If you love sleeping outside -- the fresh air, the sky full of stars, the quiet woods -- then winter shouldn't stop you from enjoying it. There are ways to stay warm and cozy in your Tentsile tree tent so you can keep enjoying those priceless nights. 

How to Sleep Outside in the Winter 

A post shared by Tentsile (@tentsile) on Jan 18, 2017 at 7:14am PST

We've had some practice when it comes to conquering the cold in a tree tent. Here are 5 tips that we embrace when sleeping outside in a Tentsile tree tent. 

1. Make the switch to merino wool

Merino wool is a game changer when it comes to staying warm. A layer of this versatile fabric will trap body heat and wick away sweat, so if you do get a little too warm, that moisture won't come back to haunt you. You can buy merino wool base layers, socks, and blankets for dependable warmth on extra chilly nights.  

A post shared by Todd Saulters (@tdwsaulters) on Nov 11, 2017 at 8:58am PST

2. Bring a sleeping pad

When we think of sleeping pads, we think of comfort. They're typically used as cushion between your body and the ground. But sleeping pads also provide insulation, from the cold ground and the cold air. 

We recommend the Tentsile SkyPad, a duel chamber sleeping mat designed in partnership with comfort experts from Klymit. The SkyPad fits perfectly into Tentsile tree tents to provide a layer of warmth and comfort between yourself and the night sky. 

3. Invest in a below-freezing sleeping bag

We've all done it. Campers often underestimate just how cold it can get at night -- especially when the day is deceivingly warm. While you might think it doesn't get that cold where you camp, we recommend investing in a below-freezing sleeping bag to account for unexpected drops in temperature. Better safe than sorry! 

The Predator Camo SLPY bag is a wearable sleeping bag; zip it up for optimal insulation at bed time, or unzip the feet and arm slots to wear it while exploring. It's rated for 0 degrees celsius.  

4. Eat a big meal before you sleep

Don’t skimp on dinner before turning in! Eating too light or skipping a meal because you're rushing to retreat to the warmth of your sleeping bag can make you colder as the night goes on. A hearty meal before bed time will get your metabolism working to warm up your body. And if you go to sleep warm, it's easier to stay warm throughout the night. Keep a snack close by -- if you wake up cold, munching on some beef jerky or nuts can help you warm back up. 

5. Cuddle up

A post shared by Tentsile (@tentsile) on Sep 21, 2017 at 5:57pm PDT

Whether you're joined by a human or an animal friend, body heat is a great way to keep warm in the winter. So invite your friends and get cozy in your tree tent. 

So keep exploring! Keep enjoying! And keep warm with Tentsile this winter