This is a wealth of information not just for people intending to hike out into the wilderness, but also for people who are just simply putting together emergency preparedness kits. Which is what I'm doing.
One tip from a Colorado camper: I put a SOL sport utility blanket (reflective and very durable) as a ground cloth under everything. Shiny side up. Then insulated sleeping pad, bag, etc. Best way I’ve found to completely stop conductive heat loss to the ground and reflect heat back to your body.
Great tip! This one? Survive Outdoors Longer Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket: amzn.to/3ZfaT37 Also found this - I'll have to get them and try it out: Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket: amzn.to/3SnOwq2
Here is my tip after multiple Nepal Treks in high altitude: When you feel, you're loosing warmth through your mattress, put your Gore Tex Jacket under you sleeping bag, on the mattress. Most likely it is the hip area. It makes an amazing difference. Other tips he mentioned and I fully agree and always employ, even when camping in my home country in the cold season: Wear clean long underwear and woolen socks, reserved for sleeping. Wear a hat. Use a liner or a thinner synthetic sleeping bag inside, e.g. your summer/ tropical bag, even more so, if you have to use your down bag in humid or rainy condition. Air your down bag, e.g. during lunch break, when it's warmest and dryest. Air your sleeping underwear. Use enough insulation from the ground. Eat enough calories, especually from fat. Tibetans don't drink their tea with butter for no reason. Things I do different: I may warm my bag up with a hot bottle, but I never sleep with it. Why? You might crush the bottle and it leaks or you crush your back on the bottle and pinch a nerve and can't move for days or weeks. Both a total desaster on trips with no short exit option.
Thanks for the pointers! In really cold places, I have had to keep my boiling hot water bottles in the sleeping bag, otherwise they'll freeze (sometimes completely solid) by the morning.
@@ALinsdau i understand this. It happened to me only a few times. I don't mind since I warmed it up in the heated kitchen of the family back then. I never trekked in such extreme cold like you. It happened to me once to injure my back with a bottle at night. Never again, I can tell you...and it doesn't get any better with age. 😆
@@Jane_Friday I place the water bottle against my belly or under my arms when i get into the sleeping bag, but when i start falling asleep, i move it by my feet. I've also started using a soft water bottle, like the nalgene Cantene or the platypus Softbottle, that works a treat. I wrap the bottle in a wool hat, sock, buff, t-shirt, neoprene whatever, much more so if it's a hard plastic bottle, prevents burns if boiling hot, and makes it much more comfie.
Totally agree about the hat. I just moved from a warm part of the country to 500 miles north, and I can tell you factually that hats make a huge difference. You dont realise it when the temperature gradient is low, but when the temperature gradient between you and the environment is high, you REALLY appreciate how much thermal energy you lose from your head. Anyone who goes outside in winter with a fresh crewcut will attest to this. At rest and unstressed, 25% of the bodies energy is actually consumed by your brain. Now if one quarter of your bodies calories are being consumed inside your skull bucket, I reckon it makes sense to put a wool cap on that thing. Happy camping.
I have a Cocoon Merino liner, and it was better than any other liner. I use an Exped Downmatt 9. I live in the arctic. I climbed Denali as well, and all the local Chugach mountains. I also put my parka on top or under my matt and my boots with hand chemical warmers in them, in a trash bag in the footbox of my sleeping bag. I sleep in merino as well.I use one of those quilted emergency "blankets" under my sleeping pad as a carpet in my tent, shiny side up. I am big on chemical handwarmers. Awesome tips, love your books and your channel.
For the same weight or less than a liner, metalyzed Tyvek is breathable and can provide better warmth from outside the bag. Many liners are metalyzed, but the metalyzed layer is most effective when placed furthest from the body. This is because humidity tends to freeze just outside the radiant-barrier (metal-layer) and one doesn't want water freezing inside the down of their sleeping-bag. It's also easier to regulate temperatures with external layers vs internal. (more...) Because, while this video is about increasing bag warmth, the deadliest cold weather error is a bag too warm and waking up drenched in sweat.
Combine tips # 13 & 14! Pee in a water bottle (a dedicated one might be preferable... I use a soft, collapsable Nalgene Cantene now), and use that as a hot water bottle. Not as hot as boiling water, but it takes a bit of the edge off when not crazy cold outside, helps feel comfie while falling asleep. Good tips, thanks for taking the time to list and explain them.
I've recently added the Silk Western Mountaineering Sleeping Bag Liner, however, I'm using it more as a way of keeping the SB interior clean rather than a way to sleep warmer inside my WM Antelope w/GWS outer. Buff Headgear a Military 100% wool watch cap, IceBreaker Merino wool top & bottoms, thick pair of Smart Wool Merino wool socks, and GooseFeet 100% overfilled Down booties to keep the tootsies comfy warm. MSR XTherm is my inflatable air mattress, love that 70D ground side material. Warm regards from Reno Nevada.
Great advice on liners and layers. I recently went on a very rainy and cool camp in the Scottish highlands. I took a British Army surplus jungle sleeping bag that was way past its prime. However, I took it with a cotton liner and a Gor Tex outer. It was plenty warm enough. A crap sleeping bag with multiple crap layers is frequently better than one sleeping bag that isnt quite rated to the task. (I also pack space blankets if things get really bad lol)
@@ALinsdau Its absolutely beautiful mate, I hope you have a superb trip. Based on having a few trips now my humble advice would be ..... Obsess about researching the weather forecast, and learn the local foibles. Some areas have almost unique local weather patterns which are worth being aware of. Some coastal areas can suddenly gust and the chill factor is brutal. Similarly, some areas slightly inland can be shockingly warmer than expected. Study the forecast but also try and read something specific to the location where you are going. Prepare for rain .... and I mean "Long periods of rain, punctuated by heavier bouts of rain". The weather can be incredibly pleasant, the nights warm, BUT ... be prepared for the fact that it might be raining when you show up, and rain until you leave. Consider the size of tent you take based on the above rain factor. I took a tiny 1-man tent on my last trip and regretted it. If it rains non-stop you will have to do all of your personal admin in your tent. If your tent is so tiny you cant do that... well you are going to be getting changed out in the rain. Similarly, having a bit more room in your tent means space for drying stuff, generally being able to function under cover. Take a midge net to cover your head. Two trips were fine, but on one trip the sun came out briefly and I got badly savaged my midges and mosquitos. If the weather is just right, and its the midge season, the midges can be an absolutely biblical plague. Research your intended camping location. Mostly Scotland is Right-to-Roam and wild camping is a protected activity, but certain areas like Loch Lomond National Park have very restricted camping locations during the camping season (April to November I think). You can only wild camp on specific sites, that you need to book in advance, and some of them are absolutely terrible. Im talking semi-flooded, boggy, or hard to access wearing a pack. All the research you do in advance will pay dividends. I hope you have a great trip mate. Its beautiful country and absolutely worth seeing.
