One of my best nights of sleep ever was under the northern lights with nothing but a -30 sleeping bag, a foam mat, and a tarp on top of 4' of fresh powder. It was about 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
The cold doesn't suck energy out. It just slows down the chemical reaction which gives you energy. As soon as the temperature warms up the power will still be their.
Justin- I have absolutely no desire to backpack under those conditions. However I find your video fascinating and I do find that I learned something. Thanks
Theses breakdowns are my favorite! The stool is crazy cheap, looks like a must have and good idea on nalgene bottle insulation sleeve 👌. Athough I have never tried a teepee tent 🤔
I've been preparing for my first winter camping trip since Scouts when I was a kid. Even in a budget, the gear is quite expensive. I got the majority of it from Amazon and did a lot of research into prices and reviews etc first. 4 season tent from RioRand - $120 Merino wool base layer - $120 Naturehike Inferno-21 sleeping bag - $500 Snowshoes - $110 Sleep pad - $80 Worth every penny! I'm actually (slightly) looking forward to snow for the first time in my adult life. Cheers from New Brunswick!
Nice! The gear is quite expensive, that's for sure. Check out Decathlon for some really good deals on baselayers (merino and synthetic) and insulation layers. I have a whole video about some of my top picks from them. GREAT value products.
I got back recently from an overnight backpacking trip in algonquin where it dropped down to -13c at night. No snow but frigid temps. The trail and lake were surprisingly busy. Sleeping in dangerous cold weather is such a thrill with the proper gear. Thanks for the great vid
loved how you addressed what temperatures this is for near the start, a lot of people miss that. Maybe its not too important but i always stress about that when its not mentioned.
I have that pack because I carry a lot of stuff-about a third of my body weight (I am a little old guy), I live in Alaska,and that is my Winter pack. What incredible hip belt and shoulder straps (2nd best to me is Mystery Ranch Glacier). Thank you for telling people to keep their electronics warm. You can use Hot Hands when you have to take down layers. I carry a 50 something ounce Minute Made Lemonade Bottle to pee in overnight so I don't have to put boots on to go outside. Gatorade used to make awseome bottles and then they reduced the size of their opening. I wonder why. (not) Love your channel. Thanks!
I bought the tipi style tent a year ago. It's a surprisingly capable tent, but back then mine came with a nylon stove jack. I almost burned down my tent, even though I tried using a silicone baking sheet to protect the tent. I cut it out and sealed in a fire retardant stove jack with high temperature silicone. Now it works very well with a wood stove. I use snow around the edges and even managed to fit a cot inside. I took it out in a snow storm last week. Even though the anti-tear polyester seems thin, I managed to stay warm and cozy, with minus 12 Celsius outside. We got at least 20 cm of snow overnight, but the snow easily slides off the tent walls and even in strong winds the tent remains stable. For a low-cost tent, this one works well, but if you plan to use it with a stove, make sure that they fixed the stove jack, or be prepared to install one yourself. Also, bring some steel tent pegs suitable for frozen soil or ice surfaces.
You're not wearing it in this video, Justin, but I found and bought perhaps the last Outdoor Research Wrigley Hat in size L/XL for sale on planet Earth. lol. Had to send away to Germany, as its completely sold out and unavailable anywhere else. Presumably it's an old model, and therefore nowhere to be found, but I love that round and flat-topped cap style. You have it on in most of your winter videos. I now have a version in this style for every season. Cheers!
Another awesome video. Right now I’m focusing on how to snowshoe, use crampons and summit mountains in the winter. Working on my 48 4000 footers. Got 11 left. Started back in august and I got hooked. I thought I’d stop hiking once winter started, but honestly I’m enjoying winter hiking so much that I’ve decided to take my adventures up a notch. That’s why your vids are super important to people like me. Mon, tue & wed I’ll be at the northeast mountaineering bunkhouse in Glen NH and I plan to summit mount Monroe and mount isolation.
Bummer, the Nemo Tenshi is no longer available. There were other Nemo brands, so if you try any other Nemo model I hope you do a winter video soon. Thanks for the very helpful information!
My second visit. Just subscribed. Clear, concise, and to the point. You don't talk up and you don't talk down. You seem comfortable in front of the camera - a big plus in helping getting you message across. Used to do camping in the Sierras - not Canada, but -10C is still -10C (not factoring moisture and wind). I'm in Germany now. Wild camping is sternly frowned upon here and the campsites are usually closed in winter. However, day-hiking is king here all year round and cabin hiking (from one moutain hut to the next) is typically booked out months in advance. Being prepared is important - as you point out - even for day hikes in the winter mountains. Thanks for a well thought-out vid. Still learning new things after 50 years of camping...
He has awesome sleeping system so he gets sleeping better than in his own bed. And he got 2 stoves cooking system so he can cook the 2 liters of snow without any food. Still, that big backpack is full of these awesome gears. Who needs food when you have nice sleeping and cooking system.
This is awesome Justin, thanks so much! I've only winter camped once in the snow, but I really want to do more. (I love snow so much and miss it living on the coast!) I super appreciate these tips!
Man, your winter camping videos are all right in the temperature range where the conversion between Celsius and Fahrenheit is the most confusing to me. Still, I believe at 11:25 that should be +15 degrees Fahrenheit, not -15. Cheers!
Yeah i never really get the fahrenheit close or below freezing point. I mean celsius is so simlple alone. 100°C- water fully boiling 0°C- freezing/melting point depending if it gets lower or higher than that.
