Winter camping gear guide

“COTTON KILLS” out of the things you can cut corners on when it comes to winter camping, the materials you wear are not one of them. Cotton holds in moisture longer, does not keep you warm when it is wet and increases the chances of you getting hypothermia or even frostbite.  

• Moisture Wicking Base‐layers Top and Bottom (moisture wicking means that it pushes sweat away from you so it does not stay on your body, wool, synthetic, or polyester are moisture wicking) – pack extra

•  Insulating Mid‐layers (fleece, wool or synthetic sweaters/jackets) – pack extra

• Waterproof Shell/Outside Layers (pants and top)

• Waterproof Winter Boots (nice and cozy ones) – pack extra if you are not bringing gaiters

• Waterproof Winter Gloves (bring more than one pair) 

• 3 or 4 Season Tent  with a tarp/ground cover underneath to prevent moisture from getting in

• Sleeping Pad with high R‐Value { The R value is how good it is at insulating, sleeping pad R-values range from < 2 (not much insulation) to 5.5 or more (a lot of insulation) }

• Winter 15 degree or below Sleeping Bag with a fleece or silk bag liner.  

• Wool Socks‐ Multiple Pairs  

• Microspikes or Yak‐Trax crampons (not required but very helpful) 

• Gaiters (not required but highly recommended and very helpful at keeping snow out of boots) 

• Wool or fleece hat (something light that you can carry in your pocket)

• A buff (neck covering)

• A garbage bag to put wet clothes in

• A rag to dry yourself when changing – pack multiple

Helpful link to leaders guide with all of the info for Klondike

Optional things to consider

• A wool blanket to line the floor of your tent

• A cot to elevate yourself off the ground

• Hand warmers and toe warmers

(this list is only for the winter part necessities, you will still need your basic camping gear)