@I W Tbh mate I tend to opt for foam pads, or an army surplus folding bed pad. They are not as comfortable or as warm as thermarest-type pads but they dont spring leaks and deflate on you.
Great tips. I've also had good luck putting my light down jacket down inside the toe box of my sleeping bag and using it as a little sleeping bag just for my feet.
Thank you!!! I am currently living on an unisolated boat in Scandinavia, it hasn’t gotten really cold yet, but next week is looking heavy, now I could use my diesel heater, but that’s just expensive and I don’t wanna.
That's a blanket statement. In summer , on the hottest days, i wet a cotton shirt, hat, along with cotton gloves. Keeps me cool and at times, cold. Very nice ...
,,I went at Dead Valley with a blanket,, That was most epic story i heard this year ,wish you all good and thanks for the knowledge ,it helped me a lot.
Great video and it sounds like you've been to some cold places but... You've never known cold like a 1c wet dank evening in Grimsby UK. That cold gets in your bones and never leaves you 😅
@@ALinsdau I'm sure you already have a plan but if you go to the Lake District I can highly recommend a campsite called Chapel house farm campsite. A great base for weeks of walking in the hills. If you want to wild camping in the hills the same area is great, Borrowdale or Seathwaite area in the Lakes.
Love the tips. I wish I had the stones to venture into deadly weather. I'd love to have a 120.00 dollar sleeping bag let alone a $1200 dollar sleeping bag.
Ah, another one: Neoprene socks - they keep the feet really warm and if you ever have to get out of the sleeping bag, you can also walk with them. As a hunter I can only recommend them especially in cold and moist weather conditions. And they weigh little, are very small in pack size.
Another thing is campsite location. Not really as much you can do mountaineering, but avoid streams wet places and really windy/drafty areas. The less outdoor cold=less indoor cold :)
One tip is to put a mylar blanket on top of your mattress... And for some reason it has helped me more than putting it underneath it (as a ground cloth). Makes for a slippery bed but keeps off the cold from the ground. Before i started doing that i could alwas feel the cold from underneath in winter months, even though my mattress is snow/ ice rated.
Thanks for the video. It was awesome and there are some new tips for me.:) I've got one question though. How do you use the down boots in combination with your VBL? If you put on anything but your baselayer in the VBL, it will get really wet inside, won't it? (Sry for any mistakes, I'm still learning the language. And second question: When do you start using your VBL, I mean like at which temperature?
I just put the down booties on & crawl into the VBL. nothing gets soaked. It’s just not great but it beats freezing. I add the VBL when I can’t warm up after an hour in whatever bag I’m using. That’s usually extremely cold. I’ve only needed to use it in Antarctica on -50 and below days.
Had a cold night on a trip in ANWR, and the following evening is said “screw that”. Hot Tang right before bed, wore a hat, layed my coats over my bag, and wore booties and a fleece jacket. Almost hot every night after that. But I really think it was the hot Tang above all. Hot sugar right as you get in and loose the initial heat to warm the bag makes a huge difference.
This man goes camping in life threatening cold weather and I'm just trying to make sure my child and I don't freeze if we lose power this winter. I have a tent to put up inside. I have those reflective emergency blankets that I'll line the floor of the tent with, a mattress pad that goes on the bed and makes you hot. I'll layer the reflective blankets over the outside, shiny side down, and cover it with blankets as well. I plan to tape it down with painters tape. I just bought a tetco double sleeping Fahrenheit bag rated at 0F and the polyester sheet liner that goes with it and is supposed to increase it to -10F. I also have 1 king 950 fill weight duvet and 1 twin 950 fill weight duvet. I have some handwarmers, lots of them that are supposed to last 18 hours, and a 20watt pet heating pad as well as a 50watt car blanket. We also have appropriate winter clothing and outdoor gear. Is there anything else you can think of that might help? I've already gotten firewood and and emergency heater but those won't be in use while sleeping. I also have a lantern and damp rid to put inside the tent.
Is your house drywall or brick? also how well is it insulated. might sound obvious but also CLOSE ALL YOUR WINDOWS, if you have towels, put them below the empty space beneath the door to the room you'll be staying in
The dome was actually removed several years before I reached the South Pole. A new station on raised legs was placed there to better survive the drifting snow.
Check out the Ozark Trail 10 deg sleeping bag for $40 USD: www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-10F-with-Soft-liner-camping-Mummy-Sleeping-Bag-for-Adults-Red/500505553 No guarantees but can't get much cheaper than this.
Thank you Aaron. Very informative for the warmer season camper doing his 1st winter outing (a mere 20 plus, but no joke to the greenhorn). Keeping hands warm while using them for tasks may become an issue for me. Any suggestions?
Always keep your liner gloves on at all times. It makes a huge difference. Also check out my book, How to Keep Your Feet Warm in the Cold: amzn.to/3r5vwNZ
First of all, thanks for all this tips! May I ask you something? If I need to combine a -15 C down sleeping bag (allegedly extreme rate) with a 0C (allegadly extreme rate) synthetic sleeping bag, wich one should be closer to my body? The synthetic or the down? I am in Argentina and normally humidity is very high. Temperature may drop to around -5C.
Put the down next to you to prevent moisture buildup. That's what some people do in the Arctic. Curious - why would you just not use the -15ºC bag when it's only -5ºC?
@@ALinsdau because that is the extreme rate, not the confort rate, and I'm always cold (I am a quite thin woman). Sleeping bags available in my country (as most of the gear) are very limited and expensive due to import limitations. So the -15 (allegedly!) may be around +5 to a 0 confort. It is not a good quality down, and, it's an hybrid, as lower part is synthetic. But that is the best I can get in my budget. (It cost $200 us dollars here while a kinda good one costs $800-$1000 same temperature rate) Due to import restrictions and taxes, we are sold cheap Chinese bad quality items at an extremely expensive cost
When I did my first winter camping trip, the outside of the sleeping bag had condensation and was getting icy. Why? How do I prevent this? I was also in a summer tent, it was only around -5C at night. there was plenty of ventilation in the tent.
at 4:45 you talked about order of mats. for increasing our value or warped. I would've thought the rigid one i.e. the folding one would go on the bottom and the air mattress will go on top. just checking to understand it better
@@ALinsdau Wow, I would've had it exactly opposite. I would've thought putting the hard mattress on bottom would dramatically improve the air mattress. Good to know I will try both I would've never thought to try ridged on top at all
I tried the Mylar blanket inside my bag on a cold night and i nearly froze. Luckily it was a experiment in my front yard. The Mylar reflected to much heat back made my bag cold that made the Mylar cold. Before that I started sweating a little not much and the Mylar didn’t let the sweat escape so I was wet when i woke up. Tried it again but with the Mylar on the outside of the sleeping bag and was warm, not sweating and comfortable. I did this with a 40 degree down sleeping bag and it was in the low 30s both nights.
