Winter Camping, What gear do I need?

[weeblewooble]

Hello fellow forumites!
I'll be going with a small group of friends to hike PA's grand canyon this January. We all have experience camping, and hiking but this will be the first winter camping trip for most of us. I was hoping to get a few pointers to help keep us warm on our 4-5 day trip. Any advice is appreciated but lets start with my gear. What will I need, and what are my options?

I have a basic setup for short summer camps and hikes and I need to morph this into a good setup for our winter excursion.

What I've Got:
-Osprey Atmos 65 backpack. with a camelbak
-Chamois Cloth
-Assorted flashlights and headlamps
-Snow Peak Titanium mug the 600ml singlewall variety
-Kelty 0 degree cosmic sleeping bag
-Steel army mess kit, the kind with a plate and bowl. with my spork inside
-Matches, firesteel, and zippo.
-nalgene water bottle
-flask for a quick nip to warm the soul
-yak trax. wannabe crampons, like chains on tires but for your boots
-assorted compression and stuff sacks
-Knives.. I have a few like many here, and will painstakingly choose which to bring.

What (I think) I need:
-portable stove, leaning towards the pocket rocket by msr. I've heard good things.
-Some means of shelter!!! I could really use some pointers here.. do I buy a tent $$$.. or a bivvy $$, or some tarps and make a reflective fire as I've read about on here? Is that something I can learn in a couple months? Are those all my options? (hamock??)
-I've read alot of people recommending wool blankets, and few other people saying that they are heavy and unnecessary.
-Tarps, are they all created equal? are they heavy? necessary?
-Trekking Poles/walking stick?
-small folding saw?
-anything else worth considering or taking?


Thanks in advance for your advice and opinions.

Cheers!

 

[spareparts]

After hiking in the wilderness in Yosemittee while it was cold and wet I'd recommend a Jetboil and alot of freeze dried food like Mt. House. I love cooking in the outdoors but when I'm cold, wet, and hungry it feels more like a chore. Easier to just boil water in 3 minutes and pop in a pack of ramen noodels. You can eliminate the mess kit and just bring along a fork.

If you actually want to cook the Sierra Stove out performs liquid fuel stoves http://www.zzstove.com/ The stove weighs less than a stove with a liquid fuel canister and one AA battery will last 3 times as long as a can of fuel. Somewhere I found a solar charger that clips to the brim of a hat and holds one AA battery. Keeps it topped off for cooking.

I own and have used just about every type of stove for camping so if you need more pointers let me know.

If you can handle the weight a wool blanket wrapped around your sleeping bag helps alot. A good sleeping mat will also help keep you off the cold ground.

Plan on dressing in layers. Don't just bring a heavy coat. I prefer a bottom layer of regular clothes, then long sleeves, then sweat shirt, then jacket. This way you can strip off layers when you get hot and sweaty and put them back on during rest breaks. You get cold real fast when you stop to rest or check something out.

No hammocks for cold weather. You end up being surrounded by cold air and freezing at night. A cheep two man tent would be my recommendation and is fairly light weight.

It's hard to keep up with the calories you burn so I like to pack some of these for energyhttp://beprepared.com/product.asp_Q_pn_E_FM%20R360_A_name_E_MAINSTAY™%203,600%20Calorie%20Food%20Bar On a good winter hike I can burn 5K easy, and regular food, even freeze dried, won't make up for the deffiency.

I'd also recommend wool socks. They insulate when wet, either from snow/water or just sweating in them. Bring extras and change frequently.

 

[baldtaco-II]

Insulation from the ground is a must. Do not scrimp. A good thick mat, a couple of mats, or even a sheet of bubble wrap to ramp up something scrawny is important. It's a lot better to do that that finding yourself cold and having to rake up leaves to pile under whatever of your kit you can press into service to lay on.

The Pocket Rocket is a good compact stove but not ideally suited to winter cold. Cold does nothing good to stove canisters. Consider a model with a remote canister that can be inverted and wrapped in something you're not using to keep it a bit warmer.

Trekking poles come into their own when used in pairs. A single walking stick isn't any substitute, not even close.

I really don't see the point of a wool blanket for camping. They're great for driving to the beach and sitting round a bonfire 'cos they don't burn very easily. They're a heavy bulky lump to carry about though and will take forever to dry if you get it wet. If you've got doubts about your sleeping bag get a better one, or even a cheapo thin job to use as a liner.

