Winter camping: tips and tricks

When considering purchasing a tent, one of the first questions is often whether the tent will be used in snowy winter conditions. If the answer is yes, then you should choose a tent that is guaranteed to perform well in winter conditions.

Perhaps the most important feature of a winter tent is good ventilation. Moisture must be able to escape from the tent to prevent it from condensing on the tent roof and eventually dripping down, which could gradually wet the winter camper's gear. Generally, in winter conditions, it is advisable to keep all possible ventilation flaps open, even though it might sound counterintuitive. The ventilation openings of proper winter tents are protected from snow, ensuring that snow does not enter the tent while still allowing good ventilation.

The materials of winter tents are durable, but consequently, they are also slightly thicker and heavier than the lightest hiking tents designed for summer use. The material must withstand heavy snow loads and the gusty winds of mountains or polar regions. In winter, the weight of the tent is not as critical since it is often carried on a sled. Winter tents usually also have sturdier poles, allowing the tent to withstand heavier snow loads. Some winter tents can use double poles to improve snow load resistance, especially in basecamp conditions where the tent is set up in the same place for an extended period.

The outer skirt of winter tents reaches all the way to the ground, preventing snow from getting between the inner and outer tent and wetting the gear inside. In summer tents, the outer tent is often shorter, allowing better cooling during summer heat.

Also, check out the Fjällräven tent selection guide and the Helsport tent selection guide, where you can find the best tips for choosing a Helsport and Fjällräven winter tent.

Two of the world's best tent manufacturers, Helsport and Fjällräven, share their top tips for setting up a tent in the snow and winter camping in the videos below.

Fjällräven - How to pitch a tent in winter conditions

Fjällräven - Winter Outdoors: How to pitch a tent in winter conditions

Helsport - How to pitch a tent in winter conditions

The ultimate guide for pitching your tent in wintertime!

How to manage the tent-night in winter

Fjällräven - Winter Outdoors: How to manage the tent-night in winter

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