More Tips For Happy Adventuring In The Snow!

You've read the post "Winter Adventuring Anyone" and taken some tips about staying warma nd dry in order to enjoy your outdoor activity, so how about a few more ideas to make your day a fun one?

We previously discussed weather, clothing, hydration and other essentials to staying warm and dry, but there are several other aspects of being outdoors in Winter that should be considered if you want an enjoyable experience.

Six Items That Will Help You Enjoy A Winter Excursion

1. Wear proper sunglasses or goggles.
   
   By proper, I mean they need to be UV blocking and also wrap around you entire eye area, to prevent rays from coming in from the bottom and sides. Sun reflecting off snow can be extremely bright and unless you like the feeling of sand in your eyes, best to keep from getting snow blind. 



2. Wear Sunscreen.
   
   As mentioned in point one, sun reflecting on snow can be extremely bright and not only does this pose a potential issue to your eyes, you can also get sunburned quite easily. Slather on lots of sunscreen before departing and keep adding it on throughout the day, particularly if you're exerting yourself and perspiring.



3. Hand And Feet Warmers.
   
   It never hurts to have a few of those self starting, exothermic reaction warmers on hand (punny eh?), just in case your extremities start to get cold. Simply open the packet and expose them to air to get the reaction started and you'll have a hot little bag of "sand" in minutes. If you're concerned with waste, there's a variety of reusable types, like the click style gel bags, rechargeable electronic devices, or the lighter fluid fuelled catalytic type.



4. Pack A Pocket Chainsaw.
   
   Just like its' motorised counterpart, the pocket chainsaw can cut through wood in minutes and provide you with some dry fuel should you need to get a fire going to warm up. Essentially, it's a small chainsaw chain with strap handles on either end, with you providing the horsepower. The process may even help you get warm! haha



5. Fire Starter.
   
   You have fuel, so now you'll need to get things started. Carry a kit that includes some wax coated matches stored in a metal container, some chunks of fire starter paraffin wax, and a bit of kindling made from cedar shakes. Poof, you've got fire!



6. Store Your Water Bottle Upside Down.
   
   Water freezes from the top down. As long as your bottle has a well sealed screw tight lid you can store it in the inverted position and still be able to get a drink.

Winter activity is a lot of fun, and is generally a bit quieter and more relaxing, with the average person usually not willing to put themselves out there. if you're well prepared you'll have a great time!