You don’t need to look like a snowman to stay warm. Dressing in layers gives you control — add warmth when you need it, and shed a layer when you start to sweat. Avoiding sweat is key to staying warm.

• Start with a thermal base layer (merino is a winner)
• Add an insulating mid-layer like fleece or wool
• Finish with a windproof, waterproof jacket

Puffer jackets are a traveller’s best friend — lightweight, easy to pack, and surprisingly warm.

Hot tip: Look for Australian brands like Kathmandu, Macpac and Sea to Summit for quality winter gear suited to local conditions.

Damp clothes will chill you faster than a cold wind. If you get caught in the rain or walk through wet grass, change as soon as you can — especially socks.

Carry quick-dry fabrics, spare socks and a compact towel. And don’t forget waterproof shoes or boots with decent tread for muddy campsites.

A good beanie does more than just make you look like you know what you’re doing – it keeps your body heat in. A lot of warmth escapes from your head, so if you’re cold, a hat is your first move.

There are plenty of beanie styles out there, go classic, go loud, or wear one that supports your favourite team or cause.

Sleep is essential on the road, and winter nights can be brutally cold if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re camping off-grid or pulling into a powered site, here’s how to sleep warmer:

• Add a blanket or foam mat underneath your mattress to block cold air rising from below
• Add a cosy mattress topper to your mattress
• Use a sleeping bag rated for cold weather and layer blankets on top
• Sleep in thermals and a beanie for extra insulation
• Keep a hot water bottle or heat pack ready to pre-warm your bed

Pro tip: Don’t overdress inside your sleeping bag — your body warms the air inside. Too many clothes can actually make it harder to stay warm.

A good thermos can change your whole day. Fill it with hot tea, coffee or soup before you leave camp. You’ll appreciate it at a lookout or trailhead in the middle of nowhere.

Thermoses aren’t just for drinks, pack noodles, dim sims or hot dogs for lunch on the go. Bonus: you won’t need to rely on roadhouse food.

Snacking helps too. Your body burns energy to stay warm, so small, high-fat or high-protein snacks between meals will keep your metabolism ticking over.

It’s amazing how much a few small comforts can help:

• Hand warmers in your pockets or gloves
• A warm drink just before bed
• A good camp chair with a fleece throws over it
• Heat packs you can microwave at powered sites or on a camp stove

You don’t need a lot, just the right things.

Always check the forecast before heading out. Be realistic about your plans, and pack for colder nights than expected. The weather in rural Victoria and elevated areas can drop sharply, even after mild days.

According to Tourism Research Australia, domestic caravan and camping trips hit a record 4.3 million trips in 2022 and winter travel is growing as more Australians embrace all-season travel. Off-peak trips are not only quieter, but often more affordable.

The warmer you are, the more likely you are to get out and enjoy everything winter has to offer,  from misty mornings in the Yarra Valley to cosy nights under the stars.

With the proper setup, there’s no reason to wait for spring.