We have a bone to pick with whoever labeled winter “not camping season.” While winter camping presents a myriad of challenges, it’s one of the most rewarding and immersive experiences you can have in nature. Those who venture out into the winter wilderness will find unparalleled solitude, beauty, and adventure. The price of admission, however, is dealing with the cold, rain, and snow. If you’re curious about what adventures await you in the PNW this winter, continue reading below for The Camp N Car Guide to Winter Camping in the PNW.
Winter Camping Essentials
Winter camping is about being prepared, so having the correct gear for the conditions is critical. We’ve compiled the ultimate list of winter camping essentials. Whether car camping, backpacking, or on a backcountry hut trip, you’ll want to ensure you stay warm and dry.
Winter-Specific Sleeping Bag
If you’re tent camping, don’t skimp on your winter sleep system. Make sure your sleeping bag is rated for cold temps—nothing worse than freezing all night. A good winter sleeping bag is insulated to keep you warm, even when the temperature drops below freezing.
Four-Season Tents
Four-season tents are built to handle snow, heavy winds, and rain, keeping you safe and dry. They’re more durable and designed to withstand the harshest winter conditions so that you can rest easy no matter what weather you encounter.
Insulated Mats
Ground mats are essential camping items, no matter the time of year. In winter, they’re particularly important. Without a properly insulated sleeping pad, the ground will sap all your body heat. A quality mat will make a massive difference in your comfort level, keeping the cold from creeping up from below while you sleep. Be wary of cheap inflatable mats, and always test your mat for leaks before use.
Warm Clothing
Layering is key to staying warm when adventuring in winter. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin, then add thermal layers for insulation, and top it off with waterproof outerwear. Don’t forget insulated gloves, socks, and boots—your hands and feet will thank you.
Camp Stoves
Winter camping means you need a stove that can handle the cold. Regular stoves can struggle in freezing temps, so opt for one designed to perform in chilly conditions. Liquid-fuel stoves are great for below-freezing temperatures—they burn white gas and maintain solid performance in the cold. However, they tend to be heavier and slower to boil compared to canister stoves. Canister stoves are lighter, more compact, and boil water quickly, but they can lose pressure in the cold, which weakens the flame. A pressure regulator can help prevent this, and storing your canister in your sleeping bag or jacket pocket at night can keep it warm and improve performance. Always bring a backup stove and extra fuel, just in case. If you’re cooking in the snow, create a stable base for your stove to keep it off the snow, ensuring it works properly.
Lighting
With shorter days, you’ll need reliable lighting. Make sure you have a good headlamp and lantern, and pack extra batteries. The last thing you want is to be fumbling around in the dark when it’s freezing outside.
Winterizing Your Campervan
Winterizing your camper van is essential for protecting its components from the harsh elements. Key steps include:
- Draining the water system to prevent freezing.
- Checking the engine coolant and battery.
- Inspecting seals around doors, windows, and vents for any gaps.
Insulating the van’s walls, floors, and ceiling helps retain heat, while installing a reliable heating system like a diesel or propane heater keeps things cozy inside. Managing condensation through proper ventilation and moisture-absorbing products is crucial as well.
Preparing Your Van’s Water System
Winterizing your camper van starts with protecting your water system from freezing temperatures. It’s crucial to drain all water tanks to prevent damage. After draining, open all faucets and run the pump briefly to clear any remaining water from the pipes. For extra peace of mind, adding non-toxic antifreeze to your water lines will keep them safe in freezing conditions. If you’re not sure where to start or would rather leave the details to the professionals, Camp N Car offers expert winterizing services to ensure your water system is winterized correctly so you can avoid potential damage and enjoy stress-free travel all season long.
Protecting the Van’s Exterior and Seals
The cold can take a toll on your van’s exterior, so checking the seals around doors, windows, and vents for any gaps where cold air might sneak in is critical. Replacing worn seals and adding insulation will help you keep the warmth inside. It’s also important to clear snow and ice from the roof to ensure proper ventilation and avoid added weight. Camp N Car’s winterizing services include thorough checks and necessary replacements to ensure your van is sealed tight and ready for winter so you can confidently hit the road.
Maintaining the Van’s Heating and Power Systems
Cold weather can drain your van’s power quickly, so ensuring your heating system and batteries are in top shape is key to staying comfortable during winter camping. Regular maintenance is essential if your van uses a diesel or propane heater to ensure it operates efficiently in chilly temps. For reliable power, upgrading to a high-quality, insulated battery or using a battery blanket can help keep things running smoothly. Camp N Car offers comprehensive winterization services, including heating and power system checks, so you can rest easy knowing your van is equipped to handle whatever winter throws your way.
Don’t let the cold stop you from getting outside. With the right gear and mindset, winter may become your favorite camping season. Stay tuned to the Camp N Car blog for more camping tips, and get in touch with our shop about your winterizing needs.