Tarps are nowhere near equal. They range from dirty great canvas things that look like truckers salvage, but are ok if you've got Sherpas to plonk one down next to a spitting fire of softwood. Middle of the road tarps are often sized conservatively and not much bigger that a classic poncho. They can be pretty miserable in winter weather although your legs will thank you for carrying nylon not cotton canvas. Silnylon is the latest greatest. You could burn it if you do something stupid to it. Personally I prefer to avoid doing stupid stuff and reap the benefits of an extremely light 3m*3m waterproof roof. I use one of those in conjunction with a bivvy bag. Ultimately it is the best way for me to keep my sleeping bag dry and provides a lot of flexibility as to where I pitch it. A tent may well be a better solution for you though. I couldn't possibly know.

A hammock is a sure way to get cold unless you load up on underquilts and so on. Air freely moving about under you is not a route to warmth.

 

[Briarbrow]

I think you'll need more clothes than your usual chamois.

imho using a tarp well takes practice. A lightweight tent will have a shallower learning curve, either should work if used properly. A decent bivvy is okay too-but what's the rest of your group doing?

Is your bag in good condition? The right clothes, a good bag and enough pad underneath are must haves- well not must haves but....

Are you staying in one spot or new camp each night? how far will you travel on foot fully loaded. Will you make regular use of new purchases? Things to consider and answers may get you better suggestions. Have fun

 

[mtwarden]

what temperatures are likely to be encountered? snow?

if they are indeed cold, you'll want a stove capable of winter use- the typical canister offerings are pretty good to ~ 20 degrees, if below that you'll want something different (MSR Windpro comes to mind)

+2 on insulation under you- it's critical- pay attention to r values- not all pads are created equal (you can double (or triple) up pads if necessary)

if it's really cold, you may have issues w/ your hydration system- they make insulated ones that help in the winter

I agree that unless your already an accomplished tarper- winter is not the time to learn, many pyramid tents are 4 season capable and are very easier to setup (and protect you more) than a tarp

wool blanket- not if you have to pack it

clothing choices could very well be what makes or breaks the trip- when your moving you don't want too much for clothing- keeping things dry has to be a priority, when your stopped (or at camp) you'll want good insulating pieces (including your feet)

winter camping is a lot of fun and very rewarding, but it can also be miserable and dangerous- proper planning will play a huge role in which one it is

 

[fmajor007]

Oh man, i've got several lists for winter camping depending on if it's a climbing trip, steep hiking (some folks call it "non-technical climbing"), just plain 'ole camping, etc...

Looks like you've got some great gear already. I'll address each item you mention:

Backpack: Your pack is probably gonna be to small at 65 liters (~4,000 cu. in). Usually around 80 liters is minimum for winter b/c you need a bigger sleeping bag, extra stove fuel, more/extra warm clothing, more food, etc.

Camelbak: it will likely freeze - most likely the hose. Get an extra nalgene or similar. An insulated cozy (EMS and Outdoor Research sell them) is nice to keep your water from freezing while on the trail in between brew-ups.

Sleeping bag: depending on how cold it is (and alot of other factors), your 0 Degree bag will likely be borderline for adequate insulation. It probably maxes out at around 20-30F degrees for honest "comfort" - you really get what you pay for with these. Remember to put your warm parka-type coat inside it with/under you. Also, make sure you have 2 sleeping pads - 1 closed-cell foam and 1 self-inflator. Most of the cold you experience will come from the ground and the closed cell foam is an awesome barrier against that while the self-inflator adds some insulation and padding.

Stoves: For winter, i never carry a gas (isopropane/isobutane) stove - liquid fuel (Coleman/white gas) only. Nothing burns as hot - nothing. Isopropane/isobutane are slow/have difficulty changing from liquid to gas in temps much below 15F and loose alot of their efficiency in that process. Meanwhile, good 'ole Coleman fuel burns hotter than hot 'til around -30F when it starts getting difficult for the fuel to vaporize. I love my MSR Pocket Rocket (had mine for something like 7 years) and even more my Primus ETA Power EF isobutane, but they're just not appropriate for cold temps.

Shelter: Unless you're predisposed to carry a sled (wherein a wall-type tent and related gear can be pretty neat), a 4-season tent is in order. I have some custom single-wall mountaineering tents, regular double 4-season tents (Marmot) and a couple 3/4 season tents and if i were buying a double-wall tent (tent fly and body) for winter camping today, i'd buy a Eureka K2 XT for around $350-$400. You can spend less, but the performance just won't be there. BTW, for shelter keep in mind you will be schlepping more gear in winter so a 3-person tent is just right for 2. Hammocks in winter? Yea, that was my very first winter shelter too - a cool Northern Michigan night in February (or March?) 1983 and was maybe 5F. I froze. One of my worst nights out ever. Never again. Tarps in winter? Yea better have a 'rip roaring' fire and use a superb sleeping bag 'cause otherwise you're gonna freeze.

