Camping in the winter is especially rewarding because of the accomplishment and the opportunity to enjoy a unique time of year. Almost anyone who can breathe can survive in the summer. But a scout who is paying attention can have fun and stay warm in the winter. Our troop has often done it, and will do it again this year. See our guide to winter camping equipment

DAYTIME CLOTHING

HAT that covers the ears.

And then bring gloves, and a scarf or neck gaiter (or balaclava).

For the feet water-proof boots that allow thick warm socks.

Gaiters are great if you have them, or can make a substitute.

For the body and legs think loose layers that hold heat.

            (1) Long underwear if possible (polypropylene, wool, silk - avoid cotton).

            (2) A wool shirt and wool pants.

If you lack wool, go with polyester. Polartec is great.

Avoid cotton, it absorbs and holds water like a wet towel: Cotton kills.

Keep clothes clean because they provide better insulation.

            (3) Over the shirt, add one or two warm wool sweaters or pullovers.

            (4) Top it off with a water-proof/wind-breaking layer.

This keeps the layers underneath dry and stops the wind and RAIN.

This layer can be a jacket (with hood) or rain coat (with hood); add snow pants or rain paints.  (Source: Venture Snow Camping, BSA, 1989)

New equipment can be expensive, but if one is resourceful, needed items can be found as discarded and old pieces belonging to parents, siblings and friends. Try Goodwill and an Army Surplus Store.  A Scout is Thrifty (SL #9).

NIGHT TIME

Bring an extra for-sleeping-only clean set of warm cloths:

HAT, scarf, gloves, wool pants, warm shirt.

Good cloths provide an extra layer and can be taken off if too warm.

Remember the second clean dry hat and scarf for sleeping.

One needs a mattress or long & thick foam sleeping pad (or two); I put my daytime jacket under my sleeping bag for extra warmth. Bring a very warm winter sleeping bag, or a combination of two regular sleeping bags, a bag liner, and warm thick wool blankets. Sleeping bags that close at the top are essential because they keep the warm air with your body. Winter mummy bags enclose the head and have a second cinch around the shoulders to keep more body heat in the bag, while one can still breath though the opening at the top of the bag.

There is no reason to be cold if one comes prepared. You can also pack three scouts per tent. Two warm buddies next to you in your tent is friendly and warming.

 BE PREPARED AND HAVE A GREAT TIME.