Will the extreme cold damage my camera or phone?

Short answer

The cold itself rarely breaks gear, but batteries drain very quickly and sudden warming causes condensation. Keep spare batteries and your phone in inner pockets, carry the camera under your coat, and let a sealed camera warm slowly indoors.

Details

• Batteries: Drain within minutes in the cold — carry spares close to your body and swap fast.
• Condensation: Seal the camera in its bag before entering warm rooms so it warms gradually.
• Phones and laptops: Keep them in inner pockets; avoid leaving devices in an unheated car or hotel lobby.