Cold Weather Camping -The best way to stay warm is to be prepared. This includes some of the following:

      -Appropriate layers/clothing- Make sure you pack the right clothes for the trip, if possible stick to synthetic materials or wool (cotton does not wick moisture away from the skin and does not insulate when wet). This could include long underwear, beanie, warm socks, extra shoes, rain jacket, etc.

      -Insulation from the ground -If possible bring an insulated sleeping pad (R value of 2 or above. Higher R values are warmer). If you do not have one you can always double up sleeping pads, or combine your sleeping pad with a blanket/emergency blanket, etc. Leave the inflatable queen mattress at home.

      -Warm sleeping bag -Remember your sleeping bag is typically only comfortable to about 10 degrees above its temperature rating. If your sleeping bag is only rated to 40 degrees this does not mean you have to rush out and buy a new one. Instead consider using it in tandem with a sleeping bag liner, an extra blanket or warm layers like long underwear and a hoodie. Reduce extra space in your sleeping bag when possible, personally, I like to put my change of clothes for the next day in the bottom of my sleeping bag so they are not freezing cold when getting dressed the next morning. Resist the temptation to burrow into your sleeping bag, the condensation from your breath will reduce its insulation.

      -Prepare before bed -Make sure you have had enough to eat before going to bed, this is your fuel to keep yourself warm through the night. Always use the restroom before you go to bed, midnight trips to the bathroom are no fun. If you have a non-insulated water bottle that you are confident will not leak, you can fill it up with hot water before bed for a makeshift heater.

Packing List

• Scout shirt
• Scout book in a waterproof Ziploc bag
• Notebook & pen
• Appropriate clothing – layers, layers, layers!
• Winter Jacket
• Fleece / Heavy Wool Sweater (no cotton hoodies)
• Hat / beanie that covers the ears & gloves
• Rain Jacket (just in case)
• Separate sleeping clothes – base layer / long underwear & outer layer, dry wool socks
• Hiking shoes & change of shoes (camp shoes)
• Mess kits (keep it simple) 
• Water bottle (minimum 2 Liters)
• Toiletries (toothbrush, hand sanitizer, soap or baby wipes)
• Small backpacking towel
• Daypack
• Headlamp
• Pocket knife
• Sleeping bag – one 20 degree bag or two 40 degree bags
• Sleeping pad – one or two (ideally, with combined R value of 4-5)
• Tent, with groundcloth and stakes
• Personal First Aid Kit

Optional

• Personal snacks
• Camping Chair
• Extra blankets and sleeping bag
• Clothesline