At XPDRM, I've always believed getting outdoors isn't about having the most expensive truck, the newest gear, or a setup worth thousands of dollars. It's about exploring new places, making memories, and enjoying the adventure.

Here in Oregon, we're surrounded by incredible places to explore. From mountain roads to remote forests, there's always somewhere new to discover. And just because winter arrives doesn't mean the adventures have to stop.

Winter camping is a different experience. There's something about waking up surrounded by snow, making a hot cup of coffee, and enjoying the quiet before the day gets started.

The best part? You don't need a fancy camper or rooftop tent. A capable vehicle, a good sleeping bag, and the right equipment can make for a great winter camping trip.

But there's one thing I want to make clear.

Winter camping doesn't need to be complicated, but you do need to be prepared.

Every year in Oregon, we hear about people getting stuck in the snow, losing their way, or heading into the mountains without telling anyone where they're going. Some underestimate the weather, while others simply aren't prepared.

That's why I wanted to put together this guide. I'm not here to tell you to spend thousands of dollars on equipment. I just want to share some practical advice to help you prepare for your first winter camping trip.

1. First, Figure Out Where You're Going

Before loading up your vehicle, figure out where you want to camp.

Start with Google Maps, then use apps like Gaia GPS, onX Offroad, or NoRoads to explore the roads and surrounding terrain.

These apps are helpful for finding forest roads and potential camping locations, but remember:

Just because Google Maps shows a road doesn't mean it's accessible during winter.

Here in Oregon, many forest roads aren't maintained once snow starts falling. A road that's easy to drive in summer could be covered in several feet of snow during winter.

Before leaving:

● Check the weather forecast and overnight temperatures.

● Look at the elevation and expected snowfall.

● Check road closures and conditions.

● Make sure camping is allowed in the area.

● Download offline maps.

● Have a backup route or camping location.

I recommend checking Oregon TripCheck and the local Forest Service website before heading out.

Let Someone Know Where You're Going

This is one of the most important things I want you to remember.

Tell someone where you're going before you leave.

Share your camping location, planned route, and expected return time with a family member or friend. Make sure they know when to call for help if you don't return or check in.

Here in Oregon, people get stranded in the mountains without cell service, and sometimes nobody knows exactly where they went.

It takes only a few minutes to share your plans.

If you're heading somewhere remote, I also recommend carrying a satellite communication device. Don't depend entirely on your phone having service.

2. Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Ready

You don't need a fully built overland truck, but your vehicle needs to be mechanically sound and capable of handling winter conditions.

Check your tires, brakes, battery, fluids, and general condition before leaving.

For snowy backroads, I would recommend AWD at minimum where conditions allow, but personally, I'd rather have a proper 4x4 when exploring more remote areas.

Just remember, four-wheel drive doesn't make you unstoppable.

Tires Make a Difference

I recommend good all-terrain tires rated for severe snow conditions or dedicated winter tires. Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol when shopping for snow-capable tires.

If you're driving off-road in deep, soft snow, airing down your tires can sometimes help with flotation and traction.

If you're new to this, airing down means lowering your tire pressure to increase the tire's footprint.

However, don't automatically air down on icy pavement or maintained roads. Too little pressure can damage your tires or cause one to come off the wheel.

Know the appropriate pressures for your vehicle and conditions, and bring an air compressor so you can reinflate your tires before returning to the road.

Also, carry tire chains or other approved traction devices when required.

Recovery Gear

Even on a simple camping trip, I recommend carrying a few recovery essentials.

A shovel is one of the most useful things you can bring in snow. Recovery boards, properly rated recovery equipment, and basic tools are also worth having.

But equipment is only useful if you know how to use it.

And here's another thing.

Know when to turn around.

There's nothing wrong with deciding a road isn't worth the risk. You can always come back another day.

Bring Extra Fuel

I recommend carrying extra fuel if you're traveling somewhere remote.

Snow, detours, and unexpected delays can use more fuel than planned.

Use approved containers and secure them properly outside the passenger compartment. If you're bringing a diesel heater, remember that it needs its own fuel supply too.

3. Don't Have a Tent? Sleep in Your Vehicle

You don't need a rooftop tent, ground tent, or expensive camper to experience winter camping.

