Must-Know Winter Survival Tactics

With icy temperatures and the threat of winter storms, winter can be a challenging time of year, even for an experienced survivalist. If you get stuck outside during the winter, the weather can go from uncomfortable to dangerous very quickly. It’s important to know how to take care of yourself for winter, including staying warm, eating and drinking, and building a proper emergency shelter.

Here are our survival tips for success in the winter.

Staying Warm

The most urgent and important thing during the winter is to stay warm. If you are inside, that means having a heat source as well as hot water. If you’re staying outside, that means starting a fire to keep warm. This can be tricky when much of the ground is wet and slick, but it’s not impossible.

In addition to starting a fire, make sure that you keep moving to keep the blood flowing. Sitting on your pack rather than on the ground or on a log can also help to keep you warm. You should also seek out an emergency winter shelter to stay protected from the winter elements.

Clothing

Obviously, clothing is an important part of staying warm in the winter. The goal of your clothing should be to keep you warm but also to be flexible enough that you can move. You don’t want your clothing to hold in too much wet, either. This includes:

Layering

Layering your clothes can help you stay warm in winter, but it’s just as important to be sure you’re not sweating too much as it is to ensure you don’t sweat too little. We recommend four layers: a thin base layer, a sub-base layer, a mid-layer, and an outer layer.

Your base layer should be something fitted and breathable, like a silk thermal top or long underwear. These layers hold tightly to your body and are easy to move around in. They help to insulate you at the base level. Your sub-base level is designed to hold warmth into the base layer. Something warm but still slender like fleece is a good option here.

Your mid-layer should be able to function as a jacket in cooler weather, something warm and insulating but not particularly bulky. When you’re in extreme cold and you’re not able to generate heat by moving around, however, the outer layer is a bulkier coat and pants designed for extreme cold. Your outer layer should also be water and wind resistant to keep out both the cold and damp.

Sleeping Bags

Sleeping on the ground is a no-go in the winter, but not all sleeping bags are made for cold weather. You may see listings that say “3 season sleeping bag,” which typically means it’s perfect for spring, summer, and autumn, but won’t offer the support you need in winter. Look instead for cold weather sleeping bags. This mummy-shape cold weather sleeping bag offers insulated box footing and is made to prevent cold spots. This will be much more likely to keep you warm in the winter.

Gloves

Gloves are a must if you’re outside for a significant period of time during the winter. Your gloves should be both insulating and waterproof. In some cases, you may bring two pairs of gloves just so you can switch them off and ensure that your hands stay warm and dry.

What To Eat and Drink and When

The food you eat can have an impact on your body temperature, too. When you eat warm, hearty foods and drink warm fluids, it helps to warm your body. Of course, the goal for emergency shelters is to have non-perishable food that is easy to carry around, so a warm, home cooked meal probably won’t be available.

Try to keep a diet that’s high in protein, as this will help to keep your body temperature elevated. You can also eat canned food by heating it over your campfire. Canned bacon, beans, or red meat are good options. Staying hydrated is also essential. An insulated canteen or backpack mug containing heated water can ensure that you drink more in the midst of the cold weather and that your body temperature stays up.

Eating during the colder periods of the day — morning and evening — can help to regulate your body temperature. You should also eat after a period of high activity or movement.

Emergency Snow Shelter in Winter

If you find yourself stuck outside in the winter, it’s important to make an emergency snow shelter to protect yourself from wind and adverse elements. A snow cave is a great option here. Look for a large snow drift with thick, packable snow. Begin to dig out the shelter in the shape of a bell, low and narrow and then higher and wider. Dig up as you move to trap heat inside your shelter and keep out strong winds.

Quick Ways To Get Warm When Cold or Wet

If you’re outside in winter, the main things you want to avoid are cold and wet. In the snow, everything is damp, and that damp can keep you dangerously cold, especially if you’re not able to change clothes. Having a waterproof outer layer should help to keep you from getting too wet, as will sitting on your pack or on your sleeping bag.

In the event that you do need to dry off, it’s important to know how to start a fire in the midst of winter weather. Start by finding dry kindling. You may find something hidden under tree boughs, or you may find branches or limbs from dead trees. Pine needles and pine cones may also help in these situations. From there, you can find the “log wood,” with thicker pieces that will keep the fire going for longer.

You can also use a fire starter and tinder kit to start a fire in winter if conditions make it difficult to find dry materials. The good news is that the snow may provide you the ability to build a decent fire pit. Dig through the snow and pack the sides until you reach the ground. Start your fire there, surrounded by your natural fire pit.

Want to make sure you’re prepared when winter weather hits? Contact Army Navy Outdoors today by calling (904) 725-5000 or check out our shop to find the winter survival supplies you need.