In winter, the days are shorter, the nights are longer, and the temperatures drop. But don’t let that stop you from venturing outdoors. Winter is an excellent time to experience nature with fewer crowds, crisp air, and often a fresh coat of snow that transforms the landscape—and your perspective.
If you're considering a winter trip in the outdoors, here are ten essential tips to ensure you stay warm, comfortable, and ready for adventure.
- Wear a Warm Hat
You lose around 10% of your body heat through your head and neck. To keep that warmth, make sure to wear a beanie-style hat. Thickness and material vary, but the key is loft—this helps trap warm air next to your skin. A thinner neck gaiter can also double as a head covering if you need additional warmth. As the saying goes, "If your hands are cold, put on a hat." Keep your head covered and your body stays warmer overall.
- Insulated Boots Are a Must
Your feet are one of the first places to feel the cold, and once they’re cold, it can be hard to focus on anything else. Quality insulated boots with deep treads, minimal seams, and reduced material transitions will help keep your feet warm and dry. Make sure to select boots that offer both insulation and breathability to avoid moisture buildup from sweat, which can lead to discomfort or even frostbite in extreme conditions.
- Invest in a Reliable Shell Layer
A waterproof and breathable shell layer is essential to keep you dry, whether from rain, snow, or the moisture you create through activity. The right shell, worn as an outer layer, will protect you from wind and precipitation. Plus, most jackets and pants include zippers (like pit zips or thigh zippers) that allow for ventilation when you start to heat up. Proper ventilation is key in preventing sweat buildup, which can chill you once you stop moving.
- Choose a Good Base Layer
The base layer is the first thing you put on, and it plays a critical role in wicking moisture away from your skin. Experiment with materials like wool, synthetic fibers, or silk, but avoid cotton at all costs—cotton absorbs moisture and holds onto it, making you cold as it dries slowly. A good base layer keeps you dry and ensures that you stay warm as you move.
- Don’t Forget Your Insulating Layer
On top of your base layer, an insulating layer provides the warmth needed to keep you comfortable. Fleece jackets, down parkas, and synthetic insulations are all excellent options. The trick is to wear just enough so you’re slightly cold when you start moving—this way, you won’t sweat and get wet as you warm up. Pro tip: Keep a puffy jacket (synthetic or down) one size larger in your pack. When you stop for a break, throw it on to retain warmth, then stow it away when you’re on the move again.
- Enjoy Hot Drinks on the Trail
A warm drink is a simple but effective way to lift your spirits and raise your core body temperature. Whether it’s tea, hot chocolate, or coffee, having a hot beverage is an instant comfort. Consider bringing along insulated mugs or a thermos, as well as a compact stove to keep your drinks flowing throughout the day.
- Consider Both Mittens and Gloves
When it comes to handwear, the debate between mittens and gloves is a tough one. Fortunately, you don’t have to choose—there’s room for both in your winter gear kit. Mittens are great for trapping heat from your fingers, keeping them warmer in the cold. Gloves, on the other hand, offer more dexterity for tasks like adjusting boots or fiddling with stoves. For the best of both worlds, consider glove liners for fine motor tasks and shell mittens for warmth.
- Protect Your Eyes with Sunglasses or Goggles
Winter sun and snow glare can damage your eyes, even on cloudy days. Protect your vision with either sunglasses or goggles. Sunglasses are a good choice when you want to vent heat, but wrap-around frames or glacier glasses offer extra protection from side glare. If conditions get more intense, goggles provide full coverage, though they can be less breathable. Consider your specific needs to choose the best option for your trip.
- Sleep in Dry Socks
After a long day of hiking or skiing, your socks will inevitably get damp from sweat. To ensure a warm, dry night’s sleep, always have a separate pair of dry socks reserved for sleeping. Change into your dry socks, dry your feet, and enjoy the comfort of cozy warmth as you drift off to sleep.
- Use a Hot Water Bottle for Extra Warmth
One of the easiest ways to warm up your sleeping bag is with a hot water bottle. Boil some water, pour it into a bottle (secure the lid!), and place it in your sleeping bag to heat things up before you get in. You can even wrap it in a shirt to avoid burning yourself. A hot water bottle can also help warm up your body from the inside by placing it near areas like your armpits or groin, where it will circulate warmth through your body. Once you’re snuggled into your bag, you can remove it and rest easy knowing it won’t spill during the night.
Now that you're armed with these winter adventuring tips, you're ready to face the cold and make lasting memories in the great outdoors. Whether you're heading out for a short hike or embarking on a multi-day adventure, these tips will help keep you warm, and ready for whatever winter throws your way.