Hmm what system could we build for keeping warm rocks inside the bag. warm temp proof cover around the rock, then maybe wool, and then some type of temp controller layer. Ideas? :D
Cold Feet tip: Skip the booties. Throw a couple hand warmers down by your feet, ALONG with any battery powered devices, and your water filter. Booties may keep your feet warm, but they won't help keep anything else warm. Unless you can keep your battery powered devices warm, and your water filter from freezing, your trip will be cut short. Hand warmers will keep even bare feet warm, and save your precious devices from freezing.
His idea to move the down to your chest is interesting. I discovered that putting a folded sweater or folded shirt on your chest and stomach inside the sleeping bag will warm you up big time. Don’t wear it, put it on your chest. Also I can attest a big steak for dinner will make you burn up while your sleeping. Good tips. 👍👍
Hi thx for the great tips. I’m starting off my adventures with winter camping in Norway this year but in a Hamok so any other tips for that approach thx
Don't forget the value of chemical heaters. Good that you referenced cotton. A number of prime retail outdoor suppliers sell flannel (cotton) for winter outdoor clothing. I've sent an email to one of them without a reply. What stupidity for selling potential hypothermia (when wet) to the public.
Great Channel Great info! So from your experience mat insulation is additive? Is it more effective to put the ccf mat on TOP of the inflatable one than the other way around? If it's a very thin cheapo ccf blue mat, can I put it INSIDE the bag? What would be best?
Yes, insulation is additive. I use the foam to prevent the nylon cold soaking chill effect. I wouldn't put anything in my bag, though. Put the foam between your bag and the air mat. Strap them together if possible so they don't separate.
Thank you for your great and comprehensive videos! I am considering to get a Western Mountaineering sleeping bag to mainly use for hiking trips in northern scandinavia in late summer/fall. During this time night temperatures are just above freezing depending on elevation, but can drop down to around 17°F/-8°C. I think the 15°F/-9°C Apache bag would be suitable for me. However, it would be great to have the possibility to increase warmth by adding the Western Mountaineering Everlite as an overbag, in case i want to do tours during colder seasons later on. Western Mountaineering claims, that it adds around 10°F in warmth. And i could always add another liner bag. Maybe, this way i could get a sleep system suitable for even colder nights, without having to get the very warm Antelope bag? The weight difference between the Antelope and my proposed combination is around 200g, which is reasonable to me. Plus, The Everlite bag would be a nice summer bag for typical warm mid-european summers which would come in very handy for me. It would be a big investment, but getting two cold weather bags would be even more expensive. These would be my first Western mountaineering bags. I would be very thankful to hear your thoughts on this since you have so much experience! Thank you and keep the good content coming! :)
The versatility of the two bag system is pretty slick. It's a good way to avoid having to purchase too many bags. My experience has been I didn't want to mess with managing 2 bags on a cold weather trip, so I broke down and bought the Antelope. I've had the Antelope about 20 years and don't regret the expense at all.
@@ALinsdau Thanks for your prompt answer! Yes, i guess carrying two bags is more chaotic but it would hopefully be an exception. I thought a lot about getting an Antelope too, but i am not sure if it would be an overkill for my purposes. I don't think i will do Arctic/Greenland or High-Alpine trips anytime soon, if ever. And once it gets considerably above freezing (40-50°F) it might get too hot for a 5°F/-15°C bag, right?
Very helpful. Now I know why my toes froooze a few weeks ago at Alamo Lake AZ. Two pairs of cotton socks did nothing. Thank You! Adding chapters to the video would be nice.
@@ALinsdau My socks came today and hopefully will be trying them out Friday night. I'm running away from home. Selling house, car, everything and going to try to stay out for 2 years on my motorcycle. Also just got SeatToSummit sleeping bag liner. I've had those emergency blankets but didn't know to put it inside my sleeping bag. I learned a lot from this one video. Thank You!
Hi Aaron, thanks for the awesomely informative videos! I've used a lot of these tips on my most recent back country mule deer hunting trip 2 weekends ago here in North Dakota where temps were in the teens most nights. My question is where would a vapor barrier liner fit in the sleep system if/when using it with a sleeping bag liner? Would it be vapor barrier first, then sleeping bag liner then sleeping bag or liner first then vapor barrier then sleeping bag or omit the sleeping bag liner altogether? Thanks!
I'd do the liner against you, then go inside the VBL, then go inside the sleeping bag. If you're having to do that, you might want to consider upgrading your sleeping bag. It'd be far less work to get in and out of. Enjoy your North Dakota hunting!
@@ALinsdau I'm currently saving up for a much better sleeping bag & figuring out which western mountaineering bag I want to get, but holy sticker shock for the price on them! Having never seen one of them in person before I really hope they're worth it!
@@ChainmailQueen they are I just used the puma micro fiber it was -20f and windy so more like -35f I only had a ridge rest and I was not cold. Although I will be getting a better sleeping pad 😂
ALinsdau Nothing specific but usually people enjoy scenery, tent setup, cooking, campfire, breakfast. Here is a good channel that does excellent videography th-cam.com/users/fagelguiden
i use a plain, no logo hockey shirt over my light coat or down jacket to protect my it , when i cut and carry wood , good for bike ride to, walk around the camp site, for wind and snow protection over my clothes and coat + a good layer against crusty icy melt snow + i find it is better to have a flash amber burn hole on it then on my expensif coat when i do fire, and i can dry it fast to go sleep. AND i can open my coat under if i want to make air circulation and prevent over-heating when i walk without losing wind barrier or flappy coat sides in the wind, when i have my backpack. ( you can add funny name on the back if you want and leather patch on the shoulders and elbows pad for protection like english hunting vest or commando sweater, but no big crest and vynile pictures on the back, it keeps humidity, back sweat ) .
How do you deal with the problem of breathing the cold air? Is there any face covering that you suggest that will will let out moisture from breathing while blocking the cold?
Great video. Got quite a few tips to implement in my out and about activities. But, what do you do with your clothes that you’ve been wearing during the day (the sweaty or moist clothes)? Do you put them in a waterproof bag and stuff it in your sleeping bag?
I put the day's clothes in my sleeping bag but not in a waterproof bag. If you do that, they won't dry. I carry separate clothes for sleeping so I can dry out my day clothes.
@@ALinsdau Than you for your answer. But doesn’t the moisture from the sweaty clothes transfer to the sleeping bag? Isn’t that a worry? I would think keeping the down bag as moisture free as possible would be a priority?
Use all 20 tips & it'd probably keep ya warm in outer space lol Would using 2 sleeping bags, one inside the other, be effective or ineffective ? Thanks 4 taking time to make vid & share tips. Subscribed & liked.
Thanks for the valuable tips. We would all do well if we listened & learned more often from those far more experienced than we are. Thumbs up on this video. I especially liked the advice about putting a blanket on top. I was wondering if you have any thoughts on top quilts & using a blanket under the quilt for increased warmth. I understand using it between my body & sleeping pad but I mean over my body under my quilt. I have had fairly good success with this but I would very much appreciate your opinion. Obviously a blanket inside a sleeping bag would most likely compress the insulation.
