Winter is approaching, and now and then the cold wind is blowing and the snow is falling. Everyone wants to stay in a warm indoor room, covered with a thick blanket, huddled on the sofa, and enjoying a cup of steaming hot chocolate. Just because you can't be outside for long doesn't mean you'll be stuck indoors for the entire season.
And now the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict has pushed up global energy prices. Natural gas prices have soared for days, at one point surpassing their highest level in nearly 14 years. The North American natural gas market benchmark, the U.S. Henry Center natural gas futures contract price, soared more than 9% intraday to $8.169 per million British thermals, a new high since September 2008.
So in such a situation, trying to stay indoors for long periods is no longer an option. People started looking for ways to stay warm even outside. Plus, the outdoors is unique in winter, and with a few solutions, you can make your backyard warm and cozy. You can still enjoy the outdoors even in the cold winter months.
（Wintertime backyard）
Benefits of Being Active Outdoors in Winter
One misconception that many people have about staying in cold weather is that the cold brings on the flu. Of course the cold can lower the immune system, but if there are no viruses in the environment.
- A cooler wind will not bring harm. Instead, the fresher air outdoors has fewer viruses and is less likely to bring on a cold.
- With the stimulation of cold, the whole body's metabolism is strengthened, the supply of blood in the internal organs is increased, and the internal organs are exercised.
- One of the greatest benefits is to make the overall quality of the human body improve, especially for the enhancement of the functions of the three major organs: heart, lungs, and kidneys.
Hot tub
There is no better way to relieve fatigue than in a hot tub. Imagine soaking in hot water with a glass of wine in winter. Unlike swimming pools, hot tubs can be used all year round, whether it's a midsummer night or a bitter winter.
Generally speaking, there are three types of hot tubs: above-ground hot tubs, in-ground hot tubs, and portable hot tubs.
- The first type of hot tub requires electrical hard wiring or can be plugged into an electrical outlet.
- In-ground hot tubs are the most expensive and usually require a custom and expert installation.
- Portable hot tubs are the most common and affordable, with inflatable ones being easier to store and use.
（Pop up canopy cover hot tub）
If you are using a hot tub in an open backyard, you can also use a pop-up canopy cover to add privacy while keeping it clean.
Outdoor Fireplace
Outdoor fireplaces, like indoor fireplaces, can give enough warmth in the cold winter. Outdoor fireplaces can be heated in two ways, either by a traditional wood-burning fireplace or by connecting it to a propane or natural gas line.
Installing an outdoor fireplace is a little more expensive, but it will last a long time and add value to your house. If you feel that the yard is too homogeneous, consider putting a set of outdoor sofas by the fireplace.
(Outdoor Fireplace)
In the winter, you can enjoy the warmth of the fireplace in your backyard while sipping hot coffee and chatting with friends. For safety reasons, your outdoor fireplace should be at least 10 ft away from buildings and flammable materials.
When an outdoor fireplace is located near a lot of greenery, extra protection and precautions need to be taken to reduce the possibility of fire.
Fire Pit
The most popular method of keeping warm outdoors, and is less costly than an outdoor fireplace. A roaring fire can completely change the mood of an evening. Adding a fire pit can turn a boring backyard into the perfect outdoor spot.
And while it's very easy to DIY, a fire pit is even better for people to sit around. Enjoy a different kind of warm winter night by roasting marshmallows and hot dogs around the fire pit with friends and family.
(Fire Pit)
Fire pits can also be heated by wood or by connecting to natural gas. Besides the traditional concrete or brick fire pits, portable fire pits also provide heat. And they can also be used more conveniently on outdoor outings.
Pay attention to staying away from trees and other debris. Create a pathway for easy access and separate your seating far enough apart to provide plenty of walking space.
What kind of wood is most suitable for an outdoor fireplace?
First, you need to know that damp or green wood produces more smoke and causes soot to build up in the chimney. So choose the wood that is dry and aged.
Dry wood burns with less smoke and burns more evenly. And burn only logs that can easily be placed in a fireplace or fire pit. Logs larger than 3-5 inches in diameter should be cut before use. Smaller pieces of wood burn faster, produce less smoke, and are safer.
