Written by Colin — (@c.class_photography)
Winter camping can be one of the most rewarding ways to experience the outdoors — quiet forests, crisp mornings, and starry nights that seem to stretch forever. But comfort and warmth are the real make-or-break factors when the temperatures start to dip. After many nights out in everything from mild shoulder-season cold to –20°C, these are the five pieces of gear I trust most to keep me warm, prepared, and comfortable.
1. Hultafors HY10 Felling Axe
Nothing boosts morale on a winter night quite like a good fire, and that all starts with having the right tool. The Hultafors HY10 is an excellent first axe — or an upgrade — for anyone looking to elevate their cold-weather camping setup.
With a flat cheek profile, it strikes a perfect balance: splitting wood, making kindling, or even felling small to medium trees. The hickory handle is a classic choice for a reason: durable, shock-absorbing, and comfortable to swing.
Hultsafor’s history runs deep—founded in 1697, forging axes since the 1870s, and still hand-crafted in Sweden today. That centuries-old steel and hardening process means the HY10 holds its edge longer and performs beautifully for fine tasks. You truly feel the craftsmanship each time you put it to work.
2. NEMO Kunai 3P Tent
If you want a tent that can handle everything from high-summer storms to deep-cold winter nights, the NEMO Kunai 3P should be on your shortlist. I’ve personally taken this tent from hot, windy July nights all the way down to –20°C, and it has yet to disappoint.
At 2.35 kg (5 lb 3 oz), the Kunai is lightweight for a 3+ season shelter, and NEMO packed it with smart details:
- A spacious vestibule
- Zippered mesh windows and a large door vent
- Corner and overhead gear pockets
- A generous tub floor to keep moisture out
- Featherlite DAC poles
- Nine guy-out points for serious wind stability
- Colour-coded pole setup for easy pitching, even with cold hands
A true year-round workhorse built for unpredictable mountain weather.
3. NEMO Disco 15 Sleeping Bag
The NEMO Disco 15 might be one of the coziest sleeping bags I’ve ever used — and I’ve slept hundreds of nights in it. The spoon-shape design gives you more room at the elbows and knees, and the 650-fill hydrophobic down provides dependable warmth without feeling restrictive.
The oversized draft collar and hood combo are standout features, sealing in warmth when the temperatures drop. The Thermo Gill vents let you release heat on warmer nights, making this a remarkably versatile bag across seasons.
And yes — you can zip the men’s and women’s bags together for ultra-cozy nights out.
4. NEMO Switchback Foam Pad
If you’re winter-curious but not ready to invest in a fully winter-rated inflatable pad, the NEMO Switchback is the perfect stepping stone. Layering a closed-cell foam pad under your current setup adds warmth, durability, and comfort — and the metallized thermal side helps reflect heat back to your body.
At 415 g (14.5 oz), an R-value of 2, and a pack height of just 14 cm (less if you squish it), it’s lightweight, reliable, and versatile enough for both winter camping and year-round backpacking.
Plus, adding a foam pad allows you to slightly deflate your air pad for even better comfort without sacrificing insulation.
5. Black Diamond Storm 450 Headlamp
The Storm 450 is the headlamp I bring on every adventure — from winter campsites to early-morning alpine starts.
With both flood and spot beams (or both at once), plus red, green, and blue night-vision options, it adapts to whatever conditions you’re in. The IP67 waterproof rating means it’ll keep shining even in harsh weather, snow, or the occasional “oops” moment.
Reliable light is non-negotiable in winter, and the Storm 450 delivers every single time.
