Staying warm or cool - All weather camping

Depending on your location, temperatures can vary by quite a wide margin. You should have some indication as to what the temperatures will be while on your camping holiday. The best place for this information is NOAA. You should also visit your states website to find average temperatures for that time of the year.

Staying cool on warm days requires very little know how.
Use a fan or misting fan to circulate air. Sweating actually takes heat away from your body if it is exposed to air and allowed to evaporate.
Wear lightweight clothing, made from materials such as CoolMax. These types of fabrics wick sweat away from your body for evaporation.
Wear light colored clothing, dark colors will absorb UV rays from the sun.
Canopies and screen tents provide cooler areas than a enclosed camping tent.
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or sports drinks. Chilled fluids will also help keep you cool.
Sun block will also help repel the sun and can keep you cooler.
Find shaded areas with lots of trees to setup your campsite.
A zip lock baggie filled with ice cubes can provide instant relief.
Use a 2 or 3 season tent with roof screens.

Keeping warm on cool days is fairly simple too.
Building a campfire is simple and provides plenty of warmth.
Wear heavyweight clothing, made from materials such as Wool or windproof fabrics with insulation such as Thinsulate.
If your have electric power available, a portable heater can keep your tent warm and cozy. Use electric heaters with extreme caution, keep away from all fabrics and combustibles.
Use a 4 season tent, these tents are designed for year round use and usually feature things like a full coverage fly and seams that are tape sealed.
Keep tent window flaps closed, some fresh air is needed to keep moisture from building up inside your camping tent.
Propane heaters produce high amounts of heat but should not be used indoors or inside tents.
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or coffee. Warmed fluids will also help keep you warm.
A sleeping bag rated to temperatures you encounter will keep you sleeping through out the night.
Exercise by walking / running in place or push ups can get your body warmed quickly.
Snuggle with your pet. Animal fur is always a good way to stay warm.

The most important aspect of your camping trip is your camping equipment. Is it wise to take only what you think you need? It is wise to know you will need! This usually comes from experience. If you think you might need it, take it with you. I can't tell you how many times i though i had everything i needed only to find out the weather changed unexpectedly and i did not have what i really did need. One of the best things you can do is make a camping check list for different times of the year. The first item on your list should be a First Aid Kit. We hope this has enlightened you on the ways to stay cool or warm on your next camping trip.

Author: Byron Tabor
Copyright: 2009

Courtesy of PracticalSports.com