{"id":48964,"date":"2022-05-30T11:48:40","date_gmt":"2022-05-30T02:18:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/?p=48964"},"modified":"2023-01-10T15:48:45","modified_gmt":"2023-01-10T05:18:45","slug":"podcast-cosy-camping","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-cosy-camping\/","title":{"rendered":"Ep58 \u2013 How to Camp Cosy"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"for-amp wp-block-heading\">Listen to the full episode here:<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"buzzsprout-player-10702881\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t <script src=\"https:\/\/www.buzzsprout.com\/1259564\/10702881.js?container_id=buzzsprout-player-10702881&amp;player=small\" type=\"text\/javascript\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n\t<div class=\"wp-video-popup-wrapper\">\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-video-popup-close\"><\/div>\n\t\t<iframe class=\"wp-video-popup-video is-hosted is-landscape is-resizable\" src=\"\" data-wp-video-popup-url=\"https:\/\/youtube.com\/embed\/-eUPJj-pv5w?autoplay=1\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen allow=\"autoplay\">\n\t\t<\/iframe>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"for-amp wp-block-heading\">Or watch the video version here:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Ep 58 - How to Camp Cosy\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-eUPJj-pv5w?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">From cupping hot coffee mugs on frosted rocks, to plodding the tail end of sodden trails back to basecamp, <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>camping in the cooler months is a tight-knit blend of serene winter scenes and cosy, creature comforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this episode of the Snowys Camping Show, Ben and Lauren strip back the layers to reveal how to stay warm during brutal outback winters. Be it HotSpots in pockets, or hot coals under camp chairs \u2013 our gear gurus bivvy down on how to best harness the heat beyond our backyards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Shortcuts:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>00:00 \u2013 Intro<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>01:10 \u2013 Cold-Weather Camping<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>03:20 \u2013 Thermals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>05:22 \u2013 Beanies<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>06:03 \u2013 Gloves and Pocket-Warmers<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>08:43 \u2013 Snacks<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>09:19 \u2013 Jackets and Socks<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>10:46 \u2013 Warming the Bottom-Half<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>12:15 \u2013 Wind<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>14:05 \u2013 Campfires<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>15:54 \u2013 Coals Under Camp Chairs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>17:45 \u2013 HotSpot Chairs<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>20:01 \u2013 Blankets<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>21:03 \u2013 Tent and Annex Heating<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>26:08 \u2013 Maintaining Body Warmth While Sleeping<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>31:28 \u2013 Liners<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>35:51 \u2013 Hot Water Bottles<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>36:19 \u2013 Managing Condensation<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mentioned in this Episode:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Podcasts:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-staying-cool-comfortable-camping\/\" target=\"_blank\">Ep1 \u2013 Staying Cool &amp; Comfortable When Camping<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-wind-rain-when-camping\/\" target=\"_blank\">Ep8 \u2013 Unexpected Wind &amp; Rain When Camping<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-dealing-with-tent-condensation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ep9 &#8211; Dealing With Tent Condensation<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-sleep-system-ratings-with-sea-to-summit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ep 11 \u2013 Sleep System Ratings with Sea to Summit<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-fire-ban-season\/\" target=\"_blank\">Ep45 \u2013 Fire Ban Seasons with the CFS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Snowys YouTube<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/527OcwiPwH8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Sleep Warm When Camping<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Products<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/disposable-hand-warmers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Coghlans Disposable Hand Warmer<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/crunchy-peanut-butter-energy-bar\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Clif Energy Bar<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/stowaway-adult-jacket?c=Forest+Green\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rainbird Stowaway Adult Jacket<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/targhee-ii-wp-mid-mens-boot\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Keen Targhee II WP Mid Men\u2019s Boot<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/pyrenees-wp-mid-wmns-boot\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Keen Pyrenees WP Mid Wmn\u2019s Boot<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-footwear-hiking-socks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hiking socks<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/expedition-heavyweight-comfort-mens-boot-sock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bridgedale Expedition Heavyweight Comfort Men\u2019s Boot Sock<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/fingerless-fleece-gloves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sherpa Fingerless Fleece Gloves<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/search?w=gloves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gloves<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/search?w=beanie\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Beanies<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/ultrarig-heavy-duty-poly-tarp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">OZtrail Heavy-Duty Poly Tarp<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/king-kokoda-hotspot-chair\">Oz<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/king-kokoda-hotspot-chair\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">t<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/king-kokoda-hotspot-chair\">ent King Kokoda HotSpot Chair<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/redgum-hotspot-heated-xl-sleeping-bag\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Oztent