I found a down blanket a nice addition to add 15 or so. Used a Nemo Riff 30 down to past its comfort rating and was legit warm still. Loft is important, don't squish it.
Just came across your channel recently and enjoy it. Binge watched a number of your cold weather tips and liked them. As I looked through your video collection I did not notice much on cooking and eating aside from opening canned goods and that you enjoyed freeze dried. On your antarctic adventure what was your primary food source, was it just freeze dried or did you go old school pemmican and cubes of butter rolled in brown sugar? What were you using for a stove system to produce your water supply and provide heated meals. Was it white gas/namptha, alcohol or did you find a way to get canister stoves to work in the cold? Thank you and stay safe.
If your bag was totally dry, according to Western Mountaineering, it should recover: www.westernmountaineering.com/faqs/ Quote from their site: "Contrary to popular belief, bags stored compressed can get their loft back as long as they were stored dry. NEVER store a bag wet. If you accidentally store a bag compressed, take it out and shake it vigorously. If the down is very compacted try putting it in the dryer on no heat with tennis balls. If this still does not fully get the loft back the down may be clumped due to moisture and dirt from use and is in need of washing."
Just curious. While I know weight might be a bit of an issue would it pay to use an insulated dual wall water bottle in cold weather? Traveling in the desert heat if you don't use an insulated bottle you end up with scolding Hot water during the day. With one you have cold water all day.
The whole point of an insulated (usually double walled stainless steel) bottle is it keeps the temperature inside the bottle different from what's outside the bottle. Using an insulated bottle would keep the heat from getting to your feet!
@@zugmeister314 I understand that. I was talking about keeping your water from freezing without having to put it inside your sleeping bag. When you are on a multi day winter hike (something I do quite often) hot water is not something you're guaranteed to have. Maybe if you carry a stove but I never do.
I often carry a 2 cup Stainless thermos I heat up boiling water and pour it into the thermos with instant coffee. The 1/2 cup screwed to the top give me constant hot coffee.
I'd get the Apache - you have an additional 5 degrees to work with and it'll be more versatile. March in the Smokey Mountains isn't too cold at all, but right after a storm the temps tend to drop a lot. For an additional 3 ounces, you can comfortably handle many winter situations, too. I've slept in my Megalite in the Sierras on snow in quite cold conditions in December. For safety, I don't recommend it though, but that's just me. I would take my Antelope now, and be very toasty.
Oh I wished I had watched this before I went camping in the snow last winter... I was so scared of getting cold so I jumped in my thick down sleeping bag with literally 5 jackets(some even down) and just as many hats haha. And I was still freezing! :D
This is a wealth of information not just for people intending to hike out into the wilderness, but also for people who are just simply putting together emergency preparedness kits. Which is what I'm doing.
Thanks!
Wealth is right word because that what your going to have need to follow these tips.
One tip from a Colorado camper: I put a SOL sport utility blanket (reflective and very durable) as a ground cloth under everything. Shiny side up. Then insulated sleeping pad, bag, etc. Best way I’ve found to completely stop conductive heat loss to the ground and reflect heat back to your body.
Great tip! This one?
Survive Outdoors Longer Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket: amzn.to/3ZfaT37
Also found this - I'll have to get them and try it out:
Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket: amzn.to/3SnOwq2
Here is my tip after multiple Nepal Treks in high altitude: When you feel, you're loosing warmth through your mattress, put your Gore Tex Jacket under you sleeping bag, on the mattress. Most likely it is the hip area. It makes an amazing difference.
Other tips he mentioned and I fully agree and always employ, even when camping in my home country in the cold season: Wear clean long underwear and woolen socks, reserved for sleeping. Wear a hat. Use a liner or a thinner synthetic sleeping bag inside, e.g. your summer/ tropical bag, even more so, if you have to use your down bag in humid or rainy condition. Air your down bag, e.g. during lunch break, when it's warmest and dryest. Air your sleeping underwear.
Use enough insulation from the ground. Eat enough calories, especually from fat. Tibetans don't drink their tea with butter for no reason.
Things I do different: I may warm my bag up with a hot bottle, but I never sleep with it. Why? You might crush the bottle and it leaks or you crush your back on the bottle and pinch a nerve and can't move for days or weeks. Both a total desaster on trips with no short exit option.
Thanks for the pointers! In really cold places, I have had to keep my boiling hot water bottles in the sleeping bag, otherwise they'll freeze (sometimes completely solid) by the morning.
@@ALinsdau i understand this. It happened to me only a few times. I don't mind since I warmed it up in the heated kitchen of the family back then. I never trekked in such extreme cold like you.
It happened to me once to injure my back with a bottle at night. Never again, I can tell you...and it doesn't get any better with age. 😆
@@Jane_Friday I place the water bottle against my belly or under my arms when i get into the sleeping bag, but when i start falling asleep, i move it by my feet. I've also started using a soft water bottle, like the nalgene Cantene or the platypus Softbottle, that works a treat. I wrap the bottle in a wool hat, sock, buff, t-shirt, neoprene whatever, much more so if it's a hard plastic bottle, prevents burns if boiling hot, and makes it much more comfie.
@@DominiqueB as you like it... really.. i wouldn't take that risk.
Totally agree about the hat.
I just moved from a warm part of the country to 500 miles north, and I can tell you factually that hats make a huge difference. You dont realise it when the temperature gradient is low, but when the temperature gradient between you and the environment is high, you REALLY appreciate how much thermal energy you lose from your head. Anyone who goes outside in winter with a fresh crewcut will attest to this. At rest and unstressed, 25% of the bodies energy is actually consumed by your brain. Now if one quarter of your bodies calories are being consumed inside your skull bucket, I reckon it makes sense to put a wool cap on that thing. Happy camping.
This is the type of content that keeps me searching TH-cam. Great work. Actual experience not a youtube hero. Well done.
Wow, thanks!
I have a Cocoon Merino liner, and it was better than any other liner. I use an Exped Downmatt 9. I live in the arctic. I climbed Denali as well, and all the local Chugach mountains. I also put my parka on top or under my matt and my boots with hand chemical warmers in them, in a trash bag in the footbox of my sleeping bag. I sleep in merino as well.I use one of those quilted emergency "blankets" under my sleeping pad as a carpet in my tent, shiny side up. I am big on chemical handwarmers. Awesome tips, love your books and your channel.
Thank you so much - stay safe out there.
For the same weight or less than a liner, metalyzed Tyvek is breathable and can provide better warmth from outside the bag. Many liners are metalyzed, but the metalyzed layer is most effective when placed furthest from the body. This is because humidity tends to freeze just outside the radiant-barrier (metal-layer) and one doesn't want water freezing inside the down of their sleeping-bag. It's also easier to regulate temperatures with external layers vs internal. (more...)
Because, while this video is about increasing bag warmth, the deadliest cold weather error is a bag too warm and waking up drenched in sweat.
Thanks for the comments.
