For most people just the thought of sleeping outdoors in the middle of winter is enough to send them running for their UGG boots! But here at Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay we think winter is one of the best times of year to head off on a family camping trip.
Not only will you skip the dreaded summer storms, but you’ll also find the night skies are mostly dry and cloudless, making it the perfect time to get your binoculars out and try your hand at star spotting. Camping in winter also means they’ll be less bugs and insects, and you’ll generally find less crowds than summer -meaning you can nab yourself a prime camping spot! But of course our favourite thing about camping in winter is snuggling up to a warm campfire, toasting marshmallows, and sipping hot chocolates.
Here in Byron Bay we’re very lucky that our days are generally sunny and warm all year round, but our winter nights can still get a little chilly! To help your family enjoy the many benefits of camping in winter, we’ve put together a few handy tips that will keep you warm and snug.
-
Sleeping set-up
If you’re a serious summer camper, then no doubt you already have a good quality sleeping bag. To make it winter ready simply invest in a thermal sleeping bag liner to add an extra layer of insulation. They aren’t overly expense and will save you storage space from not having to buy another bulky sleeping bag.
Speaking on insulation, one of our must do tips for camping in winter is to make sure you pack a sleeping mat to separate your mattress from the freezing cold ground! You can use either a thick blanket or even Mum’s yoga mat! This will do wonders to stop your mattress from turning into an ice block.
-
Remember the 3 layer rule
When it comes to packing your bag keep in mind the golden 3 –layer- clothing rule. Your first layer should be your base for warmth – think soft and natural fibres that are nice and snug. Your second layer is for insulation, which will trap your own body heat. Go for comfy fleece or wool jumpers. Your final layer is for weather protection and really important if you plan on heading out for a late night stroll along the beach. Think wind and rain resistant jackets!
For the kids don’t forget to throw in their beanies, UGG boots, gloves, and favourite blankets.
-
Fill up on comfort foods
During winter your body is using extra energy to keep yourself warm, which means it’s the perfect time to fill up on hearty comfort camping food. Cook up your favourite stew, beef chilli, or curry at home and then simply reheat it on your campfire. For something warm to sip on, make sure to bring your favourite hot chocolate, or mulled wine for Mum and Dad. This is also the perfect excuse to reach for another toasted marshmallow!
-
Get that campfire going
Is it really a winter camping trip if there’s no campfire? Here at Byron Bay Holiday Park we’re all ready for winter campfires with our brand new fire bowls, which our guests can hire during their holiday. These are perfect for the whole family to gather round. Just make sure to keep you eye on small children, and always put your fire out before heading to bed.
-
Use your tents ventilation
Before heading off to bed, be sure to leave your tent a little unzipped or undo your tent’s ventilation screen. We know what you’re thinking – why would you want to let the cold air in?! But hear us out on this tip. If you keep your tent airtight during the night, your breathing will cause extra condensation, which will lead to extra moisture. Trust us when we say that there is nothing worse than waking up in a cold and damp sleeping bag or tent.
Bonus tip: There’s nothing worse than waking up in the middle of a winter’s night and having to put on your UGG boots and jacket, find your torch, and run across the campground to the amenity block. Make sure to limit your drinks to a few hours before bedtime to reduce the need for a freezing cold bathroom trip.
If you need any more reasons to take the family camping in winter, make sure to check out our favourite reasons for camping in winter here.
