Top tips for beating the chill when you're camping

Baby it's cold outside, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop camping.

Although the main family camping season usually doesn't start until Easter, many sites remain open all year round.

Weather-wise you might be lucky and catch some early season sunshine but chances are it's going to be cold and wet, with a good chance of a bit of snow too. Don't let that put you off though -  follow our top tips and you’ll be able to carry on camping no matter the weather.

Click here for a selection of top quality campsites that are open all year round

Follow our tips here for a guaranteed cosy night's sleep.

CAMPING OUT OF SEASON

Hit the road early. Remember the sun sets early at this time of year, so don’t leave it too late to set off or you’ll be putting your tent up in the dark.

Temperatures fall rapidly, especially at night, so pack your four season sleeping bags, and perhaps even duvets and fleece blankets. Take more than you think you’ll need and you’ll be fine. Hot water bottles, bed socks and even hats all help keep you and your family cosy and a tent carpet is an essential. Take some absorbent cloths to deal with condensation.

Pack plenty of warm clothes (particularly extra socks) so you can put on or take off layers.

A nearby family-friendly pub, preferably with open fires, is a definite asset come the evening.

Make sure you have got a good lantern and spare batteries – the nights can be long in winter.

Even better, try to get a site with electric hook-ups so you can have unlimited electric heating and lighting.

Don’t pitch at the bottom of a slope and avoid other areas that look as though they might get waterlogged.

Pack your wellies and waterproofs. Bring a folding plastic box in which you can leave your boots next to the door – it will stop mud getting into the tent.

Check out what indoor activities are on hand for the kids before you head off. A pool will keep them occupied no matter the weather

Now could the time to try out a spot of glamping in fully-equipped tipis, yurts, or pods. Prices are lower at this time of year than at high season, they can be warmer than a tent and there’s no struggling to dismantle a soaking wet tent when you leave.

Finally, go local. If it turns too cold and wet, you can always come home…