Combine tips # 13 & 14! Pee in a water bottle (a dedicated one might be preferable... I use a soft, collapsable Nalgene Cantene now), and use that as a hot water bottle. Not as hot as boiling water, but it takes a bit of the edge off when not crazy cold outside, helps feel comfie while falling asleep.
Good tips, thanks for taking the time to list and explain them.
Good tips!
I've recently added the Silk Western Mountaineering Sleeping Bag Liner, however, I'm using it more as a way of keeping the SB interior clean rather than a way to sleep warmer inside my WM Antelope w/GWS outer.
Buff Headgear a Military 100% wool watch cap, IceBreaker Merino wool top & bottoms, thick pair of Smart Wool Merino wool socks, and GooseFeet 100% overfilled Down booties to keep the tootsies comfy warm.
MSR XTherm is my inflatable air mattress, love that 70D ground side material.
Warm regards from Reno Nevada.
The liner is a great idea to keep the bag cleaner. Plus its warmer for a very small added weight.
Thanks. These tips are real helpful. Lord willing, I’ll be hiking the CDT in Spring of 2023.. I’ll remember all these tips.
Great advice on liners and layers.
I recently went on a very rainy and cool camp in the Scottish highlands. I took a British Army surplus jungle sleeping bag that was way past its prime. However, I took it with a cotton liner and a Gor Tex outer. It was plenty warm enough. A crap sleeping bag with multiple crap layers is frequently better than one sleeping bag that isnt quite rated to the task. (I also pack space blankets if things get really bad lol)
Great pointers! I'm hoping to hit the Scottish Highlands soon.
@@ALinsdau Its absolutely beautiful mate, I hope you have a superb trip.
Based on having a few trips now my humble advice would be .....
Obsess about researching the weather forecast, and learn the local foibles.
Some areas have almost unique local weather patterns which are worth being aware of. Some coastal areas can suddenly gust and the chill factor is brutal. Similarly, some areas slightly inland can be shockingly warmer than expected. Study the forecast but also try and read something specific to the location where you are going.
Prepare for rain .... and I mean "Long periods of rain, punctuated by heavier bouts of rain". The weather can be incredibly pleasant, the nights warm, BUT ... be prepared for the fact that it might be raining when you show up, and rain until you leave.
Consider the size of tent you take based on the above rain factor.
I took a tiny 1-man tent on my last trip and regretted it. If it rains non-stop you will have to do all of your personal admin in your tent. If your tent is so tiny you cant do that... well you are going to be getting changed out in the rain. Similarly, having a bit more room in your tent means space for drying stuff, generally being able to function under cover.
Take a midge net to cover your head.
Two trips were fine, but on one trip the sun came out briefly and I got badly savaged my midges and mosquitos. If the weather is just right, and its the midge season, the midges can be an absolutely biblical plague.
Research your intended camping location. Mostly Scotland is Right-to-Roam and wild camping is a protected activity, but certain areas like Loch Lomond National Park have very restricted camping locations during the camping season (April to November I think). You can only wild camp on specific sites, that you need to book in advance, and some of them are absolutely terrible. Im talking semi-flooded, boggy, or hard to access wearing a pack. All the research you do in advance will pay dividends.
I hope you have a great trip mate. Its beautiful country and absolutely worth seeing.
@I W Tbh mate I tend to opt for foam pads, or an army surplus folding bed pad. They are not as comfortable or as warm as thermarest-type pads but they dont spring leaks and deflate on you.
Great tips. I've also had good luck putting my light down jacket down inside the toe box of my sleeping bag and using it as a little sleeping bag just for my feet.
Great tip!
Thank you!!! I am currently living on an unisolated boat in Scandinavia, it hasn’t gotten really cold yet, but next week is looking heavy, now I could use my diesel heater, but that’s just expensive and I don’t wanna.
Great tips. We in the Search and Rescue business always tell folks "cotton kills."
Thanks for watching!
That's a blanket statement. In summer , on the hottest days, i wet a cotton shirt, hat, along with cotton gloves. Keeps me cool and at times, cold. Very nice ...
Cotton's crap pal
@@fjb4932 but if you do that and the temperature changes you're fuggered ..cotton kills
@@JoeZUGOOLA
living on the edge, baby.
Living on the edge ...
,,I went at Dead Valley with a blanket,, That was most epic story i heard this year ,wish you all good and thanks for the knowledge ,it helped me a lot.
Thanks!
Enjoyed the video. I’ve been only down to 5 degrees and combined my ultralight western mountaineering bag with older bag I had. Thx
Good stuff!
I could've used some of these ideas when I was freezing my feet off camping this summer in the Rockies.
Thank you.
"Top shelf" advice ...thank you.
You're welcome!
Oh wow, this was brilliant. It has given me much more confidence to go winter wild camping (and thats just in the UK). Thanks for a great video.
Be safe out there!
Great video and it sounds like you've been to some cold places but... You've never known cold like a 1c wet dank evening in Grimsby UK. That cold gets in your bones and never leaves you 😅
I hope to go camping in the UK soon...
@@ALinsdau I'm sure you already have a plan but if you go to the Lake District I can highly recommend a campsite called Chapel house farm campsite. A great base for weeks of walking in the hills. If you want to wild camping in the hills the same area is great, Borrowdale or Seathwaite area in the Lakes.
Great info! Loved the keep nylon coated sleeping pad on bottom tip
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for making this. Very helpful and informative.
Love the tips. I wish I had the stones to venture into deadly weather. I'd love to have a 120.00 dollar sleeping bag let alone a $1200 dollar sleeping bag.
Be safe! Thanks for watching!
Hi Man, all your tips helped me a lot when I was out in the Woods! Thanks to you I had great warm sleep ;-)
Great to hear!
Ah, another one: Neoprene socks - they keep the feet really warm and if you ever have to get out of the sleeping bag, you can also walk with them. As a hunter I can only recommend them especially in cold and moist weather conditions. And they weigh little, are very small in pack size.
Good pointer!
Are they better than marino wool socks ? for winter and moist weather.
Best winter hat is Balaclava + pashka. The hats with ears. Expedition smart wool is the ultimate!
Balaclava> neck gaiter/buff. Bonus if combod
Good pointer!
Excellent ideas. Some I knew, and many other Didn't! Already subscribed
Welcome!
Thanks 4 taking time to make vid & share tips.
Subscribed & liked.
Thanks for the sub!
Good sensible tips, thank you very much!
My pleasure!
Another thing is campsite location. Not really as much you can do mountaineering, but avoid streams wet places and really windy/drafty areas. The less outdoor cold=less indoor cold :)
what a fantastic video, thank you so much for all the wonderful tips, the counter-intuitive stuff was very revealing.
Glad it was helpful!
These are all great tips, love that it's not just a list of stuff to buy but actual practical little tricks that cost nothing
Glad it was helpful! I have a series coming up on how to keep your feet warm when camping.
One tip is to put a mylar blanket on top of your mattress... And for some reason it has helped me more than putting it underneath it (as a ground cloth). Makes for a slippery bed but keeps off the cold from the ground. Before i started doing that i could alwas feel the cold from underneath in winter months, even though my mattress is snow/ ice rated.
