When going on a hike or winter bivouac, you want to stay warm, but also avoid carrying a 20 kg bag. Good news: with the right choices, it is entirely possible to combine warmth and lightness!
Here are our best tips for braving the cold without weighing down your bag.
1. Adopt the 3-layer system
Instead of relying entirely on a thick down jacket, opt for thin and effective layers:
-
1st layer: thermal and breathable (e.g., merino or synthetic)
-
2nd layer: light fleece or micro down jacket
-
3rd layer: windproof and waterproof
The layers can be combined, adjusted according to effort… and take up little space in the bag.
2. Choose technical clothing
Modern textiles are ultralight and highly insulating. Opt for:
-
Natural down (very compressible and warm) or synthetic if humidity is a factor
-
Thin lined gloves, a compact beanie, and quality thermal socks
-
Compressible clothing to slip into a waterproof bag or compression sack
3. Optimize your night gear
-
A sleeping bag suitable for negative temperatures, lightweight and compressible
-
An insulating sleeping mat: essential to avoid losing heat through the ground
-
A hot water bottle or a small bottle of hot water slipped into your sleeping bag = guaranteed warmth without extra weight!
4. Prefer calories over kilos
-
Bring rich and light meals: dehydrated soups, instant purees, energy bars
-
A thermos of hot drink warms the body and boosts morale
-
Think about spices like ginger or chili: natural and warming!
5. Warmth is also a matter of strategy
-
Move a little before sleeping to activate circulation
-
Never sleep in damp clothes
-
Protect extremities: hands, feet, head = 70% of body heat
Looking for light, warm, and clever gear?
Discover our selection of technical clothing, compact sleeping bags, and clever accessories on baroudeurcamp.com.
This winter, stay warm… without weighing down your back!