Winter Overlanding Basics: How to Prepare for Adventure in Cold Climates

Posted January 06, 2025

Winter overlanding is an exhilarating way to explore nature’s most pristine, snow-blanketed landscapes, but it requires careful preparation. Unlike summer excursions, winter overlanding demands specialized gear, vehicle modifications, and a solid understanding of cold-weather survival techniques. From navigating icy roads and setting up a cozy winter camp to ensuring your electronics and heaters stay powered in freezing conditions, every detail is essential to make the experience safe and enjoyable. Whether you're a seasoned overlander or new to cold-weather camping, this guide will walk you through the basics of preparing for an unforgettable winter adventure.

1. Prepping Your Vehicle

Winterizing your vehicle is crucial for safety and efficiency. Key areas to focus on are the tires, battery, lighting, and heating.

  • Tires: Winter-rated tires or chains give you the traction needed on snowy or icy terrain. Make sure your spare tire is also winter-ready.
  • Battery Storage and Power Management: Cold weather can reduce battery efficiency by up to 50%, making a secondary battery or portable power station essential. Many overlanders use dual-battery systems or long-lasting lithium-ion portable power banks like the RELiON Outlaw 1072 or the RB100-LT Series batteries to charge and run electronics like GPS devices, phones, and portable heaters. Many portable power stations now offer multiple outlets, USB ports, and high capacity to keep all electronics charged.
  • Fluid Check: Switch to winter-grade engine oil and make sure all fluids are topped off with freeze-resistant options.
  • Lighting and Visibility: Shorter days mean more driving in the dark. Extra lighting, such as fog and auxiliary lights, improves visibility in low light and snowy conditions.
  • Heating System: If you’re overlanding in sub-zero temperatures, consider an auxiliary heating system to keep your cabin warm overnight. Portable heaters that can be powered by your battery bank are a great backup.

2. Power Management for Electronics and Devices

Keeping electronics powered is vital in cold conditions, whether for navigation, communication, or creature comforts.

  • Dual-Battery System: A dual-battery system allows you to run accessories without draining your main vehicle battery. The secondary battery charges while driving, but once parked, it provides power for camping essentials.
  • Portable Power Stations: High-capacity power stations can keep smaller electronics charged for days. These units often come with multiple charging ports and can handle everything from small appliances to laptops and lights. Choose one with a solar charging option for extra power on sunny winter days.
  • Inverters and Solar Panels: If you're bringing larger electronics, an inverter can convert power from 12V DC to AC, allowing you to plug in household devices. Foldable solar panels can keep batteries charged during the day, ensuring you have enough power even if you’re camped for an extended period.

3. Layered and Insulated Clothing

Cold weather requires clothing that traps heat while allowing moisture to escape:

  • Base Layers: Choose moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetics. Avoid cotton since it traps moisture and can lead to hypothermia.
  • Insulating Layer: A down or synthetic-insulated jacket will keep you warm. Fleece jackets are also effective mid-layers.
  • Outer Layer: A waterproof, windproof outer shell is critical for protection against snow and wind.
  • Hands and Feet: Insulated, waterproof gloves and thick wool socks are essential. Consider carrying extras in case they get wet.
  • Head and Face Protection: A balaclava or neck gaiter, along with a warm hat, will help prevent heat loss.
Overland famliy camping in the winter

4. Camp Setup

Setting up camp in the snow takes some additional thought to stay safe and comfortable:

  • Winterized Tents and Roof Top Tents: Winter-rated tents and insulation are invaluable. Roof top tents provide distance from snow and ice on the ground, but consider insulating them further.
  • Sleeping Gear: Opt for a sleeping bag rated for lower temperatures than you expect, and bring an insulated sleeping pad to prevent heat loss to the ground.
  • Heat Source: Portable propane heaters (like Mr. Heater) can keep you warm, but make sure they’re safe for indoor use and maintain ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
  • Cooking Setup: Cold can freeze gas canisters, so consider a liquid fuel stove, which performs better in low temperatures.

5. Food and Hydration

High-energy meals and constant hydration are important in cold weather, where your body uses more energy to stay warm.

  • Warm Meals: Pack meals that are easy to prepare and provide sustained energy, such as soups, pasta, or instant oatmeal.
  • Snacks: High-calorie snacks, like trail mix, jerky, and chocolate, give you quick energy.
  • Staying Hydrated: Dehydration is common in winter as cold air is often dry, and your body may not signal thirst as effectively. Carry an insulated water bottle to prevent your water from freezing.

6. Navigation and Communication

Safe winter travel depends on effective navigation and reliable communication.

  • GPS and Maps: GPS devices are essential, but paper maps are a necessary backup in case electronics fail.
  • Communication Devices: A satellite phone or handheld radio is invaluable for contacting help in areas without cell service. These devices can be charged from your portable battery bank, ensuring you have power when needed.
  • Route Planning and Marking: Heavy snowfall can cover tracks, so clearly mark waypoints and routes on both your GPS and paper maps.
Using backup power for overland vehicles emergencies

7. Emergency Preparedness

Winter overlanding requires you to be prepared for emergencies and unexpected situations.

  • First Aid and Survival Kit: A fully stocked first-aid kit and an emergency bivy or thermal blanket are essential. Include items for cold-specific injuries like frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Fire-Starting Kit: Fire can be critical for warmth. Carry waterproof matches, fire starters, and dry kindling.
  • Backup Power Source: Dual batteries and a portable power bank, especially when paired with solar energy, are reliable sources of backup power.
  • Signal Devices: A whistle, signal mirror, or a bright flag can help rescuers locate you if you’re stranded.

8. Winter Driving Techniques

Winter conditions require a different driving approach to navigate safely on ice and snow.

  • Steady Speeds and Low Gears: Slow and steady driving, along with low gears, helps maintain control on slippery terrain.
  • Avoid Oversteering: Sudden turns or overcorrections can lead to skidding. Instead, steer gently and use brakes sparingly.
  • Assess the Terrain: Avoid deep snowbanks and areas where you might get stuck. Keep an eye on snow depth and opt for more solid ground whenever possible.

Winter overlanding requires more preparation than summer trips, but the serene, snow-covered landscapes and the sense of accomplishment are worth the effort. With the right gear, a solid plan, and respect for winter conditions, you can enjoy a memorable and safe adventure. If you have questions about setting up a reliable energy system, get in touch with a technical expert at RELiON.