Redgum HotSpot Heated XL Sleeping Bag<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/portable-lp-gas-camp-heater\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Companion Portable LP Gas Camp Heater<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/search?w=annex\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Annexes<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/camping-tents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tents<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/gasmate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gasmate<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/all-terrain-xl-single-airbed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Coleman All Terrain XL Single Airbed<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/sea-to-summit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sea to Summit<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/sleeping-bags\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sleeping bags<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/camp-sleeping-mats\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sleeping mats<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/alaska-black-1100-sleeping-bag\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">23Zero Alaska Black 1100 Sleeping Bag<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/wide-mouth-rectangular-bottles\">Nal<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/wide-mouth-rectangular-bottles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">g<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/wide-mouth-rectangular-bottles\">ene Wide Mouth Rectangular Bottles<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fieldandstream.com\/articles\/hunting\/2011\/01\/survival-skills-how-make-coal-bed\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Survival: How to Make a Coal Bed<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aga.asn.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Australian Gas Association (AGA)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Cold-Weather Camping<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Previously, Ben and Lauren discussed how to handle unexpected wind and rain when camping (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-wind-rain-when-camping\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Episode 8<\/a>) and sleep system ratings with Dean from Sea to Summit (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-sleep-system-ratings-with-sea-to-summit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Episode 11<\/a>). Dating back even further, our outdoor experts discussed in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-staying-cool-comfortable-camping\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Episode 1<\/a> how to stay cool and comfortable when camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the weather takes a 180-degree turn to brisk, bitter, and bitey conditions, Ben and Lauren draw on these previous episodes to further detail the many ways we can stay toasty outdoors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Thermals<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An obvious place to start \u2013 thermals are an ideal, insulative layer for winter dressing. From simple, to multi-striped 90s-vibes, they\u2019re available in different designs and blends of fabric.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While those with a polypropylene construction dry faster, they are also quick to become smelly. On the other hand, merino thermals tend to better regulate body temperature and boast odour-resistant qualities, therefore lasting multiple wears. Lauren also finds she can wear merino thermals for longer, while polypropylene has her feeling clammy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As with most things, timing is everything \u2013 and that includes sporting a thermal! During the colder months, it\u2019s been advised that four o\u2019clock in the afternoon \u2013 while the sun is still up, and our body is warm \u2013 is the most ideal time to put on a thermal. This is because a thermal\u2019s primary purpose is to retain warmth \u2013 and while we naturally attempt to warm up only when we feel cold, this is much harder to do than trap the warmth we\u2019re already radiating in the warmer parts of the day, leading into the chilly evenings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This approach should also apply to our head, hands, and feet \u2013 calling on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/search?w=beanie\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">beanies<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/search?w=gloves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">gloves<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-footwear-hiking-socks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">socks<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beanies<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In a previous <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/527OcwiPwH8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">YouTube video<\/a> on the Snowys channel, Ben detailed the ways in which to sleep warm. Within it, he references the fact that we lose a significant volume of heat from our heads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In light of this, beanies are wise to wear in the colder weather, helping to trap and retain the heat that escapes from this area of our bodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gloves and Pocket-Warmers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For Lauren, <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/fingerless-fleece-gloves\" target=\"_blank\">fingerless gloves<\/a> go further than standard designs, proving functional in carrying out the tedious tasks during the colder parts of the day without the need to remove them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cranking the heat even still are pocket-warmers. Roughly the size of a chewing gum packet, \u201cclicking\u201d the pouch instigates a chemical reaction that releases heat to warm patches of our body through our pockets. While some pocket-warmers are <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/disposable-hand-warmers\" target=\"_blank\">disposable<\/a>, there are reusable versions available that can be simply reset with boiling water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When first activated, pocket-warmers are almost too hot to hold in a bare hand. One \u201cclick\u201d provides enough heat to see cold, numb little hands through a cold, wet, school footy game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Snacks<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Our metabolism keeps our body warm by using energy to process the food we take in. A <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/crunchy-peanut-butter-energy-bar\" target=\"_blank\">high-calorie snack<\/a> provides higher energy levels \u2013 thus requiring more from our body to process, and generating more heat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Jackets and Layering<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While down- and synthetic-filled jackets are ideal for providing warmth in the bitter, brisk weather, Ben and Lauren recommend dressing in multiple layers. Instead of a single t-shirt underneath a large, padded jacket, multiple layers may include a quality thermal, a thick fleece jacket, and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/stowaway-adult-jacket?c=Forest+Green\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">windbreaker<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On windy days, wearing softshell wind-stopping garments will prevent cold drafts from creeping up and underneath clothing. A versatile option is a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/stowaway-adult-jacket?c=Forest+Green\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">standard rain jacket<\/a>, battling both rain and wind. Given its insulative qualities trapping heat effectively, often less layers are required when incorporating a windbreaker or rain jacket into your cold weather attire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Warming the Bottom-Half<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, you have the top-half covered (literally) \u2013 but what about those frosty toes?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As for our upper body, adequate layers are important on our bottom half too, such as <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-footwear-hiking-socks\" target=\"_blank\">socks<\/a> and thermals. In the shoe department, Lauren recommends pull-on, heavy-duty footwear such as Blundstones or <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/targhee-ii-wp-mid-mens-boot\" target=\"_blank\">leather hiking boots<\/a>, instead of sneakers. The breathable mesh and sponge-like construction of the latter have them less likely to bolster our feet from the cold, sodden surfaces. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Second to a good set of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/pyrenees-wp-mid-wmns-boot\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">leather shoes<\/a> to keep the heat in, Lauren recommends the campsite-friendly Ugg boot: Crocs, with a double layer of heat-holder <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/expedition-heavyweight-comfort-mens-boot-sock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">socks<\/a>. After kicking it about the campsite during dinnertime duties, simply slip off the Crocs and climb straight into bed with snug feet!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Wind<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A brisk winter breeze can often be what turns a campsite from comfortable to cold. To help mediate wind, it\u2019s recommended to create some sort of windbreak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lauren describes what camping with her grandparents in New South Wales was like as a child. Every cold, crisp morning, she\u2019d dart across from the tent to where the campfire was surrounded by a canvas <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/ultrarig-heavy-duty-poly-tarp\">tarp<\/a> windbreak. The tarp had trapped the heat released by the active campfire to create what felt like a heat bubble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On a recent hike too, Lauren describes the patches of warmth she felt when passing clusters of trees. From these experiences, she emphasizes how effective windbreaking the campfire area can be in harnessing heat, especially if wind is the main cause of the cold. In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-wind-rain-when-camping\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Episode 8<\/a>, Ben and Lauren discuss how to employ tents and vehicles as windbreaks at the campsite too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Campfires<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ben\u2019s top trick when piling up the sticks: don\u2019t go overboard. Instead, only burn the kindling and tinder needed to cook and stay warm. Too much wood on the fire can mean the flames are too large for us to stand much closer than four metres, which defeats the purpose of a warming, comforting campfire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another way to add fuel to the fire\u2026 is to not. Instead, Lauren describes a campfire reflector device \u2013 shaped as a half-moon and positioned across the back of the fire. The reflector works by rebounding warmth and light back to the main area, radiating heat and prolonging the efficiency of the campfire too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The true minimalist he is, Ben also suggests building a similar structure from scratch using a lightweight frame and tin foil. Okay, Ben. Okay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/EP58-Body-Image.jpg\" alt=\"Don\u2019t go overboard when piling kindling and tinder onto the campfire.\" class=\"wp-image-48967\" title=\"Three campers are wrapped in blankets and beanies, huddled by the campfire. They are sipping on mugs of hot beverages, and there is a Husky-looking dog standing behind them. A light frost is falling, and they are surrounded by forestry.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/EP58-Body-Image.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/EP58-Body-Image-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/EP58-Body-Image-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/EP58-Body-Image-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Don\u2019t go overboard when piling kindling and tinder onto the campfire &#8211; if the flames are too large, this defeats the purpose of standing close to a warming, comforting campfire. Credit: Earthwell<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Coals Under Camp Chairs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Safety Ben will say not to do this \u2013 but Lauren backs this clever camping hack with everything she\u2019s got.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The heating method works by burrowing a small hole in the earth underneath camp chair and shoveling in hot coals. With no danger of embers, sparks, or flames, the heat rises and permeates throughout the base of the chair, warming our backsides like a hot bath!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The native Americans took a similar approach to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fieldandstream.com\/articles\/hunting\/2011\/01\/survival-skills-how-make-coal-bed\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">creating a warm bed<\/a>. In digging a hole, filling it with hot coals, and covering it with soil \u2013 they introduced what could be deemed the first \u2018electric\u2019 blanket!