This is even truer in the winter: for an expedition to be successful, it is imperative to prepare it upstream. Here are some precepts to keep in mind if you are planning a first snow camping trip, according to Charles Fortin, a mountain goat nutritionist.


1) BE DRY BEFORE BEING WARM

The biggest challenge is managing clothes and moisture. Above all, avoid sweating. "As soon as we get hot and get active, we remove a layer. When we calm down and start to feel cold, we put it back. The best way to dry clothes is on oneself, thanks to the heat released by the body.


2) DRINK EVEN WHEN YOU'RE NOT THIRSTY

Dehydration is more sneaky in winter, because the cold gives the false impression of being hydrated. The thing is to drink all day long. The color of the urine makes it possible to evaluate the degree of hydration: one wants it clear.


3) USE THE MULTILAYER SYSTEM

Stacking the thicknesses helps to better manage the heat. "The first layer should be thin, breathe and wick away moisture. The wool works well because it staying warm even when wet. The intermediate layer stores heat, we want down or synthetic. The third layer serves as a shell against the weather, it takes something waterproof or windbreaker."


4) PROVIDE BALANCED MENUS AND SNACKS

In winter camping, you spend a lot of energy even when you're not moving. You have to take back the calories burned. "We want consistent, hot and energy-rich meals. Oatmeal, nuts, dried fruit and legumes are a priority. Dehydrated food is also an option but costs more.


5) GETTING READY FOR THE NIGHT

It is recommended to choose a sleeping bag warmer than the expected temperature, to be comfortable. You can also fill a bottle of hot water before going to sleep, and place it at the bottom of the bag. A short walk also helps to circulate the heat. And most importantly, do not forget to go to the bathroom before going to sleep.


6) MAINTAIN GOOD BODY HYGIENE

Cleaning wipes are the answer for short durations. Beyond a few days, one can think of washcloths and rubbing alcohol, diluted as needed. Once every 3 to 5 days is enough. "You also have to ventilate your feet every day, a few minutes before going to sleep, to drive out moisture. Baby powder helps keep feet dry.


7) TEST IN ADVANCE THE TYPE OF SHELTER CHOSEN

The tent is the simplest and most effective choice, but if you want to test the quinzee or the simple tarpaulin, it is important to test in a safe environment. Do not forget to ventilate the shelter to drive away moisture.


8) AVOID SCATTERING

"When you go to bed, you have to know exactly where everything is stored. Do not let anything hang out, at the risk of finding your equipment frozen or gone.


9) AVOID LEAVING TRACES BEHIND YOU

Plan bags to return your garbage and leave the site as you arrived. This also applies to toilet paper, which takes time to break down.


10) DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE COMFORT OF MEALS AND HOT BEVERAGES

"Food is the reward, you have to have fun. Bring foods you love, and make the effort to heat water for tea or coffee: it's good for morale!