5 Tips to Sleeping Better in the Woods from a Survival Instructor

[@hollyhopalong7405]

I sleep warm by camping with my hound dog. She snuggles up if it’s really cold and so we both stay warm. Also she’s a great early warning system and small critter deterrent. Best multipurpose item I’ve found🤗

[@DarkMetaOFFICIAL]

Did you literally just call your dog an item? wtf

[@hollyhopalong7405]

Dark Meta don’t worry, I really love my dog and she is very well cared for. Hard to get wry humor across without visual cues. M sure she would smile and call me an adequate food dispensary if she had improved verbal skills.

[@benadams5557]

Mine is great for that too

[@FuckPedophileBiden]

I heat up my hound dog first by putting her out in the cold for an hour or so, and when I let her in her body is working overtime trying to keep her warm and she's nice and toasty under the blanket.

[@untermench3502]

If you live in Alaska, you have a 3 dog night.

[@Fiirow1]

I have a couple more ^^ -Never go into the sleeping bag already freezing, it will take relatively long to heat up... even if you don't feel that cold, do 10-20 push ups, don't over do it as you don't want to sweat. -In case you camp in minus degrees, keep your primary flask / camelback inside the bag with you. -When creating a shelter don't be lazy, better to spend those 10 minutes extra setting up - than waking up due to the shelter failing. -If you're like me and prefer not getting that cold shock in the morning, you can keep the most important clothing inside the sleeping bag and use it as a pillow - this will keep it warm for when you have to get up, as well as serving as a decent head rest. I can go on and on... But in general the video covers some good points...

[@GifhornCh]

„Do 10-20“ push ups“ he says.... Those days are long gone for me. 2 Push ups and I‘m sweating like a pig.

[@FT4Freedom]

Agreed. Well said.

[@pedroclaro7822]

To warm up while already in my bag, there’s only one possibility afaik - moving around. You can do crunches easily, but just by getting arms out you can do pushups, planks etc.

[@mdteders]

Two more winter-camping tips I learned as a girlscout; 1) eat some peanuts before going to bed (gives your body some extra fuel/warmth) and 2) close your jacket and slip it over the bottom end of your sleeping bag to give your feet & legs an extra layer of warmth. Oh, and put your clothes in your sleeping bag so they are not so cold when you put them on the next morning (bonus ;->)

[@charleswalter2902]

I usually put my clothes between my ground pad & my sleeping bag. Same reason that you do. The jacket over the foot of the bag is a great idea. I intend to use it. Thanks.

[@elijahmccormick3360]

I’m bad about forgetting a pillow so I usually wind up using my clothes as a pillow

[@Patriot_Eke]

The coat/jacket over your feet is a good one. I used this over this last weekend to help keep me feet warm. Them being cold was stopping me from sleeping well.

[@adreabrooks11]

Love the "jacket over sleeping bag" tip! I have to remember that one! Regarding the clothes: bring an extra-large Ziplock bag or some other sealable container, and put your clothes in that if you intend to keep your clothes in the bag with you. We sweat a surprising amount when we sleep, and the barrier will keep the clothes dry, for when you get out into the cool morning air.

[@garyminick1050]

@@elijahmccormick3360 me too.

[@titanpreparedness]

Great tips nothing ruins a good sleep like having to get uncomfortable just to pee. We use to "cook" rocks during the day and bury them about 6 in deep then move our tents on top. Stays warms around 4-6 hours. Awesome channel.

[@OoavastoO]

Great video and excellent tips. I'd like to add something to your "layer down" tip, (which, btw is 100% accurate. It totally works!), and it's something that I learned as a kid in the Boy Scouts. It pertains mainly to cool/cold weather camping, but it can be effective in warmer weather, especially if the temps drop overnight. When you layer down, go one step further and change your base layer. At a minimum, change your socks. But you should also put on fresh underwear and t-shirt if you got them with you, BEFORE you go to bed, (and really, who doesn't like the feel of a fresh clean layer when you sleep?) The main reason you should change is you have just spent most of the day probably doing some moderate to heavy physical activity, (hiking with a pack/gear, setting up camp, collecting and processing fire wood, etc). You've spent all day exerting and sweating in that base layer. It will hold onto a lot of that moisture, (even the newer, higher tech "wicking" fabrics). Then when you go to bed and the temps drop, that trapped moisture starts to cool rapidly which in turn, cools you! - NOT conducive to a comfortable night's sleep! Additionally, any insulation and/or moisture wicking properties your base layer may have are seriously reduced if it's already saturated. There's no where for the moisture we respire naturally to go. Even if it feels perfectly dry....CHANGE! Trust me on this. It quite literally makes a day and night difference. *Plus you have the added bonus having a nice, fresh, warm base layer already on you when you get up in the morning! Thanks for the great video. All the best from Nova Scotia, Canada

[@AndrewVelonis]

Correct on all counts, and that's what we teach our Scouts.

[@dugsteppa8430]

Great words. But is it true that less clothes layers on makes warmer sleeps?

[@davestuddert4392]

Great advice. I sleep exceptionally well out in the bush......except that sasquatch keeps stompin' around & makin' a damn racket!!

[@grunt9131]

I learned to layer down in Boy Scouts and also was taught the same thing in the Marine Corps

[@memphisbelle6201]

@@dugsteppa8430 , with a quality 3 piece sleep system, it is best to sleep nude or in Ranger panties. While you will be slightly warmer this way, that isn't the important part. The truly horrible part of sleeping in clothes, is when you wake up, you will have to get out of that sleeping bag, completely drenched in sweat, then you will know real cold.

[@bren42069]

It never fails. The moment you zip up your sleeping bag and get comfortable you immediately gotta pee

[@douglas19444]

Oh, how I know the truth behind that :-)

[@marcrud1250]

Pee hack...Empty Sobe bottle.

[@GeorgeOrwell-yz6zx]

.... and the mosquitos KNOW you have to get up to pee so they line up for a drink so they have to pee at night! 🤨

[@beardedwoodsman9294]

Every damn time

[@TM-iq6sx]

Relax warm

[@natmorse-noland9133]

Regarding hot water bottles, I've also used smooth stones, about the size of my two fists. I put one in the fire pit a little ways away from the fire, so it doesn't get TOO hot, and I can leave it there indefinitely until I'm ready for bed. Fish it out and wrap it up with a handkerchief, pop it in the foot of my sleeping bag, and I've got toasty feets.

