Wool clothing is ideal in cold weather because it is durable and water resistant, and even when soaked it can keep you warm. Wool makes excellent blankets, socks, hats, mittens, sweaters, and even pants. Army surplus stores have good wool clothing for winter camping. If wool irritates your skin, you may be able to wear wool blends or wear it over clothing made of other fabrics. Many synthetics are also good in winter for use as windbreakers and insulation. Remember that winter camping is not a fashion show. Whatever combination of clothing it takes to keep you warm should be worn, regardless of how it looks.
The best method of wearing clothing in the winter is to use the layering system. Choose loose-fitting clothing in as many layers as you can. The layers can be taken off or put on, depending on your activity level, temperature, wind, and precipitation. Versatility in your clothing is the key to a successful layering system. Several shirts, a sweater, and a jacket will allow you to adjust your system in many more ways than will a single heavy coat.
Footwear is important in winter camping as your feet are subject to more exposure to moisture especially if it's not too cold out and snow is melting. At least two pairs of socks are recommended as long as they aren't too tight. Wool or a wool blend is best. One method that can be used in wet conditions is to put plastic bags on your feet, either between the two layers of socks or directly on your feet. NEVER wear cotton socks under plastic bags as they will get wet from your perspiration and your feet will feel cold. Thin synthetic socks under the plastic bags with heavy wool socks over them are best. Whatever winter boots you have should be adequate plus an extra pair of boots, good sneakers or mukluks should be brought.
Mittens that allow your fingers to be in direct contact with one another can keep your hands warmer than gloves that isolate each finger. A good pair of gloves is a must-have however for many tasks around camp that would be too cumbersome with mittens. Extra gloves and/or mittens are a must as gloves and mittens tend to get very wet.
Stocking hats are great for wear outdoors and at night in your sleeping bag. Even better is a stocking hat long enough to cover your head and neck, and all of your face except your eyes. A coat with a hood is also helpful, as is a scarf around your neck that can be used to cover your face if needed.
The best way to pack clothing for a winter camp out is not to just follow a list of clothing, but to actually put on what you will wear to be sure your layering system fits and is functional. To see if your system will keep you warm, go outside and sit in the yard or go to the park and sit for a couple hours (You may even be able to do some requirements for one of nature related merit badges while you wait). Sitting still is the best way to test your system as this is when your body does not produce much of its own heat. If you can stay warm sitting around, then you will have no problem staying warm moving around at camp. To be sure you have enough extra clothes, try to pack at least another complete system just in case your system gets too wet to be used. This includes long underwear and plenty of extra socks.
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