Your really making me miss home! I'm from BC and previously lived near salmon arm, now I'm in Ireland. I just did a three day trip winter camping here. Ireland has the strange ability to be decently cold and below freezing but still very wet! A dangerous combination. Anyhow keep up the great content! Maybe I'll see you on the trail whenever I make it back home.😁
We have a lot of the same (time tested) gear. Tho I would recommend a Tinder Kit with a F rod striker & or UCO weathproof matches. I make my Kit out of a 12 inch circle of premium leather with a leather lace threaded cinch attached to a 3 inch elk tine. Preparedness is wisdom... Also carry Bic lighters with about 18"- 24" of duct tape wrapped around them, justin in case of tears & rips. Caio Bro!
@@JustinOutdoors thanx 🌞 Justin 4 your prompt edifying responses. I'm glad that I subscribed 2 your channel. I've been randomly perusing some of your older vids: Lotsa informative quality content!! I also appreciate that you try to keep most of your vids under 10 mins, I refuse to watch long winded chatty redundant reviews; they're usually a huge waste of precious time. Thanx again Brother!...
JUSTIN! Thank you! Love that you really give facts about gear -and it's gear you use! Friendly ADVICE: Give viewers more time at the end to click your videos you suggest. Love the channel. Ty
Thanks for a clear and helpful video. I am a three season backpacker with experience in the Appalachians who’s in Finland for the year and trying to figure out how to make the jump to serious winter trekking. COVID is making local contacts tricky so I am researching anyway I can. I’m looking forward to your clothing video.
I always winter camp. Weather does not deter me. I have lived in places where the weather never changes, it's boring, so I welcome changing seasons and conditions. But being in Virginia the coldest I've seen is 14F/-10C, not too bad.
Unfortunately, I live in the south. It may get down to freezing at night it doesn’t last long enough for me to worry about snow. We just get frost and I take precautions for that. Great video, gave me some ideas.
Thanks Justin, i follow you for a while now and i thank you for your videos! It helps me alot this summer for my backpacking camping. i plan to do the same this winter with hector lake in my objective . Cheers!
Another great video! I started getting into winter backpacking two years ago and am loving your content. Very interested to learn more about the clothes you bring especially the outer couple layers.
Really want to try this. Prob do it first in backyard. Also planning to use a folding titanium stove in a hot tent. Seek outside tents, best tents made.
Backyard is the place to test things out and find the limits of your gear for sure! The seek outside tent and stoves look amazing! After exchange rates, duties, and shipping, it ends up costing over $2,000 CAD though!
Great video. While I’m not technically winter camping, I’m in pretty cold (for me) shoulder season. Just finished my first overnight trip today, doing another one next weekend. Froze my butt off this weekend, my gear just didn’t cut it, even though I bought insulated equipment. Oh well, I learned a lot about what I need to do before next weekend ;)
Hello my Outdoors friend, thank you for sharing this very informative video, great information about winter camping. All the best to you. Stay healthy. 🤗
I have a hard time packing my 90 liter rockagator Kanarra I can fit my hammock, tarp, sleeping bag, pillow, rain coat, rain pants, saw, first aid, fire starters, Flashlights, socks and set of extra clothes, Grayl waterbottle and that's about it have to pack my food in a separate dry bag and carry it hobo style with the canoe paddle while portaging and that's my summer camping stuff... just been watching these videos and wondering how y'all get all that stuff to physically fit in the bag let alone carry it
I most definitely have a camping trip planned for next month, luckily for me it will get nowhere near as cold! lol Very useful information on the less in case I do decide to take a trip further north and go camping.
It would be great if you could do a video about keeping water liquid in freezing temperatures. You touched on it a bit in this video, but a deeper dive would be great.
Awesome gear breakdown. I definitely plan to do more winter backpacking this year but also don't hit temps like you do. On average I'm dealing with lows around 10-20 degrees in the deep part of winter.
Před 3 lety
Hi! Great overview, that sleeping bag looks really awesome :) Thanks!
@@JustinOutdoors that vapor shield makes so much sense. Love all the venting too. I have the Nemo Hornet Elite 2p and really like the quality of the tent. But I like my Dirigo 2 better. Wish the HMG four season tents weren’t so expensive. LOL!
@@JustinOutdoors The biggest mistake I made my first time was setting up tarps to block the wind around our fire. It did block the wind and kept us warm, but we essentially made a smoker out of those tarps that trapped the heat and the smoke inside. We probably smoked the equivalent of 100 packs of cigarets that weekend sitting by the fire in that tarp shelter. Never again. I can't eat smoked foods to this day.
Great video! I'm slowly building my winter setup, but Kentucky winters are weird and unpredictable. Like the schill Brothers, I would love to try a hot tent.
Loved the Polar Ranger for the 1 day I owned it until my partner made me return it because I didn’t reaally need another bag of similar temp rating, haha. Hard to beat winter camping in the Rockies, stoked to see where you go in the coming months!
i love your winter camping videos. I'm having difficulty choosing boots though, what would you suggest winter snow boots or an insulated winter hiking boot?
@@JustinOutdoors Lol - every time I hear a man say a piece of gear is "warm AF" or "keeps you super toasty," I'm always curious how it fares for a woman who gets cold at 70 degrees Fahrenheit! I got spoiled by a former boyfriend who had a hot tent and little stove - now I have to figure out what gear works for me to keep me warm for winter camping. There are so many options! 😬
Probably too specific and expensive a request, but I would love to see the Thermarest Xtherm, Exped Downmat, and Nemo Tensor Alpine reviewed. These seem like the most well balanced inflatable winter pad options, and I would love to see them compared like your summer pad review video.