[@larrysmith2638]

That's the equivalent of a hot brick that was used before the invention of the hot water bottle.

[@OakKnobFarm]

Here too, since Boy Scouts. Hot Rocks! And instead of a kerchief I used my dirty socks. And I saw a few kids melt a hot one thru the bag LOL

[@1001CP]

@@larrysmith2638 GREAT TIP! Larry, with you on that. Growing up in Alaska we would always heat rocks with our cook fires, day fires, etc. Smaller ones can just get covered with a cloth (They should NOT be burning hot!) and in your sleeping arrangement. The other is to heat bigger rocks until they ARE very hot then bury them under where you will be bedded down. It can be REALLY cold out yet you are toasty. Naturally it takes a little practice/experience before using it to save your life, etc. DO this kind of stuff when there is no urgent circumstances. Practice all the time for that fall i cold water, broken down or crashed vehicle way back in, or any other emergency you could encounter. Make it a point to PRACTICE on your fun stays.

[@conmcgrath7502]

@@1001CP You are the first person that I ever heard 'allude' to the use of hot stones properly. I've had to put them out of my tent when the world was white and bitterly cold, just too hot, not comfortable. Did you ever see that film 'Jeremiah Johnson' (Robert Redford)? If you have then you'll know what I mean, if you haven't then do yourself a favor, it's a classic. The only thing I might add about heating stones, is don't take them from a river, wet stones can and do explode violently in aggressive heat, but ones that are obviously blackened from previous fires should be fine. My total respect from afar, pax dude and hope your sleeping bag doesn't catch on fire!

[@Eyes0penNoFear]

@@1001CP I read a story of a family whose suv broke down in the middle of nowhere in the winter. They were stuck for several days with 2 young kids. The way they stayed warm was ingenious. They let the air out of the spare tire and put it in the back seat, then built a fire outside and heated up rocks, which they then set on the metal wheel. The dad finally was able to hike to a place with cell service and call for help.

[@jesseherbert2585]

Nicely done. Speaking of homeless folk, my mom knows a fellow who has been living outside for most of his life in the north east. When it's really cold, he makes a small tunnel in the blankets over his head for his breath to get out. This "tunnel" captures much moisture (and heat) as it passes in and out, thus recycling/reclaiming one of the largest ways we lose heat otherwise (breathing away moisture and heat).

[@craigmooring2091]

I would never go to sleep with my beanie on; I might break the propeller.

[@manofthetombs]

lol

[@TheGrandPooBahe]

This comment made my day 😂

[@drummingearth5326]

Please explain this

[@tomcc333]

@@drummingearth5326 google novelty propeller beanie

[@dlighted8861]

Then you couldn't fly away to NeverNever Land.🤗

[@teutonalex]

I learned to wear fluffy sleep socks. Never sleep in the socks you hiked in. They are damp and will keep you cold, even if they don’t feel that way.

[@teatowel11]

If you are new to sleeping outdoors, especially kids that spook easily, it's a good idea to go spotlighting. Lots of unfamiliar sounds will keep you up at night wondering what they are. If on your first night you walk around with a flashlight and try to find the animals making little rustling noises and such, you'll feel a lot more confident and comfortable to fall asleep.

[@AndreFavron]

Well Dan, I gotta admit I wish I lived close enough to you to go camping together. Not only would I learn stuff but getting free dances and drama routines would be an awesome bonus 😂

[@archaicbushcraft]

"10s of thousands of dollars to live like homeless people" well that's accurate

[@agoogleuser3787]

That is usually how it works. Tonnes if homeless people have been forced into homelessness by their uncaring governments. Usually its not cheap.

[@normanmcneal3605]

Homeless chose to live his life. You voters choose to leave status quo, while decrying evil gvt, that you vote for?

[@obiwanfisher537]

Not really accurate. Homeless people dont really live like this. They usually get warm blankets, sleep in the cities on some cardboard so they dont have to go far to get their mcdonalds breakfast, get to a homeless community centre or go to a good begging spot. They relatively rarely live in tents. And if they do its some 20 quid tent in a bush. Point being; they live a completely different life as someone camping.

[@nickloch7483]

Everyone here is soo wrong..wanna go out on the beat ..lets go..

[@Lucy-vx9nn]

😂😂😂 so true, im still trying to afford to live like a homeless person,5 yrs and counting almost there lol

[@yourbarista4154]

For me the cold is a major factor, I have a hard time keeping my body warm. I live off-grid and this winter I’ve ceased keeping a fire at night when the lows stay in the 20’s. That means I have to get up to pee in the cold and start my morning fire in the cold, feed the horses before having a warm cabin to come back to. So... my personal tip? I’m adapting my body and mind to the cold. Adapting the mind is a biggie. I’ve made a lot of progress this year.

[@michaeldean5787]

Nice comment. Have you tried the Wim Hof method?

[@yourbarista4154]

@@michaeldean5787 I just tried it for the first time a week ago. It seems to help and I need to do it in a more focused manner.

[@conmcgrath7502]

It won't get easier though and you won't get younger? In colder climates and older times, a lot of people would literally live 'over' the horses/livestock. A whole lot of people survived that way. In these modern days of 'hygene' such practices might be frowned upon as stupid and barbaric, definitely a point there but I say 'screw it' I slept lovely and warm when all the world was white with cold.

[@untermench3502]

You should try the Canadian method of starting a wood fire in -50C mornings. We used to take turns starting the stove in the morning, then everyone gets up and huddles around the stove. The trick is to keep moving lest your feet freeze to the floor.

[@yourbarista4154]

@@untermench3502 nope! You can have that all for yourself!

