'Learn from my mistakes': Exactly what to pack for a winter camping trip

One time, I went camping, and this was my gear: a flimsy summer tent and a sleeping bag that only protected me down to 5 degrees Celsius. In Bathurst. In July. 

I'm offering up this embarrassing bit of information because the cold I experienced was enough to make me jump in the car and sleep sitting up. It was horrible, I was silly, and I don't want the same for you. 

Yet I would do it again in a heartbeat – camping in the cold that is, the right gear willing – because winter camping is a special kind of camping. Crisp nights and mornings warmed up by a steady campfire. Hot chocolate and marshmallows over the coals. Beanies and scarves and mittens. Even the stars seem brighter in the cold.  

In the spirit of 'no bad weather, just bad gear', here's our list of recommendations for a cosy winter set-up that'll help you fall in love with the cold outdoors. 

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Kathmandu Camper -8 °C Sleeping Bag

Get it at $249.98

Make sure you get a decent sleeping bag with a hefty temperature rating. While Australia doesn't get arctic in winter, it gets colder than you think. The Kathmandu Camper will keep you comfortable up to minus eight degrees, which is a sensible amount of buffer.

Adventure Kings Deluxe Escape Single Swag + Camping Stretcher

Buy for $173.95

If you're worried your current tent isn't up to the task, consider getting a swag and stretcher combo like this one from Adventure Kings. Swags are great at keeping in warmth because they come equipped with canvas and a mattress. Not only that, the added stretcher will keep you safely away from the damp ground.

Patagonia Brodeo Beanie

Yours for $69.95

With a double wall knit and slim fit, this Patagonia Brodeo Beanie will keep your head toasty all day and night. Better yet, it's made out of recycled fabrics, so it's doing its bit to protect that natural environment we're all so fond of.

The North Face ETip Recycled Gloves

Buy for $80

These gloves from The North Face will keep your fingertips warm, but also functional. Equipped with the capability to still use your phone while you wear them, they give you almost no reason to ever take them off.

Kathmandu Ridge 100 PrimaLoft Bio Fleece Neck Gaiter

$39.98 here

Don't knock this until you try it. They might look a little dorky but gaiters are far more practical than a scarf (you don't want those swinging around an open campfire!), plus you can easily sleep in it if the weather is that punishing. We like this one from Kathmandu.

Blundstone 500

Was $244.95, now $239

A sturdy pair of waterproof boots will serve you well in the wintery weather. Perfect to pull on over warm socks and to trample through any errant mud or puddles, these Blundstones are a classic option with use well beyond the weekend.

Patagonia Down Hoodie

Women's for $479.95Men's for $479.95

The Patagonia Down Hoodie gets rave reviews for its lightweight but surprisingly warm construction. It comes in men's and women's styles and in a few classic colours. It's an investment but it's worth it.

Columbia Fleece

Women's jumper $149.99Men's jumper $149.99

Winter camping is all about layers. Once you have your Down Hoodie on the outside and your thermals as a base, a nice fleece jumper in the middle will keep everything toasty. These Columbia fleece sweaters fit the bill and are really lovely and affordable. Unlike the down jacket, you can go a little bit cheaper on something like a fleece. Get it in men's and women's.

Kathmandu KMDCore Polypro Thermals

Tops for $22.50Bottoms for $22.50

When the fire is extinguished at the end of the night and the temperature plummets to the near minus, you'll be thanking your lucky stars you have these Kathmandu Kathmandu Polypro Thermals.

Camping Moon Stainless Steel Portable Camping Fire Pit

Buy for $71.80

While a lot of campgrounds supply fire pits, you don't want to be caught empty-handed in the off chance there isn't one. Equip your kit with a portable fire pit and make those big toasty fires a guarantee.

This fire pit by Camping Moon packs down into a tidy carry bag and doubles as a grill. Reviewers have commented that it's well-made, lightweight and relatively compact. Tick, tick, tick.

Solo Stove Ranger 2.0

Get it for $586

For something much more premium, the Solo Stove Ranger gets rave reviews for its ability to suffocate campfire smoke while keeping a steady flame. Something about the airflow design makes this possible, along with its stainless steel construction. An investment for many winters to come.

READ MORE: Outdoor heaters to keep you extra cosy outside

Fiskars Camping Axe

Buy for $90.78

You can't have a campfire without a trusty axe to cut through all that wood. The Fiskars Camping Axe has been recommended over and over, and for good reason. It has a whopping 88 per cent five-star reviews from over 6000 people, who comment on how light yet sturdy and effective it is. This one is a no-brainer.

Telescoping Marshmallow Roasting Sticks, 2-Pack

$11.49 for a two-pack

While we're on the topic of fires, I wouldn't be doing my job if I didn't tell you to buy some marshmallow roasting sticks. Much more reliable (and cleaner) than a stray branch you find on the ground.

READ NEXT: The products I wish I bought for my camping trip around Australia