Here are some recommendations for wood.
- Oak is one of the densest and most energetic woods and burns for a long time. Making it the most suitable for wood-burning fireplaces.
- Douglas fir is one of the most popular and practical softwoods and is easy to find in North America.
- Fruit woods such as apple, cherry, and pear will produce a different fruity aroma when burned. Also, fruit woods are the go-to choice for outdoor grills.
- For milder fall and spring weather, choose birch wood. This wood smells great and gives off a lot of heat, but the downside is that it burns quickly.
After you have purchased a large amount of wood, it is best to store it in a portable storage shed to keep it dry and clean.
(Burning wood)
Outdoor Shelter
Use a pop-up canopy as your outdoor shelter. Choose a pop-up canopy with sides, in particular, the benefits are twofold. In the winter, a pop-up canopy with sides will contain the heat and keep you and your guests warm, while in the summer it keeps you cool by blocking the sun.
Quictent's canopy tent uses Oxford fabric, with PU coating. Oxford fabric has good waterproof properties but is also more durable and Stronger. It can easily handle bumps and rubs. Moreover, PU coating has durability, water resistance, and temperature resistance. It is very practical and applicable all year round.
(Quictent outdoor shelter)
At the same time, a 10x10 canopy provides you with enough space. You can relax in it or invite friends to hold parties and outdoor dinners. However, it is important to note that it is not a permanent structure, and do not set it up all night in case of snow. Take it down and store it well when not in use.
Heat lamps
You can often see these lights in outdoor restaurants or shopping malls. They will make sitting in the backyard with family and friends a much more comfortable and enjoyable experience. Heat lamps are classified as natural gas heat lamps, propane heat lamps, and electric heat lamps.
- Natural gas heat lamps are suitable for larger, more open outdoor areas and require a natural gas connection, so they are not suitable for residential use.
- Propane heat lamps have a wider heating range than electric heat lamps, so propane heat lamps are more suitable for backyard use.
- Electric heat lamps are safer and available in hanging and tabletop versions, making them ideal for patio use. The price of heat lamps is not too expensive, ideal for families on a budget.
(Backyard heat lamps)
These Backyard Activities Also Make Sure You Stay Warm
Don't stay confined indoors staring at your tablet and phone. Disconnect from your electronic devices and reconnect with the real world while you and your family are playing in the backyard. You'll find it will be a quality time of fun. Don't hesitate to come outside!
Stacking snowmen
Retro but never out of fashion. It is still a fun activity for both children and adults. Once you have the snowman prototype built, the part that requires creativity comes into play.
How do you decorate it, is it old-fashioned buttons and carrots? Or do you have your unique design? But don't forget the photo session at the end to leave a beautiful moment forever.
(Family building snowman)
Create snow castles
To build it, all you need is a shovel, a bucket of water, waterproof gloves, and lots of snow. Just like building sand forts on the beach when you were a kid, using water makes the snow wetter and easier to build.
Oversized snow castles and forts that can accommodate an adult or even multiple children take a very long time to build. The perfect activity for families to spend time together.
(snow castles)
Snowball fight
Winter would not be complete without a snowball fight. This game will also consume a certain amount of energy, allowing you to keep exercising even in the winter. But remember to watch out for debris and ice on the ground, we don't want the snowball fight to turn into a bleeding incident.
(Snowball fight)
Bonfire party
Even if you're in an area where it doesn't snow, you can still enjoy winter just as much. Why not invite a few friends to have a bonfire party? Sitting around, roasting marshmallows, sipping hot chocolate, or mulled wine, this is the distinctive charm of winter. Playing games or just chatting, this peaceful activity could become your new favorite winter tradition!
(Bonfire party)
Keep warm and stay active
Don't let the winter cold steal the time you can spend in the outdoor space. You can turn your backyard into a cozy space, regardless of the outdoor temperature. It doesn't take much effort.
Depending on your budget and the intensity of the cold winter weather in your area, go for the best of the suggestions above. More than just these heating settings, get out of the house with the family and embrace the winter fun.
Try these outdoor activities so you can enjoy the weather and get more joy out of it. Make the most of your outdoor space and create more lovely winter days.