[@davidsandford7793]

I've dealt with cold my entire life. When I was a kid we used to warm river rocks by the fire, then we would put them into our extra socks and put them in our covers to warm the bed. I always have a towel outside my bag or a small blanket that I tuck around my neck and chest to keep heat from escaping. I line my bag with a percale (not flannel) sheet. It keeps the bag cleaner, works as a cover by itself in the summer, and adds at least 30 degrees to your bag in the winter - without causing you to overheat. Plus it doesn't weigh much. And lastly, now that I'm older I know I'm going to need to pee, at a minimum, at least once during the night, so I carry some form of urinal that I can use without leaving my bag - caution - try the container/urinal out before actually camping with it or you might spend the night lying in a puddle, also get a container with a screw top that you can close well (actual urinals usually have push on tops which should be avoided - I like Gatoraid bottles).

[@robinburr6229]

Dude your thr best. I was in English army cadets for years back in the 90s and I've learnt more from your videos. Then I did then. I love ❤ camping but real camping, not in a tent, just using bivi. Thsnk u so much. Your a legend. Your the best campa ever 👍

[@plug1461]

One of my first ever camping trips away years ago and one of my biggest mistakes. I needed to pee in the night couldn’t find my torch, I got up went outside tripped over the guide ropes hurt my toe, so didn’t want to walk to far. Being female I crouched down to pee in the pitch black straight on to stinging nettles, needless to say I spent a very uncomfortable rest of the night. A lesson well learnt. But I had my revenge on the nettles.

[@jeffmcilroy7081]

Plug 14 I’m laughing my ass off right now but I’m sure it wasn’t funny in the moment!

[@charleswalter2902]

At least you maintained your sense of humor.

[@katosthoff]

Best. Comment. Ever. Laughed as hard as I did with the video. Guys never get how hard it is for girls to pee in the woods. My daughter never grasped "the pee squat" and peed all over her clothes and shoes. She insisted on going home right then lol.

[@plug1461]

Jeff Mcilroy haha no it wasn't funny at the time, I'm not sure what hurt more my toe or my backside lol I still love camping tho. Coming back into the tent I trod on my sister who was not best please. Then I said my ass was sore and on fire, she sat bolt up right and said Jesus Anna you were only a minute

[@plug1461]

Charles walter I laugh about it now lol I'm just a walking disaster

[@sonofman6391]

I listen to the noises of the night and attempt to stay awake as long as possible doing this. It really helps to calm the mind and cultures and observant mind that will follow you into the next day. Thanks for the great tips.

[@voetbal12]

I just found your videos, and you've got a new fan... almost solely because you get right to the point! Unlike 99% of other youtubers, thank you!

[@tgwoolshire]

I'm 56... learned at age 12 that cloths atr best left off when sleeping.... great tip!!! Although leave them in the bottom of your bag so they are warm in the morning.

[@matf4426]

I love the videos keep them coming! The strange thing I do came from the last time I really roughed it in the woods. I had only a poncho and some water for a few days. I don't like bugs on me and in this area there were tons of bugs and large spiders. So I found myself walking in a circle over any ground I intended to sit or lay on, much like a dog does before laying down. It was very effective at getting the bugs to scatter from the underbrush. I've done it ever since.

[@minerslife2760]

love this guy,most helpful and to the point bush crafter ive ever watched,my wife and i watch him religiously

[@DagarCoH]

In the army I learned / tried the following stuff that worked: - Consider where you set up your shelter or you might have to move it again. We had pretty dense ground that kept a lot of water close to the surface, and comrades that built their tent up in very slight depressions all got wet when it rained, solely through the ground water seeping through. Rather pick a lightly elevated position, and make sure rain water will not flow through your shelter, if it rains. Also, one other pair of comrades set their tent up on an ant highway. You likely can understand that they moved after the first night. - I packed some tealights. They are great! You can light one or two in your shelter and heat it up more, and in the winter, I tried to wake up a few hours before having to get up, quickly lit one in each of my boots (make sure they are not prone to go up in flames!) and when I got up, most of my boot was warm and cozy. I am the type of person that can have cold feet all day, and if I do not get a place by the fire in the morning to warm my feet, that can be a bad, bad day.

[@billmafturack8189]

A few small stones from the fire will warm those boots and dry them as well .. not too hot tho.. lol

[@DagarCoH]

@@billmafturack8189 Yeah, that would also have been easy enough to do.

[@billmafturack8189]

I realize it’s not alway feasible in every situation but it does work well I’ve used it many times .. I’ve even brought a few stones with me ice fishing heating the smooth flat rocks by the fire or heat source and placing them in inside pockets or into boot tops .. respect brother & thx for your service 👍

[@crcurley]

These’s are all very tried and true methods. Particularly taking your clothes off before getting into your sleeping bag. Not sure about all military, but when I was in the US Army, we were instructed to strip down to at least our T-shirt and boxers, also removing our socks, (or at least changing into a clean pair) and tucking our clothes into the bottom of the bag before getting in. I will say, sometimes this works a little too well with the cold weather military sleeping bags. lol

[@tmass7013]

I tried this in yellowstone and had much better results fully clothed. Maybe it's my sleeping bag??

[@alfonsomunoz4424]

Same in the Marines. Stripped down to tshirt and skivvies right before I got in my bag.

[@1-.-0_0-.-1]

Canadian army. We do it too

[@easygroove]

add this: "...as long as the situation allows ..."

[@jsmith5443]

That would be horrible if you woke up to an ambush, and you didn't have time to get ready.

[@kantill]

Here's my tip, this is for those that are going to spend a "longer" time in the woods. Not your over nights or couple days trip. Take a sponge bath. I know that doesn't sound manly but trust me. On your third or fourth day in the woods if you take a quick sponge bath with a simple wash cloth, a bar of soap and your water bottle filled with warm water you'll feel like the first day all over again.

[@teatowel11]

I do this even on overnight hikes, helps reduce chafing if you are covering a lot of miles.

[@scottyj6226]

that's a great idea

[@1noryb]

Bathe in an snow fed creek about 1/2 mile from the snow pack! You will get plenty of oxygen and the night air will almost instantly feel 10 degrees warmer.

[@kirkw1740]

Baby wipes aren't just get for going #2, they make an easy way to freshen yourself up on the go in the woods. As long as they're 100% cotton just bring some small paper bags to put the used ones into and you've got tinder to start your fire with too.

