There it goes. The sun. It finally saw autumn coming and decided to clock out for its shift on time. For some people, they are probably wiping their brows with relief. But we’re not some people. We’re campers. We want to camp; so camp we shall.
Just because we are heading for a typical grey, wet, and miserable UK winter, it doesn’t mean that we have to sit all season looking longingly at our underused camping gear. Here are some camping tips for a UK winter.
Hope for the best of times, pack for the worst of times
Before you leap off the sofa that is already bathed in an early evening shadow to grab your tent, think it through. The UK weather is unpredictable at the best of times, and you’re thinking of camping in the worst of times. And this is how you should pack.
Take extra clothing, food, and water. You will be needing these to stay warm when camping during the coldest months. Unexpected snowstorms or frost can cause hypothermia or create a hazardous terrain. Make sure you are ready to deal with cold weather.
Make sure you remain on the grid when camping in a UK winter
Are you the sort of person who likes camping because they can disappear from civilisation for a week or two? Whilst that is probably very tempting for you, in winter that is a dangerous idea. There is an increased possibility that you could have an accident or get ill. People will be worried.
Take your phone with you. Make sure it has charge. If you can exercise enough discipline to stay off social media during the day, they you may only need to send the occasional checking in text. You might be slightly less isolated than you would like, but you are that little bit safer.
Alternate between water and energy drinks with electrolytes
In the winter you don’t tend to drink as much as you do during the summer. Conversely, tasks can be more difficult in the boggy terrains and cold environments of winter. You need to make sure you are monitoring both your hydration and your energy levels.
Make sure you take a supply of energy or sports drinks with you to keep you upright and hydrated. The last thing you want is to become lethargic during cold winter months. You could become quickly ill.
Above all plan your UK winter camping trip thoroughly in advance
Any fans of Steven Seagal will remember that “chance favours the prepared mind”. Despite there being a chance of unpredictability, having done your research of the area and previous years’ weather will give you a good chance of being able to prep. Even if the reports are sketchy, make sure you know where the nearest shops, hospitals, and other amenities are.
It is good that you are not letting summer stop you from enjoying yourself in the countryside of Great Britain. Check out our shop if there is anything you need.
