestra Army Leather Gore-TEX Gloves
My must-have winter camping item is definitely a pair of gloves. My favorite is the Hestra Army Leather Gore-TEX Short. I often bring multiple pairs to ensure I can still do everything while wearing them. Liner gloves are particularly important while working with a stove—metal is an excellent conductor of cold and can cause instant ice burn if you touch it with bare skin. Best gloves I’ve ever had for being outside in subzero-degree weather.
#12. Outdoor Research Stormtracker Heated Sensor Gloves
Hands are among the first body parts to get cold. These gloves provide good insulation and battery powered heat to get your fingers moving. This is a bit of a luxury product, but well worth it. These lightweight, durable and dexterous heated gloves feature touch-screen compatible index finger and thumb tips. Moisture-wicking, quick-drying tricot lining and PrimaLoft Gold insulation ensure your hands are ready when you launch into your next winter objective
Winter Camping Gear: Best Snowshoes
I have done tons of camping in different seasons since I was in my teens. One thing I never leave home without when winter camping is my snowshoes. Winter camping can be challenging when you are not properly equipped. From my experiences, there were many times where we underestimated the trek going to the campsite. Sometimes, there’s more snow than we anticipated. Additionally, most of us often look for an adventure while camping. Having snowshoes with you makes everything possible. You no longer have to worry about slipping or having a difficult time trekking. Your snowshoes take care of you that way.
#13. Alps Antishock Snowshoe
I’ve always been a fan of Alps snowshoes mainly because it is affordable and durable. It can last you many winters and in addition to that, it is lightweight and very comfortable. I can say that it is also one of those shoes you can trust as its antislip feature and traction is very effective. In all my years wearing Alps snowshoes, I never slipped nor had difficulty trekking through the snow when outdoors.
#14. MSR Evo Snowshoes
This is snowshoers’ favorite as it is great for rolling terrain and trails with its all-condition traction. The Evo gives the necessary grip desired for uncertain slopes in less than ideal situations. The doufit straps give freeze-proof and glove-friendly safety with flexible attachment to a wide range of footwear.
Winter Camping Gear: Products To Stay Warm
#15. Pocket Bellows - Weatherproof Collapsible Fire Bellowing Tool
This is an awesome product that works well when the wood you are trying to light is soaking wet and cold in winter. I’ve never had a problem with it lighting wood during the depths of winter, even amongst snow. You can use it without fail to help an ember grow into a roaring fire. It’s a simple product that you’ll be glad you brought with you on your next winter camping trip.
#16. Mr. Heater Portable Propane Heater - Red Regular
This is an essential for any winter camping trip because you need to stay warm. This is the perfect solution for heating enclosed spaces like cabins up to 450 sq. ft and it is safe for big tents. This heater is great once you learn how to use it. It’s not as easy as just turn a knob, there’s a process to it. However, once you learn it it works great. It’s a great value at this price point so you should add it to your camping gear list.
#17. Slowtide River Nylon Blanket For Cold Nights
Highly absorbent, fast drying and sand-free, the Slowtide River Nylon blanket is a cozy choice for relaxing by the water, at the park, in your backyard or even inside the house. It features a compact and lightweight design which makes it easy to bring along. It unfolds to a generous 68 x 50 in. There is a zipper pocket for easy storage. It has a polar fleece top to provide warmth for those cold nights out & a water repellent bottom shell.
#18. Heat Holders Socks
Perfect for the upcoming fall and winter camping season! No outdoor adventure would be complete without Heat Holders socks. With Heat Holders®, your feat will be a lot warmer than with a normal pair of socks. Heat Holders® socks make for the perfect pairing for all of your outdoor needs and camping trips. Buy them for yourself or give them as a gift because they are less than $20!
Winter Camping Gear: Miscellaneous
#19. AMK Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit
When we talk about winter camping, safety should always be a top priority. Therefore planning for the worse is a must. And this is where a first-aid kit comes in handy. In all of my winter camping escapades, the AMK Mountain series hiker medical kit has always been part of my camping gear. For just $25, you’ll have a well-organized kit where the supplies are arranged according to the type of injury. This way you’ll immediately find what you need for any type of medication, whether it’s for blisters, bites, cuts and even for digestive distress. It also contains gauze, bandages, and a first aid guide which is very useful if you don’t have any medical background. With it you’ll never have to worry about anything.
#20. Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe
If you ever get stuck in a very cold place during the winter, chances are you will come across lots of ice. Instead of using your hands to try and grip, I recommend getting this silver ice axe. It is made of stainless steel and has a large hole for a carabiner. The axe is very light and provides a handy tool for self arrest and chopping steps.
#21. Osprey Aether AG 70 Men's Backpacking Backpack
This is a durable backpack for winter camping. Its material is a continuous mesh that extends from the upper torso through the lower back that wraps you comfortably. Its size provides extra space for your other winter gear. It has 7 exterior pockets with a sleeping bag compartment. The top lid is removable, and you may turn it into a small day pack for quicker hikes. What I like about this bag is its large opening at the top, a large J-shaped zipper that access the main compartment on the front panel makes packing and unpacking easy. Check out our mountaineering backpack review for more info.
#22. TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack
High-quality, thoughtfully designed, and loaded with features like a sleeping bag compartment, multi-directional compression straps, and tons of compartments and pockets for strategic packing, you won’t be disappointed. This rugged, 55-liter cubic inch capacity backpack is ideal for 2-4 day adventures. If you’re looking for a backpack that can keep up with you and your latest adventures this Scout3400 Internal Frame Backpack will take everything you throw at it!
