The Gear You’ll Need for Hiking or Camping This Winter

Did you know you can avoid the crowds and visit many national parks in the winter? Isle Royale National Park in Michigan is the only national park that closes during the colder months. Some of the most popular ones stay open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, such as Zion National Park in Utah, Death Valley National Park in California, and many others.

Some of these parks offer winter camping, with required reservations. By checking the National Park Service website prior to visiting, you’ll have the most up-to-date information. In addition to the parks’ possible closure at times due to inclement weather conditions, it’s also good to note there are vehicle restrictions in place for certain roads. It goes without saying commercial vehicles of any kind are prohibited in the park. Though it’ll vary year by year when tire chains are required, you should carry them in the winter for safety precautions. Here are 13 things you need in your car before you head out. 

Snow Tire Chains

During the winter if you plan on driving through harsh conditions, it’s always a good idea to have some tire chains in your trunk. These PLTMIV 8-pack tire chains are suitable for cars, SUVs, and trucks in case of emergencies.

Sleeping bag

Therm-a-Rest Sleeping-Bags Vesper 

For instance, Yosemite has 13 campgrounds, seven of which require reservations from April through October. However, during winter, many are first-come, first-served campgrounds, and are likely to fill up during weekends and holidays.

Despite the cold, campers and adventurers do venture out. That’s why this light and packable Therm-a-Rest’s Vesper sleeping bag comes in so handy. The company’s Thermacapture technology traps body heat and provides comfort for those chilly evenings. 

Camp Blanket 

Therm-a-Rest Argo Insulated Camping and Backpacking Blanket

Still cold? Functional and water-resistant, the Argo insulated camping blanket isn’t only useful for camping, it can keep you warm during long car rides as well.

Be prepared

The DECKED x Uncharted Emergency Kit 

The ultimate emergency kit, the DECKED x Uncharted Emergency Kit comes with tools, power, goggles, a first aid kit, and more to keep two people alive for 72 hours in the event of a catastrophe or emergency. All items fit securely in DECKED’s durable bag for easy transport.

Make meals on-the-go

MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe Stove Kit  

What makes this MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe kit so great? For one, the kit is compact and provides easy to cook and heat meals on the go. Whether you are camping or out for a long hike, it offers convenience and fast cooking time. 

The only pack you need

CamelBak Fourteener 26 Hiking Hydration Pack – Hike Backpack 

This hydration and backpack all-in-one is designed with comfort in mind. The CamelBak Fourteener Hiking Pack provides ventilation, stability, and serious pockets for organizing necessities.

Fast hydration

DripDrop Hydration – Electrolyte Powder Packets 

This doctor-formulated hydration system delivers electrolyte support that includes potassium, magnesium, and vitamin-C to boost recovery and performance. DripDrop is easy to carry and an essential on long hikes.

Shoes with traction

SCARPA Rush Trk GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Hiking and Backpacking Boots for Men and Women 

These GORE-TEX hikers from SCARPA offer unparalleled waterproof protection along with a sturdy grip outsole, which is perfect for snowy weather conditions. The brand’s ACTIVimpact Technology purports to soften impact strikes, making them comfortable for all-day wear.

Waterproof layers

Outdoor Research Men’s Foray II Jacket and Outdoor Research Women’s Aspire II Jacket 

Stay warm and dry with Outdoor Research’s GORE-TEX all-season shell for both men and women, which is breathable and packs down easily. Because of its stretch fabric, the jacket allows for easy movement and flexibility. 

Comfortable sweats

Brunette the Label The Best Friend Crew Neck Sweatshirt and matching joggers 

Dress comfortably on long car rides, but look chic in Brunette the Label’s matching set, which fits like a dream and is made of 100% cotton French terry. 

Hiking pants

Royal Robbins Alpine Mountain Pro Pants 

Pack a pair of Royal Robbins Alpine Mountain pants, which have 4-way stretch for maneuvering on those tough trails. Front and back pockets are great for storing essentials.

Stay warm and regulate your body temperature

Gobi Cashmere Organic Color Hoodie With Cable Knitted Sleeves 

Not only is cashmere fiber luxurious, it’s also known to regulate your body temperature. Gobi Cashmere’s casual hoodie is breathable and helps generate heat. 

Keep your food insulated

Cotopaxi Hielo 24L Cooler Backpack 

Compact with an easy buckle closure, Cotopaxi’s Cooler Backpack has a waterproof liner and provides superior insulation for any trip. Best of all, it’s made partly by repurposed materials, which is great for the environment.