So you’re ready to give car camping a try this winter? Great! There’s something special about watching the snow fall while snuggled up in a sleeping bag inside your warm, cozy car. But just like any other kind of camping, you’ll need a few essentials to make your trip a success.
Unsure of what they are? No problem! Here’s a list of the must-have winter car camping gear and tools to help get you started.
Table of Contents
Light Source
A reliable light source is one of the most essential tools you’ll need for car camping (or any kind of camping). After all, in low-light settings and environments, you need a dependable way to see everything around you.
Flashlights are always a good option, but look for lights designed for outdoor activities from reputable manufacturers. For example, Fenix Lighting has the perfect EDC flashlight for camping. The Fenix PD36R is a useful all-purpose flashlight that’s lightweight, has a long battery life, and is extremely durable – perfect for those cold, winter nights.
Headlamps are also a good option for car camping. They free up your hands so you can do things like cook dinner or set up your tent. And because they’re usually lighter, they won’t add too much weight to your pack.
Water Boiler
A water boiler is also a must-have addition to your car camping gear. This is a great way to heat water for coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. You can also use a water boiler to cook food if you don’t have access to a stove.
When choosing a water boiler for car camping, make sure it’s compact and lightweight. You don’t want something that will be a pain to carry around with you. Also, check that it has a good capacity. A water boiler with a capacity of 1 liter is usually plenty for car camping trips.
Pillow
A good, comfortable pillow is also a must. After all, you want to get a good night’s sleep so you’re well-rested and refreshed to enjoy the best parts of camping!
Pillows for car camping are typically the same as regular pillows, but they’re often made from foam or down feathers, making them more lightweight and compact. They also usually come with their own case, which is great for keeping them clean.
One of the best things about pillows for car camping is they’re easy to transport. You can just throw them in your bag and go! And because they’re so lightweight, they won’t add much weight to your camping gear. Another great thing about pillows for car camping is they’re usually quite affordable. So if you’re on a tight budget, this is a great option for sleeping comfortably while camping without breaking the bank.
Reflective Heat Mat
Another essential for car camping is a reflective heat mat. This is a great way to keep yourself warm, especially if you don’t have access to a fire. Just place the mat under your sleeping bag and it will reflect your body heat up to you, keeping you nice and warm all night.
When choosing a reflective heat mat for car camping, there are a few things to remember. For instance, ensure it’s big enough to fit under your mattress or your body. Also, ensure it has a good amount of insulation. And finally, make sure it’s durable and can withstand the elements.
The next time you find yourself bored on a winter weekend and have the itch to camp, consider giving car camping a try. With the proper preparation, it can be an incredibly fun and memorable experience you’ll want to repeat every year.