[@kantill]

@@kirkw1740 I also carry some of those small compressed towels that you get wet they un-compress. They are made out of natural fibers and also make tinder when dry.

[@jwjenkins421]

I woke up to a big bull moose sniffing me through my tarp shelter wall during an overnighter this year it was a nerve wracking tense stair down in the middle of the night.

[@cjcj6945]

YIKES😬

[@MichaelSmith-ku7ki]

Beat it Bullwinkle. You don't want none of this...

[@MichaelSmith-ku7ki]

Seriously though.. I had something similar when I was a kid. Damn Grizzly leaving 8" prints pushing his nose into the tent wall. Then went to the lake 10' away and started flipping rocks over in the water. We were WAYYYY North where the vegetation was so dense it was hard to even find a place to set up a tent. Why won't he leave.. Why won't he leave.. Why won't he leave.. Why won't he leave.. Why won't he leave.. And then.. Literally after an eternity... He finally did. Big hungry f'er! And us without a gun.

[@jeffcooper9363]

And then you had to take a piss right?

[@wademauland7184]

But now you have a great story! 😁

[@98hundy]

And I thought it was just us old guys that heard the call of nature during the night! My tip is I have my small gas stove and coffee ready and near at hand the night before so I can lay in my sleeping bag and have coffee in bed. On the topic of headlamps I keep my glasses and headlamp in one of my boots near the head of my bed, without my glasses the headlamp is only just better than total darkness.

[@TheMuddyfun]

I usually don't have to, but I think having my legs elevated in my hammock, my body sends the extra fluids to my bladder! That or I am getting old! Lol

[@paidapps733]

Headlamp in boot ++vote

[@anonymous2513456]

Undressing before bed is absolutely the way to go,i've done it at -35 Celsius and it works. It also means that when you get out of your sleeping bag in the morning, you have something to put on to warm up which makes it much less of a shock.

[@WoodyAndy]

Fill up a Nalgene with hot water, place in a sock. Best hot water bottle ever. Quicker to boil in morning for coffee too 👍

[@christinegerard4974]

I am french ... Before going to bed in my sleeping bag I like to use a washcloth in hot water ,to rub me with it ,it helps me a lot to sleep well . Thanks for your nice tips ! Allways precious ...

[@loganready5634]

Another great thing I learnt is if it's cold get yourself off the ground, it can be as simple as getting a 2 logs and putting branches perpendicular, or a sleeping mat. This stops thermal conduction hitting you and you are going to have a much better and warmer sleep.

[@toneyjohnson8910]

I agree with all of these. I always Change all my clothes before going to bed, it helps to change because you are getting rid of all the moisture that has built up in your clothes from working around camp. That moisture gets really cold at night. Thanks I am a new subscriber and am enjoying the channel thanks.

[@sempergumby3929]

The moisture factor is a huge point. A cozy night in the bag also involves continuous pirspiration, esp. feet (more than most people realize). Layering down drastically improves ventillation, so that perspiration can escape vice condensing in an outer layer - this turns synthetic materials from a thermal insulator into a thermal conductor.

[@marclee5250]

I always keep my headlight and other stuff in my day hat next to me when sleeping. I also have a specific beenie I use for sleeping.

[@tracyhennessey4451]

I had a cold Thanksgiving up north in the woods. Mind you, our Thanksgiving is in October in Canada, but out on the lake fishing, it started snowing so bad that we couldn't see 5' in front of us. The whole long weekend fluctuated between rain and snow. The nights were cold, and I found that the only thing that kept me warm was stripping down to my birthday suit and putting on the first layer I was planning to wear the following day. Didn't know about emptying the bladder. Thank you.

[@conradladouceur7557]

When stripping down layers to go to sleep, I pack some layers in my sleeping bag or under me as bedding. This keeps those outer layers warm for when you put them on in the morning.

[@ajaxtelamonian5134]

Also gives you the mental boost of putting something on when you get up you feel warmer.

[@alfonsomunoz4424]

Exactly what I do. I put my pants under my sleeping bag on top of my foam mat.

[@karenhaller8395]

Dont eat sweets late at night either....I learned the hard way....wide awake half the night.

[@FT4Freedom]

I love this video Dan. Great offerings. May I add for freezing temps...I haven't gotten up to pee in years. Use a bottle. Use the bush cup (in honor of Howard Hughes). Hydration is critical for chemistry (metabolic heat), life, thinking, situational awareness, using tools and setting priorities. Dehydration slows ana/catabolism and impedes homeostasis. Don't withhold drink or avoid urination. I drink and pee at any time my body needs it because my body is wiser than me. I usually drink a pint warm H2O before bed and keep my drink close at night, sleep tea is nice. With my kit I am much warmer with my clothing layers on inside my cover. It depends on the rating of the bag and the sleep system. I will take several layers of good fiber under a wind breaker sheet before a single good sleepingbag. Best way I sleep at night is by working hard during the day. My worst sleep was during my lazy urban past life. Now it's amazing sleep. I don't even remember the crash in the morning. Just pitching in. Cheers. Peace. God bless the family. Flagstaff, AZ (negative numbers at night and no fixed residence).

[@bryanbaker5942]

Honorable mention tip:. Use a pillow!!! Not a rolled up sweatshirt. I just ordered one of those outdoor vitals blow up pillows and it's pretty solid.

[@dcuss7294]

That's my main #1 issue. You got to keep your head elevated.

[@Flintlock85]

You can combine Tips #1 & #4 by carrying a "special" bottle to take with you into your shelter. Use the bottle to pee into - benefits are not having to crawl out of shelter two or three times over a long night, plus you now have a bottle in the shelter containing 98 degree liquid. Done this many times, and it works great!

[@gjorewicz]

Great tips! I keep forgetting about tip #1 and have been going to bed with multiple layers on... And freezing... And wondering why my insulation isn't doing it's job. DUH! Thanks for the reminder! On another note, I always bring along a fresh pair of thick wool socks to change into right before bed. I tend to get cold feet so that helps a lot! Added bonus... Warming them by the fire before bed feels like you're putting on socks fresh out of the dryer on a cold morning. Love it!