Great pointer!
That is some awesome tips! Thank you so much
Any time!
Thanks for the video. It was awesome and there are some new tips for me.:)
I've got one question though. How do you use the down boots in combination with your VBL? If you put on anything but your baselayer in the VBL, it will get really wet inside, won't it? (Sry for any mistakes, I'm still learning the language.
And second question: When do you start using your VBL, I mean like at which temperature?
I just put the down booties on & crawl into the VBL. nothing gets soaked. It’s just not great but it beats freezing.
I add the VBL when I can’t warm up after an hour in whatever bag I’m using. That’s usually extremely cold. I’ve only needed to use it in Antarctica on -50 and below days.
Had a cold night on a trip in ANWR, and the following evening is said “screw that”. Hot Tang right before bed, wore a hat, layed my coats over my bag, and wore booties and a fleece jacket. Almost hot every night after that.
But I really think it was the hot Tang above all. Hot sugar right as you get in and loose the initial heat to warm the bag makes a huge difference.
Tang is a classic!
Get items in this video on Amazon:
Therm-a-Rest Z-rest: amzn.to/2HPjmWW
Exped DownMat XP 9 with pump bag: amzn.to/2Vs5vw0
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite (ultra-warm): amzn.to/2FJgN5p
NeoAir Venture air mat: amzn.to/32DwBAL
Smartwool Mountaineering socks: amzn.to/2WenW5H
Icebreaker wool underwear mens: amzn.to/2BwRMIU
Iceabreaker wool underwear women: amzn.to/32Enujt
Polar neck buff: amzn.to/2MBd7XS
Western Mountaineering sleeping bags on Amazon:
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UltraLite: amzn.to/2Zw0XnN
Versalite: amzn.to/2DvuoNq
Antelope: amzn.to/2GxLfQf
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VBL Vapor Barrier Liner Hotsac: amzn.to/2Vm0ZiD
Down booties: amzn.to/2RjmX1i
This man goes camping in life threatening cold weather and I'm just trying to make sure my child and I don't freeze if we lose power this winter. I have a tent to put up inside. I have those reflective emergency blankets that I'll line the floor of the tent with, a mattress pad that goes on the bed and makes you hot. I'll layer the reflective blankets over the outside, shiny side down, and cover it with blankets as well. I plan to tape it down with painters tape. I just bought a tetco double sleeping Fahrenheit bag rated at 0F and the polyester sheet liner that goes with it and is supposed to increase it to -10F. I also have 1 king 950 fill weight duvet and 1 twin 950 fill weight duvet. I have some handwarmers, lots of them that are supposed to last 18 hours, and a 20watt pet heating pad as well as a 50watt car blanket. We also have appropriate winter clothing and outdoor gear. Is there anything else you can think of that might help? I've already gotten firewood and and emergency heater but those won't be in use while sleeping. I also have a lantern and damp rid to put inside the tent.
Is your house drywall or brick? also how well is it insulated. might sound obvious but also CLOSE ALL YOUR WINDOWS, if you have towels, put them below the empty space beneath the door to the room you'll be staying in
Drywall. Stay warm!
Excellent video man. Great job.
Much appreciated!
Great video 👍🏻 I went camping & left my socks on & got very little sleep because my feet were so cold ⛺️
It's tough. Check out my book on how to keep your feet warm: amzn.to/3miYRSx
Did you see the dome in Antarctica?
The dome was actually removed several years before I reached the South Pole. A new station on raised legs was placed there to better survive the drifting snow.
Hey buddy can you recommend a budget cold weather sleeping bag? Thanks !!!
Check out the Ozark Trail 10 deg sleeping bag for $40 USD:
www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-10F-with-Soft-liner-camping-Mummy-Sleeping-Bag-for-Adults-Red/500505553
No guarantees but can't get much cheaper than this.
@@ALinsdau haha thank you so much!
So... 1rst layer is the silk liner, 2nd the varrier and then the sleeping bag!?
Yes, that'd be a good stack up.
Thanks
Thanks for watching!
Great tips👌 Greetings from Ireland 🇮🇪
Thank you. I love visiting Ireland - it's a wonderful country. I hope to visit again soon.
Thank you Aaron. Very informative for the warmer season camper doing his 1st winter outing (a mere 20 plus, but no joke to the greenhorn). Keeping hands warm while using them for tasks may become an issue for me. Any suggestions?
Always keep your liner gloves on at all times. It makes a huge difference.
Also check out my book, How to Keep Your Feet Warm in the Cold: amzn.to/3r5vwNZ
It’s so funny I’ve been watch in a lot of your mountaineering videos then I sorted my popular on your channel you have videos on everything 😂
I appreciate that!
How about putting Snapz in your sleeping bag to keep warm ???
Never tried it.
First of all, thanks for all this tips! May I ask you something? If I need to combine a -15 C down sleeping bag (allegedly extreme rate) with a 0C (allegadly extreme rate) synthetic sleeping bag, wich one should be closer to my body? The synthetic or the down? I am in Argentina and normally humidity is very high. Temperature may drop to around -5C.
Put the down next to you to prevent moisture buildup. That's what some people do in the Arctic. Curious - why would you just not use the -15ºC bag when it's only -5ºC?
@@ALinsdau because that is the extreme rate, not the confort rate, and I'm always cold (I am a quite thin woman). Sleeping bags available in my country (as most of the gear) are very limited and expensive due to import limitations. So the -15 (allegedly!) may be around +5 to a 0 confort. It is not a good quality down, and, it's an hybrid, as lower part is synthetic. But that is the best I can get in my budget. (It cost $200 us dollars here while a kinda good one costs $800-$1000 same temperature rate) Due to import restrictions and taxes, we are sold cheap Chinese bad quality items at an extremely expensive cost
@@ALinsdau and thank you so much for your answer and all the information you share!!
When I did my first winter camping trip, the outside of the sleeping bag had condensation and was getting icy. Why? How do I prevent this?
I was also in a summer tent, it was only around -5C at night. there was plenty of ventilation in the tent.
Some use a fleece cloth on the sleeping bag. That does help if you can keep it in place.
Interesting point about "cold hunger" just thinking, if that is where sugary deserts came from.
at 4:45 you talked about order of mats. for increasing our value or warped. I would've thought the rigid one i.e. the folding one would go on the bottom and the air mattress will go on top. just checking to understand it better
I put the foam on top to reduce the amount of heat lost into the air mattress.
@@ALinsdau Wow, I would've had it exactly opposite. I would've thought putting the hard mattress on bottom would dramatically improve the air mattress. Good to know I will try both I would've never thought to try ridged on top at all
One of the advantages of the waffle folding mats. You can fold it over for double layer under the trunk and put your pack under your legs
I have a wool buff but my merino wool balaclava with my down balaclava over top keeps me warmest in cold weather.
Nice!