I would really like to do a comparison of those pads, including the ether light xt extreme! If I can get a couple of them sent from the companies or a discount, then I will hopefully be able to make it happen for next year
Super informative video,I’m looking forward to using my new OR alpine bivi bag here in the Pyrenees this winter down to -10 methinks,neoxtherm pad and thermarest parsec -6 down bag with rab tarp,will I be warm enough?I will try to find a sheltered spot obviously.
Hi Justin. I’m taking you up on your offer to answer questions. In terms of sleeping bag insulation, would it not be better to use a synthetic bag with a down quilt rather than vice versa as you’re doing? I agree wholeheartedly with you in that synthetic insulation handles moisture better so doesn’t it make sense to have that next to you? Please note I’m just starting to winter camp so I don’t know how that might work. I understand that a synthetic bag of equal temperature rating would be somewhat larger and heavier but it might be worth it for the management of condensation. Secondly, I’ve viewed videos where the suggestion is to place the reflective matt on top of the sleeping pad. The suggestion is that this is more thermally efficient. Curious to hear your thoughts on this.
Great question! The reason its better to have the synthetic on the outside has to do with the dewpoint. Most of the moisture around your body is vapor. As it moves through your insulation and cools off, it turns to liquid. The key is to move that point where the vapor cools off enough to turn into liquid to an outer layer that manages moisture well, like a synthetic quilt. It all has to do with temperature gradients and the dewpoint!
@@JustinOutdoors Thanks so much for that information Justin. I thought that might be the case but I was puzzled by the belief that down was the better insulting material and didn’t know where moisture would end up lol. Any thoughts on the placement of the reflective pad? Appreciate your patience. Cheers
Great fan Justin, love your videos you the best outdoor expert for sure. I have a question for you, if Im planning to buy a sleeping bag for winter, to sleep without tent and on top of the snow (under just a thermarest z lite sol mat and a sea to summit ether light xt pad) will you still recommend the polar ranger? How good is against water and wind? What would be your suggestion?
Thanks for the heads up! It should be updated, but if the one in the video description doesn't work, here it is: amzn.to/2UoMiJR (assuming you're in the US).
Hey Adam, I'd like to recommend the (Polish) Lavvu tipi style tent. It's very rugged with a slit 4A flue just in case you bring a folding wood stove (like the GSTOVE). Definitely ideal for longer site stays. It's waterproof and very affordable... ciao!
12:14 That looks like the BRS stove bag on the table? I have the Snow Claw and it's been great for snow camping. I have the Kovea Spider stove which works great and is budget friendly compared to the MSR WhispierLite Universal.
That is a BRS stove on the table. I didn't talk about it in the video, but I wanted to have a backup on this trip just in case. I'll have to look into the Kovea!
I haven't done any really long winter treks yet, so it hasn't been a big issue. Even on the smaller trips I've been doing, I haven't found moisture to be a big problem. There are some things I do to help though. I do a lot to avoid moisture getting into my clothing so that I am not bringing moisture into my sleeping bag. I also leave things that may have a lot of moisture in them (like my pants and jacket) outside of the bag. You'll often hear people talk about drying gear inside their sleeping bag, but I don't do this as it is a great way to fill your bag with moisture. I also will more often than not have a synthetic quilt with me, which moves the dew point well outside of the bag and helps prevent the collection of moisture inside the bag. For a 5-7 day trip, I'd likely look more into using vapor barriers while sleeping.
@@JustinOutdoors Thank you for your extensive answer. Good advice regarding damp clothing. Your video’s giving good advice. I’m looking forward to your next video. Keep up the good work and have fun outdoors.
Justin, what did Nemo replace the Tenshi with? do you know? I'm going to run my first winter hike in camp this season, I have the nemo wagontop for summer camping with my wife but keen on getting a 2 person for some solo missions. thoughts?
I scoured your channel for a deeper review of the AMG 70. I've been thinking about getting the AMG 55 for some winter comping I wanted to do. How long do you usually go camping in winter with your AMG 70? Can you do a video for a better look at the backpack please?
Hi Justin, I usually use white gas in winter, and when I prime the stove it makes soot...Is there any soot when you prime your stove with the canister fuel? Also, I want to know if you prime the stove with the canister upwright, then returning it down after priming as in the video of MSR? Thank you Guylaine
@Justin Outdoors I recently bought the Nemo Tenshi and saw a website review mentioning using seam seal to completely waterproof it. The manual on Nemo's site also says to seam seal a few spots to make it completely waterproof. However the manual is from 2016 when the design was different than the model you and I have. Old model poles looked to go inside and the model we have poles external. I also believe the old model used to come with seam seal but I didn't get any with my Tenshi. Did you seam seal yours? If not, any issues? I picked up the tent for snow winter camping, but it may see some rain as well. Thanks!
I saw the same things and checked the seams and they appear to be all taped. Nemo's website also says this version is waterproof. I'm pretty confident if can hold up to rain!
On a recent trip, I accidently drained one battery on day 1 due to leaving it plugged into my camera. So even though it wasn't the cold, it was important I had a backup. I find battery power is less of an issue in summer and haven't had that be an issue at all.
It's been AMAZING for me. Only pack on the market that ticked the boxes I wanted in a winter pack. I lucked out and got it during a 50% off sale. Definitely worth the money.