[@billmafturack8189]

One thing that worked well for me winter camping in -25 c weather under a lean to was to create a tent over my head with a few sticks and a flannel or fleece blanket, creating warmer air around my head .I was much warmer not breathing the colder air . I would also use a few rocks from around the fire ( not too hot ) in a canvas bag stuffed into the bottom (feet ) or beside my head or by my belly . The rocks held heat much longer than water bottle..

[@patricianunez4025]

Great tips. Warm rocks work too. Heard about laying a bed of hot rocks under soil and thick layer of boughs then sleeping bag. Toasty. My personal tip at 71 is to camp out in back yard then go sleep in my comfy bed.😊 Cheers from southern Indiana.

[@John-of5sh]

Watch Jeremiah Johnson sometime and see what Will Geer Say's to Mr. Redford about hot rocks. LMAO-Loved the movie!

[@swdw973]

A couple of precautions. If you have to drop the rock when you pick it up because it's too hot, It's too hot to go into your bag. It can melt the cover fabric or even . . . . .We had a kid in boy scouts set his synthetic shell mummy bag on fire because the rock was too hot. Burned about a 1 foot hole in the bottom of it. He came tearing out of his tent holding the bag and you could see the flames until he beat the fire out. Second- DO NOT USE ROCKS FROM A STREAM BED. One person I know did this, and thankfully, no one was near the fire when the rock exploded due to the trapped moisture in it.

[@Simonet1309]

I keep warm by camping in the summer. Never fails.

[@BushcraftExplorer]

LOL🤣

[@jamessnellenberger7503]

Not so much for night but for morning, I take my next day clothes and place them in or under my sleeping bag, and I sleep on too of them. This makes the clothes nice and toasty on those cold fall or winter mornings. It's like pulling them from a warm dryer.

[@stephensgate1]

My favorite ritual right before I turn in for the night, is to watch just one more “Coalcracker Bushcraft” video. -Stephen, Ohio 😉

[@chrisu.k9307]

Tip 6 don’t lay on the ground without insulation 😂

[@larrysmith2638]

Yeah, I really thought that would have been included.

[@OoavastoO]

Yep! Layers on top of you are good but layers UNDER you are equally, if not, more important! Great tip!

[@donaldpayne6940]

Also cause there's pee everywhere

[@ryanvess6162]

@@donaldpayne6940 if that's your problem you probably shouldnt be in the woods

[@donaldpayne6940]

@@ryanvess6162 okay mr golden showers

[@MidwestTractionModeler]

My metal canteen is a 1 quart that's long and thin. After I get the bottle nice and warm (a little hotter than from the faucet), I place it in an extra wool sock. Not only will it keep my from getting accidentally burned when I grab it, but it also helps keep the warmth from escaping too quickly. Camped in below freezing temps many times and it was still warm by morning.

[@daveh7720]

When I'm in camp I use my boots (covered with a folded jacket) as a pillow, and I put the contents of my pockets in them along with a flashlight. That way if I need a light in the night it's right there under my head.

[@TheGentlemanRougeScholar]

I’ve been doing the same thing for about ten years. Works great

[@Becomingwildman]

Tottaly agree on all those tips. About the warm water bottle. I do bring it up to higher temperature and then I put my woolen sock over it, in the morning I still have warm, not hot but warm water to drink. About the keep your head warm. Not all sleeping bags are designed equally, often you loose head from your neck up. So I use my vaselayer as a scarf to make sure the warm air stays down at my body. And yes, stripping down also works in - 20 Celsius if you have a good sleeping bag. Instead of layering up, put those not used clothing on top of below you sleeping bag, depending where you feel cold. Be aware with down fur not to have to heavy clothing on it as it will compares your insulation and cool down faster. And my magic thing, especially when beer crafting is a pee bottle. Nothing fancy, just around 750ml and wide enough neck. Often something I buy in gasstation before heading of. Good tips man. Thumbs up

[@RickTOutdoorAdventure1969]

I like a pee bottle too so that I don't have to get out of bed and it doubles as a hot water bottle once it's full of pee 👍🙂

[@ta2dan66]

I always bring along a Gatorade bottle for that. (Has to be a wide mouth bottle). Also when kayaking or canoeing, you can't always just pull over to go pee so the wide mouth Gatorade bottle is a must! Dan haha I would say once again, love the tips but it just seems inappropriate given the context of this video. 😊😂 👍

[@johnnybushman651]

RickT - Adventurer went deer hunting and we had a really 🥶 cold day , the guys I was with all went back early, not me , why , I pee in a bottle and put it in my jacket . They said I was stupid for doing that but , Guess who got a deer that day ! 😁 It does work, I always say, don’t knock it until you try it . Been there , done it !

[@thed8229]

@@johnnybushman651 Yeah buddy, I NEVER pee on the ground when hunting. Right there with ya.

[@charleswalter2902]

@@johnnybushman651 Just tell your pals that quitters never win.

[@PADDLECAMPFISH]

Cool, I got so much flack for using a pee bottle in my hammock lol, It worked great when it was ice cold and I was tired of getting out of the hammock multiple times.

[@twotreasurehunters]

Great tips, been use.g all five for 20+yrs. Few more tips: keep morning clothes at bottom of bag or use as pillow during cold nights. Warm clothes are easier to put on and less space to heat bag makes for warmer night and morning. Stuff dirty socks into shoes to block insect from hiding in them and bring shoes into shelter. Waking up for anything in middle of the night u won't want wet shoes nor spiders or other biting buga to ruin ur night. Last tip. Put glow in the dark paint or tape on flashlight and zippers.

[@matthewvelo]

Agree 100% on the layering down; let your bag do it's job and get comfortable.

[@1noryb]

I also don't wake up to realize I have tied myself up.

[@quijybojanklebits8750]

I stop drinking when I cant walk to the cooler.

[@kennethcruise7635]

I like the idea as you drain go all round camp and mark territory . most critters like to avoid humans and gives them heads up .

[@DARisse-ji1yw]

Whiz high on trees in a large perimeter around your site to mark your territory. The scent height intimidates all the predators stalking you at night.... And snoring is an evolutionary trait that frightens predators away while you're helpless & unconcious .... the louder the better. ( my wife bought this)....

