Wondering how to stay warm in a tent in winter? Call me “out of control”, but I’ve grown to love winter camping. There’s something magical about the stillness of a snow-covered forest, the crackle of a campfire, and the warmth of a steaming cup of coffee on a crisp, frosty morning. But let me be clear: I haven’t always been a fan of winter camping. My early attempts were fraught with shivering nights, frozen toes, and a lot of regret. It took trial, error, and a few near-misses to figure out how to stay warm in a tent without electricity during the harsh Canadian winters.
One of my most memorable experiences was a week-long solo trip in Muskoka, Ontario, where temperatures dropped to a bone-chilling -20°C. It was a test of endurance, resourcefulness, and gear. But by the end of it, I wasn’t just surviving—I was thriving. In this blog post, I’ll share my hard-earned tips, tricks, and gear recommendations to help you stay warm in a tent during winter. Whether you’re a seasoned winter camper or a curious beginner, these insights will prepare you for your next cold-weather adventure.
Tricks How to Stay Warm in a Tent in Winter:
The Tent: Your Winter Sanctuary
Your tent is your first line of defense against the cold. For my Muskoka trip, I used a four-season, double-walled tent designed to withstand snow, wind, and sub-zero temperatures. Here’s why this type of tent is essential:
- Four-Season Design: These tents are built with fewer mesh panels and more solid fabric to retain heat and block wind.
- Double-Walled Construction: The inner layer traps warmth, while the outer layer shields you from snow and moisture.
- Low Profile: A dome-shaped tent with a low profile resists wind better than taller models.
Tip: Always use a footprint or tarp under your tent to create an extra barrier against the cold, damp ground.
The Stove: The Heart of Winter Camping
A tent stove is a game-changer in sub-zero conditions. During my trip, I tested two stoves: the Winnerwell Nomad (stainless steel) and the Winnerwell Titanium. Here’s how they compared:
- Winnerwell Nomad (Stainless Steel):
- Pros: Durable, affordable, and excellent heat retention. It warmed my tent to a cozy 15°C even when it was -20°C outside.
- Cons: Heavier than titanium, making it less portable.
- Performance: It took about 20 minutes to heat the tent, and the warmth lasted for hours.
- Winnerwell Titanium:
- Pros: Lightweight, heats up quickly, and ideal for backpacking.
- Cons: More expensive and doesn’t retain heat as long as stainless steel.
- Performance: It heated the tent faster (about 15 minutes) but required more frequent refueling.
Verdict: For a base camp, I preferred the stainless steel Nomad. Its heat retention was superior, and I didn’t mind the extra weight. However, if you’re on the move, the titanium stove is a game-changer.
Tip: Always use a spark arrestor on your stovepipe to prevent fires and ensure proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
Fuel: Keeping the Fire Alive
I used dry, seasoned hardwood for fuel. It burns hotter and longer than softwood. I also carried hexamine tablets as a backup. Finding dry wood in a snow-covered forest was challenging, so I gathered it during the day and stored it under a tarp to keep it dry.
Tip: Bring a small axe or folding saw to process wood efficiently.
Sleep System: Your Lifeline
Your sleep system is critical for staying warm all night. Here’s what I used:
- Sleeping Bag: A -30°C mummy bag with a down fill. Down is lightweight and offers superior insulation.
- Sleeping Pad: An insulated inflatable pad with an R-value of 5+. This prevents the cold ground from sucking the heat out of your body.
- Liner: A fleece sleeping bag liner added an extra 10°C of warmth.
Tip: Wear dry, thermal base layers to bed and place a hot water bottle in your sleeping bag for added warmth.
Cooking in the Cold: Fueling Your Body
Cooking in -20°C is no joke. I relied on my tent stove and a cast iron skillet for most meals. Here’s what I cooked:
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with dried fruit and nuts, cooked on the stove.
- Lunch: Canned soups and stews, heated directly in their cans.
- Dinner: Pasta with dehydrated vegetables and sausage.
- Snacks: Trail mix, chocolate, and jerky.
Tip: Use a wide-bottomed pot for cooking. It distributes heat evenly and prevents food from burning.
Drying Clothes: A Constant Battle
Wet clothes are a death sentence in the cold. Here’s how I kept mine dry:
- Hang Damp Clothes Near the Stove: Use a clothesline or hooks to hang clothes, but keep them at a safe distance to avoid melting or fire.
- Rotate Layers: Wear multiple layers and rotate them to allow damp ones to dry.
- Use Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Avoid cotton, which retains moisture. Opt for wool or synthetic materials.
Tip: Bring extra socks and gloves. They get wet quickly, and having dry spares is a lifesaver.
Clothing: Layer Like a Pro
Layering is the key to staying warm. Here’s my go-to system:
- Base Layer: Merino wool or synthetic thermal underwear.
- Mid Layer: Fleece or down jacket for insulation.
- Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof shell.
- Accessories: Wool hat, neck gaiter, insulated gloves, and thick socks.
Tip: Always keep a spare set of dry clothes in a waterproof bag.
20 Tips for Surviving in a Tent at -20°C
- Choose the Right Tent: Opt for a four-season, double-walled tent.
- Use a Tent Stove: Invest in a reliable stove like the Winnerwell Nomad.
- Insulate Your Tent Floor: Use foam tiles or a thick tarp.
- Seal Gaps: Use duct tape to seal any gaps or tears in your tent.
- Ventilate Properly: Crack a window or vent to prevent condensation.
- Layer Your Sleeping System: Use a high-quality sleeping bag, pad, and liner.
- Wear Dry Clothes to Bed: Never sleep in damp clothing.
- Use a Hot Water Bottle: Fill it with boiling water and place it in your sleeping bag.
- Cook Hot Meals: Warm food raises your core temperature.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink warm liquids like tea or broth.
- Store Fuel Properly: Keep wood dry and accessible.
- Dress in Layers: Use moisture-wicking base layers and insulated outerwear.
- Keep Your Head Covered: A significant amount of heat is lost through your head.
- Use Hand Warmers: Tuck them into your gloves or boots.
- Dry Clothes Near the Stove: Rotate layers to keep them dry.
- Avoid Overexertion: Sweating can lead to hypothermia.
- Pack Extra Socks and Gloves: Wet extremities are dangerous.
- Use a Wide-Bottomed Pot: It cooks food more evenly.
- Bring a Backup Heat Source: Hexamine tablets or a portable heater.
- Stay Positive: Mental resilience is just as important as physical preparation.
Final Thoughts – How to Stay Warm in a Tent in Winter
Surviving in a tent at -20°C is not for the faint of heart, but with the right gear, knowledge, and mindset, it’s entirely possible. My experience in Muskoka taught me the importance of preparation, adaptability, and respect for nature. Whether you’re a seasoned winter camper or a novice, these tips and tricks will help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable in even the harshest conditions. So, pack your gear, embrace the challenge, and remember: the cold is only as powerful as you allow it to be. Stay warm out there!