Sleeping inside your vehicle can actually be pretty enjoyable, especially when it's snowing outside.

Depending on your vehicle, you might be able to fold down the seats or build a simple sleeping platform.

Bring an insulated sleeping pad or mattress, a sleeping bag rated for temperatures below what you're expecting, and an extra blanket.

The insulation underneath you matters just as much as what you're sleeping under. Cold can come right through the floor.

Make yourself comfortable, but make sure your sleeping setup can keep you safe even without a heater.

4. Staying Warm With a Diesel Heater

If you're planning to sleep in your vehicle during winter, I recommend looking into a diesel heater.

One heater I would recommend checking out is the Hcalory TB2S+ Diesel Heater Toolbox 2S Plus, with the 6L fuel tank and wireless remote.

What I like about this setup is that it's portable, so you don't have to permanently install a heater in your vehicle. The wireless remote is also convenient when you're inside your sleeping bag and don't feel like getting out to adjust the temperature.

You can check it out here:

Hcalory TB2S+ Diesel Heater Toolbox 2S Plus

Heater Safety

This is important.

A portable diesel heater needs to be set up properly. Keep the combustion unit outside your sleeping area, with the exhaust directed safely away from your vehicle, windows, and air intakes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for warm-air ducting and ventilation.

Always carry a working carbon monoxide detector.

I would not recommend using an unvented Mr. Heater Buddy or similar propane heater inside your vehicle while sleeping.

Carbon monoxide and fire are not risks worth taking.

And remember, your heater should be an added comfort, not your only source of warmth. You still need a properly rated sleeping bag in case the heater stops working.

Don't Forget a Portable Power Station

Here's something people sometimes overlook.

Your diesel heater needs electricity, not just diesel fuel.

I recommend bringing a portable power station such as a Jackery or EcoFlow.

Besides powering a compatible diesel heater, you can use it to charge your phone, run lights, and power other small electronics.

Before buying one, check your heater's voltage, power requirements, startup demand, and electrical connections.

Don't assume every power station will work or that the battery will last all night. Test the heater and power station together at home, including how long the battery lasts.

Cold temperatures can also affect battery performance, so keep the power station protected and within its operating temperature range.

And I would avoid powering your heater all night directly from your vehicle's starting batteries.

The last thing you want is to wake up warm and find out your truck won't start.

5. Bring Extra Clothes

This is simple but important.

Always bring an extra complete set of clothing.

Your boots might get wet, your gloves might become soaked, or you might end up digging your vehicle out of snow.

Bring extra socks, underwear, thermal layers, gloves, and dry clothes for sleeping.

I recommend waterproof boots, a warm jacket, and insulated or waterproof pants. Wool and synthetic layers are generally better choices than cotton in wet, cold conditions.

Keep your spare clothing in a waterproof bag.

Even if you don't use it, you'll be glad you brought it if something happens.

6. Keep Your Food Simple

When it comes to food, don't overthink it.

You're going camping, not hosting a cooking show.

Bring meals you already know how to prepare. You don't need a complicated menu or a whole kitchen setup.

Some easy things to bring are:

● Beef jerky

● Soup or chili

● Oatmeal

● Sandwiches or wraps

● Rice or prepared meals

● Nuts and snacks

● Coffee or tea

One thing I recommend for cold weather is chicken or beef bouillon.

You know those little cubes or packets you add to hot water?

Make yourself a cup of broth and sip on it while you're sitting outside in the cold. It's simple, warm, and tastes pretty good after spending time outdoors.

And of course, I wouldn't forget the coffee. There's nothing like a hot cup of coffee on a cold morning.

Don't Forget Your Propane

If you're bringing a portable camping stove, make sure you have enough fuel.

Those little green one-pound propane canisters are convenient for compatible camping stoves. I recommend bringing an extra one.

Test your stove before leaving, and remember that some stoves and fuels perform differently in freezing temperatures.

Always cook outside in a properly ventilated area, never inside your vehicle.

Bring Enough Water

Cold weather doesn't mean you need less water.

Bring enough for drinking, cooking, and making coffee or broth, plus extra in case your trip takes longer than planned.

