Clothing
Staying warm in winter camping requires dressing in layers. The layers trap body heat and keep you warm. As you move around and generate additional heat, you can remove layers to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Base Layer –
This is the layer is clothing that is touching your skin. The base layer should not be loose fitting, rather against your skin.
All base layers should be made from wicking materials. These special fabrics draw sweat away from the body, pushing moisture to the middle and outer layers. The surface area of wicking materials is considerably greater than that of fabrics like cotton, making it easier for moisture to evaporate, which in turn makes the wearer, you, feel warmer and more comfortable.
In regards to cotton, avoid the material as a base layer at all cost in colder temperatures. Cotton has virtually zero wicking capabilities, and is prone to absorbing and retaining heavy amounts of moisture.
Middle Layer
The insulating layer helps you retain the heat that’s radiated by your body. The more efficiently this layer traps that heat, the warmer you’ll be. This layer is loose fitting and can vary in material type. Most people find one or 2 layers work effectively.
Fleece, wool and flannel are good options for the middle layer.
Outer Layer
This layer is to protect you from wind, rain, snow …. This can vary from shells to full insulated winter wear.
Packing List
Clothing
Base layer
Long underwear tops – polypropylene (min of 2)
Long underwear pants – polypropylene (min of 2)
Sox – (4 pair) wool, smartwool, synthetic … not cotton
Middle Layer
Pants – avoid jeans – scout pants, sweat pants, fleece pants (1 or 2)
Shirts (1 or 2)
Sweater, fleece / sweatshirt (1 or 2)
Outer layer
Winter jacket (1)
Snow Pants (1)
Gloves / mittens (at least 2 pair)
Recommend bringing both gloves and mittens. Gloves for during the day when you are doing things and mittens at night of if you hands get cold. Mittens are warmer and allow for you to use hand warmers in them
Snow Boots (1 pair)
Wool or fleece hat (1)
Scarf (optional)
Sleeping
Clothing to sleep in
Zero Degree Sleeping Bag
Sleeping Pad
Pillow (optional)
Other Items to pack
Hand and Foot warmers
Headlamp / Flashlight
Compass (needed for Klondike)
Water Bottle
Hot beverage mug
Pocket knife
Tote-n-Chip Card
Firem’n Chit Card
Scout book
2 plastic grocery bags – no holes