I tried the Mylar blanket inside my bag on a cold night and i nearly froze. Luckily it was a experiment in my front yard. The Mylar reflected to much heat back made my bag cold that made the Mylar cold. Before that I started sweating a little not much and the Mylar didn’t let the sweat escape so I was wet when i woke up. Tried it again but with the Mylar on the outside of the sleeping bag and was warm, not sweating and comfortable. I did this with a 40 degree down sleeping bag and it was in the low 30s both nights.
Good to note - thanks for the tips!
Awesome video!!!!! Best one I've seen about keeping warm.
Thanks!
Hmm what system could we build for keeping warm rocks inside the bag.
warm temp proof cover around the rock, then maybe wool, and then some type of temp controller layer.
Ideas? :D
How do you feel about backpacking quilts? I need something for the backcountry and right now im looking at the WM sequoia MF 5º bag.
They're very popular with long-distance hikers on the AT, CDT, and PCT. I've never been compelled but a lot swear by them.
Thank you!
Glad to help.
Great tips for winter expeditions, will use all off them , thanks , new subscriber from cold uk
Thanks for the sub!
Cold Feet tip: Skip the booties. Throw a couple hand warmers down by your feet, ALONG with any battery powered devices, and your water filter. Booties may keep your feet warm, but they won't help keep anything else warm. Unless you can keep your battery powered devices warm, and your water filter from freezing, your trip will be cut short. Hand warmers will keep even bare feet warm, and save your precious devices from freezing.
Great pointers!
His idea to move the down to your chest is interesting. I discovered that putting a folded sweater or folded shirt on your chest and stomach inside the sleeping bag will warm you up big time. Don’t wear it, put it on your chest. Also I can attest a big steak for dinner will make you burn up while your sleeping. Good tips. 👍👍
Great tip!
Best video I have ever seen on sleeping bags.👏👏👏
Thank you
Great tips! Thanks so much!
You bet!
Hi thx for the great tips. I’m starting off my adventures with winter camping in Norway this year but in a Hamok so any other tips for that approach thx
I wear a balaclava. But I need the neck warmer. Have you got recommendations for gloves? Any reply appreciated. Cheers
wool mittens
Excellent man. Thanks so much!
Thank you let us know
Thanks for watching!
Excellent ! Thank you Aaron..
My pleasure!
Don't forget the value of chemical heaters. Good that you referenced cotton. A number of prime retail outdoor suppliers sell flannel (cotton) for winter outdoor clothing. I've sent an email to one of them without a reply. What stupidity for selling potential hypothermia (when wet) to the public.
Too true.
Great Channel Great info! So from your experience mat insulation is additive? Is it more effective to put the ccf mat on TOP of the inflatable one than the other way around? If it's a very thin cheapo ccf blue mat, can I put it INSIDE the bag? What would be best?
Yes, insulation is additive. I use the foam to prevent the nylon cold soaking chill effect. I wouldn't put anything in my bag, though. Put the foam between your bag and the air mat. Strap them together if possible so they don't separate.
Thanks for the tips man!
Thanks for watching!
If I add a down quilt on top of my bag will it add warmth or compress the bag too much?
I would think down on top of down would work well.
Thank you for your great and comprehensive videos!
I am considering to get a Western Mountaineering sleeping bag to mainly use for hiking trips in northern scandinavia in late summer/fall. During this time night temperatures are just above freezing depending on elevation, but can drop down to around 17°F/-8°C. I think the 15°F/-9°C Apache bag would be suitable for me. However, it would be great to have the possibility to increase warmth by adding the Western Mountaineering Everlite as an overbag, in case i want to do tours during colder seasons later on. Western Mountaineering claims, that it adds around 10°F in warmth. And i could always add another liner bag.
Maybe, this way i could get a sleep system suitable for even colder nights, without having to get the very warm Antelope bag? The weight difference between the Antelope and my proposed combination is around 200g, which is reasonable to me. Plus, The Everlite bag would be a nice summer bag for typical warm mid-european summers which would come in very handy for me. It would be a big investment, but getting two cold weather bags would be even more expensive.
These would be my first Western mountaineering bags. I would be very thankful to hear your thoughts on this since you have so much experience!
Thank you and keep the good content coming! :)
The versatility of the two bag system is pretty slick. It's a good way to avoid having to purchase too many bags. My experience has been I didn't want to mess with managing 2 bags on a cold weather trip, so I broke down and bought the Antelope. I've had the Antelope about 20 years and don't regret the expense at all.
@@ALinsdau Thanks for your prompt answer! Yes, i guess carrying two bags is more chaotic but it would hopefully be an exception. I thought a lot about getting an Antelope too, but i am not sure if it would be an overkill for my purposes. I don't think i will do Arctic/Greenland or High-Alpine trips anytime soon, if ever. And once it gets considerably above freezing (40-50°F) it might get too hot for a 5°F/-15°C bag, right?
Best video I've seen on the subject! Thank you! So you don't wear the down booties to sleep in? They're for just around camp?
I sleep in the down booties and use the 40 below camp booties to walk around in.
As with all your video's . I learned some stuff ,, ty
Glad to hear it!
Very helpful. Now I know why my toes froooze a few weeks ago at Alamo Lake AZ. Two pairs of cotton socks did nothing. Thank You!
Adding chapters to the video would be nice.
Thanks for watching & for the suggestions. I've started adding chapters to my newest videos.
@@ALinsdau My socks came today and hopefully will be trying them out Friday night. I'm running away from home. Selling house, car, everything and going to try to stay out for 2 years on my motorcycle. Also just got SeatToSummit sleeping bag liner. I've had those emergency blankets but didn't know to put it inside my sleeping bag. I learned a lot from this one video. Thank You!
Hi Aaron, thanks for the awesomely informative videos! I've used a lot of these tips on my most recent back country mule deer hunting trip 2 weekends ago here in North Dakota where temps were in the teens most nights. My question is where would a vapor barrier liner fit in the sleep system if/when using it with a sleeping bag liner? Would it be vapor barrier first, then sleeping bag liner then sleeping bag or liner first then vapor barrier then sleeping bag or omit the sleeping bag liner altogether? Thanks!
I'd do the liner against you, then go inside the VBL, then go inside the sleeping bag. If you're having to do that, you might want to consider upgrading your sleeping bag. It'd be far less work to get in and out of. Enjoy your North Dakota hunting!
@@ALinsdau I'm currently saving up for a much better sleeping bag & figuring out which western mountaineering bag I want to get, but holy sticker shock for the price on them! Having never seen one of them in person before I really hope they're worth it!
@@ChainmailQueen they are I just used the puma micro fiber it was -20f and windy so more like -35f I only had a ridge rest and I was not cold. Although I will be getting a better sleeping pad 😂
Thank you. Very useful tips.
Thanks for watching.
awesome! really great stuff
Thank you, great tips! I think if you do more camping videos especially in snow you can get a million subs!
I'd love to do more snow camping videos - great idea, thank you.
