Sleeping Bag -N- Winter Camping

By  C. Thomas Wetherald

Allow me to guide you through the aspects of a  winter camping trip and your choice of sleeping bag- please read the following paragraphs.

We know planning a vacation is the most important part, especially if you are considering a winter camping trip. Camping in the middle of winter should not be taken lightly, it will be vastly different from a summer family camping trip.

 There are unique challenges, to state the obvious you will be facing much colder weather and, possibly, higher wind speeds, sleet rain and snow. It has been said that "there is no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes" and this is very true in respect to winter camping. If you use the wrong or unsuitable equipment you could be putting your life in danger. For example, if you arrive to explore Indiana in the winter wearing little more than you would in the summer frost bite will be a sure thing.

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Indiana is a wonderful destination for an invigorating winter vacation, the scenery is sensational and  accessible. Every year the emergency services risk their lives in search of poorly equipped people who have given little or no thought for safety's sake.

There are a few basic precautions you can take to ensure personal safety when camping in the winter. The number one thing you should do is to let people know your plans, if you are going to do any hiking let someone know your route, departure time and the expected time of arrival back at camp. Do study the weather forecast for the area. In many places the weather can change within minutes and a nice sunny day can suddenly change into a life threatening snowstorm, this is true for the whole State of  Indiana and can surprise even some of the most 

responsible campers. It is fairly easy to check the weather forecast online with many websites offering a five day local forecast.

Camping equipment should be carefully chosen and thoroughly checked before departure. When purchasing a sleeping bag it is crucial that you check  the manufacture's tag to ensure that it is suitable for winter use, so many sleeping bags look suitable but fall  short of meeting a real life test. Do not purchase a cheap alternative when for just a little more you can be sure of having the most suitable equipment. Remember during colder months, you are going to need a sleeping bag that is rated for colder temperatures. 

 Also you will need to consider is your clothing. Good footwear is needed because it's incredibly uncomfortable to have wet and cold feet, it can also be dangerous.

You must protect the extremities, quality walking boots (even carry a spare pair) and well insulated gloves are needed. We loose most of our body heat through our heads so wear high quality head gear, together with a waterproof/weatherproof outer wear (ski suits are great) and you are covered.

If you are planning a camping vacation in Indiana this winter you will find that Indianapolis has everything you will need for your vacation from climbing equipment to the power bars.

The large supermarkets will have drinks and food available if you have forgotten something.  I live in central Indiana and I prepaired this article in the event you’re planning an Indiana winter trip and how to take some precautions.

When you make your decision upon the destination you should familiarize yourself with the area you plan to visit. Your time and effort in reading this article is much appreciated.

Please continue to browse through my website and read some of the many other sleeping bag articles I have online for you.