two people standing on snowy mountain

Between frigid temperatures, severe winds, and freezing rain and snow, venturing into cold weather is not without risks. It can leave you vulnerable to injuries or even hypothermia if you’re not properly prepared. That’s why you must arm yourself with the right survival gear and knowledge. Don’t know where to get started? Follow these cold weather survival tips to survive – and thrive – in the harsh elements.

Wear the Right Clothing

Our number one tip for how to survive cold weather: wear loose-fitting clothing to insulate your body heat. Clothing that’s too restricts blood flow, making you feel colder. Looser clothing, however, keeps you warm by creating a layer that minimizes heat loss. But not just any loose clothing will work. Extreme cold weather clothing is your first layer of protection against freezing temperatures. They’re constructed using insulating fabrics like wool and fleece and often come with moisture-wicking capabilities to maintain your body heat.

Layer, Layer, Layer!

Opt for layered clothing instead of one big, bulky piece of clothing. Layers trap your body heat and keep you warmer. One of our top cold weather survival tips is to invest in thermal clothes. They’re great for layering since they’re designed to maintain proper body temperature in cold weather. The unique fabrication of this army cold weather gear creates small air pockets near the skin to prevent body heat from quickly escaping. They also wick moisture to keep your skin dry and ward off the chills. Add these to your layers:

Always Remain Dry

Our next tip for how to survive cold weather is to always keep your clothing dry. Wet clothing is one of the quickest ways to get hypothermia. Whether your clothes are soaked in sweat or wet from rain and snow, you’ll want to remove them and put on dry clothing. Your body can regulate its internal temperature better without it coating your skin.

Keep Your Feet Warm

person in winter boots walking through snow

Ever notice that your feet get colder than other body parts? That’s because your feet are further from your heart, which means it takes longer for blood to circulate down there. It gets even worse when it’s cold. Blood flow decreases in the extremities (aka your feet!) and increases in the core to keep your body warm. This leaves you susceptible not only to discomfort but also to frostbite. Here’s how to survive cold weather and prevent frostbite:

  • Wear comfortable, waterproof Army surplus boots to prevent your feet from getting wet
  • Layer your socks – thinner socks under a pair of wool socks – for added warmth
  • Keep your feet dry since sweat and water can create a chill as they dry
  • Get moving - leg swings and brisk walking can help with circulation

Stay Hydrated

Most of us only think of hydration as a means to survive the heat. But it’s just as important to know how to survive cold weather. Proper hydration helps maintain good blood flow (a must for warmth!) and normal bodily functions. Keep up your water intake, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Remember that your body is working overtime to keep you warm – it needs sustenance!

Fuel Your Body

Another one of our cold weather survival tips is to eat plenty of food – or at least a snack or two. Your body needs fuel to burn to maintain your core body temperature and stay warm. Aim for something with high fat, carbohydrates, protein, and calories. This will also give you the energy boost you need to stay alert and active!

Be Prepared with Your Winter Survival Gear

Planning a snowy adventure? Don’t forget to pack your winter survival gear. Learning how to survive cold weather means being equipped with both knowledge and gear. You’ll want your survival basics and cold weather-specific equipment packed in your bag. We suggest bringing:

  • First aid kit
  • Fire starters
  • Military canteen
  • Military sleeping bags - Sleep systems like the Improved Modular Sleep System are constructed to insulate users from mild to extremely cold weather.

Tackle the Cold Weather with Our Survival Tips

These tips for surviving cold weather lay the crucial foundation for staying comfortable and being ready for anything coming your way. Stay safe on the trails with military gear from Army Surplus World!