Winter car camping demands hot, hearty meals that are easy to prepare.

The right gear is essential: a portable stove, a thermos for hot drinks, and a cooler to keep food from freezing.

For quick meals, focus on simplicity and calories. Upgrade instant oatmeal with nuts and peanut butter.

Pre-make and freeze breakfast burritos to rehear. For lunch, fill a thermos with boiling water to heat it, then add thick soup or chili — it will stay hot for hours.

Dinners should be one-pot wonders: sauté sausage and add a package of dried pasta or rice with water.

Always have snacks and ingredients for hot drinks on hand for instant warmth.

For finding overnight spots, official campgrounds in National Forests and on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land are your most reliable bet. Many have first-come, first-served sites open in winter (though water may be shut off).

For free “dispersed camping” on these public lands, use the app iOverlander to find exact, user-reviewed pull-outs.

Always confirm road accessibility by calling the local ranger station, as winter conditions can cause closures.

As a plan B, some truck stops (e.g., Pilot, Love’s) and certain Walmart or Cracker Barrel locations allow overnight parking.

You must always call the specific store for permission, as policies vary.

As a Canadian visitor, prioritize checking US road conditions and winter weather forecasts.

Ensure your sleep system is rated for temperatures significantly colder than you expect. Always have a plan for water, as many campgrounds shut off access in winter.