Creating a Restful Space

Regardless of season, comfort is so important to staying outdoors - and it’s essential to take things up a notch during colder months so you stay warm. This guide goes through creating a warm, restful space for your camp so you can get outside more when it is chilly.

It starts with your shelter

Take careful consideration on your tent or shelter choice as this is the central structure of your camp. While there’s an obvious limit to the amount of warmth a tent offers during the winter, choosing a two or three-season option (instead of a four-season) will mean lots of chilly nights. Look at options like the Land Lock, which is designed for year-round use - with features such as snow and mudflaps to keep moisture out. A spacious interior ensures you have room for both sleeping and gathering inside. Important as this means that you can enjoy sheltered comfort in any inclement weather. For winter camping trips, the ground sheet and mat area are a 'must' as they offer additional protection from the damp and cold.

Create your space

Once you have your shelter established, it’s time to consider what you need for a restful space. A good night’s sleep in the great outdoors starts with ensuring you are warm enough - therefore choosing a sleeping bag appropriate for the temperature. Quite simply: this is non-negotiable. An improper sleeping bag is at best a chilly night’s sleep and at worst, unsafe. Add further insulation from the ground by lying on an inflatable sleeping mat and using a pillow. If you get cold easily, bring an extra blanket or two to tuck into your sleeping bag, plus thick wool socks and a hat to wear as you sleep. Another alternative is to use a cot bed to increase your separation from the cold ground. This can also give you more storage space as you can keep your clothing and miscellaneous gear underneath, out of the way, to create an organised space.


 

Make yourself feel at home by adding some extras to your space. A low table for a book or lantern can further a true bedroom-style experience. Simple ground-style seating offers another option for lounging. Finally the addition of a cosy glow from your favourite camping light can set the mood for a restful night's sleep. Finally, it's also worth trying to keep the sleeping area wet and mud-free by taking off shoes or drying feet before you go into that space - although that might be difficult to explain to your four-legged friend who will no doubt want to be cosy too...