Camping and backpacking in the snow is great for those who enjoy peaceful, quiet, bug-free excursions into nature. It can also be quite comfortable with the proper preparation! Learning proper layering for cold weather camping is an extremely important part of safely and comfortably camping in cold weather. The simple rule to remember is you want to be dry and warm. You need to choose clothing that dries quickly and repels moisture. Read on to learn more on how to layer clothing for cold weather camping!
Base Layer
Your underwear! It is the closest layer to your skin. Avoid cotton; synthetic and merino wool work best. These wool options wick perspiration away from your skin to the outer layers so it can evaporate. Plus they dry quickly so you spend minimal time in wet clothing. When camping in the snow, it’s common to wear two base layers: a lightweight layer underneath a thicker heavyweight layer.
Middle Layer
This layer keeps you insulated. It’s designed to help you retain your own body heat. For camping in the snow and more extreme conditions, consider expedition-weight fleece or microfleece shirts, pants, and jacket and a goose down overcoat.
Outer Layer
The shell to complete your comfort and safety is the outer layer. It should be windproof, waterproof and breathable. Laminates such as Gore-Tex, eVent, or REI Elements offer the best protection. Cheaper alternatives use polyurethane-coated fabrics that are equally waterproof but less breathable. Look for core vents and underarm vents that release excess heat and moisture.
Wrapping up our guide on how to layer for cold weather camping, we wanted to link a few other helpful articles: Great Gear for Cold Weather Camping, 17 Camping Hacks from a Pro, and How to Prevent Frostbite in Extreme Cold.
Featured Image from Paxson Woelber/Unsplash
