Uploaded February 2013 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Winter and camping are two words not often associated with each other in Michigan. For most its probably for good reason, but for someone who is prepared and has a little knowledge, it can be a blast! There nothing quite like a night in the woods in the snow. In this video I ramble on a bit about my basic winter hammock camping kit. This is not an "ultralight backpacking" kit, but rather one that is not too heavy, is cost effective, and offers a good amount of protection in the cold. BE WARNED, this video is a bit long, but will give you a good idea (hopefully) of some of the things I take into consideration when winter hammock camping.
I would say that the two "main" components of this kit (other than the hammock) are the MSS (modular sleep system) and the Molle II frame pack. Both of these items are U.S. Military issue items that I picked up at a local surplus store. According to the bag, the MSS is rated to go down as low as -50F when fully assembled, although my toes get cold around 20F with one layer of socks on. Because they are military issue, they are heavier than other comparable components that are "bonafide" backpacking items. They are also way more durable than said items and cost considerably less, so it is a trade-off.
The only parts I don't go over in this video are my clothing and food. That's for another video :-)
See you outdoors!
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If this is your first time with us, my name is Dave, and David's Passage is the name of my vlog. This passage in life started with a desire to share my love of the outdoors with the world. My hope is that those who tune into my videos will be inspired to venture out and enjoy all of creation for what it's worth. This video blog features videos on an array of outdoor-related topics, as well as DIY projects that might just help you more fully enjoy the outdoors. New videos come out on Tuesdays at 3pm EST, so please subscribe and be on the lookout for new content soon!
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Winter and camping are two words not often associated with each other in Michigan. For most its probably for good reason, but for someone who is prepared and has a little knowledge, it can be a blast! There nothing quite like a night in the woods in the snow. In this video I ramble on a bit about my basic winter hammock camping kit. This is not an "ultralight backpacking" kit, but rather one that is not too heavy, is cost effective, and offers a good amount of protection in the cold. BE WARNED, this video is a bit long, but will give you a good idea (hopefully) of some of the things I take into consideration when winter hammock camping.
I would say that the two "main" components of this kit (other than the hammock) are the MSS (modular sleep system) and the Molle II frame pack. Both of these items are U.S. Military issue items that I picked up at a local surplus store. According to the bag, the MSS is rated to go down as low as -50F when fully assembled, although my toes get cold around 20F with one layer of socks on. Because they are military issue, they are heavier than other comparable components that are "bonafide" backpacking items. They are also way more durable than said items and cost considerably less, so it is a trade-off.
The only parts I don't go over in this video are my clothing and food. That's for another video :-)
See you outdoors!
----------
If this is your first time with us, my name is Dave, and David's Passage is the name of my vlog. This passage in life started with a desire to share my love of the outdoors with the world. My hope is that those who tune into my videos will be inspired to venture out and enjoy all of creation for what it's worth. This video blog features videos on an array of outdoor-related topics, as well as DIY projects that might just help you more fully enjoy the outdoors. New videos come out on Tuesdays at 3pm EST, so please subscribe and be on the lookout for new content soon!
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