A Beginners Guide To Car Camping In Cold Weather

When it comes to car camping in cold weather, having the right gear can make all the difference between a cold, miserable night and a toasty escape in nature. If you're someone who’s used to milder climates (hello, never-seen-snow folks!) and suddenly find yourself braving frosty mornings, here’s a setup designed to keep you warm, comfortable, and ready to face the elements. Stick around to the end where we’ve got our favorite expert tips that will have you car camping like a pro in no time! 

3 Reasons to Embrace Cold Weather This Season 

• Crowds are non-existent
  Most folks hear “snow” in the forecast and reach for the hot cocoa and Netflix – but not us! We find that exploring in wintery conditions only adds to the adventure. Winter camping means you get the trails, the views, and the campsites practically to yourself. No waiting in line for that Instagram-worthy vista or dealing with crowded campgrounds – it's just you and nature (and maybe a few brave deer).
  
  
• Beautiful Winter Landscapes
  Nothing quite compares to waking up to snow-dusted trees, frozen lakes, and a sunrise that feels like it's made just for you. Cold weather brings out a whole new side of nature's beauty, transforming familiar landscapes into icy wonderlands you’ll want to take in from every angle.
  
  
• You’re A True Camping Fanatic
  If the idea of cold-weather camping makes you smile instead of shiver, then let’s face it: you’re a camping purist. Rain or shine, hot or cold, you’re ready for the challenge and the reward that comes with each season's unique quirks. So throw on those layers, grab some gear, and lean into winter camping. 

Essentials for a Cold-Weather Setup

Let's start with the foundation of any cozy car camping setup: a reliable mattress. The Luno AIR+FOAM Pro Vehicle Mattress is more than just comfortable – it’s designed to keep you warm with an impressive R-value of over 11.  For those unfamiliar with the term R-value, it measures insulation, meaning this mattress keeps the cold air out and you toasty while sleeping, fully protected from the chilly ground beneath. This mattress is tailor fit to the back of your vehicle, creating a snug sleeping space.  Another bonus? If you're solo camping, try unzipping the mattress down the middle and bringing just one side. This leaves extra room for gear without the added bulk!

Organization is key when camping, especially when you need quick access to essential items. A collapsible storage container like the Rux 70L keeps all essentials in one place. 

Pro tip: store a can of soup (or your preferred shelf-stable meal) in your kit. It’s a reliable backup that could be your best friend if you’re ever caught out longer than planned.

When it’s cold outside, layers are your friend. For the ultimate warmth, invest in a sleeping bag rated for temperatures below what you expect to encounter. Pair it with a plush blanket and consider adding a sleeping bag liner for extra insulation – this liner from Sea-to-Summit is our favorite. The combination of these layers will keep you toasty no matter how frosty it gets outside. For those who find their feet turn into blocks of ice overnight, try this tried-and-true hack: fill a Nalgene with hot water and tuck it into the bottom of your sleeping bag. Instant warmth! 

A little bit of ambiance goes a long way. While not strictly essential, hanging some battery-powered Camping String Lights around your setup makes the space feel inviting … especially during these shockingly early 5 o’clock winter sunsets. It’s a small addition that adds a lot to the cozy factor, perfect for chilly evenings by the fire or winding down after a day of adventure.

Gear for Safety and Convenience

• Portable Power Source
  Cold temperatures can drain batteries fast, so a portable power station, like a Goal Zero, is worth bringing along. It’ll keep your devices like phones, laptops, or cameras charged and ready, even on the longest camping trips. Even power stations can feel the chill in cold temperatures, so keep yours in a warm spot inside your car. Pro tip: Sleep with your batteries tucked in your sleeping bag or wrap electronics snugly in a blanket to keep them cozy and functional!
  
  
• Collapsible Shovel for Unexpected Situations
  Snowy weather can be unpredictable, and having a collapsible shovel stowed away is a simple yet essential precaution. Whether it’s digging out snow or helping with campsite setup, a shovel is a good item to have on hand – especially if the forecast hints at snow. To be honest, this is a great piece of gear to keep in your car all winter long! 
  
  
• Headrest Organizer for Nighttime Munchies
  Winter camping burns calories, even while you’re sleeping! Pack high-calorie snacks (nuts, cheese, and chocolate – oh my!) and eat some before bed. This will keep your metabolism working overnight to keep your body warm. We like to keep our snacks in our Headrest Organizer to keep them accessible when we’ve got the munchies while in bed. 

4 Tips For Traveling Like a Pro

Car camping in cold weather has its perks, and one of them is the added layer of security. Being able to lock up and sleep in your car provides a sense of safety and comfort that you won’t find in traditional tent camping. If you want to read more about winter hazards to watch out for and prepare for, check out our blog post. With everything you need contained within your car, you can rest easy, knowing you’re protected from the elements. If you’re like us though, knowing these tips for peace of mind is a must. 

• Don’t Skimp On Your Tires
  Make sure to look for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol when researching – even vehicles with only two-wheel drive can still travel with more peace of mind because these are specifically rated for winter conditions to add more traction while traveling over icy roads.
   
• Condensation Is a Killer
  Cold-weather camping often means dealing with condensation, especially in the morning. A portable Car Camping Fan helps keep air moving inside your vehicle, reducing the dampness that can collect overnight. Additionally, you can find products that are designed to absorb moisture like silica gel packs or commercial dehumidifiers. 
  
  
• Research Your Route Beforehand
  Whether it’s checking webcams on mountain passes or using apps like OpenSnow or NOAA to check snow forecasts, ensure you already know road conditions before you ever start your engine. 
  
  
• Insulate Your Vehicle’s Windows
  Car windows are major culprits for heat loss, letting warmth escape and cold air seep in. Our best DIY hack? Buy a roll of Reflectix and cut window covers to fit each window for a custom-made insolation solution. 

The secret to an enjoyable cold-weather camping trip is preparation. With the right gear, a few warming hacks, and some thoughtful organization, you’ll be ready to handle anything Mother Nature throws your way. So, load up, layer up, and hit the road—your next adventure awaits. Happy camping, and remember to embrace the chilly morning!