Many first-time campers often wonder how to stay warm in a tent. Not to fear — there are plenty of ways that you can stay warm while exploring the wilderness.
Every year, millions of people go camping all over the US. According to Statista, 50 million Americans went camping between 2020 and 2021. However, this comes as no surprise, as America is packed with beautiful and scenic landscapes within various climates.
The weather can vary greatly depending on the season you choose to go camping and the state you live in. If you’re planning to camp up a mountain or during the cooler months, you may be wondering how to prepare for your adventure. Below, we’ll share some of the best ways to stay warm in your tent.
How to Stay Warm in a Tent
(Foto: CC0 / Pixabay / irhap)
Here are some of our recommended tips for staying warm in a tent and getting a good night’s sleep in the wilderness:
- Sleeping bags: While it may seem obvious, using a good-quality sleeping bag will help to keep you insulated, as it traps air next to your body. Rather than a quilt, sleeping bags are also designed to be packed and carried, so they are usually nice and light.
- Sleeping pads: Use two sleeping pads with a high r-value to insulate yourself from the cold surface of the ground. You’ll also find getting to and staying asleep easier if you’re comfortable.
- Extra layers: Make sure to wrap up warm in several layers. Many thin layers work well, as they are easier to carry, and you can take some off if you get too warm without getting freezing cold again. Equip yourself with a balaclava to wear to bed to stop heat from escaping your head. Stick a beanie hat on top.
- Hot water bottle: Fill up a hot water bottle and use it on your ‘core’ area: your stomach and back. This will help to heat up your body all over.
- Camping spot: Picking a good camping spot is essential. Choose a sheltered spot to camp to cut down on windchill, and avoid highly elevated and lower elevated points, such as valley floors, as the air will be cooler here. With practice, you should get used to finding a suitable spot to stay as warm as possible.
- Warm drinks: Another excellent way to warm up is to consume warm liquids. It is also important to stay hydrated so your body can function optimally in colder temperatures.
- Food: Make sure you have meals high in healthy fat to keep your body fueled. These vegan hiking snacks are always good options to take with you.
- Socks: Carry an extra pair of socks that you can wear at night. These will help to keep your feet both warm and dry.
These methods of keeping warm are also more environmentally-friendly when compared to lighting a campfire, which releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants.
You should also ensure that it is the correct temperature to be camping outside. Anywhere from 30 to 40℉ is considered too cold for camping, so it is important to check the weather forecast before you plan your camping trip.
What Not to Do to Keep Your Tent Warm
(Foto: CC0 / Pixabay / hodgepodgepro)
There are some important things to remember regarding staying warm in a tent. Using certain heating methods could be dangerous, therefore it is important to remember these tips.
First, you should never use a gas or propane-powered heater inside your tent. This could put your life in danger, as it could potentially fill up your tent with toxic fumes and cause carbon monoxide poisoning. You should also avoid candles, as your tent and other camping materials are highly flammable. Lighting a candle would be a definite fire hazard.
It is also essential that you are well-prepared and organized for your camping trip. Using a sustainable packing list, you can also ensure that your trip is as eco-friendly as possible and help to reduce your environmental footprint.
If you decide to take any electronics with you, you can charge them using one of the best solar power banks. These are a great eco-friendly option, as they harvest energy from the sun in order to charge your devices.
Read more:
- Urban Camping for Beginners: Where, How and Best Spots
- 20 Great Camping Tips to Maximize Your Fun
- Wild Camping: A Beginner’s Guide to Free Camping in the US
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