Winter can actually be a great time for outdoor enthusiasts - imagine traceless snowfields, silent evergreen forests, air as fresh as ever and thousands of stars that far surpass anything on display at your local science center.
However, snow camping requires some basic know-how.
A lot of people think they know what they're doing when it comes to camping in the winter months. But they fail to realize that it's a lot different from camping in the summer.
(1) You can't go off into the snowy wilderness without some basic essentials. Depending on the conditions, you almost always want to have a minimum of three layers. The first layer should be close fitting, but comfortable. Next you want an insulating layer such as a fleece coat, and finally an outer shell made from some sort of waterproof material.
(2) The key is loose fitting layers to trap the warm air. Absolutely don't wear cotton - when cotton gets wet, especially in freezing or near freezing conditions, it is nearly impossible to dry and it will only keep you cold. If the insulation surrounding your body is wet and is starting to freeze, so will your body. In most cases you'll just be really, really cold, but if you wear wet cotton clothes for a while you could end up with hypothermia or frostbite.
(3) In addition to layering up, make sure your extremities are well insulated. Boots should be waterproof, gloves should be appropriate for snow, bring socks (lots and lots of dry wool socks), and take a warm hat. Like the saying goes, "if your feet are cold, put on a hat." Over half of your body heat can be lost through your head, so keep a hat on you or on your head at all times.
(4) To keep your body fueled for hiking, it is imperative to keep yourself hydrated and comfortably full of food. It is crucial to maintain energy and the best way to do so is to take in plenty of carbohydrates. Snack on foods like granola bars, nuts, bread, and for meals go for easy fixes like pasta and cheese or those delicious freeze-dried meals. If you wake up shivering in the middle of the night, reach for a quick snack like a high calorie candy bar.
Not only will it be tasty, but it will be just the boost your body needs to warm you up. It is also vital to drink water, even when you don't think you're thirsty. Dry winter air will dehydrate you quickly, but you often don't notice until it's too late.