Keep your water from freezing overnight, and don't rely on melting snow as your only source.

7. Do a Shakedown Before You Leave

If you're new to camping, this is something I strongly recommend.

Do a shakedown.

If you've never heard the term, it's pretty simple.

Take everything you're planning to bring, lay it out, and go through your equipment before the trip.

But don't just check that everything is there.

Make sure you know how to use it.

Test your diesel heater. Connect it to your Jackery or EcoFlow and see how long the battery lasts. Fire up your camping stove, check your lights, inspect your recovery gear, and make sure your air compressor works.

If you bought something new, don't wait until you're miles away from home to figure it out.

I think that's a mistake people sometimes make. They buy all this gear, throw it in the truck, and assume they're ready.

Having the equipment doesn't mean much if you don't know how to use it.

A shakedown also helps you figure out what's missing and what you can leave at home.

It's much easier to discover a problem in your driveway than on a snowy mountain road.

8. Winter Camping Packing Checklist

Here's a simple checklist to go through before your next winter camping trip.

You may not need everything for every trip, but it's a good starting point, especially if you're going somewhere remote.

Vehicle & Recovery

● Vehicle inspected and ready

● Full tank of fuel

● Extra fuel in approved containers

● Snow-capable all-terrain or winter tires

● Tire chains or approved traction devices

● Air compressor and tire pressure gauge

● Shovel

● Recovery boards

● Properly rated recovery rope or strap

● Rated vehicle recovery points

● Basic tools

● Tire repair kit

● Jump starter

Sleeping & Staying Warm

When I'm winter camping, staying warm is one of my biggest priorities. I use a rooftop tent on my truck, but whether you're sleeping in a tent or inside your vehicle, having the right gear makes a big difference.

● Winter-rated sleeping bag

● Insulated sleeping pad or mattress

● Extra blanket

● Properly set up diesel heater

● Extra diesel for the heater

● Portable power station (Jackery, EcoFlow, or similar)

● Compatible power cables

● Heater and power station tested before leaving

● Working carbon monoxide detector

● Flashlight or headlamp

● Extra batteries

● Favorite reading book

Clothing

● Extra complete set of clothes

● Thermal base layers

● Warm jacket

● Waterproof or insulated pants

● Winter boots

● Extra socks

● Extra gloves

● Beanie

● Dry sleeping clothes

Food & Cooking

● Easy meals

● Beef jerky and snacks

● Chicken or beef bouillon

● Coffee or tea

● Portable camping stove

● Extra compatible propane canisters

● Cooking pot

● Cup and utensils

● Drinking water

● Extra emergency food

● Lighter or matches

Navigation & Safety

● Camping location selected

● Offline maps downloaded

● Weather and road conditions checked

● Backup route or camping location

● Someone knows your destination and return time

● First-aid kit and personal medications

● Satellite communicator or emergency SOS device

● Phone charging cables

● Power bank

● Emergency shelter or extra insulation

● Emergency supplies in case you're stranded

Before leaving, take a few minutes to go through your list. It's an easy way to catch something you might have overlooked.

9. A Few Things to Remember

If this is your first winter camping trip, I recommend starting somewhere relatively close to home with easy access.

Get comfortable sleeping in your vehicle. Learn how your heater works, how long your power station lasts, and what gear you actually need.

As you gain experience, you can start exploring more remote locations.

And don't be afraid to change your plans.

If the weather gets worse, the road becomes too dangerous, or something doesn't feel right, turn around.

There's always another weekend.

One Last Thing

Winter camping doesn't need to be overthought.

You don't need to buy everything you see people using on Instagram or YouTube. Start with what you have, make sure it's safe, and build your setup as you gain experience.

Sometimes the best camping trips are the simplest ones.

Find a quiet spot, get comfortable, make yourself something warm to eat, and enjoy being outdoors.

And don't forget your favorite book. There's nothing wrong with spending the evening reading, drinking something warm, and listening to the snow fall outside.

Camping doesn't always have to be about how far you drive or how difficult the trail is.

Sometimes just being out there is enough.

But remember, the adventure isn't worth it if you don't make it back home.

Get out there, explore, make memories, and stay safe.

XPDRM — Not just a destination, it's a lifestyle.