Are you ready to embark on an epic chilly camping journey in the breathtaking landscapes of Australia? Grab your beanies, pack your thermals and get ready to dive headfirst into the wonderland of winter camping!
In this blog, I’m going to spill all the beans of what to pack, show you some mouthwatering camping meals, share some clever ways to keep your littlest adventures warm, and, of course, all the sizzling options to heat up your tent, camper or caravan. So let’s get cozy and div to winter camping.
What to Pack:
When preparing for a winter camping trip, it’s crucial to pack the right gear and essentials to ensure comfort and safety.
Here’s a checklist of items to include in your packing list:
Warm clothing layers
- Thermal underwear
- Insulated jackets
- Hats, gloves, and thick socks.
Cold-weather sleeping gear
- A four-season sleeping bag
- An insulated sleeping pad, and a tent suitable for winter conditions.
Lighting and navigation
- Headlamps
- Back up Lighting
- A compass or GPS device.
Emergency supplies
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- A multipurpose tool
- Fully charged mobile phone
Easy Camp Meals:
Cooking delicious meals while camping can be easy, even in winter. Consider these simple and hearty meal ideas:
One-pot wonders
- Prepare soups, stews, or chili that can be cooked in a single pot for a warm and satisfying meal.
Foil-wrapped delights
- Create foil packets with your choice of protein, vegetables, and seasonings, then cook them over the campfire or on a grill for a flavourful and mess-free dinner.
Hot drinks and snacks
- Warm up with hot cocoa, tea, or coffee, and don’t forget to pack some tasty snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or roasted marshmallows for a treat around the campfire.
Here are 2 recipes that you can give a try.
Campfire Skillet Breakfast
Ingredients:
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups frozen hash browns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Cook bacon in a skillet. Remove bacon.
- Cook onion and bell pepper in the skillet.
- Add frozen hash browns. Cook until crispy.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Make wells, crack eggs, sprinkle bacon and cheese.
- Cover and cook until eggs are done and cheese melts.
Grilled Campfire Pizza Pockets
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Pizza sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pizza toppings of choice
- Olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions:
- Roll out pizza dough.
- Spread sauce on half of each dough.
- Add toppings and mozzarella cheese.
- Fold and seal dough.
- Brush with olive oil.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cheese melts.
Note: Adjust cooking times based on campfire or stove heat.
Ways to Keep Kids Warm:
Keeping kids warm during winter camping is essential to ensure their comfort and enjoyment. Here are some tips:
Layering:
- Dress children in multiple layers to trap warmth. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add insulating mid-layers, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer.
Warm sleeping arrangements:
- Ensure that children have appropriate cold-weather sleeping bags, extra blankets, and insulated sleeping pads to provide insulation from the ground.
Engaging activities:
- Keep children active to generate body heat. Plan fun winter games, nature walks, or scavenger hunts to keep them warm and entertained.
Heating is always a hot topic here at Mums Who Caravan and Camp
Staying warm while travelling with kids during cooler months is crucial for a comfortable camping experience. Things to consider
Heated Mattress Pad
For campers with access to electricity, heated mattress pads can enhance your sleeping comfort.
Catalytic Heated Blanket
These portable blankets use catalytic technology to provide heat without an open flame and can be found in Australian stores.
Campfire or Fire Pit
It’s a no-brainer, you can’t camp without a campfire, well we can’t, especially in Winter! If allowed and safe, having a campfire or using a fire pit outside can provide both warmth and a cozy ambience.
Electric Blankets and Sleeping Bags
Electric blankets or heated sleeping bags can be easily found and help keep you warm throughout the night.
Insulation and Vent Covers
Ensure your tent or camper trailer is properly insulated, and consider using vent covers to retain heat.
Hot Water Bottles
An old-fashioned yet effective way to keep warm. Fill up hot water bottles with hot water from a stove or campfire and place them in your sleeping bag.
Heating Options in a Tent or Camper Trailer:
If you’re camping in a tent or camper trailer, you have additional heating options to consider:
Portable Gas Heater: These heaters run on small gas canisters and provide effective heating. They are also very cost-effective and great for off-grid camping.
Electric Space Heater: If you have access to a power source, electric space heaters are readily available and can keep you warm during chilly nights.
Ceramic Heater with Generator: For camper trailers equipped with generators, ceramic heaters can be used to provide warmth.