Toasty at Ten Below: Master the Art of Cold Weather Sleeping

Gear Pro Tip from Fred "Three Bellies" Eisenman

At our guide service, we believe that "survival" shouldn't be the goal—comfort should be. I’ve spent decades DIY archery elk hunting in the high country of Wyoming and Colorado, often at altitudes of 9,500 feet where "September" can easily mean single digits.

Whether you’re joining us for a guided trek or heading out on your own, here is my personal strategy for staying downright toasty when the world freezes over.

1. The Proving Ground: Practice Where It’s Safe

Before I trust a piece of gear in the wilderness—days away from the nearest Jeep trail—I test it in my own backyard. This is my "crazy stupid tradition": I sleep outside on the coldest night of the year. It allows me to figure out exactly where my limits are in a safe environment where "Plan B" is just walking inside. I recommend every client do the same before a big trip.

This year, the temperature of the night I slept out was 3 degrees!

2. Backpacking: The Lightweight Hammock System

When I’m 5 miles deep into a spike camp, weight is everything, but warmth is non-negotiable. I’m a "hammock swinger," and if you haven't tried it in the winter, you're missing out—provided you have the right insulation.

• The Under-Quilt: This is the secret sauce. I use a Hammock Gear Incubator rated at 0°F, overstuffed with an extra 3 ounces of down. If things get truly arctic, I add a windproof cover and even tuck dry leaves into the air gap for extra trapped insulation.

• The Bag: I’m "old school" here. I still use my 1983 Marmot Grouse (rated to 20°F) or a 1990s-era North Face (rated to -10°F).

• The Pro Move: I don’t fully zip into my bag in the hammock. I zip it up to mid-thigh and use it like an over-quilt. It makes getting in and out a breeze and gives you a much roomier, comfortable feel.

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  Even my dog approves of this sleeping bag!

3. Car Camping: Rugged & Reliable Surplus

When the Jeep is doing the heavy lifting at base camp, I prioritize "rugged and durable" over "lightweight." For this, you cannot beat military surplus.

• The Setup: I sleep on a cot in a large tent, using a heavy, non-inflatable military surplus sleeping pad.

• The "Extreme" Choice: My go-to is a vintage US Military Extreme Cold Weather bag rated to -20°F. If you’re looking to buy a setup today, the U.S. Military Surplus ECWS Modular Sleeping Bag System is the gold standard—three pieces that handle almost any condition you'll encounter.

• The "NATO" Combo: For maximum roominess, I often nest a 40-degree Dutch surplus bag inside a wide NATO 0-degree bag. At 3 degrees below zero last night, I was perfectly warm.

4. The "Dry & Breathable" Rule

Your gear can only do so much; your habits do the rest.

• Never Wear "Day Clothes" to Bed: This is the most common mistake. Even if you don't feel "sweaty," your clothes hold residual moisture. Always change into dedicated sleeping layers—non-cotton underwear, heavy wool socks, and a fleece union suit. Avoid cotton at all costs.

• Manage Your Breath: Never exhale into your sleeping bag. The moisture from your breath will dampen the down and leave you freezing by 3:00 AM.

• The "Head Tunnel": To keep my face warm while still breathing fresh air, I string a top rope above my hammock and drape a coat over it. This creates a small, warm tunnel over my head. Alternatively, a loosely knitted scarf (like the one my sister-in-law Debbie made me) allows you to breathe right through the fabric while keeping your nose from frosting over.

Experience it with us

There is a unique magic to waking up under two feet of fresh snow, seeing the steam rising from your "breath hole," and knowing you’re perfectly warm. It’s an experience I want everyone to have at least once.

Are you ready to test your mettle (and your gear) this winter? Join us for one of our skills clinics or a guided overnight. We’ll help you dial in your system so you can enjoy the backcountry year-round.

Got a question about your specific sleep system? Drop a comment below or send us a message!

Graphic visualizing these cold weather tips. Designed by my good friend, Eben Schoeman. All rights reserved 2026.