Winter Car Camping Tips

Winter Car Camping Tips

Car camping in the winter can be a rewarding experience - whether you are trying to score some powder at a ski resort or take in the beauty of nature during the winter season. 

However, it comes with its own set of challenges. Preparation is key so you can transform your SUV or car into a cozy haven, ensuring a comfortable winter getaway. Here’s how to make the most out of your next cold-weather car camping adventure:

1. Insulate Your Sleeping Area

The key to staying warm in winter car camping is creating a well-insulated sleeping platform. Foam pads do an awesome job of keeping distance between you and the cold floor ground. Invest in a high-quality sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures—consider a down bag for its insulation properties. To further insulate, use blankets or reflectix insulation around your sleeping platform. This will help trap warmth and minimize heat loss.

The Hele Box is a lightweight sleeping platform that fits in most SUVs/Trucks/Vans and is uniquely designed to help with insulation. The topper is made out of wood, a naturally insulating material. Compared to other light sleeping platforms on the market that are made entirely of metal. 

If you leave a piece of wood & metal outside for an hour in cold temperatures and come back to compare temperatures, you’ll see just how much of a difference this makes!

2. Choose the Right Tent or Shelter

If you're using an SUV for camping, you can sleep inside, but if you're planning to use a tent or tent attachment, select one that's designed for winter conditions. Look for a four-season tent with a solid frame to withstand the wind and snow. Make sure it’s large enough to create some space for gear and movement. 

3. Layer Up for Warmth

You get a layer!, you get a layer!, you get a layer! (in the voice of Opera). Layering is your first line of defense from the cold. Start with moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat off your skin, followed by insulating mid-layers like fleece or down jackets, and finish with a windproof outer layer.

We love to use Smartwool base layers for these reasons + the natural odor deterring properties of wool.

Don’t forget some thick socks, hats, and gloves to ensure your extremities stay warm. A good pair of boots with insulation is also essential for trips outside the vehicle.

4. Keep Your Gear Dry

Keeping your gear dry is critical to staying warm. If left outside, store your gear in waterproof bags or use a roof box for any additional storage. You can also invest in a sleeping platform that keeps your gear organized and stored in your vehicle. 

The Hele Box comes with a storage system that slides under your sleeping platform for easy and convenient storage. 

Additionally, a portable heater (battery-powered or a small propane heater) can be helpful to warm up the car, but always prioritize safety and ventilation.

5. Manage Condensation

Condensation inside your car can make a damp and uncomfortable environment. Leaving windows ever so slightly cracked for ventilation and using products like moisture absorbers in your vehicle can help to mitigate this. Keeping the air circulating will reduce the buildup of excess moisture, making your car camping space more comfortable.

Conclusion

Car camping doesn’t have to be a summer only activity! 

By setting up a well-insulated sleeping platform, layering your clothing, and using the right shelter and gear, you can turn your SUV or car into a cozy basecamp for your next winter adventure. Whether you're an experienced camper or just beginning to explore SUV camping, these strategies will ensure you’re ready to take on the winter wilderness.

If you’re looking for more articles like this, check out our car camping guide

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