With there being little snow on the ground where I've been the last couple of trips, I've been using standard aluminum Y-stakes. I find they are pretty good at being driven into frozen ground and come out pretty easily. When the snow gets deeper, I use some cheap aluminum snow stakes I got off aliexpress and deadman anchors using sticks.
Given that you're new to quilts in the last couple years, I would be interested to hear if you have yet tested winter quilt camping. I know EE makes the double quilt pad straps. I've been planning out winter gear and have been considering a full winter weight down clothing purchase for layering with quilt(s) instead of a full mummy bag.
Last winter, I only camped using my quilts (Enlightened Equipment 20F Enigma and 50F Revelation Apex). I was able to get down to -20C with that system but that's when it started maxing out (and I needed an added layer compared to with the Polar Ranger at the same temp). Adding a synthetic overquilt is a great way to take a summer quilt into winter. You've got me thinking of the sweet spots for quilts vs sleeping bags in winter and it's an interesting question. I think the breaking point might be around -10 or -15C (for me and the setups I have).
@@JustinOutdoors That seems to match up decently with EE's prediction. Been trying to figure out the optimal combination of quilts for multi season flexibility. Feels hard to find two quilts that actually cover everything. A combo like 10, 20, 50 seems like it might cover the huge Canadian temperature spread. support.enlightenedequipment.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002770588-How-to-layer-quilts-for-sub-zero-camping
Start with the day hikes. Then only new thing you need are boots. Use random backbag to carry tea and food. Sit somewhere nice and get fire going. Be back well before dark. And if you fell in love with hiking you will find the money to get essential gear. :)
vacuum sealed water bottles much better, kept mine out in cold for 3 days ~0-10*F and didn't freeze. Honestly can scrap most of this shit for a -20* sleeping bag.
One of my best nights of sleep ever was under the northern lights with nothing but a -30 sleeping bag, a foam mat, and a tarp on top of 4' of fresh powder. It was about 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
Love the tips on winter camping! More please! ❄️❄️❤️❤️
The cold doesn't suck energy out. It just slows down the chemical reaction which gives you energy. As soon as the temperature warms up the power will still be their.
I didn’t know about the decathlon brand. Looks affordable and I know you don’t skip on quality. Thanks for sharing.
Justin- I have absolutely no desire to backpack under those conditions. However I find your video fascinating and I do find that I learned something. Thanks
Theses breakdowns are my favorite! The stool is crazy cheap, looks like a must have and good idea on nalgene bottle insulation sleeve 👌. Athough I have never tried a teepee tent 🤔
I've been preparing for my first winter camping trip since Scouts when I was a kid. Even in a budget, the gear is quite expensive. I got the majority of it from Amazon and did a lot of research into prices and reviews etc first.
4 season tent from RioRand - $120
Merino wool base layer - $120
Naturehike Inferno-21 sleeping bag - $500
Snowshoes - $110
Sleep pad - $80
Worth every penny! I'm actually (slightly) looking forward to snow for the first time in my adult life.
Cheers from New Brunswick!
Nice! The gear is quite expensive, that's for sure. Check out Decathlon for some really good deals on baselayers (merino and synthetic) and insulation layers. I have a whole video about some of my top picks from them. GREAT value products.
I got back recently from an overnight backpacking trip in algonquin where it dropped down to -13c at night. No snow but frigid temps. The trail and lake were surprisingly busy. Sleeping in dangerous cold weather is such a thrill with the proper gear. Thanks for the great vid
Awesome ! For winter camping, the first issue is definitely not the weight of the backpack!
Ain't that the truth!
-- REVIEW VIDEOS --
Xtherm Sleeping Pad: czcams.com/video/tMSjrvYPLk4/video.html
Trekology 2.0 Pillow: czcams.com/video/RszJFPPLgAM/video.html
Pocket Rocket Deluxe Stove: czcams.com/video/R_jTrVDEfBM/video.html
Evernew Pot: czcams.com/video/VpjSYKl91gQ/video.html
InReach Mini: czcams.com/video/IZwlJ2z7gps/video.html
loved how you addressed what temperatures this is for near the start, a lot of people miss that. Maybe its not too important but i always stress about that when its not mentioned.
Excellent tips. Appreciate how this is not a video about ultralight winter camping, better to go heavier. It’s safer and more comfortable.
I try to save weight where I can, but with things being able to turn bad very quick in winter, safety is more of a priority for sure!
Awesome video Justin!! I always know when I watch your videos I’m going to learn something new, thank you.
I have that pack because I carry a lot of stuff-about a third of my body weight (I am a little old guy), I live in Alaska,and that is my Winter pack. What incredible hip belt and shoulder straps (2nd best to me is Mystery Ranch Glacier). Thank you for telling people to keep their electronics warm. You can use Hot Hands when you have to take down layers. I carry a 50 something ounce Minute Made Lemonade Bottle to pee in overnight so I don't have to put boots on to go outside. Gatorade used to make awseome bottles and then they reduced the size of their opening. I wonder why. (not) Love your channel. Thanks!
I bought the tipi style tent a year ago. It's a surprisingly capable tent, but back then mine came with a nylon stove jack. I almost burned down my tent, even though I tried using a silicone baking sheet to protect the tent. I cut it out and sealed in a fire retardant stove jack with high temperature silicone. Now it works very well with a wood stove. I use snow around the edges and even managed to fit a cot inside. I took it out in a snow storm last week. Even though the anti-tear polyester seems thin, I managed to stay warm and cozy, with minus 12 Celsius outside. We got at least 20 cm of snow overnight, but the snow easily slides off the tent walls and even in strong winds the tent remains stable. For a low-cost tent, this one works well, but if you plan to use it with a stove, make sure that they fixed the stove jack, or be prepared to install one yourself. Also, bring some steel tent pegs suitable for frozen soil or ice surfaces.
