AJ Schaeffer is one of Troop 200's dedicated Assistant Scout Masters.
An Eagle Scout, AJ grew up in Troop 200. He has over the years become the troop's resident camping guru.
If AJ doesn't have the answer, you don't need to know it!

The following are some of AJ's Tips & Tricks

COLD WEATHER TIPS

To Warm Up Your Sleeping Bag & Cold Feet - Boil water and pour it into a Nalgene Bottle (or an old fashioned Hot Water Bottle). Any other type of bottle will melt. Place your hot water bottle in the bottom of your sleeping bag down by your feet.

Always use a Closed-Cell Mattress or Foam Pad under your sleeping bag.
Never use an inflatable Air Mattress when it's cold. Or you will be.

If you're cold in your sleeping bag... try wrapping a sheet of plastic in a tri-fold around your sleeping bag.

Before going to sleep... Exercise and eat foods high in carbohydrates, to increase body heat.

Change every piece of clothing you wore during the day. Put on clean, dry clothing before getting into your sleeping bag

Put your boots into a plastic bag and place them at the foot of your sleeping bag.
That way you won't have frozen boots to get into in the morning.

Wear hooded fleece jackets or sweatshirts.

Prepare one pot meals. This minimizing food from getting cold to soon.

Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydaration.

Always dress in layers.

LAYERING
Dressing in layers is simply the best way to keep warm and control body temperature.