Winter Camping Checklist

While there’s a lot of overlap between what you need for winter and summer camping the cold temperatures and snow means you have to be a bit more prepared with additional supplies and equipment. Below is a checklist to help guide your packing for your winter camping adventure. We also have a beginner’s guide  if you’re a newbie to this type of outside adventuring. 

Clothing

• Base Layer — The layer next to your skin sometimes you will wear two base layers: a lightweight or medium-weight layer and a heavy-weight layer. The best materials are synthetics and wool. This layer is imperative for wicking away moisture so the fabric really does matter.
• Middle Layer — This is the insulating layer where the purpose is to retain body heat. Fleece micro-fleece and goose down are the best materials. The best choice will depend on your activity level the temperature and how much room you have to store extra layers.
• Out Layer/Shell — This layer needs to be waterproof and windproof while providing ventilation. Some jackets also have a radiant or reflective barrier for added warmth and visibility. There are a variety of types and materials your choice will depend on your activities and the weather.
• Socks — Generally you wear a thin snug layer next to the skin and another pair over that. The best socks are wool or synthetic. Always bring extra socks and make sure the thickness of the second sock doesn’t interfere with your boots’ fit – you don’t want it too tight as your feet will hurt and will actually be less warm.
• Boots — Proper boots are absolutely imperative. The boots must be waterproof insulated and rated for very cold temperatures. Mukluks are also an option.
• Overboots — To put over your ski boots or snowshoes for added warmth and to keep the snow out.
• Hat— They hide bad hair days and keep you warm. Bring a toque and facemask combo or try the most popular option a balaclava.
• Gloves and Mittens — Mittens are warmer but bring gloves as you may need them for dexterous tasks. Have two layers of mittens – a snug inner pair and an outer shell layer – and don’t forget your idiot strings! Losing your mittens in the snow isn’t fun.
• Gaiters — These are a must for deep snow. Make sure they’re waterproof and breathable and designed for winter use. They’ll keep the moisture out and provide some warmth.
• Goggles/Glasses – These provide protection from sun and wind. You can get them tinted for more sun protection.
• Miscellaneous — Including bandanas sunglasses hand warmers and toe warmers.

Toiletries

• sunscreen
• lip balm
• ziplocks for waste
• toilet paper
• sanitation wipes
• hand sanitizer
• toothbrush + toothpaste
• deodorant
• water treatment chemicals
• collapsible water sink or basin
• spare contact lenses or eyeglasses
• hair brush
• elastics
• eye mask
• earplugs
• soap
• shampoo + conditioner
• cosmetics
• prescription medications

Kitchen

• liquid-fuel stove + backup
• plastic utensils (or regular if in an RV)
• pots
• pans
• lids
• portable coffee maker
• hand-crank blender
• bottle opener/corkscrew
• can opener
• recipes
• ziplock bags
• trash bags
• dishes – plates bowls glasses mugs/cups
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups
• measuring spoons
• paring knife
• spatula
• whisk
• cutting board
• funnel
• tin foil
• sponges
• dish soap
• collapsible portable or standing camp sink
• drying rack
• towels
• pot grabber/oven mitts
• food storage containers
• food + extra supplies
• water bottles (insulated)
• heat exchanger

Miscellaneous Camp Supplies

• 4 season or winter-rated tent
• Snow stakes and guylines
• Tarp or tent footprint
• Extra tarps (for moisture protection wind screens etc)
• Sleeping bag (rated at least 10 degrees lower than the expected temperatures should be down or synthetic)
• Sleeping bag liner
• Sleeping pads (need at least two full length per adult to keep the cold ground from absorbing your body heat) or air mattress
• Ground cloth (or tarp)
• Pillow or stuffable pillowcase
• Reflective blanket
• Foam pads or folding chairs for sitting out in the snow
• Multi-tool or knife
• Backpack for daily use
• Mallet or hammer for tent stakes
• Headlamps
• Flashlights
• Lanterns
• Extra batteries (lithium is best for cold weather use)
• Water jug
• Water filtration system + backup
• matches
• lighter
• Kindling
• Firewood
• axe
• waterproof container to store fire-starting materials in
• Fire-starter
• Rope + cord
• sled

Winter Activities

• snowshoes
• skis
• poles
• crampons
• ice axes