Luckily, for the one I got, the stove jack is fire retardant! Super capable tent!
@@JustinOutdoors That's a great deal then. The stove jack itself would already be half of the prize of the tent.
You're not wearing it in this video, Justin, but I found and bought perhaps the last Outdoor Research Wrigley Hat in size L/XL for sale on planet Earth. lol. Had to send away to Germany, as its completely sold out and unavailable anywhere else. Presumably it's an old model, and therefore nowhere to be found, but I love that round and flat-topped cap style. You have it on in most of your winter videos. I now have a version in this style for every season. Cheers!
So much information in such a short video! Thank you!
These winter videos are great. Thank you!
Another awesome video. Right now I’m focusing on how to snowshoe, use crampons and summit mountains in the winter. Working on my 48 4000 footers. Got 11 left. Started back in august and I got hooked. I thought I’d stop hiking once winter started, but honestly I’m enjoying winter hiking so much that I’ve decided to take my adventures up a notch. That’s why your vids are super important to people like me.
Mon, tue & wed I’ll be at the northeast mountaineering bunkhouse in Glen NH and I plan to summit mount Monroe and mount isolation.
Nice! I actually love winter trips as much as summer! Glad you're having a blast out there!
Bummer, the Nemo Tenshi is no longer available. There were other Nemo brands, so if you try any other Nemo model I hope you do a winter video soon. Thanks for the very helpful information!
My second visit. Just subscribed. Clear, concise, and to the point. You don't talk up and you don't talk down. You seem comfortable in front of the camera - a big plus in helping getting you message across. Used to do camping in the Sierras - not Canada, but -10C is still -10C (not factoring moisture and wind). I'm in Germany now. Wild camping is sternly frowned upon here and the campsites are usually closed in winter. However, day-hiking is king here all year round and cabin hiking (from one moutain hut to the next) is typically booked out months in advance. Being prepared is important - as you point out - even for day hikes in the winter mountains. Thanks for a well thought-out vid. Still learning new things after 50 years of camping...
Have loved your comments! Thanks! Winter cabin trips are a lot of fun and I'd love to one day explore the European cabin system.
Thank you man, it really help me figure out what I need for winter camping here in Canada
He has awesome sleeping system so he gets sleeping better than in his own bed. And he got 2 stoves cooking system so he can cook the 2 liters of snow without any food. Still, that big backpack is full of these awesome gears. Who needs food when you have nice sleeping and cooking system.
Many nights this winter above my quilts rated temperature 10°f. I'm bound to go out& test this gear. Thanks Justin.
This is awesome Justin, thanks so much! I've only winter camped once in the snow, but I really want to do more. (I love snow so much and miss it living on the coast!) I super appreciate these tips!
This is one of the most helpful videos I've watched. Very insightful stuff, thanks!
Man, your winter camping videos are all right in the temperature range where the conversion between Celsius and Fahrenheit is the most confusing to me. Still, I believe at 11:25 that should be +15 degrees Fahrenheit, not -15. Cheers!
That 15 to 0F range is the most confusing to me. You're right, it should be +15
If you only go camping when it's negative 40 it's super simple! ❄️❄️🌬
Yeah i never really get the fahrenheit close or below freezing point. I mean celsius is so simlple alone. 100°C- water fully boiling
0°C- freezing/melting point depending if it gets lower or higher than that.
Your really making me miss home! I'm from BC and previously lived near salmon arm, now I'm in Ireland. I just did a three day trip winter camping here. Ireland has the strange ability to be decently cold and below freezing but still very wet! A dangerous combination. Anyhow keep up the great content! Maybe I'll see you on the trail whenever I make it back home.😁
We have a lot of the same (time tested) gear. Tho I would recommend a Tinder Kit with a F rod striker & or UCO weathproof matches. I make my Kit out of a 12 inch circle of premium leather with a leather lace threaded cinch attached to a 3 inch elk tine. Preparedness is wisdom... Also carry Bic lighters with about 18"- 24" of duct tape wrapped around them, justin in case of tears & rips. Caio Bro!
Great tips and suggestions!
@@JustinOutdoors thanx 🌞 Justin 4 your prompt edifying responses. I'm glad that I subscribed 2 your channel. I've been randomly perusing some of your older vids: Lotsa informative quality content!! I also appreciate that you try to keep most of your vids under 10 mins, I refuse to watch long winded chatty redundant reviews; they're usually a huge waste of precious time. Thanx again Brother!...
JUSTIN! Thank you! Love that you really give facts about gear -and it's gear you use! Friendly ADVICE: Give viewers more time at the end to click your videos you suggest. Love the channel. Ty
Will do! Sometimes I forget while filming, still learning! Great reminder :)
Thanks for a clear and helpful video. I am a three season backpacker with experience in the Appalachians who’s in Finland for the year and trying to figure out how to make the jump to serious winter trekking. COVID is making local contacts tricky so I am researching anyway I can. I’m looking forward to your clothing video.
Thanks for the free knowledge! I plan on going winter backpacking this winter✌
I always winter camp. Weather does not deter me. I have lived in places where the weather never changes, it's boring, so I welcome changing seasons and conditions. But being in Virginia the coldest I've seen is 14F/-10C, not too bad.
