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Guide To Camping In The Snow
Contrary to what most of the world might think, it does actually snow in sunny Australia. In fact, did you know that the Australian Alps region (which is roughly 12,300 km²) receives between 70 and 150 inches of snow each year during the winter season? Even though this might debunk the myth that has hung around from a 1957 documentary (Roof of Australia) that claims Australia receives more snowfall in winter than the Swiss Alps (which are around 25,370 km²), that's still a lot of snow to play around with - and one of our favourite things to do as Aussies it to go snow camping. But if you have never been camping in the snow before, there are a few important things you need to understand, which is why we've created this helpful guide to walk you through all of the snow camping essentials you need to know!
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What Clothing To Wear Snow Camping
Because you are going to be in the snow, camping in just a shirt and some jeans is not going to cut it. Here is a brief breakdown of not only how to layer your clothing but also what snow clothing accessories you will need as well.
Base Layer
A base layer is the first layer of clothing worn next to the skin during snow camping. Its primary function is to manage moisture by wicking sweat away from your body, keeping you dry and warm. Ideal base layer clothing includes thermals, tops, bottoms and socks made from moisture-wicking materials. The best materials are merino wool, which is warm, breathable and odour-resistant, and synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, which are durable and quick-drying. Always avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and loses insulating properties when wet.
Middle Layer
The middle layer, or insulating layer, is crucial for retaining body heat during snow camping. It traps warmth close to your body while allowing moisture to escape from the base layer. Ideal clothing options include fleece jackets, down jackets and puffer jackets. Fleece is lightweight and breathable, down offers excellent warmth-to-weight ratio but loses insulation when wet, and synthetic insulation provides warmth even when damp. Choose materials like Polartec fleece, goose down or Primaloft synthetic insulation for optimal performance in cold, snowy conditions.
Outer Layer
The outer layer, or shell layer, protects against wind, rain and snow while allowing moisture to escape from the inner layers. For snow camping, consider waterproof and breathable snow jackets and pants. Ideal materials include Gore-Tex, eVent, and other high-quality waterproof membranes, which provide excellent weather resistance and breathability. Look for features like sealed seams, adjustable hoods, and ventilation zippers to enhance protection and comfort. Durable water-repellent (DWR) coatings also improve water resistance, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable in harsh winter conditions.
Snow Clothing Accessories
For snow camping, essential snow clothing accessories include balaclavas made from moisture-wicking, insulating materials like merino wool or polyester for full-face protection. Footwear should consist of waterproof, insulated snow boots with good traction, using materials such as Gore-Tex and Thinsulate. Sunscreen with a high SPF and broad-spectrum protection is necessary to guard against UV rays, even in winter. Ski goggles with UV-protective, anti-fog lenses and good ventilation protect your eyes from snow glare and wind. Gloves should be insulated and waterproof, made from materials like Gore-Tex with fleece lining for warmth and dexterity. Lastly, beanies crafted from warm, moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic blends help retain heat.
Snow Camping Gear You'll Need
Now that you've got your snow clothing all sorted, now you need to organise what you will need to bring. Because exactly what you will need to bring depends on your situation and personal needs, here is a list of the snow camping essentials that you will need to take.
Tent For Snow Camping
The performance of your tent in harsh weather is crucial when snow camping. During winter, your tent must endure not just the cold, but also extreme conditions like heavy rain, snow and strong winds. When selecting a tent for such conditions, focus on its rating. A 4-season tent is typically recommended, as it is designed to handle heavy rain, snow, and strong winds. Given Australia's unpredictable winter weather, also consider the ease of setting up and taking down your tent. Larger tents require more hands, and with limited daylight in winter, a quick setup after a long day might be necessary. Pop-up instant tents are favoured by winter campers for their convenience. Additionally, the material of your tent is important for cold-weather camping. Nylon and polyester tents offer adequate waterproofing and are ideal for backpackers due to their lightweight nature. Polyester is thicker and is more durable. Canvas tents, which require seasoning to withstand wet conditions, are naturally cool in summer and warm in winter, making them suitable for year-round use. Polycotton tents, lighter and stronger than cotton, usually have a good waterproof rating and are a popular choice among winter camping enthusiasts.
