Choosing where to sleep is a critical survival decision. A poor choice can lead to a sleepless night, hypothermia, or even injury from falling hazards. Follow the 5 W's for a safe night.
The 5 W's of Campsite Selection
- Wind: Is the site protected? Avoid ridges where wind will chill you. In summer, a light breeze can keep mosquitoes away, but in winter, it steals heat.
- Water: Camp near water, but not right next to it. Cold air settles in river valleys. Plus, you need to avoid flash floods. Stay at least 200 feet up and away.
- Widowmakers: Look up. Are there dead branches (widowmakers) hanging over your site? A sudden gust could bring them down on your tent.
- Wood: Is there ample firewood nearby? You don't want to haul fuel for miles.
- Wildlife: Avoid game trails. You don't want to be a speed bump for a bear or moose in the dark.
Sleep Hygiene
Never cook or eat where you sleep. Only bears love breakfast in bed. Create a "bear triangle": Sleep in one spot, cook 100 yards away, and store food 100 yards from both.