Not many people consider winter camping a great way to spend time off when the weather turns cold.
But there are those that find that winter camping is not only cheaper, but it is invigorating and a wonderful experience.
There are certain precautions one should take while camping when the weather turns beastly so that safety and comfort are ensured.
Dealing with the Weather
Keeping body parts from freezing should be one of the top priorities when you are winter camping.
Be aware of the temperatures and avoid wetness to clothing and body parts. Be careful around cold metals as well so that you can avoid sticking to them.
Things such as frozen eyelashes or corneas, frostbite, windchill, frostnip and in worse case scenarios hypothermia can easily occur if one is not too careful.
Watch the Terrain
When there is snow on the ground, seeing hazards before they become problems can be a challenge. An avalanche may even be a concern if you are camping in a mountainous area.
Check the weather conditions and the instances that avalanches have occurred in the region where you will be camping.
Falling through ice is another danger. Watch out for thin ice especially around the edges of bodies of water. Walk carefully when hiking so as to avoid covered objects.
Problems at the Old Homestead
Your campsite may have some hidden and not so hidden dangers lurking as well.
Tent collapse is a common occurrence because of snow loading on top. Be careful of stove explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning if you intend to use your stove inside your tent [camping tent] for added warmth.
Stove burns are more common in the winter as well because you are typically well insulated.
Other Hazards to Be Aware Of
Be sure you drink enough fluids when you are winter camping. It is more likely you will become dehydrated in winter than in summer as you will not feel as if you are as thirsty as when the weather is warmer.
If you have tools for ice such as a crampon or an axe, be sure they are well sheathed so that you don’t stab yourself. Diarrhea may be a problem as well so be sure that you carry along preventive medicines and eat properly.
Look out for yellow or watermelon snow so that you don’t consume it inadvertently (Urine and feces). You may be less inclined to wash your hands when winter camping and can leave yourself open to infections, illness and even food poisoning.
Winter camping can be great fun as long as you keep in mind that there are special risks involved that are not present when you are camping when the weather is balmier.