I am going backpacking/camping in Wyoming in the snow at 5 deg above zero this weekend. Do you have any requests for me to show a concept? Thank you!
ALinsdau Nothing specific but usually people enjoy scenery, tent setup, cooking, campfire, breakfast. Here is a good channel that does excellent videography th-cam.com/users/fagelguiden
@@hikeroutpost Cool, thanks for the link. I'll have to start doing more of that when I have the chance. You've inspired me to get out even more.
ALinsdau can’t wait for the next camping adventure!
i use a plain, no logo hockey shirt over my light coat or down jacket to protect my it , when i cut and carry wood , good for bike ride to, walk around the camp site, for wind and snow protection over my clothes and coat + a good layer against crusty icy melt snow + i find it is better to have a flash amber burn hole on it then on my expensif coat when i do fire, and i can dry it fast to go sleep. AND i can open my coat under if i want to make air circulation and prevent over-heating when i walk without losing wind barrier or flappy coat sides in the wind, when i have my backpack. ( you can add funny name on the back if you want and leather patch on the shoulders and elbows pad for protection like english hunting vest or commando sweater, but no big crest and vynile pictures on the back, it keeps humidity, back sweat ) .
Nice, great tips, thank you.
How do you deal with the problem of breathing the cold air? Is there any face covering that you suggest that will will let out moisture from breathing while blocking the cold?
The Cold Avenger would help. Otherwise, you'd need to breath through a fleece jacket or the like.
Rubber hot water bottle, will never leak, stays warm for hours on end, used them since we were kids in the UK
Good idea.
Nice video some great tips there thank you. All the best..
Day
Thanks, you too!
Great video. Got quite a few tips to implement in my out and about activities. But, what do you do with your clothes that you’ve been wearing during the day (the sweaty or moist clothes)? Do you put them in a waterproof bag and stuff it in your sleeping bag?
I put the day's clothes in my sleeping bag but not in a waterproof bag. If you do that, they won't dry. I carry separate clothes for sleeping so I can dry out my day clothes.
@@ALinsdau Than you for your answer. But doesn’t the moisture from the sweaty clothes transfer to the sleeping bag? Isn’t that a worry? I would think keeping the down bag as moisture free as possible would be a priority?
Use all 20 tips & it'd probably keep ya warm in outer space lol
Would using 2 sleeping bags, one inside the other, be effective or ineffective ?
Thanks 4 taking time to make vid & share tips.
Subscribed & liked.
Thanks! Personally I choose a single bag that works for the conditions. Managing two bags is a lot of work in the cold.
The new military Modular Sleep Systems use a nest of summer weight and mid weight. Part of the system includes poly Long-sleeved Tee and bottoms
What did you do in anarctica?
Skied solo to the South Pole. You can read about it here:
Antarctic Tears: amzn.to/46RjL3Y
If you do jumping jacks before bed won't you sweat which will eventually make you feel cold?
Don't do it to the point of sweating, just enough to get the blood pumping.
@@ALinsdau fair point. Some great tips here, thanks.
Thanks for the valuable tips. We would all do well if we listened & learned more often from those far more experienced than we are. Thumbs up on this video. I especially liked the advice about putting a blanket on top.
I was wondering if you have any thoughts on top quilts & using a blanket under the quilt for increased warmth. I understand using it between my body & sleeping pad but I mean over my body under my quilt. I have had fairly good success with this but I would very much appreciate your opinion. Obviously a blanket inside a sleeping bag would most likely compress the insulation.
Blankets can compress too much.
I found a down blanket a nice addition to add 15 or so. Used a Nemo Riff 30 down to past its comfort rating and was legit warm still. Loft is important, don't squish it.
Great pointer!
Just came across your channel recently and enjoy it. Binge watched a number of your cold weather tips and liked them. As I looked through your video collection I did not notice much on cooking and eating aside from opening canned goods and that you enjoyed freeze dried.
On your antarctic adventure what was your primary food source, was it just freeze dried or did you go old school pemmican and cubes of butter rolled in brown sugar?
What were you using for a stove system to produce your water supply and provide heated meals. Was it white gas/namptha, alcohol or did you find a way to get canister stoves to work in the cold?
Thank you and stay safe.
It's white gas only in Antarctica. Primary food is bars, cookies, freeze dried, butter.
Thank you so much for these amazing tips 👍😄
No problem 😊
If I’ve stored my sleeping bag in a stuck sack for months is it likely to be completely defective or is it salvageable?
I throw them in a dryer on low heat or no heat for a while if stored compressed for a long time. Sometimes they reconstitute, sometimes not.
If your bag was totally dry, according to Western Mountaineering, it should recover:
www.westernmountaineering.com/faqs/
Quote from their site:
"Contrary to popular belief, bags stored compressed can get their loft back as long as they were stored dry. NEVER store a bag wet. If you accidentally store a bag compressed, take it out and shake it vigorously. If the down is very compacted try putting it in the dryer on no heat with tennis balls. If this still does not fully get the loft back the down may be clumped due to moisture and dirt from use and is in need of washing."
I store mine in a large pillow case size bag.
Just curious. While I know weight might be a bit of an issue would it pay to use an insulated dual wall water bottle in cold weather?
Traveling in the desert heat if you don't use an insulated bottle you end up with scolding Hot water during the day. With one you have cold water all day.
The whole point of an insulated (usually double walled stainless steel) bottle is it keeps the temperature inside the bottle different from what's outside the bottle. Using an insulated bottle would keep the heat from getting to your feet!
@@zugmeister314 I understand that. I was talking about keeping your water from freezing without having to put it inside your sleeping bag. When you are on a multi day winter hike (something I do quite often) hot water is not something you're guaranteed to have. Maybe if you carry a stove but I never do.
Many people use a thermos for a single bottle overnight. But they're really heavy to carry all of your daily water in.
I often carry a 2 cup Stainless thermos I heat up boiling water and pour it into the thermos with instant coffee. The 1/2 cup screwed to the top give me constant hot coffee.
Thank you, very helpful!
Glad it was helpful!
amazing video. very informative and great tips.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks, Aaron.
Would you select the WM Ultralite or WM Apache for March hiking in Smoky Mts?
Sandalwood
I'd get the Apache - you have an additional 5 degrees to work with and it'll be more versatile. March in the Smokey Mountains isn't too cold at all, but right after a storm the temps tend to drop a lot. For an additional 3 ounces, you can comfortably handle many winter situations, too. I've slept in my Megalite in the Sierras on snow in quite cold conditions in December. For safety, I don't recommend it though, but that's just me. I would take my Antelope now, and be very toasty.
Thanks very much, Aaron.
Thank- you so much for these amazing tips!
Thanks for watching!
greate!
i really like it. that many tips in short time
Glad you liked it!
Excellent !
Thanks for watching!
Oh I wished I had watched this before I went camping in the snow last winter... I was so scared of getting cold so I jumped in my thick down sleeping bag with literally 5 jackets(some even down) and just as many hats haha. And I was still freezing! :D
Stay warm!