Camp Cooking Equipment
When camping in the snow, bring compact and efficient cooking equipment like the Jetboil, known for its rapid boiling time and fuel efficiency, and Back Country Cuisine meals, which are lightweight and easy to prepare by simply adding hot water. Packing light is crucial when camping on snow because it reduces the load you carry, conserving your energy for traversing snowy terrain. Lightweight gear also minimises the strain on your body and helps maintain balance on slippery surfaces. Additionally, compact camp cooking equipment ensures quicker meal preparation, allowing you to stay warm and conserve fuel in harsh winter conditions.
Sleeping Bag
Whether you're camping under the stars in a tent or staying at a weekend getaway, having the right sleeping bag is essential. When camping in the snow, a proper sleeping bag significantly impacts your warmth and comfort. Take the time to ensure your sleeping bag is rated for colder conditions. When choosing a winter-ready sleeping bag or evaluating if your current one is adequate, consider its comfort rating. This rating indicates the lowest temperature at which you can sleep comfortably. Below this threshold, you might struggle to stay warm. The limit rating, however, refers to survival capacity in extreme conditions for up to six hours, where risks like frostbite and hypothermia are concerns. If you can't purchase a new sleeping bag, enhance your 1 or 2-season bag's warmth with a liner.
Lighting
When camping in the snow, the best lighting options include lanterns, headlamps, torches and light sticks. Lanterns provide broad, ambient light, ideal for illuminating campsites. Headlamps are crucial for hands-free tasks and navigating in the dark, offering focused, adjustable beams. Torches (flashlights) are useful for directed light and emergencies. Light sticks are a reliable backup, offering soft, long-lasting light without batteries. Opt for LED versions of these lights for better efficiency, longer battery life, and brighter output. Ensuring your lighting is durable, water-resistant and cold-resistant is essential for maintaining visibility and safety in snowy conditions.
How To Set Up A Tent In The Snow
Now that you have your clothing and camp equipment all organised, now the only thing that is left is to set up your tent for snow camping. But is it as straightforward as simply pitching your tent on the first bit of snow you see?
Choose A Camping Spot
Choosing the perfect camping spot in the snow requires careful consideration of several factors. First, seek a flat, sheltered area away from potential avalanche zones, steep slopes and falling branches. Look for natural windbreaks, such as dense trees or rock formations, to reduce exposure to cold winds. Ensure the campsite is near a water source but above potential snowmelt flooding zones. Evaluate the snow depth, it should be deep enough for insulation but firm for stability. Check the ground beneath the snow for any uneven terrain or hidden hazards. Lastly, assess the accessibility for ease of setup and emergency exit routes. These factors ensure safety and comfort in snowy conditions.
Set Up Your Tent
Setting up a tent on snow requires some specific steps to ensure stability, warmth and safety:
- Pack Down the Snow: Walk around the chosen area with snowshoes or boots to pack down the snow to create a firm and level surface. This prevents sinking and adds stability.
- Create a Platform: Dig out a platform slightly larger than your tent footprint to create a stable base and minimise cold air infiltration.
- Lay Down a Tarp: Place a tarp (groundsheet) on the platform to provide an extra barrier against moisture and cold.
- Stake the Tent: Use tent pegs (or ice axes or buried sticks depending on the ground) to secure your tent. If using standard tent pegs, be sure to bury them horizontally in the snow to anchor them firmly.
- Set Up the Tent: Now assemble your tent according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring it's taut and stable.
- Insulate the Tent Floor: Add an extra layer, like a closed-cell foam pad, inside the tent to improve insulation from the cold ground.
- Secure Guy Lines: Attach and tension all guy lines to prevent the tent from collapsing under wind or snow load. Use snow anchors or buried objects for added stability.
- Ensure Ventilation: Ensure there is proper ventilation to minimise condensation inside the tent. Do this by opening the inside vents slightly to allow moisture to escape.
- Final Check & Adjust: Periodically check and adjust stakes, guy lines and the tent structure itself, especially during heavy snowfall or strong winds, to maintain stability and integrity. Following these steps will help ensure a safe, warm and secure tent when camping in the snow.
Find The Best Snow Camping Equipment At Anaconda Today
Now that you are an expert in snow camping, the only thing left to do is to rug up and head out! Make sure you also check out our Adventure Centre for more helpful tips and exciting destinations that you can visit with your friends, loved ones and family. If you liked our snow camping tips, then you might also like some of our other articles for awesome destinations and tips such as:
- Best Ski Resorts For Seeing The Snow In Victoria
- How To Snowboard: Everything You Need To Know
- How To Wash Snow Gear
- How To Choose Snow Gear
Find your local Anaconda store and check out our extensive snow range for your next outdoor adventure
