Dressing For Cold Weather

While camping in cold weather, dressing appropriately is a definite must. This doesn't necessarily mean the biggest heaviest coat you can find, but rather dressing in layers to retain heat. Wearing cotton in the layer closest to the skin is also important, as it can wick away any perspiration which can work against you. Plus, if you dress in layers and find you're warming up a little too much, you can shed a layer or two to keep the temperature at the right balance.

Start with cotton long johns, and add a long sleeved tee-shirt. If the weather is cold enough, add lined pants next. A sweater or thick sweatshirt or hoodie is the next layer. Don't forget a pair or two fo heavy socks! Depending on the temperature, go with a medium weight jacket or heavier coat. Gloves are definitely important, too. Once your feet and hands get cold while camping in cold weather it feels like it takes a long time to warm back up.

Hats. Don't forget the hats! Your body will lost most of it's heat through your head in cold weather, so make sure to get an appropriate hat. The newer toboggans made with bamboo fiber are super soft, and seem to hold in the heat rather well. A nice and soft scarf will top everything off perfectly.

While working or walking around the camp site, you will find you warm up pretty quickly. Make sure not to get to the point of sweating, as damp clothing will not insulate you as well against the cold. If you have to undo a little, go with the sweatshirt or tee-shirt. Sometimes just unzipping a jacket for a few minutes is all you need.

In downright frigid temperatures, consider using hand warmers in your gloves and / or your shoes. Having a heater in your tent or a raging fire at the campsite can help warm you up if you find you're still a little chilly. Don't forget the warm beverages and a hot meal, both can heat you up quickly.

Keep an eye on the forecasts and the weather and make sure you've packed a little more than you think you might need. Weather can often change in the blink of and eye, and having too much clothing is much better than not enough. Wool blankets hold in heat very well, and are perfect to layer over your sleeping bags. 

Camping in cold weather can present extra challenges when it comes to keeping comfortable. But with a little planning it shouldn't be too much of an issue. One thing to keep in mind, in cold weather fire wood seems to have a way of getting damp, so make sure you have enough fire starters and waterproof matches on hand to compensate. Having a great campfire is essential in cold weather camping.

 

Campfire Chili

With the colder weather, a big bowl of hearty chili seems to warm the soul as much as the body. One of my favorite camp recipes is Campfire Chili. It's easy to make and is always a nice treat beside the campfire.

This recipe calls for grown beef already browned and drained for ease in transport and to reduce the chances of contaminating the cooler. I strongly suggest browning the beef before leaving, but if you are not able to then brown it first before starting with the rest of the directions.

Using either a camp stove or a camp fire with a grate, use a low heat. With a campfire, you want to be able to hold your hand above the grate for about five seconds or so before you can't stand it anymore. Many propane stoves cook a little hotter than I like, so I put a cast iron griddle under the pot to keep the heat at a manageable level.

What you will need:

• One lb browned ground beef, and/or venison
• One large can tomato sauce
• One regular can of each light and dark kidney beans
• One small onion, chopped
• Seasonings to taste (I use a blend of chili powder, garlic powder, and a little cumin)
• Half cup of each jalapenos and green peppers diced small (optional)

In a large pot, sautee onions in a little dab of oil or butter until translucent, and then add all remaining ingredients. If you like your chili pretty thick, drain the kidney beans before adding. Now and then I'll add a small can of crushed or chopped tomatoes, it adds a nice texture and taste. Seasoning to taste is something that is different for everyone, and I'll admit I've cheated and used the Caroll Shelby's chili mix from time to time (highly recommended!). I often premix the seasonings before leaving and take in a small container.


Stir your chili frequently to prevent burning and sticking to the bottom of the pan. If you used the pre-cooked burger, it's ready to eat in about 10 minutes or so. You can let this cook a little longer for better flavor. This camp chili recipe will yield several bowls, and can be cut down to a smaller size to fit your needs. Don't forget to pack the crackers!

Gifts For Campers

It's that time of year, time to go shopping for your favorite camper. But what do you get? The possibilities are endless, and only limited by your budget. There is a wide range of ideas for the camper in your life when it comes to gift giving.

There are oodles of nifty gadgets for camping enthusiasts on the market, many are things that people would use but never think to get for themselves. Camp equipment can run the gamut to dollar store finds to big ticket items, and each has their place at the campsite.

For stocking stuffers, fire starters and waterproof matches are always appreciated. These are things that every camper has found themselves needing at one time or another, and they will get used. They also make small waterproof containers to hold matches or other small dry goods, such as spices and seasonings or cell phones. Sterno makes small foldable stoves that are fueled by Sterno's small fuel packs, and are perfect for those with limited space, or to brew coffee while the stove or grill is filled with food.

Lanterns and flashlights are always a good gift for campers, too. Many of the new LED lanterns last what seems like forever on a single set of batteries. Plus, there are many now that don't use batteries at all, but are powered by a hand crank.

A little more on up the scale would be things like a packable sleeping mat or sleeping bag inserts. Both are incredibly handy and versatile, plus pack to a small size. Lightweight camp cookware and cooking accessories are always a nice gift, too.

If you want to go a little higher, a nice camp grill or other propane powered cooking equipment are always appreciated. Of course, refill propane bottles are always great, too. For backpackers, the smaller more lightweight stoves and fuel would be more appropriate, as lugging a heavy stove on your back is cumbersome. 

There are tons of bags geared toward packing camp equipment, I would suggest waterproof bags. My favorite bag is made by Coleman, and has a spot in the bottom for a camp grill, plus several compartments and pockets inside to keep the camp kitchen organized and transported safely. I can pack all my camp kitchen gear inside perfectly, I love it!

There are tons of higher end items, camp shower stalls, hot water on demand systems, cabin tents with a screen room, the list goes on and on. Shopping for the camper in your life has never been easier with so much camp equipment to choose from!