I agree!
Great information, thanks!
Unfortunately, I live in the south. It may get down to freezing at night it doesn’t last long enough for me to worry about snow. We just get frost and I take precautions for that. Great video, gave me some ideas.
Thanks Justin, i follow you for a while now and i thank you for your videos! It helps me alot this summer for my backpacking camping. i plan to do the same this winter with hector lake in my objective . Cheers!
Another great video! I started getting into winter backpacking two years ago and am loving your content. Very interested to learn more about the clothes you bring especially the outer couple layers.
Really want to try this. Prob do it first in backyard. Also planning to use a folding titanium stove in a hot tent. Seek outside tents, best tents made.
Backyard is the place to test things out and find the limits of your gear for sure! The seek outside tent and stoves look amazing! After exchange rates, duties, and shipping, it ends up costing over $2,000 CAD though!
Great video. While I’m not technically winter camping, I’m in pretty cold (for me) shoulder season. Just finished my first overnight trip today, doing another one next weekend. Froze my butt off this weekend, my gear just didn’t cut it, even though I bought insulated equipment. Oh well, I learned a lot about what I need to do before next weekend ;)
Nice backpack. Ive had my eye on this one. My winter backpack is the Mountain Hardwear Ozonic 65L.
Hello my Outdoors friend, thank you for sharing this very informative video, great information about winter camping. All the best to you. Stay healthy. 🤗
Great information!
At 11:23 you have -15F/-10C, a slight mistake in the conversion. -10C is closer to 15F than -15F.
-15F is more like -26C. 🥶
I love gear
Solid gear... Great video
Wonderful video mate thank you for sharing
I have a hard time packing my 90 liter rockagator Kanarra I can fit my hammock, tarp, sleeping bag, pillow, rain coat, rain pants, saw, first aid, fire starters, Flashlights, socks and set of extra clothes, Grayl waterbottle and that's about it have to pack my food in a separate dry bag and carry it hobo style with the canoe paddle while portaging and that's my summer camping stuff... just been watching these videos and wondering how y'all get all that stuff to physically fit in the bag let alone carry it
What the hell...I was going to ask about the pants you're wearing. Now I have to wait for the next video 😀
I most definitely have a camping trip planned for next month, luckily for me it will get nowhere near as cold! lol
Very useful information on the less in case I do decide to take a trip further north and go camping.
It would be great if you could do a video about keeping water liquid in freezing temperatures. You touched on it a bit in this video, but a deeper dive would be great.
For sure!
Awesome gear breakdown. I definitely plan to do more winter backpacking this year but also don't hit temps like you do. On average I'm dealing with lows around 10-20 degrees in the deep part of winter.
Hi! Great overview, that sleeping bag looks really awesome :) Thanks!
This is an awesome video Justin! I just ordered the Tenshi so I'm really anxious to put it to use. Now just waiting on some snow!
It's becoming one of my favorite pieces of gear! So many unique and great features!
@@JustinOutdoors that vapor shield makes so much sense. Love all the venting too. I have the Nemo Hornet Elite 2p and really like the quality of the tent. But I like my Dirigo 2 better. Wish the HMG four season tents weren’t so expensive. LOL!
Great tips!!! Thanks so much for sharing :)
Great video. Wish I had resources like this when I was starting out winter camping.
Agreed! The first time I winter camped, I made a quinzhee, used tree boughs as a sleeping pad, and sledded in dozens of pounds of blankets for warmth!
@@JustinOutdoors The biggest mistake I made my first time was setting up tarps to block the wind around our fire. It did block the wind and kept us warm, but we essentially made a smoker out of those tarps that trapped the heat and the smoke inside. We probably smoked the equivalent of 100 packs of cigarets that weekend sitting by the fire in that tarp shelter. Never again. I can't eat smoked foods to this day.
Great video! I'm slowly building my winter setup, but Kentucky winters are weird and unpredictable. Like the schill Brothers, I would love to try a hot tent.
Thanks learned a lot!
Loved the Polar Ranger for the 1 day I owned it until my partner made me return it because I didn’t reaally need another bag of similar temp rating, haha. Hard to beat winter camping in the Rockies, stoked to see where you go in the coming months!
That's heart breaking! haha
hey. good on ya for having fun winter camping and all, but it's just not for me no matter what. nice gear list though, happy camping!
i love your winter camping videos. I'm having difficulty choosing boots though, what would you suggest winter snow boots or an insulated winter hiking boot?
I'd go with an insulated winter hiking boot as they will likely be lighter and better for hiking in!
Great video. Looking forward to your clothing video
I just got my Thermarest XTherm yesterday for 25% off at REI. $191 for the large size of the current version. $60+ off retail.
Nice! It's a warm af pad!
@@JustinOutdoors Lol - every time I hear a man say a piece of gear is "warm AF" or "keeps you super toasty," I'm always curious how it fares for a woman who gets cold at 70 degrees Fahrenheit! I got spoiled by a former boyfriend who had a hot tent and little stove - now I have to figure out what gear works for me to keep me warm for winter camping. There are so many options! 😬
New to channel, like content.
Probably too specific and expensive a request, but I would love to see the Thermarest Xtherm, Exped Downmat, and Nemo Tensor Alpine reviewed. These seem like the most well balanced inflatable winter pad options, and I would love to see them compared like your summer pad review video.