I don't mean to be argumentative, but don't cover your sleeping bag with anything except a bivy sack. Blankets, etc will compress the insulation, reducing loft, and actually lower the effectiveness of your bag. It's counter-intuitive, but the truth.

Trekking Poles/Walking stick - yes, get some aluminum hiking poles. It takes about 200 yds to get used to 'em and you'll never want to go without them again. You don't need the fancy shock-absorber ones either. I prefer the Black Diamond "Flick-lok" b/c it's super easy to adjust, but the other poles work just fine.

Don't overdo it with headlamps and flash-lights and such. A headlamp should suffice (do bring along extra batteries).

When you're cooking, plan on almost double portions and use alot of butter - especially before going to bed. You want to consume more fat than usual b/c it packs more calories and thats helpful with keeping you energized and warm. Also, drink ALOT of water - 2 liters a day minimum. There are all kinds of formulas for anticipated/idealized volumes, but i use this general rule as a reminder to drink alot. You won't "feel" as thirsty and by the time you *do* feel thirsty you're already dehydrated. When you're dehydrated, your blood becomes thicker and won't circulate to your toes/fingers and you'll start to feel cold. It's the number 1 problem i see in people in winter camping/mountaineering. #1. Fail to hydrate is a plan to fail.

Ditch the steel Army mess kit and find some Lexan bowl. I use a GSI Lexan "Fair share" Mug for a bowl, a 16oz insulated coffee mug and plastic spoon (or spork since you've got one already).

OK, that's enough TEXT WALL for now. Sorry for so much....

 

[Fletcher Knives]

The most important thing I tell everyone to take with them in any conditions is a small notepad and a way to write on it.

Also take a good compass.

 

[fmajor007]

OK weeblewooble - here's Round 2 of my feeble attempt at answering your question.

Incidently, if you have questions about ANY of what i'm saying or which specific brands/models of winter gear to use send me an e-mail and i'm glad to help further. I don't know all latest-this-year brands/models/materials, but can get you to answers quick enough. This stuff is constantly changing, but in many ways it stays the same.

If it matters, part of my "job" is leading outdoor excursions and my personal, life-long favorite is winter outings. However, i don't lead ski (very well that is) or snowboard outings - my partner thankfully does those things. I've been winter-camping/hiking/climbing thing for nearly 30 years (lead hundreds of trips) and have taught more than a few how to play in the snow. If that matters.

OK, back on track. Not mentioned, but hugely important in winter camping is transportation over the snow. There are 3 ways - slog it bare-boot style (HIGHLY, HIGHLY unrecommended - trust me on this), cross-country/telemark/alpine skis (the fastest you-powered transportation), and finally snowshoes. With any of these, rent 'em if you can unless you're financially able and committed to winter camping. If you must buy, buy quality, but don't go for the very best in this category initially. Initially, spend more money on sleeping bag/tent/warm boots.

I didn't go into clothes/footwear b/c you didn't mention what you're planning on wearing, but there with clothes there is one thing to remember for cold-weather outings.

!!!!!!!!!!COTTON KILLS!!!!!!!!!!

There is a single exception to this law, but for all your clothing - from underwear to outerwear avoid cotton like death. I'm sure someone will NEED to share the cotton exception - to get it out of their system - so here it is - tight-woven cotton anoraks *can* be a good "shell" in extreme cold. For a 1-day short-distance gig, *maybe* cotton briefs/drawers (whatever you call 'em) will not endanger you. On a multi-day trek - polyester/nylon/spandex/lycra/silk/wool blends are the ONLY option. Especially true with socks. Polyester liner socks and/or wool-blends FTW.

I usually wear a fleece "union suit" - no sleeves, but nice and warm for your core. I've an expensive name-brand version (Marmot, but Mountain Hardwear, et al make 'em too) as well as a couple reasonably priced suits which i found at sportsmansguide (dot) com for around $30-$40 (*i've bought a few as gifts for friends from time to time - they're a great bargain). I wear this over my synth stretcy boxers, synth long-sleeve T-shirt (Wally-World brand "Starter" for about $11 - same exact stuff as North Face/Mountain Hardware/Marmot for around $60).