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>HotSpot Chairs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As seen in the Oztent range, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/king-kokoda-hotspot-chair\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HotSpot chairs<\/a> feature strategic pockets at the back and base to fit hotspot pouches \u2013 some as large as wheat bags. Oztent has also released a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/redgum-hotspot-heated-xl-sleeping-bag\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HotSpot sleeping bag<\/a>, offering the same heating technology. With six available pockets, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hotspot-hot-cold-pouch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HotSpot pouches<\/a> have the potential to add substantial weight to the top of the bag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The hotspot chair and sleeping bag works just as efficiently using separately available heat packs, though these would require heating with a second appliance. In the same realm, Lauren also recommends draping either sheep skin or woollen blankets over camp chairs, preventing any loss of heat from out the back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Blankets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-fire-ban-season\/\" target=\"_blank\">Episode 45 \u2013 Fire Ban Seasons with the CFS<\/a>, the importance of keeping a blanket in the back of the car during the summer was discussed in the context of bushfire safety. For this reason, a woollen blanket is a wise investment for its dual-use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be it a thick or thin construction, blankets pack conveniently enough in with the rest of the camp tackle and make a substantial difference to the warmth and comfort of your seating when draped over a camp chair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tent and Annex Heating<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before elaborating on how to best heat a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/camping-tents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">tent<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/search?w=annex\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">annex<\/a> with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/portable-lp-gas-camp-heater\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">gas heater<\/a> before bedtime \u2013 Ben prefaces by reminding us that a bioproduct of burning LPG gas is carbon monoxide. Odourless, a build-up of this product in an enclosed, unventilated space has the potential to go undetected and send a camper into an endless sleep. &nbsp;The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aga.asn.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Australian Gas Association (AGA)<\/a> provides a diagram on their website of what is deemed and enclosed or adequately ventilated space to house a gas appliance \u2013 for example, areas with a roof must have only three walls, while a space with four walls must have an open roof.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In an annex with an open side, gas heaters can be efficient at keeping the space warm. That said, a personal heater won\u2019t be as effective in maintaining warmth in a large space. <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/gasmate\" target=\"_blank\">Gasmate<\/a> have designed a gas heater unit with a duct that threads its way into the tent. While it has its shortcomings, the design is different to other gas heater models in having its combustion unit external to the tent, piping the heat inside. Caravans and camper trailers tend to have portable diesel heaters, which also work on the premise of its combustion unit sitting outside the sleeping area and feeding the warm air through a duct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nonetheless, a tent is essentially two layers of thin fabric, uninsulated \u2013 which by default means that the area will cool down rapidly unless warm air is pumping into the space at a consistent rate. For this reason, Ben recommends either considering some form of ducted heating, or heating the sleeping space with a personal heater prior to climbing into bed and switching it off once snug in your sleeping bag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Maintaining Body Warmth While Sleeping<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As discussed earlier in the podcast, warming ourselves up from an already cold, chilly state is difficult. When we consider how to maintain warmth through our sleep systems, Lauren and Ben emphasise that the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/all-terrain-xl-single-airbed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">standard PVC-constructed air mattresses<\/a> filled with air are the least effective option. Essentially, our body heat travels straight into the void, with nothing to retain or insulate the heat against our bodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-sleep-system-ratings-with-sea-to-summit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Episode 11<\/a>, Ben and Lauren chatted with Dean from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/sea-to-summit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sea to Summit<\/a> about sleep systems. Dean confirmed that any <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/sleeping-bags\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sleeping bag<\/a> with an official European Union (EN) standard comfort rating has been determined on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/camp-sleeping-mats\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sleeping mat<\/a> with an R-value of four. Considering this, purchasing a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/sleeping-bags\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sleeping bag<\/a> with an official EN comfort rating for sleeping atop a mat of an R-value less than four will likely mean experiencing less warmth than what is indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The R-value is the measure of thermal resistance \u2013 in other words, the mat\u2019s ability to resist the transfer of temperature from one side to the other, preventing the cold or heat from the ground from reaching the sleeper on the mat. Considering this, sleeping on a mat with an insulative R-value of six in winter doesn\u2019t mean that doing so in summer will having you feeling too hot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those who own a sleeping mat of an R-value less than four, Lauren recommends lining it with a woollen blanket or underlay from an op-shop. This helps provide further insulation, especially for those sleeping on air mattresses. Other options include flannelette sheets, with the same material often found <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/alaska-black-1100-sleeping-bag\" target=\"_blank\">lining some sleeping bags<\/a> and used for winter pajamas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Liners<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite what some may assume, layering too much between our bodies and the quilt or sleeping bag providing insulation can often be counter-intuitive. This is because insulation works by trapping our body heat \u2013 and given the heat radiates from us, the more layers between our bodies and the insulative later, the less heat escapes to be trapped. As a result, we can\u2019t keep warm as efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In light of this, Lauren suggests applying blankets or extra layers on top of our sleeping bags as opposed to rugging up in jackets and layers within it. While wearing multiple layers underneath can potentially make the sleeping bag redundant, it ultimately depends on how efficient the layers of clothing are against the efficiency of the sleeping, as well as how cold the outside temperature is. When it comes to the heating technology of sleeping bags, the fill of two bags could be the same \u2013 only one is padded with more, having it the warmer option. In that, Lauren clarifies that an effective sleeping bag isn\u2019t determined by whether or not it traps heat, but more by <em>how well<\/em> it does so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our body can only produce so much warmth, and our clothes can only offer so much insulation. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/sleeping-bags\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sleeping bags<\/a>, however, are designed to trap body heat and warmth, technically more effective if more body heat is radiated back to us within the bag. Ultimately, the theory behind a well-tested sleeping bag is that less layers are required if they work efficiently \u2013 but they operate more efficiently if more warmth is generated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Any sleeping bag brainiacs in the audience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hot Water Bottles<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For greater efficiency, a hot water bottle should have a quality, leakproof seal. For the lightweight hikers or minimalist packers (like Ben), a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/wide-mouth-rectangular-bottles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">drink bottle<\/a> can also double as a hot water bottle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Managing Condensation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Essentially, managing condensation involves applying the opposite approach to what one may assume \u2013 allowing cold airflow into the space and warm air out. This is necessary especially if the environment is already wet, as hot air needs to escape to prevent the \u201csweating\u201d or build-up of moisture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/podcast-dealing-with-tent-condensation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Episode 9<\/a>, Ben and Lauren outline in more depth how to manage condensation when camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"block-2dafbca1-db34-4016-9207-f026b83fc830\">Thanks for listening, tune in again for next week\u2019s episode!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p id=\"block-3fc1e5f8-10be-4b09-998a-70c6506a24fc\">Thanks for tuning in to this week\u2019s episode of the Snowys Camping Show Podcast. Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to us on&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCgpO6k-UyaYgwyLg0ESceCg\">YouTube<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/0wy9b822eekXe00bAIqPbX\">Spotify<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/au\/podcast\/snowys-camping-show\/id1527530990\">iTunes<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/music.amazon.com\/podcasts\/db56692e-96e7-418d-929d-88c5fde70b1a\/Snowys-Camping-Show\">Amazon Music<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.iheart.com\/podcast\/269-snowys-camping-show-79675943\/\">iHeartRadio<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pca.st\/z1mx2k64\">Pocket Casts<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/podcastaddict.com\/podcast\/3281467\">Podcast Addict<\/a>, or&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/s?fid=618483\">Stitcher<\/a>&nbsp;so you never miss an upload.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p id=\"block-087cbd57-77e9-4533-b8fc-12f45f86e371\">If you have any questions for Ben and Lauren, make sure you head over to our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/snowys\/\">Facebook group<\/a>&nbsp;and let us know as we\u2019d love to hear from you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p id=\"block-78e4097f-2fbd-446d-a99b-9a3d09f52d17\">Catch you out there!<\/p>\n<div class='watch-action'><div class='watch-position align-left'><div class='action-like'><a class='lbg-style1 like-48964 jlk' href='javascript:void(0)' data-task='like' data-post_id='48964' data-nonce='ebfcf9a0c2' rel='nofollow'><img class='wti-pixel' src='https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/plugins\/wti-like-post\/images\/pixel.gif' title='Liked it' \/><span class='lc-48964 lc'>0<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div> <div class='status-48964 status align-left'><\/div><\/div><div class='wti-clear'><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Camping in the cooler months is a tight-knit blend of serene winter scenes and cosy, creature comforts. In this episode of the Snowys Camping Show, Ben and Lauren strip back the layers to reveal how to camp cosy during brutal outback winters &#8211; from hotspots in pockets, to hot coals under camp chairs.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1638,"featured_media":48968,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1569,854],"tags":[1374,1370,1368,1375,1369,1371,1373,1376,1367],"class_list":["post-48964","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-podcast-camping","category-podcast","tag-campingcosy","tag-campinggearforcoldweather","tag-campinginwinter","tag-campingwarm","tag-coldweathercamping","tag-howtocampcomfortablyinwinter","tag-howtostaywarmwhencamping","tag-warmcampinggear","tag-wintercamping"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/48964"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1638"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=48964"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/48964\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":52148,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/48964\/revisions\/52148"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/48968"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=48964"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=48964"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=48964"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}