[@DARisse-ji1yw]

@Ben Finny .... it might even be true... when one thinks about it !

[@DARisse-ji1yw]

I'm liking the "Renowned" .......

[@tmass7013]

Whiz on trees? Marking 'hey there's a human here, come eat him" no thanks.

[@DARisse-ji1yw]

@@tmass7013 One must, as I do, subsist exclusively on a diet of bloody rare red meat. This gives you the urine signature of a predator. Vegetarians leave a trail of prey species whiz... like cattle... and thus invite attack .

[@thankmelater1254]

@@DARisse-ji1yw I think the author of "Dances With Wolves" was Farley Mowat. The story goes that he marked his territory that way but quickly realized that wolves conserve their pee to be able to mark out their territory, so you have to be judicious in application. Or use a bottle. He drank a lot of tea.

[@terryc47]

Coalcracker, thanks bro. Tip 5 Wear a Hat: 110% agree. There is an old saying 'If your feet are cold, put on a hat'. Tried, now I live by it, and practice it. My climate gets down to -4 degress Celsius (24.8 F), in winter. I don't use a heater or a fire. During the day, If I'm cold I dress layer ordinary long pants, singlet, shirt, jersey and a hat, if I'm still cold I'll put another hat over the one I already have on. Helps to have light layered hats, to create a better layering system. But I agree it totally works. And hat at night 110%.

[@michaelstorm8578]

We've always had a 7 step rule to get away from tent or shelter before peeing. It makes for cleaner , happier camp.

[@outdoorsforachange]

Word.

[@robinsanchez25]

Yes yes I spent 40 days and4 40 nights in the Mojave dessert in an Army pup tent at Ft Irwin and you hit the nail on the head. I remember each point you talked about.

[@brianspencer4220]

Well Coal: That was a great review. At 79 I keep a sealable 2 litre within reach Now that I use a cot it sure makes sleep a lot easier. Thanks Brian 79.

[@jsmith5443]

Also, his name is Dan. I am not trying to be rude. I just want you to be informed.

[@canadianrockiesbushcraftal5182]

Number 2 is so true. So many people have thought I was crazy for suggesting it, but it's the best way to sleep..

[@MrJoshanthony734313]

I've been homeless for about three years now, living in a tent in the woods. We've come up with some clever ideas but I get a lot of extra ideas from watching these videos. Thanks!

[@Jorn-gy3yc]

I'm genuinely curious, are you in tents? , cars? , old abandoned cabin/house your squatting in? Still managing a job and average life?

[@ezrabrwn]

Where you getting this WiFi and charging from🤔

[@theronin365]

1. Dont pee on someone's tarp especially if you dont know the owner...you dont know the consequences. 2. BUY A TENT dont use a tarp where something furry can nestle on your face for warmth at night and it's generally more enjoyable in s**t weather too. 3. Buy the right sleeping bag for the season dont go using summer gear in hypothermia weather.

[@grayeaglej]

@@Jorn-gy3yc When my family was homeless in the late 80s, early 90s we did all the above. I was very young but I still remember mom, dad, my lil sis, several cats and I living in a tent in Oklahoma that my grandparents gave us, living in our Ford panel van in Missouri, living in an abandoned radio station in Arkansas, living in an abandoned campground dining hall in Tennessee, living in hotels all over the country, living in a Christian mission in Mexico somewhere outside Mexico City. I remember beds made of car seats, of old clothes, of cardboard, and of bare floors. Wasn't always comfortable but we survived.

[@jankopransky2551]

Number one is THE TRUTH someone should tell you on your first day as a boy scout or whatnot. It took me some cold and sleepless nights to learn it.

[@FowlersMakeryandMischief]

LOL or get a hammock and you dont even have to get out of bed. as long as you can master the skill of peeing while laying on your side. just make sure you dont put your shoes under ur hammock where you want to pee in the night .

[@AflacMan13]

Pissing in and under your bed... is a great way to step in piss when you get up in the morning... AND to create an EXTREMELY unsanitary condition, that not only grows dangerous bacteria and molds, but also can attract dangerous insects and animals to DIRECTLY under your bed. Good luck with that; city slicker.

[@xanfandango]

Lol calling fowler a city slicker is hilarious dude lasted 81 days in Patagonia

[@Sirillius]

@@AflacMan13 Daniel, although I do agree that I personally would lot pee under my bed, you should check out Fowlers channels. In case you were not aware, he is a bit of a celebrity on this topic, super nice guy and has proven himself at the highest level.

[@Alsatiagent]

@@AflacMan13 One or two leaks onto the soil will not cause you any of the problems you describe. Urine is in fact quite sterile. The scenario posted is very short term. Your last point about bacteria, moulds, dangerous insects and animals must apply to another Hemisphere.

[@sailor-rick]

Great idea I will pass along to my wife.

[@labellaescrima1996]

I usually change my socks for sleeping, have a liner in my sleeping bag, I sleep in my merino long sleeve and legging, and I keep in my sleeping bag my down jacket or and a mid-layer fleece so that if I get cold in the night I can reach in my bag and wear it. I have my beanie or baklava depends on the weather and pair of wool gloves. I live in Canada so cold snowy weather six months of the year, so we learn by trials and errors what works for us. Nice video, you are funny Dan, keep it up I really like the way you teach us to be safe but at the same time have fun while camping.

[@codyandargo906]

I always do .. all of that! Well, the bottle is only when it is cold out but otherwise... every time. I know some guys bring one of those 16.9oz water bottles with them to use as a urinal in the middle of the night, so you don't have to get out of the warm bag too much. Just have to hope you don't have more than about 12oz of urine(you know, because the bottle will be tilted when being... filled).

[@charleswalter2902]

Shit--- you need at least a quart bottle.

[@kevindblew6822]

Yes, strip down to sleep! Whether regular disrobement or the exotic Coalcracker ChaCha, it’s helpful to store your next day’s clothing in your sleeping system. As I young Marine, I spent 6weeks “camping” in Korean winter. At 6’4” my feet hung past the cot . Trousers and shirt in foot box of the mummy made for a warmer sleep and toasty garments in the morning. Almost zero condensation in foot area so clothes weren’t damp. Great videos!