I also wear knee-length gaiter's (i use Outdoor Research Croc's, but their Verglas gaiters would do the job for less outta pocket) and some light-wgt gloves (lotsa choices here) and top it all off with a wool hat. However, i also have a head-band for when i start getting warm and i always get warm when winter hiking. These things are light so it's OK to have an extra. For when i'm stopped, i have a super thick pair of fleece mittens inside waterproof shells. I also have some hardcore G-Tex shell-bibs, but rarely wear them so therefore rarely carry them.

I also bring along a big, puffy down parka for when i'm stopped. It comes out on breaks so i keep it handy at the top of my pack.

For boots "fit is it" - they've gotta be stiff enough for support, but fit well so as to not kill yer dogs!!! I've recently (prolly about 5 years ago) become acquainted with snowboarding boots w/"thermo-fit" liners. They're reasonbly light, super warm, water/snow proof and can be found at lots of different price points. While unorthodox, for snow travel they're actually pretty great. Personally, i use my leather mountaineering boots (LaSportiva Nepal Extremes) w/gaiter and on longer trips my Outdoor Research "Brooks Range" over-boots instead of my gaiters.

OK, so that's about all that comes to my mind on clothes (except for sunglasses/goggles, but they're pretty simple things to me).

Again, i hope it's not inappropriate to just dump a text wall....

 

[ROCK6]

Again, i hope it's not inappropriate to just dump a text wall....

Actually excellent info...I'm now slugging in the south, but grew up in/around the Cascade Mountains...everything you said is spot on and excellent info which will be very useful for those who haven't done any hiking/camping in single digit/sub-zero temps including snow covered or expected precipitation.

I would add good gloves; one set that (if used around snow/freezing water) are waterproof and another light insulated pair. I have used wool, which is another good option. We all often have multiple spare pair of wool socks/liners, but when your hands get cold, everything gets harder and slower to manipulate.

As fmajor mentioned, cotton layers (minus that expensive tight-weave anorak or heavy waxed long coat), especially underwear is a dangerous choice. If they get wet from perspiration, it's almost impossible to get them dried out in sub-zero temps without a lot of open fire assistance...not only potentially dangerous, but literally a pain in the a$$.

If this is your first cold weather trip out, I would recommend a decent tent. If done right, a good reflective fire (plenty of firewood), a well designed simple tarp shelter, very good insulation from the ground and an excellent cold weather sleeping bag is a fast, simple and effective set up. However, I wouldn't attempt that on a multiday long-distance backpacking trip...that's something you practice with near the house, or with a tent nearby as a backup.

I love hammock camping and it's my first choice for warm weather backpacking...nothing beats it IMHO! However, for cold weather, they lose their advantage of simplicity and weight savings. You'll need a larger tarp to seal all the way the ground and an under-quilt (about the size of another sleeping bag) is pretty much mandatory. It will work, but the added complexity and bulk isn't worth it IMHO. Once the temps get below 40 degrees, out comes the tent or ground tarp set up.

Cold weather camping can be fun if you're prepared, take the necessary precautions and avoid getting too wet (either by accident or perspiration).

ROCK6


ROCK6

 

[Ravaillac]

Layered clothing.
Good pad(s).
Sleeping bag from respected company rated good enough with some margin. Be careful, manufacturers' ratings are often very optimistic.
Spare clothing if you get wet/additionnal insulation when you stop.
Good footwear.
If you're a beginner I'd rather say get a tent.
Don't know anything specific about your location but there are places you won't get far without snowshoes or skis.
I'd say get a bivy if you go with a tarp.

I was hoping to get a few pointers to help keep us warm on our 4-5 day trip. Any advice is appreciated but lets start with my gear. What will I need, and what are my options?

Whatever you choose to go with I'd suggest you try it during overnight outings before you embark in 4 days trip.

 

[mtwarden]

Whatever you choose to go with I'd suggest you try it during overnight outings before you embark in 4 days trip.

^ this is really good advice, shakeout your equipment before heading for the hills- even if it's in your backyard

for hands- I like a thin wool liner for dexterity, but also I carry a pair of heavier fleece mitts and gore overmitts

if there is going to be snow, a small avy shovel will come in very handy at camp

 

[bearcut]

All good replies, especially fmajor007's. He sounds like he knows what he's doing. He, or she, might even be as good a winter camper as me! Pay attention to what this person has said.

