Last reviewed and updated: March 2026
Wild camping in the UK can be incredibly peaceful.
You fall asleep to the sound of wind moving through the hills, wake up to quiet landscapes, and often get a sunrise view that campsites simply cannot match.
But there is one small challenge that catches many new campers off guard.
It can get surprisingly cold at night.
Even during summer, temperatures in upland areas can drop quickly after sunset. A comfortable evening can turn into a chilly night if you are not prepared.
The good news is that staying warm while wild camping is mostly about choosing the right gear and setting up camp sensibly.
Let’s look at a few simple ways to stay warm during nights outdoors.
The Short Answer
To stay warm while wild camping, you need a good sleeping bag, a proper sleeping mat, and suitable clothing for the conditions.
Most heat loss while camping actually comes from the ground beneath you rather than the air around you.
Using an insulated sleeping mat and choosing a sleeping bag suitable for the temperature makes the biggest difference.
Use a Proper Sleeping Mat
One of the most common beginner mistakes is underestimating the importance of a sleeping mat.
When you lie directly on the ground, your body heat quickly transfers into the cold earth beneath you.
A sleeping mat creates insulation between you and the ground, helping retain warmth during the night.
Our guide to Best Sleeping Mats for Wild Camping UK explains what to look for.
Choose the Right Sleeping Bag
A good sleeping bag is essential for comfortable wild camping.
Different sleeping bags are designed for different temperature ranges.
If you are camping in cooler months or upland areas, you will want a bag that is properly rated for lower temperatures.
If you are unsure what to choose, our guide to Best Lightweight Sleeping Bags for Wild Camping UK explains the differences.
Eat Before Going to Sleep
This might sound surprising, but eating something before bed can actually help you stay warmer.
Your body generates heat as it digests food.
A small snack in the evening can help your body maintain warmth overnight.
Many wild campers keep something simple like a cereal bar or chocolate handy for this reason.
Wear Dry Clothes
Changing into dry clothing before getting into your sleeping bag makes a big difference.
Even slightly damp clothing from hiking during the day can make you feel colder overnight.
Many campers keep a dedicated set of dry clothes just for sleeping.
Warm socks and a hat can also help retain heat during colder nights.
Pitch Your Tent in a Sheltered Spot
Where you pitch your tent can influence how warm your night feels.
Camping in exposed locations means wind can remove heat quickly.
Finding a sheltered spot, perhaps behind a hill or natural feature, helps reduce wind and keeps the tent warmer.
Our guide to Wild Camping for Beginners in the UK explains how to choose good camping spots.
Final Thoughts
Staying warm while wild camping in the UK is mostly about preparation.
A good sleeping bag, an insulated mat, and dry clothing will usually keep you comfortable through the night.
Choosing sheltered camping spots and eating before bed can also make a surprising difference.
Once you have the basics sorted, cold nights in the hills become far more enjoyable.
And there is something quite satisfying about waking up warm inside your sleeping bag while frost sits quietly on the outside of your tent.
