The Ultimate Winter Camping Checklist (for Aussies Who Don’t Mind the Cold)

Camping in winter? Bloody oath.

While the crowds disappear and the mozzies take a break, true legends head bush for crisp mornings, clear skies, and roaring campfires. But if you’re not prepared, those chilly nights can turn your trip into a frostbitten disaster.

So, before you roll out the swag, here’s your no nonsense winter camping checklist built for warmth, comfort, and cracking campfire cook-ups.

Fire & Cooking Gear

Let’s face it, fire is your best mate in winter. Whether it’s for cooking dinner, warming your toes, or just staring at it for hours, you want to be ready.

• Charcoal or firewood (Bring plenty don’t rely on scrounging)
• Reliable firestarter (Flint, firelighters, or a butane torch)
• Portable Spit Roaster or Charcoal Grill (Camp cooking, sorted)
• Cast iron pan / camp oven (Great for slow cooked stews and brekkies)
• BBQ gloves (Because cold fingers and hot coals don’t mix)
• Marinated meats or vacuum sealed meals (So you can eat like a king in the wild)
• Camp kettle or billy (Nothing like a hot cuppa when it’s 3°C)

Pro tip: The Ozpig Oven Smoker doubles as a fire, oven, and heater. Absolute weapon for winter trips.

Shelter & Sleeping Gear

When the temp drops, you need more than just a thin swag and wishful thinking.

• Tent or swag with solid insulation
• Ground mat or stretcher to lift you off the cold earth
• -5°C or better sleeping bag (Mummy style for max warmth)
• Thermal liner or extra blanket (Because layering = survival)
• Pillow + Beanie (A warm noggin means better sleep)
• Tent heater (if your setup supports it check safety first)

Clothing & Warmth

Layers are the name of the game. Be ready to strip off in the sun and rug up fast once it dips.

• Merino thermal base layers (top and bottom)
• Wool or fleece jumper
• Down jacket / puffer
• Waterproof outer shell (wind is the real enemy)
• Warm socks (multiple pairs)
• Beanie + gloves + neck gaiter
• Sturdy waterproof boots
• Dry change of clothes for bed

Camp Setup & Essentials

The small stuff makes a big difference in winter. Don’t skimp.

• LED lights + headlamp (Sun goes down early)
• Power bank / batteries (Cold drains devices faster)
• Tarp or awning for shelter from wind and rain
• Chairs with insulation or padding (Cold plastic is brutal)
• Hot water bottle or camp heat packs
• Basic first aid kit (blisters, cuts, cold meds)
• Extra ropes, pegs, and mallet (wind-proof your setup)

Bonus Luxuries (Because You Earned It)

• Hip flask or bottle of red (Strictly for warmth, of course)
• Camp coffee setup (Aeropress, percolator, or instant no judgement!)
• Bluetooth speaker for fire side tunes
• Pack of cards or dice game
• Meat rubs, sauces & seasonings to elevate every feed

Final Thoughts

Winter camping isn’t just about surviving, it's about enjoying the peace and beauty that comes with the colder months. With the right gear and a roaring fire, you’ll sleep better, eat better, and laugh harder around the flames.

Just remember: stay dry, stay layered, and always pack more firewood than you think you need.

Ready to Rug Up and Roast?

Check out our full range of camp cooking gear, compact spit roasters, and fire friendly BBQs built tough for the Aussie winter.

Explore Camping Gear Now