Camping in winter: how to prepare properly
Camping in winter has a lot of charm: quieter campsites, clear skies, lower prices, and that feeling of refuge when you return to your tent or motorhome after a cold walk. But it also has its challenges: long nights, low temperatures, and less room for improvisation. If you organise yourself well, the experience goes from “let’s see if we survive” to “we have to do this again”.
Why choose camping in winter?
Camping in the off-season has several advantages:
Less noise and fewer people.
More plots to choose from, so you can select the best ones.
More competitive prices in many destinations.
In addition, many mountain and mild coastal campsites are designed to be open all year round, with heated toilets, good showers and facilities equipped for cold weather.
Choosing the right campsite in winter
For camping in winter to work, choose carefully where you are going:
Check that open all year round.
Look for specific reviews that mention winter: hot water, cleanliness, whether the floor gets wet, etc.
Check whether it offers plots with some natural shelter (trees, hedges, walls) to protect you from the wind.
If you are travelling by motorhome, ask for relatively flat pitches with easy access, so you don’t have to worry about the terrain.
What to bring for comfortable winter camping
In addition to the basics, in winter add:
Good sleeping bag and ground insulation.
Layered clothing, hat, gloves and quality socks.
Mats or carpeting for the interior of the tent or awning.
Thermos flask for hot drinks and kitchenware that facilitates the preparation of stews.
In a motorhome or camper van, add extra blankets and, if possible, thermal insulation for the windows.
Organising the plot in winter
When you arrive at the campsite:
Choose a plot that does not flood and is somewhat sheltered from the wind.
Set up your tent or shelter so that the entrance is not exposed to the full force of the wind.
Keep a ‘dry’ space where you can leave footwear, wet clothing and equipment, without encroaching on the sleeping area.
A good camping trip in winter is all about the little details: where to leave your boots, how to get in and out without cooling down the whole interior, etc.
Routines for enjoying camping in winter
Some tips to make your day-to-day life more enjoyable:
Hot showers are better during the less cold hours, not late at night.
Always eat something warm for dinner and have a hot drink before going to bed.
Ventilate the tent or motorhome for a few minutes each morning to reduce condensation.
Have indoor plans: campsite bar, common room, board games, books…
If you choose the right place and prepare wisely, camping in winter is no longer just for the brave, but becomes your favourite season for getting away from it all.