I would really like to do a comparison of those pads, including the ether light xt extreme! If I can get a couple of them sent from the companies or a discount, then I will hopefully be able to make it happen for next year
@@JustinOutdoors I hadn't seen the XT extreme! Extremely excited about this... The comfort of the XT is dramatically best in class for me.
Hi Justin, amazing videos. May I ask where you bought those dry bags from? The yellow ones you use to organize your pack.
They are from MEC :)
Great review!
Great info ! 🙏🇨🇦🌲
Melt your water faster. Lol. Great video my man. Amazing information that is absolutely needed in the cold.
I'm not sure where my brain went during that. Talking about melting water and boiling snow 🤦
@@JustinOutdoors great content, officially subscribed now and will share the channel.
вообще был удивлен, что в штатах весьма популярен Декатлон
It's my understanding that the HDPE light weight Nalgene bottles are not suitable for boiling water and can melt and leak.
I looked into it quite a bit, and the short of it is that the nalgene ultralite bottles are okay for containing boiling water.
Super informative video,I’m looking forward to using my new OR alpine bivi bag here in the Pyrenees this winter down to -10 methinks,neoxtherm pad and thermarest parsec -6 down bag with rab tarp,will I be warm enough?I will try to find a sheltered spot obviously.
Double check the comfort rating of the bag! Thermarest mostly advertises survival rating and a 0C comfort rating likely won't cut it.
Hi Justin. I’m taking you up on your offer to answer questions. In terms of sleeping bag insulation, would it not be better to use a synthetic bag with a down quilt rather than vice versa as you’re doing? I agree wholeheartedly with you in that synthetic insulation handles moisture better so doesn’t it make sense to have that next to you? Please note I’m just starting to winter camp so I don’t know how that might work. I understand that a synthetic bag of equal temperature rating would be somewhat larger and heavier but it might be worth it for the management of condensation. Secondly, I’ve viewed videos where the suggestion is to place the reflective matt on top of the sleeping pad. The suggestion is that this is more thermally efficient. Curious to hear your thoughts on this.
Great question! The reason its better to have the synthetic on the outside has to do with the dewpoint. Most of the moisture around your body is vapor. As it moves through your insulation and cools off, it turns to liquid. The key is to move that point where the vapor cools off enough to turn into liquid to an outer layer that manages moisture well, like a synthetic quilt. It all has to do with temperature gradients and the dewpoint!
@@JustinOutdoors Thanks so much for that information Justin. I thought that might be the case but I was puzzled by the belief that down was the better insulting material and didn’t know where moisture would end up lol. Any thoughts on the placement of the reflective pad? Appreciate your patience. Cheers
Great fan Justin, love your videos you the best outdoor expert for sure. I have a question for you, if Im planning to buy a sleeping bag for winter, to sleep without tent and on top of the snow (under just a thermarest z lite sol mat and a sea to summit ether light xt pad) will you still recommend the polar ranger? How good is against water and wind? What would be your suggestion?
It will block a little wind but isn't waterpoof. If it's super windy or really wet, I'd probably want to bring a tarp or bivy.
@@JustinOutdoors any bivy that you can recommend?
Great video, Justin. Can you re-link the Tipi Tent, seems broken. I'm keen to see which brand/model it is. Thanks 👍
Thanks for the heads up! It should be updated, but if the one in the video description doesn't work, here it is: amzn.to/2UoMiJR (assuming you're in the US).
Hey Adam, I'd like to recommend the (Polish) Lavvu tipi style tent. It's very rugged with a slit 4A flue just in case you bring a folding wood stove (like the GSTOVE). Definitely ideal for longer site stays. It's waterproof and very affordable... ciao!
Thanks for this video 🙌🏼
What bottoms are you wearing ? Thermals and water proof pants?
OR Trailbreaker II pants! They are half waterproof.
@@JustinOutdoors awesome thanks for the info and for the quick reply!! Cheers!
12:14 That looks like the BRS stove bag on the table?
I have the Snow Claw and it's been great for snow camping.
I have the Kovea Spider stove which works great and is budget friendly compared to the MSR WhispierLite Universal.
That is a BRS stove on the table. I didn't talk about it in the video, but I wanted to have a backup on this trip just in case. I'll have to look into the Kovea!
Hi Justin. Great video! Love your work. How do you cope with moister in the sleeping bag? You use a VBL of other liner in it?
I haven't done any really long winter treks yet, so it hasn't been a big issue. Even on the smaller trips I've been doing, I haven't found moisture to be a big problem. There are some things I do to help though. I do a lot to avoid moisture getting into my clothing so that I am not bringing moisture into my sleeping bag. I also leave things that may have a lot of moisture in them (like my pants and jacket) outside of the bag. You'll often hear people talk about drying gear inside their sleeping bag, but I don't do this as it is a great way to fill your bag with moisture. I also will more often than not have a synthetic quilt with me, which moves the dew point well outside of the bag and helps prevent the collection of moisture inside the bag. For a 5-7 day trip, I'd likely look more into using vapor barriers while sleeping.
@@JustinOutdoors Thank you for your extensive answer. Good advice regarding damp clothing. Your video’s giving good advice. I’m looking forward to your next video. Keep up the good work and have fun outdoors.
Justin, what did Nemo replace the Tenshi with? do you know? I'm going to run my first winter hike in camp this season, I have the nemo wagontop for summer camping with my wife but keen on getting a 2 person for some solo missions. thoughts?
They didn't replace it :(
Would Esbit solid fuel tablets work in a -20 to -30 Celsius situation? Maybe simpler
Not sure, I haven't ever used them! The stove I use is pretty darn simple though, and doesn't smell.
