How to Pack Winter Clothes When Hiking

Though the weather can be unpredictable during any season, every hiker knows that winter presents a new set of challenges, including blizzards, freezing ice or hail. However, by carrying a few indispensable items in your pack, your time on the trail can be comfortable and hypothermia-free.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Choose synthetic fabric. Moisture-wicking fabrics move sweat and melted snow away from your skin, allowing them to quickly evaporate on the fabric surface. Everything from undershirts and pant liners are made from these materials.
2. Plan to wear layers. Hiking in the snow means that your clothing might become drenched. Include at least 1 pair of light, breathable wind pants and an extra pair of moisture-wicking, thermal underwear. To block out wind and cold, include long-sleeved undershirts, 1 or 2 thin layers of fleece or other quick-drying items. Take extra mittens and glove liners.
3. Remember your sock liners. You may find yourself changing them several times a day so store them in a place that is easy to reach, such as the outer mesh compartment of your pack. For winter hiking, use a lighter, moisture-wicking sock liner with a heavier boot sock on top to prevent heat loss and blisters.
4. Include an extra hat. Hats help to retain your body heat. An extra hat can also be switched out if the one you're wearing becomes wet. Make sure your hat covers your ears to provide the best protection.
5. Store items in a water-proof sack. Storms can come along quickly so it is important to keep your clothes protected from snow and icy rain, even while in your pack. Place your clothes toward the bottom, along with your sleeping bag and put heavier items on top to allow more even weight distribution.

Tips & Warnings

• When hiking, choose shirts and pullovers with button or zip neck-closures to help regulate body temperature.
• Ensure that hats and mittens are easy to get to by storing them in an outer compartment of your pack.
• If not wearing a protective rain shell on both top and bottom, include one in your pack.
• To avoid over packing, bring only one change of clothes with you for each day you plan to hike. Make the most of your clothes and limited space by drying and re-wearing the same items again.