I can’t stress enough the need for an adequate sleeping pad and a real tent, or enclosed shelter of some kind. You don’t want to play games when winter camping. And yes, cotton kills. Seems amazing that we are still saying this after 40+ years, but many still do not know this.

Shovels are really nice to have also. If the snow is deep, you can fashion yourself a cooking pit, complete with a center table, and chairs carved right into the walls. Snow can be a great medium for construction. Under your tent, be sure to really stamp out the snow and get it as firm as you can before you pitch. This will help keep you from having craters underneath you as you sleep and move around inside the tent.

A couple of things I didn’t see mentioned:

Some down or synthetic booties make camp life a lot nicer than running around in your cold hard boots. Get ones with a thick sole, or get some kind of nylon mukluk over boots. I know this can be expensive, but they are so worth it.

Speaking of boots, be sure to put them inside your tent at night. I used to put my boots in a waterproof stuffsack in the foot of my bag while I slept. An Arctic survival instructor taught me the trick of simply tucking the openings under my bag. Surprised the heck out of me, it works. Wedge the opening of each boot between each side of your sleeping bag and pad while you sleep. Your body heat will keep them thawed out.

As far as the flask goes, remember, alchohol makes you feel warm, but it restricts your blood vessels, exactly the wrong thing to do in the winter. Use caution.

 

[weeblewooble]

Thanks you all the great advice! I knew I'd get some good info here, but I've got more than I thought I would! I probably will end up printing out this thread and passing it out to the guys going with me! So thankyou all!

Its a 4 or 5 day trip, however long it takes us to traverse the 42 mile Black Forest Trail in central PA. Its still a month or so away, so its hard to say whether there will be snow or not, but having lived in the area for the last ten years I doubt there will be more than a light covering of snow on the ground.
There will be either 3 or 4 of us, and as it stands now, we have one good 2 man tent, and the other guy(s) will either need to get a tent or buy a bivvy.

Because of the your advice Im looking at picking up the exped down mat, and some good winter boots. I was going to try to make do with some crappy boots I had laying around , thanks for setting me straight!

@Fmajor007: great info about the union suit and wallmart synth tshirt! that'll save me some money!! Picking that up today. Will I need the gaitors if I don't expect alot of snow?

 

[TreeChopper]

++ Trekking Poles.

Eye protection? First Aid Kit? Sorry if mentioned already.

Book I am currently reading - "Allen & Mike's Really Cool Backcountry Ski Book: Travelling & Camping Skills for a Winter Environment." Have a look.

Get a scale that can measure ounces/grams. Weigh everything you have and enter it into a spreadsheet. Redundancies will become apparent as well as items adding a lot of weight that you might be able to remove, replace with something new, or sub with a multi-use item... or keep it if it's a comfort item you want to have. You can hypothetically insert new items and decide if the weight savings justify the cost. Maybe post the spreadsheet in this thread and people can chime in with their suggestions? You are the ultimate decision-maker though... you have to carry the stuff and only you know what conditions/temps you feel cold in.

Test your layering(and sleeping) system a lot on shorter hikes so you know how it will perform and how you can adjust it to thermo-regulate. Flash-off really sucks and hypothermia can sneak up on you. Read about hypothermia/thermoregulation and be sure all of you know the warning signs and check each other for them when you are out.

Bottles and insulators you can look into --http://www.40below.com/products_Results_bottlecovers.php?CategoryName=bottle_covers
The bottles are a bit heavier than the Nalgene but the caps are large enough to operate w/o removing gloves and are softer so the chance of breakage when dropped is minimal. They can accept hot water. Haven't tried the insulators....have seen them on ebay recently.

Western Mountaineering is conservative in their temp ratings for bags. Nice but pricey... can usually find them on sale somewhere or used at gear swaps on various outdoor websites.

Have fun, be safe.

 

[Ravaillac]

Will I need the gaitors if I don't expect alot of snow?

Depends if you plan doing trails or bushwacking.

By the way, forgot to mention: a vacuum flask can be a good idea (in addition to some traditionnal canteen). Boil some water each time you make a fire, so you can have a hot drink/cook dried-frozen meal later.

 

[eomeo]

In my recent winter trip - 25F, 20" snow, 8k-4k foot elevations - I wore merino wool longjohns the whole time. At night and in camp I added a second pair of longjohns to stay warmer. I had a pair of fleece pants just in case, but didn't need them much. A pair of skipants would be my outer layer choice.

I wore a merino base layer on top, with a fleece jacket on. I had a down coat for camp or colder temps, and a shell for weather in my backpack.

