The Low-Tech Sleeping Trick To Stay Warm While Camping In The Cold

Many travelers who love going on camping trips choose to embark on their adventures during the late spring, summer, or early autumn to be almost guaranteed comfortable temperatures. Even if it gets a little chilly at night, you can usually stay cozy by bundling up in your sleeping bag or spending some extra time around the campfire. Camping in the cold is an entirely different beast, and it isn't the most pleasant experience if you aren't prepared. Sleeping in a clean base layer that you're planning on wearing the next day can help you stay warm and rest well. 

Camping in cold weather requires more preparation, special gear that can stand up to the environment, and the right kind of clothing. If you aren't careful, you could face the risk of hypothermia. Hypothermia is a dangerous emergency that occurs when your body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, and it can be deadly. So it's crucial that you're able to stay warm while camping in the winter. Even if you aren't at the point of being dangerously cold, you might not be able to sleep soundly.

When we go to sleep, our body temperatures naturally drop by a few degrees, which is why you may feel fine while you're moving around your campsite, but wake up freezing after a few hours of snoozing in your tent at night. Mornings can feel extra chilly until our bodies warm up, so sleeping in warm layers is always a good idea. One of the best ways to stay cozy and avoid a frigid experience in the morning is to sleep in your base layer that you'll be wearing the next day. If you're still struggling to stay warm, you can even put on your additional daytime layers. 

Winter can be one of the most fantastic seasons to enjoy spending time outdoors. Some popular destinations become even more beautiful during the winter months, and it's a great time to go camping if you want to avoid crowds. It's one of the best times to visit Acadia National Park and Yellowstone National Park. The cold weather keeps the hordes of tourists away, but it can make camping less comfortable than it is during warmer seasons.

There are some wonderful cozy clothing items that campers use to stay warm during chilly winter nights. Warm base layers can protect your entire body from the chill, and wearing them whenever you're enjoying the great outdoors during cold weather is an absolute must. It's especially important when you're camping in the cold. One of the best ways to stay warm throughout the night is to wear your base layers instead of pajamas. When you prepare to wind down for the night, you should change into the base layer that you're planning on wearing underneath your clothes the next day.

Changing into a clean and dry base layer will help keep you cozy in your sleeping bag. Plus, when you wake up in the morning, you won't have to strip all the way down in order to get ready for the day. You'll be ready to add more warm clothing on top of your base layer instead of exposing your bare skin to the cold morning air. If your base layer alone isn't warm enough, you can also opt to sleep in more of your clothes that you're planning on wearing the next day. 

Base layers, which are also sometimes called long underwear, form the foundation of a functional winter wardrobe for people who love the outdoors. There are numerous options on the market made in different styles and from different types of fabric. You'll want to opt for something that is moisture-wicking and warm for winter camping. 

Choosing the right fabric is extremely important. Merino wool is an excellent choice if you prefer natural fibers, as it's moisture-wicking and warming, but it can also be cooling when it needs to be. It is naturally resistant to odor, which is a boon if you're wearing your base layers for a few days in a row without washing. You might see base layers crafted from silk on the market, but those are best for mild temperatures and might not do the job during a super cold night of camping. There are also a variety of base layers crafted from synthetic fabrics like polyester that will help keep you super dry. Synthetic options are also very durable, so they will stand up to lots of outdoor adventures.

After deciding on the right fabric for you, you're going to want to choose whether you need a base layer that is lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight. If you're going to be camping in freezing temperatures, then a heavyweight is the best option. The prices can vary greatly depending on which options you choose. Merino wool is more expensive, whereas synthetic options are generally more affordable. For a full base layer set, which usually includes pants and a long-sleeve top, expect to pay anywhere from $40-$300.