Now that fall is here, and temperatures around the country have dropped rapidly, it’s time to think about ways to stay healthy while camping in the cold. After all, your level of comfort depends on how well you feel during the next few months. If you plan on camping for a weekend or weeks at a time, there are things you can do to protect yourself against illness.

Here are some ways to stay healthy when camping in cold weather conditions:

Invest in the best gear available.

Some items are better suited for extreme temperatures. Read labels and descriptions to know what you’re getting before purchasing new equipment. That way, you’ll know right away if it’s worth investing in for cold weather camping.

Eat a diet high in vitamins and nutrients.

Good eating habits help build good health. When you consume foods high in vitamins and nutrients, you’re doing your part to protect yourself from illness. You’re maintaining a healthy weight and preventing vitamin deficiencies in your body by eating nutrient-dense items as opposed to processed foods.

Remain hydrated.

Make sure that you’re still drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. Water is essential to good health. It prevents dehydration, which can cause muscle cramps and confusion. Sip lots of H2O or eat fruits and vegetables full of water as often as you can for best results.

Get enough rest.

Just like water, sleep is imperative to good health. Although you may feel compelled to do a lot of things while camping, make sure rest is at the top of your list of priorities. It’s restorative and allows you to recover after a long day at your campsite.

Keep yourself and your family healthy while camping during fall and winter. The colder weather months of the year prove to be challenging, but you can overcome them with advanced preparation. By anticipating your needs for shelter, food, and activity during your stay at your campsite, you can do your part to remain comfortable in your tent or RV even when temperatures drop dramatically.