Cold-Weather Camping Checklist

Use this list along with you regular campout checklist when planning for cold weather camping or outdoor activity.

Clothes

  • wool cap or synthetic ski cap that covers the ears
  • warm long underwear, tops and bottoms (thermal or duo fold suggested)
  • warm long sleeve shirt
  • warm sweater or jacket
  • windproof jacket (ski jacket, parka)
  • raincoat or poncho (be sure it fits over the jacket)
  • warm pants (synthetic material that sheds water is the best)
  • snow pants or ski pants to wear over regular pants
  • wool or synthetic material socks (wear two or three pair at once) and several spare pairs
  • boots, loose fitting and waterproof
  • mittens, several pairs ,preferably waterproof or water resistant
  • spare long underwear and socks to change into at bedtime (and wear the next day)

Sleeping Gear

  • sleeping bag and extra blanket(s)
  • insulated pad to put under the sleeping bag (foam rubber, air mattress, etc.)

Personal Equipment

  • flashlight that works and has new batteries
  • fire lighting materials: candles, fire starters, plenty of matches in waterproof container
  • knife
  • personal first aid kit
  • compass
  • plastic bag to hold wet boots in tent or sleeping bag at night
  • mess kit: cup, fork, spoon, plate
  • clean up kit: toilet paper, soap, tooth brush/paste, wash cloth
  • backpack to hold personal gear
  • canteen or water bottle – one to two quart size
  • energy snacks: chocolate candy, granola bars, etc.
  • throw-away hand warmers (can be purchased at Wal-Mart or K Mart for a few dollars)

Summary

Winter clothing in the outdoors is best worn in layers.  The clothing works best if several light layers are worn to start the day and then scouts can remove one or two layers as the day progresses.  Layers can be put back on at night as the temperature lowers and activity decreases.

All personal gear should be packed in the backpack.  Oversize sleeping bag, extra blankets can be separate $(H b(But should be wrapped in plastic trash bag or waterproof bag.

Winter camping and outdoor activities require extra gear – But most of the gear scouts already have at their homes.