Australia might be famous for its beaches and summer days, but winter camping offers a whole new way to experience the great outdoors. Cooler conditions transform the landscape, wildlife and activities on offer, and with a few expert tips, you can make your next winter campout an absolute cracker! The BCFing Experts have shared practical tips to help with your next cold weather camping adventure.
Quick Links
Be prepared for your winter camping trip
Preparation is the key when camping. No matter the time of year, it’s always helpful to have a checklist of items to ensure nothing is forgotten. When the temperatures drop, having the right gear becomes even more important to keep your winter camping trip comfortable and enjoyable. Check out our camping checklist here.
What is the best tent or swag?
With more choices than you can poke a tent peg at, you’ll have no dramas finding the perfect tent or swag for your next outdoor adventure. Easily one of the most important choices you must make when winter camping is picking a tent or swag that will ensure you have a comfortable night’s sleep. Many campers are under the impression that one tent will see you through all year round, but beware — the same ventilation that keeps you cool during summer can turn you into an icicle in winter! Having a tent or swag that is designed to keep the warmth in is going to provide you more comfort during those colder months.
The key thing to consider is how much space you have at camp and how you’ll transport your gear. For overnight hikes, a compact tent that fits in your pack is ideal, while drive-up family trips are better suited to larger tents or individual swags for maximum comfort. For a deeper look at which one suits you best, take a geez at our swag vs tent buyers guide.
Look for materials such as canvas, cotton, or fully sealed polyester to keep you toasty on a cold night.
What kind of sleeping bag do I need?
During winter you’ll want a sleeping bag that’s rugged, comfortable, and most importantly, warm. As they come in such a variety of sizes, shapes, temperatures and filling options, it can be quite confusing to choose one. Luckily most outdoor sleeping bags come with both temperature ratings and comfort ratings that make it easy to pick the correct bag, depending on your individual needs.
When camping in colder climates, a sleeping bag filled with either goose or duck down is a perfect choice, with its superior warmth-to-weight ratio and easy compact design that will handle the coldest of winter nights. A wide range of synthetic options are available at a lower price point, without compromising on thermal performance. The main drawback of synthetics is that their size and weight will never compete with a down bag. If you need a hand with choosing the right sleeping bag, take a geez at our sleeping bag buyers guide here.
A sleeping bag liner adds an extra layer of warmth to your setup without the extra bulk, especially when teamed up with a hot water bottle for cold winter nights.
Should you use a sleeping mat?
On cold winter nights, a camping mat makes all the difference, adding comfort and insulating you from the cold tent floor. Available in sizes from single through to queen, there are options to suit tents and swags of all sizes. With plenty of trusted brands to choose from, you’ll find inflation options including self-inflating mats and air mattresses.
For further heat retention and comfort, try using two mats simultaneously. The space between layers will trap even more warm air.
Should you use a gazebo or tarp?
Gazebos and tarps are camping essentials when it comes to protecting your camp and helping combat the elements in a range of weather conditions. Tarpaulins, or “tarps” for short, have been a trusted part of camping setups for decades and are used by campers of all experience levels. They’re affordable and come in a range of configurations, designed to be used with tent poles, pegs and guy ropes to keep them secure and taut.
Gazebos have quickly gained a reputation for being a must-have camping accessory that is simple to erect and can be used for a myriad of purposes. Available in a range of sizes from the compact 3x3 metre perfect for any winter camp, through to the larger 6x3 metre that can fit over the top of most family tents. For additional protection, consider adding on wall kits or hub units to make your winter camping experience even more enjoyable.
What clothing is best for camping this winter?
Having the correct clothing is a must when winter camping! So, make sure you have all your layering options covered to ensure that you stay comfortable no matter the temperature. The clothes you bring can make or break your camping experience, so it’s important to layer your clothing correctly.
Base layer
Base layers, also known as thermals, help regulate body temperature in all conditions. Worn close to the skin, they wick away moisture to keep you comfortable and dry, whether it’s winter or summer. Thermals are available in merino or polypropylene options to suit every camping trip.
Choosing between merino and poly thermals comes down to what you value most. Merino offers better temperature control and natural odour resistance, while poly thermals are lightweight, breathable and easier on the budget.
Mid layer
The mid layer is the main insulator in your kit, keeping body heat locked in while still staying breathable. Mid layers are most commonly constructed from either fleece or wool and do a superb job of trapping body warmth. Sitting comfortably between the thermal and outer layers, it provides warmth without excess weight.
Outer layer
The outer layer is your go-to protection from the elements, most often a spray jacket or rain jacket. Commonly treated with some form of waterproofing agent which makes water bead and fall from the garment, it’s the first line of defence for ensuring your base and mid layer remain dry — which in turn will help you stay warm on your next winter camping trip.
For all your layering needs under the one roof, BCF and Macpac are a match made in heaven. Check out the full range here.
Choosing the correct location when winter camping
Choosing the right spot to set up your tent can make or break a trip. In winter, look for an open, sunny position to soak up as much warmth as possible, while still keeping an eye on wind exposure.
Can I have a campfire at my campground?
Relaxing by the campfire on a winter night is a camping classic, whether it’s toasting marshmallows or cooking up a camp oven feed. Always check local fire restrictions before you go, and where fires aren’t allowed, BCF’s range of portable heaters will keep you warm. For a few handy fire starting tips, check out Sammy Hitzke’s guide here.
Protecting your electrical devices and camp lighting during winter
Camping in the winter months can put added pressure on your batteries and electrical devices. Take a squiz at Sammy’s tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your gadgets and prevent cold weather damage.
So there you have it — there’s no need to sit around all year waiting for your summer camping trip! With a bit of planning and preparation, you can be out there enjoying everything the cooler months have to offer in style and comfort. See you out there.
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
Read More