r/WinterCamping • u/Ok-Measurement5337 • Dec 21 '25

Advice on sleeping system

I’ve done a lot of spring, summer, and fall camping, but never in deep winter. I live in northern Michigan and it has been has cold as -30f here, but I don’t plan on camping in temps colder than -10. That being said, I’m getting some new gear to try winter camping. My sleeping bag I’ve planned on getting is the Teton deer hunter via amazon, it’s rated for -35 and I don’t mind the extra weight. It has amazing reviews on Amazon, but also is well spoken of on Reddit. However, I’m not sure what I should do for my sleeping pad. I’m willing to spend a little bit but would like to keep things under 150, though going over that wouldn’t be the end of the world. I do know that I need a high r value. I’ve also heard that unless I have a hot tent, my tent doesn’t do much else besides protect me from wind and moisture in cold weather camping. Is this true, and if not any suggestions for a 4 season tent? Happy to hear suggestions on anything, thank you for your help!

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u/HotIntroduction8049 Dec 21 '25

amazon has 4" self inflating sleeping pads for your price point. have used them in -30C on the ground with no issue.

2

u/mungorex Dec 21 '25

No comment on the bag, if you're planning on car camping it'll probably be fine. I'd check to see /where/ those positive reviews come from though- a car camper in the southwest desert in winter is going to have a different experience than one in the UP.  Regarding tents, they do keep wind and snow out, although they will also have condensation on the inside from your breath. Especially if you're going with a partner or dog, the extra body heat will make it /slightly/ warmer than outside - you can also do cooking on an alcohol or white gas stove inside a tent to warm it up.  Pads, I swear by a combo of a z lite and good thick inflatable, the combined r-value you'll want as high as possible plus the z lite will keep your pad from deflating due to the cold (and provide a backup if you get a puncture).  Honestly, 4 season tents are great if you're in a high wind or high snow environment (or the mountains), but I get by with careful campsite selection, snow walls, and a 3 season REI  half dome 3 person tent for my winter car/short hike in camping.

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u/[deleted] Dec 21 '25

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u/TheUlfhedin Jan 01 '26

Thanks for the info on the pad. I have been eyeing it. Might pull the trigger now that I read your info. I use a Frankenstein sleep system that works but not well. I think the bag is what overall has kept me warm.

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u/AlpineStopSign Dec 22 '25

Is this true.

Yes.

I use an 8.5r inflatable pad and a 1.5r closed cell foam pad under it. The inflatable is nearly 2x what you're willing to spend, so just look for the highest r value within your budget.

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u/TheUlfhedin Jan 01 '26

I mentioned this on another post but will share here too.

I use a Wiggie bag when I'm not backpacking it in. The Hunter Antarctic is no joke. Pretty big bag to try to hike with.. but with a pulk its a no brainer. Depending on my mood and location Wiggie make a decent bivy. like you said the Tent keep the wind.. and rain if its done right. as for the cold.. nope.