[@kirkw1740]

I always find that having an nice thick pair of sleeping socks is always helpful when it's cold out. You go to sleep with dry warmer socks than you'd wear in the day and you don't get any foot odour in your sleeping bag. And if it's not too uncomfortable for me to do I like to put the clothes i'm going to wear the next day between my sleeping pad and the sleeping bag so that I can get into warm clothes in the morning.

[@bethymears2648]

No just take your dog and wack your cold feet in his belly.

[@thefuzzypage]

one thing i do is i check my camp like i check my house before bed. look around for anything left outside that shouldnt be, get stuff put away, etc. do a couple laps around the outside area of your camp as well, an old woodsman told me thats helpful for creating a natural barrier for some critters, is simply having the area littered with recent foot activity. he also told me peeing near your camp is a good critter repellent but im not too sure about that.

[@GeezerWheels]

I used to camp a lot - getting old now, so only a little. But I live on the edge of the wilderness in SW Colorado. I have problems with skunks, raccoons, bobcats and occasionally bears and mountain lions. I prefer not to have them in the yard or in my camp site (neighbors are often loosing small pets to bobcats and/or coyotes). One thing that helps me relax in the wilderness is, as you say, urinate before going to bed - but with a purpose. After the last year of "peeing my perimeter" (my yard) I've had about 95% less problems with varmints on the property. It's certainly not a scientific study, but the year before I had varmints over 20 times in one year. Now: almost a full year without any of the above critters. My suggestion: pee around the perimeter of your campsite as much as possible afternoon and evening before sleeping. An old Indian trick in this area is to pee around a deer or elk you're killed but can't get out before dark. I've seen it work. In our area varmints (esp. skunks & raccoons) can be a problem in your camp at night. Pack away food and pee your perimeter. It helps! -Ray

[@theredflannelchannel7820]

What part of Colorado? I’m from alamosa.

[@GeezerWheels]

@@theredflannelchannel7820 I live about 1/2 way between Durango and Bayfield (10 miles in a straight line east of Downtown Durango). I do have neighbors within a few hundred yards, but basically we all live in the woods! (Not a designated "Wilderness Area" just in the sticks.) UPDATE FROM 2 WEEKS AGO: After NOT having varmints close to the house for over a year, we had 2 raccoons 3 weeks ago (only ones that came inside my urination perimeter). THEN, 2 weeks ago I had a "rumble in the jungle" - two coyotes barking and going nuts at a big cat (lion or bobcat, I'm not sure, lion I think - lots around here.). The big cat was screaming like a banshee - about 75 yards into the woods SOUTH of the house - about midnight, could NOT see them or their eyes. 30 seconds later 2 more coyotes started yelling NORTHWEST OF THE HOUSE MAYBE 200 YARD - NEAR A NEIGHBOR'S HOUSE. His dog and his horse started going nuts. My usual barking and baying like a coon hound didn't work this time, so I fired a rifle shot into a tree about 40 yards from the house. The animals dispersed but the coyotes barked a few times on their way out. Then it was all over - maybe one 90 seconds in all. None of the animals were "inside" my urination perimeter - so maybe that is still working. One lion, 11 years ago, was in a bush that I walked up to as we were clearing land for the house - he snarled - I walked backward to the Jeep - next day I measured my boot prints at 8 feet from his footprints under the log / brush. Bears run from us / very shy. No problems from any of the varmints except: 1. bobcats eat neighvbor's barn cats 2. rattlesnakes killed a nightbor's dog and bit a horse that survived. NOT really a problem - just be careful. (Contact me if you are ever in Durango - we'll do coffee or lunch.) -Ray

[@theredflannelchannel7820]

@@GeezerWheels awesome thanks!

[@elijahmccormick3360]

The layer tip took me many scout trips to learn. People think I’m crazy because I usually just sleep in underwear. But I’m warmer now I’m just undies than I ever was on long johns or a hoodie.

[@MrFmiller]

I hang my headlamp from a hook on the ridge line of my hammock shelter.

[@scuba5k]

I usually bring a Gatorade wide bottle opening from the convenience store. Before bed I hydrate with the Gatorade because I was irresponsible drinking too much juice around camp fire. But then I save the empty bottle and pee in it during the middle of the night. Never had to get out of the sleeping bag. Watch your aim.

[@cw7422]

Sounds like what my Boy Scout master taught me in the early ‘60s.

[@autumngreenleaf3390]

Thanks. Once in camp on a sunny day I've also opened my bag so the sunshine can warm it up, then close it up to hold in the heat of the day so it will have some extra warmth for the night.

[@robthompson1399]

I wear my beanie, and fold it down over my eyes like a sleep mask. Best sleep ever !

[@josh8494]

If you carry Camelback, or similar water containers ( not a hardcore survival scenario) you can throw some fair sized rocks on or near the fire then rotate them in and out as they cool off instead of water bottles. I kept a small fire on my grill and did this with bricks in the corners of our huddle room during the great Texas freeze of 2021. Amazing how much of a difference it made.

[@bethymears2648]

Another good lighting issue is a sensor light will keep you safe from stalkers and critters.

[@MuvoTX]

agree on all points... here are my additions. Go to bed on a full stomach, keep a pee bottle handy, wool socks & gloves, pitch tent as flat as possible if you have to pitch on a slope set up with feet downhill. sponge bathe before bed time.

[@PaleGhost69]

Dammit, the peeing on the shelter bit caught me so off guard I choke laughed

[@42lookc]

When Trailer Park Boys go camping...

[@marshalldmi3]

I always keep my shoes right next to my bed. So if I need to get up, I’m not searching for them everywhere. Thanks heaps for your tips, will definitely use them. 👍🏻

[@lindakleckner215]

And flashlight and wash supply by the shoes👍.

[@thed8229]

While sleeping, after I peed, with my beanie on, I keep my boots in plastic shopping bags at the bottom of my sleeping bag. Toasty boots in the morning is worth a million bucks.

