Are you trying to stay warm outside in cold weather? Follow these tips!
When you’re outdoors, knowing how to stay warm outside in cold weather can be more than a matter of comfort. It’s survival!
Plus, no one wants to hear you whine about how cold you are. Luckily, extremes usually don’t come into play like that. However, unpredictable weather or getting lost off the trail can throw anyone for a loop.
We’ve done a lot of hiking in the winter and have learned some tips and tricks to stay warm, even in below-freezing weather! But these tips aren’t just for outdoor activities. They’ll even help you stay warm while touring cities, like New York City or Philadelphia, during the winter months.
The guide below shares some of the best tips for staying when you’re outside in winter. So, let’s dive in and get ready!
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Tips to Stay Warm Outside in Cold Weather
1. Layer Up
Layers are a crucial key to staying warm in winter when you’re outside.
Starting with your base layers, they should be made from a synthetic material like nylon or polyester, like this one from REI. The reason you want those is that, unlike cotton, these materials don’t retain water, and they dry much faster. As a result, you won’t have a bunch of sweaty, wet clothing, making you colder than you need to be.
Your shirt and pants will follow the same rule as your first layer. Durable, synthetic fabric that does not tear easily is ideal. Think lightweight fleece. I love these fleece-lined leggings. They kept me warm during our visit to Clingmans Dome in 20-degree weather!
For the final layer, you should have a jacket that’s appropriate for the temperatures you’re in. It doesn’t have to be rated for below freezing, but it should keep you warm. Wool and down are excellent materials for jackets.
The right socks can make a difference when hiking in winter. Avoid cotton socks. Wool socks are the best for winter hiking.
A hat can be a surprisingly significant factor in retaining warmth. Even a baseball hat will do more than just keep the sun out of your eyes. On colder days, a knit hat or wool beanie is the best option.
Keep your face and neck warm with a balaclava or gaiter. Again, synthetic fibers are best.
Don’t forget to wear a pair of gloves! Cold extremities aren’t just uncomfortable. They can be dangerous, given enough time. Keeping your extremities warm is a vital part of how to stay warm in cold weather camping.
2. Keep Moving
Your muscles generate heat! So the best way to stay warm outside in cold weather is to move. It’s the easiest way to keep warm while hiking in winter.
Moving is a simple and essential way to generate some warmth. Depending on the conditions, you can even exercise in place, like lunges or jumping jacks.
As tempting as it can be to hunker down initially, part of hiking in cold temperatures is getting used to the climate. By trekking on, you’ll get used to the temperature while generating extra heat compared to sitting down.
3. Use Your Surroundings
Your surroundings can play a huge role in staying warm in cold weather. You might have limited options, depending on what your surroundings look like. For example, there’s not much you can do to improve hiking through an open field.
However, if you’re setting up camp or taking a rest break while hiking, there are some key things to look for that can improve your situation.
Use the terrain, buildings along the trail, and even the tents at your campground to block the wind. Wind chill can make cold temperatures feel even colder, so getting out of the wind can make a big difference.
4. Get Some Heat
This point ties into the above nicely. A fire that is at least partially protected from the wind is a fantastic source of warmth while camping. You can huddle around it and make almost any cold night (or day) feel warmer in no time.
If you are hiking, fire isn’t always an option. However, products like Hot Hands are a great option to heat up your extremities quickly. These are great for any outdoor activity in winter, like walking through Christmas Lights.
5. Consume Warm Beverages and Food
With your fire, that makes for an excellent opportunity to cook some warm food. You can also use a portable, lightweight cook set to make coffee or tea.
If you want to a warm beverage like hot chocolate, try an insulated bottle. Of course, an insulated thermos can hold warm food like mac & cheese, which is an easy meal to make.
Don’t underestimate how useful this can be (and mentally refreshing, especially after a cold day outside.
6. Buy the Right Sleeping Bag
You want to avoid making a rookie mistake and bring a sleeping bag that isn’t rated for the weather during your camping trip.
An inexpensive bag can do the job, but only if you’ll be camping infrequently. The performance can drop quickly as cheaper sleeping bags tend to hold up poorly.
A more expensive bag can be a significant investment, but it will last you a longer time.
Remember, you’ll never regret having a quality sleeping bag on cold nights. It can be a miserable experience trying to sleep if you’re not warm enough!
Wrapping Up Staying Warm in Cold Weather
To stay warm in cold weather, for hiking, camping, and even fun winter activities, it boils down to one thing: preparation.
If you don’t prepare for the conditions, you’re in for a bad time. Now, just imagine if those conditions somehow got worse! It’s never a bad idea to bring more than you may need if you aren’t sure what to expect.
Checking the forecast is always a good idea, but remember: it’s not guaranteed. With the right gear and following these tips, you can stay warm outside well enough to enjoy a winter hike or camping trip.
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