I scoured your channel for a deeper review of the AMG 70. I've been thinking about getting the AMG 55 for some winter comping I wanted to do. How long do you usually go camping in winter with your AMG 70? Can you do a video for a better look at the backpack please?
I'll probably be doing a detailed review of the AMG 75 in the fall of 2021!
@@JustinOutdoors Cannot wait! #subscribed
Hi Justin, I usually use white gas in winter, and when I prime the stove it makes soot...Is there any soot when you prime your stove with the canister fuel? Also, I want to know if you prime the stove with the canister upwright, then returning it down after priming as in the video of MSR? Thank you Guylaine
No residue build up with cannister stoves. One of the big benefits! You also don't need to prime cannister stoves.
@@JustinOutdoors thanks !
@Justin Outdoors I recently bought the Nemo Tenshi and saw a website review mentioning using seam seal to completely waterproof it. The manual on Nemo's site also says to seam seal a few spots to make it completely waterproof. However the manual is from 2016 when the design was different than the model you and I have. Old model poles looked to go inside and the model we have poles external. I also believe the old model used to come with seam seal but I didn't get any with my Tenshi. Did you seam seal yours? If not, any issues? I picked up the tent for snow winter camping, but it may see some rain as well. Thanks!
I saw the same things and checked the seams and they appear to be all taped. Nemo's website also says this version is waterproof. I'm pretty confident if can hold up to rain!
was looking forward to this one. Thanks for the tips. How tall are you? I am 6 ft tall and wondering if the xtherm large would do the job
5'10! I think the Xtherm L would do the job! That's the one I have.
Nice video. Have you ever gone through a battery bank in a two day trip and had to use the backup one? It must have been -60C.
On a recent trip, I accidently drained one battery on day 1 due to leaving it plugged into my camera. So even though it wasn't the cold, it was important I had a backup. I find battery power is less of an issue in summer and haven't had that be an issue at all.
Daaaaamn dude, you got the AMG pack. That looks so sick dude, how are they? Worth the money?
It's been AMAZING for me. Only pack on the market that ticked the boxes I wanted in a winter pack. I lucked out and got it during a 50% off sale. Definitely worth the money.
Great video Justin.
What stakes are you using for your shelter in the snow?
With there being little snow on the ground where I've been the last couple of trips, I've been using standard aluminum Y-stakes. I find they are pretty good at being driven into frozen ground and come out pretty easily. When the snow gets deeper, I use some cheap aluminum snow stakes I got off aliexpress and deadman anchors using sticks.
Lol, if you can call camping in December in England winter campaign, that is in plan.
Yeah, England temperature 5°C so freezing cold 🥶🤪
My summer gear list is great for 5C temps! haha
@@JustinOutdoors starting with baby steps 👶 to build up confidence... (On trail temperature may fall below 0 during the night)
Good video al always!
Any advice on gloves?
Wait up for my clothing video :)
Hey Justin, the pocket saw link takes me to Amazon with all the saws and not a specific one, which one do you like best? Thank You
I use the Pocket Boy 170mm one with large teeth!
I winter camp in a hammock. So the gear differs a little bit
Given that you're new to quilts in the last couple years, I would be interested to hear if you have yet tested winter quilt camping. I know EE makes the double quilt pad straps. I've been planning out winter gear and have been considering a full winter weight down clothing purchase for layering with quilt(s) instead of a full mummy bag.
Last winter, I only camped using my quilts (Enlightened Equipment 20F Enigma and 50F Revelation Apex). I was able to get down to -20C with that system but that's when it started maxing out (and I needed an added layer compared to with the Polar Ranger at the same temp). Adding a synthetic overquilt is a great way to take a summer quilt into winter. You've got me thinking of the sweet spots for quilts vs sleeping bags in winter and it's an interesting question. I think the breaking point might be around -10 or -15C (for me and the setups I have).
@@JustinOutdoors That seems to match up decently with EE's prediction. Been trying to figure out the optimal combination of quilts for multi season flexibility. Feels hard to find two quilts that actually cover everything. A combo like 10, 20, 50 seems like it might cover the huge Canadian temperature spread.
support.enlightenedequipment.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002770588-How-to-layer-quilts-for-sub-zero-camping
nice video man
What are you using for snow pants? Great vid!
OR Trailbreaker II!
what boots do you use?
I'm in Calgary and really want to take the leap from snowshoeing to an overnight this winter. Any advice?
Start small! You may even want to test out the limits of your gear in your backyard or a car camping trip.
What pants are those? Are they fleece lined?
OR Trailbreaker II! Not fleece lined, just a standard softshell with the lower grey part being waterproof
Why don't you get a backpack with a dedicated sleeping bag compartment on the bottom of the bag who has a zipper opening for quick access. Thanks.
I prioritized other features in lieu of that. It would have been nice to have though!
@@JustinOutdoors Thanks mate, happy camping, Peace.
i’d love to go winter camping, but sadly I cannot afford it quite yet :)
Start with the day hikes. Then only new thing you need are boots. Use random backbag to carry tea and food. Sit somewhere nice and get fire going. Be back well before dark. And if you fell in love with hiking you will find the money to get essential gear. :)
How much for pair of spare knees, especially left one?
Priceless!
@@JustinOutdoors true :)
vacuum sealed water bottles much better, kept mine out in cold for 3 days ~0-10*F and didn't freeze. Honestly can scrap most of this shit for a -20* sleeping bag.