[@darinharker21]

I put my jacket between my sleeping bag and sleeping pad so that is warm in the morning too

[@miag8493]

Good point. My son boots froze in the night during a winter survival camping trip.

[@MrChaes]

re: Headlamp around the neck. I find it works better in camp to wear the headlamp upside down around my neck. It still allows me to see but it doesn't blast people in the eyes and it can be adjusted to light where I need it, but the adjustment is reversed since the light is now coming from below my line of sight whereas it is above my line of sight normally. You've become my favorite outdoor channel, BTW. Thanks to Shawn Kelly for telling me about you.

[@unsupervisedadult4464]

Hot water trick works with plastic bottles too. Just heat in a steel container and transfer to plastic/nalgene.

[@Swiat34]

Unsupervised Adult Water can be boiled in a plastic water bottle if hung over a fire. Similar to holding a lighter to a water balloon, it won’t burst or melt due to convection.

[@unsupervisedadult4464]

@@Swiat34 this is true. I've seen this done, but unless I'm in a survival scenario, I don't want to risk causing damage to my nalgenes as I'm sure they'll still warp

[@johnwilliams8654]

They make some really nice inflatable pillows that are light weight and pack up small. I always keep one in my pack now. helps me sleep well. I've been doing the headlamp around the neck for a while now and it has never chocked me. it works great!

[@BlackSoap361]

Pull the beanie down over your eyes for when you want to sleep in past sunrise.

[@BKBees]

lol, I've been watching silent stern dudes do bushcraft stuff for the last couple of weeks, but your channel is my favorite. Funny, informative and easy to watch.

[@andrewcannada1043]

One trick that I like to do is lay my pants and shirt inside of the sleeping bag while I sleep it reduces the chance of critters moving in while I sleep and then when I get up in the morning they are already wrm and I put them on with pout that sudden chill of ice cold cloths zapping my heat from my body.

[@michaelabel9566]

These are spot on. I can personally attest to the layering down idea. I slept in near freezing temperatures in just a light sleeping bag just fine. Laying on my back was the warmest position because it allowed my bag to retain its loft and do its job. If I rolled over on my side I found that the parts of my body pressing against the bag got cold. Thanks for the tips!

[@kayakkid7]

If I'm already nice and toasty before actually climbing into my sleeping bag I will lay on top of it before stripping down and getting in. It's a good pre warming tip :)

[@steve8189]

Bed of leaves or something to keep cold ground from robbing you of body heat - the thicker the "mattress" the better. Fresh socks are warmer than worn ones. I think a little snack (no water) gives energy overnight to help stay warm. Loose layer of something over the sleeping bag is a good way to mega-insulate the sleeping system. Rain jacket, tarp, coat. I REALLY like the hot water bottle theory and want to try it out soon! When we travelled to a B&B the hostess always loaded up the beds at night with hot water bottles, and we did so for weeks after returning home. Should work great for camping. Thanks, great presentation!

[@paranoiawilldestroyya3238]

2:35: "Sawing logs" is when you're asleep. "Counting sheep" is trying to get there.

[@JohnnyNowhere]

A dry river rock warmed by the fire will serve the same purpose, and possibly retain heat longer. My 93 year-old mom said that's what they used when she was a kid.

[@dreams2xs]

I have camped in -60 windchills. I was always taught to sleep naked. You would be warmer in the morning.

[@derekzimmer6335]

Great video. Excellent suggestions for those that don’t already do these practices. For those that don’t know any better, urinating immediately adjacent to where you sleep will, at a minimum, attract deer, who want the salt from your urine. May not be a problem, if you like early company in the morning, however.

[@ericsidolmind]

If small noises like twigs snapping and leaves rustling outside keeps you up, i like to use my travel neck pillow. It dulls enough to quiet things down, but not so much that you'd miss anything big. Also, whiskey!

[@kazzeely]

Some great tips there! Here are some of mine that I use: 1) New and warm extra socks just for sleeping. Going to bed in the same, maybe damp or wet, socks suck. 2) Keep clothes and socks for the next day in the bag. 3) I dont sleep well without head support. I bring a pillowcase and stuff not used clothes inside. If I dont have a pillowcase I wrap it in a sweater or something. Into a bundle and use as pillow. 4) Dry and air out your shoes/boots. Remove inside sole and let it dry out if possible. Wet shoes and feet = bad time. 5) Always have gloves at hand. Even simple work gloves is better than none. Handling a fire, carrying stuff or moving branches while walking etc.

[@aal-e-ahmadhussain3123]

1) spice up dinner. A little chilli stops you feeling chilly. 2) allow your sleeping bag to breathe and un-compress for 10-15 minutes from the time you open it out until you get in. It needs pockets of air to build up inside it. 3) Cosy feet = cosy sleep. I’ve permanently got a pair of foot warmer socks tucked in my sleeping bag; at bedtime change socks. Sometimes I even pull my jacket over the foot of my sleeping bag. 4) Address the anxiety of feeling vulnerable. I’ve always got my headlight, torch, knife, keys, inhaler, spectacles close to hand. (Don’t sleep with an unsheathed blade in your hand 😂) 5) I always use an insulation pad/mat whether on the ground or in my hammock. More important than cushioning it stops the ground/air sucking the heat out of me and acts as a windbreaker.

[@Wakis85]

Great tips. I do all of them. Also a change of clothes helps keep you warm throughout the night, getting out of sweaty damp clothes is key!

[@jmsaylor22]

People think I am crazy for removing layers to sleep in cold weather. I do keep a pair of pants, socks and shirt in the bag so they aren’t frozen when I get up in the morning.

[@casualobserver3145]

Same here. My bags are insulated such that I can sleep “commando” or with only my hiking/swim shorts.

[@timroseberry9079]

Love a fresh pair of loose wool socks, and some oatmeal or grits. When I wake up, train is ready to leave the staion....great video Dan, you are becoming one of my 8 year old Daughters favorite and I'm o.k. with that

[@jamesbparkin740]

Tip 3, I find my watch light is pretty good for finding stuff when it's pitch black and my eyes are night adapted

[@c0mputer]

My little ritual is right before bed I put a little water on my camping buddy’s pillow. Makes me feel all cozy.