I used just basic hiking shoes - Merrell Moab Ventilators. If you have gaitors, I'd bring them. I improvised a pair to deal with all the snow by cutting up a big garbage sack and layering it between 2 pairs of wool socks.

I would definitely want a tent for sleeping.

 

[Barbarossa]

Hey weebelewobble welcome to winter camping. I've been doing it for a long time and fell in love with it when I did the winter survival training in army. fmajor007 knows his stuff and when I read his posts it was like I was inventorying my own gear, I always use white gas on my Dragonfly stove and never had a problem even well below zero. Two nice pieces of gear I have are from Smartwool and are not cheap but I love them. One is the merino wool neck gaiter and a lightweight merino wool hat. Keeping your neck warm can hold almost as much heat as keeping your head warm. The wool hat is so lightweight that it is a second wool hat. I carry a heavier one too but get too hot if hiking with it on. This is one piece of gear you can duplicate on. If you are possibly facing any winds a face mask of some sort is a good idea and maybe goggles. A military wool scarf can be used in many ways from just a scarf to an extra wool hat or even a partial face mask. I would add chapstick with spf and some sunscreen for your nose. I've seen a guy with both a sunburnt and frostbit nose at the same time. He was not a happy camper. An extra pair or two of wool glove liners kept inside your coat can be a finger/hand saver. One final thing I can think of. Those one time use heaters can be nice to activate and throw in your sleeping bag an hour before you climb in. Fluff it up a couple of times to circulate the air and warmth. It can suck climbing in a cold bag.

Oh I do however carry a heavy wool blanket and love it despite the weight.

 

[fmajor007]

Hey WW - as to gaiters, in some ways it depends on what kind of pants you're wearing. Usually i just wear my union suit with the gaiters, but i'm pretty comfortable with the amount of "exposure" ;-)

So yea, gaiters are a nice, easy way of adding some light-weight insulation (by way of cheating convective heat loss) to your lower legs which are the parts furthest from your heart and thus the coldest (i use the extra-large size to ensure there's enough space around my lower legs and to get a good, complete fit over my boots). Also, if some unexpected snow comes your way you're all set. Also, if it's wet and sloppy the gaiters will keep your lower legs nice and dry which is invaluable in the fight against hypothermia.

BTW, i'm sure you'd do this anyway, but make sure you get some good weather intel so you at least have some idea what may be heading that way.

Ha! Bear i dunno - you LIVE in Alaska - not camp, not visit. Live. Going to the truck is an exteme adventure!!! Be safe.

Sleeping bags. That's a *loaded* topic if ever there was one. For my money, Western Mountaineering are the bags i chose for cold weather (though i have a couple Marmot bags and a few others). There are some other brands that are well regarded, but i don't have personal experience with them. Notably Integral Designs in Calgary, Canada (a TOP level manufacturer), Feathered Friends (though they've been accused of slightly optimistic temp ratings) and would probably look at few European brands like Rab or PHD as they well regarded here though their prices are gonna be higher due to a stronger Euro/British Pound Sterling.

frank

 

[martino910]

sounds like u r the go to guy...
how about you spread the responsibilities?
from what uv said...if you tumble...the partys over...

just a thought...i cud be wrong

 

[Bigdumplings]

1. facemask

2. closed cell sleeping mat (or Down Air Matress)

3. White gas (i use a svea 123r) and lots of gas to melt snow and ice. id bring a larger pot then the 600 mug for this purpose too (unless you know of unfrozen water)

4. water bottles not bladders (keep them in your sleeping bag or store them upside down)

5. glove mittens (that transform from fingerless gloves to mittens) these help if you plan on doing any fine work with tools

6. go lite shangri la 3 (used to be the hex 3) is one of my favorate winter shelters... but i have been also using a poncho tarp for sometime (always bring the hex out in the cold though )

7. i once got a pair of 600 down north face booties at a gander mountain for like $20... they are like the greatest thing for winter backpacking... they really allow you to get out of yoru sleeping bag in the morning and for me (always having cold feet) allow me to sleep through the night.

8. i would bring at least a hatchet but i always have my 19 inch wetterlings long handled hatchet in cold weather (to split wood/ pound in stakes into frozen ground for the teepee)

9. another great thing is to have a nalgene just to pee in at night (this sounds odd, but it really keeps you warmer to not have any pee in you, and sometimes its just to hard to leave the sleeping bag, you will bee more if you have the pee bottle therefore you will be warmer)