Winter Camping: Living In A Popup Camper

Pop-up campers are a great way to find your own slice of heaven wherever you park up. But what about when the weather turns cold? Can you use a pop-up camper in the winter? The short answer is yes, but you'll need to take some preventive measures to ensure you don't damage your camper and stay warm. Here's everything you need to know about using a pop-up camper in the winter.

Insulation and heating

Insulation:

• Reflective Tarps: Use reflective tarps, such as Pop-Up Gizmos, to cover the bunk ends and mesh portions of your camper walls. These tarps reflect sunlight, keeping the interior cool in summer and protecting from wind and cold in winter. They also help reduce dew formation inside. Ensure you choose tarps with appropriate wind resistance ratings for your camping location.
• Reflectix Insulation: Install Reflectix insulation, which resembles foil-covered bubble wrap, between the mesh and pop-up material of your windows and doors. It effectively blocks outside temperatures and enhances privacy. In winter, you can remove it from the windows during the day to let sunlight warm your camper.
• Blackout Curtains: Hang blackout curtains made of thick, insulating material, with a rubber backing for extra insulation. They block sunlight and help maintain a moderate temperature inside. Choose darker colours for better heat blocking.
• Seal Leaks: Use tape, silicone, or pool noodles to seal gaps and prevent air leaks. This is crucial for retaining heat during winter and cool air in summer.
• Insulate Under Bunks: Insulate the floor and specifically under the beds, as cold air can seep in from the ground. Use foam insulation boards, sleeping bags, or extra blankets.
• Vapor Barrier: Lay a vapor barrier, a sheet of thick plastic, under the bunks and flooring to keep out moisture.
• Rugs or Carpets: Place rugs or carpets on the floor to insulate against temperature changes.

Heating:

• Space Heaters: Electric space heaters are an effective way to heat your camper if you have access to power. They are compact and quiet, making them ideal for small spaces.
• Propane Heaters: Propane heaters are an option if you don't have electricity. The Mr. Heater BIG Buddy Indoor Safe Propane Heater is highly rated for its ease of installation, versatility, and durability. Ensure proper ventilation and a carbon monoxide detector when using propane heaters.
• Electric Blankets: If you have access to power, electric blankets are an excellent way to stay warm at night without heating the entire camper.
• Diesel Heaters: Some people recommend diesel heaters, which pull in outside air, heat it, and exhaust it back out, reducing condensation and eliminating fumes.
• Furnace: A built-in propane furnace can provide heating, but it may consume more propane and require a larger tank.

Condensation and moisture management

Ventilation and Air Circulation:

• Proper ventilation is key to managing condensation. Keep windows slightly cracked open to allow air circulation without letting in too much cold air.
• Utilize vent fans above your stove and on the ceiling. Remember to open them and run the fans a few times a day to promote air circulation.
• Alternatively, consider investing in a small RV window fan to get the air moving. Running it for a few minutes a couple of times a day will help dry things out.
• Avoid hanging wet items indoors to dry. Instead, use laundry room dryers or hang towels and clothes outside to dry whenever possible.

Temperature Management:

• While raising indoor temperatures can help curb condensation production, it may not completely eliminate it. Aim to raise the temperature of cold surfaces like glass to slow down condensation on windows.
• If using a heater, consider switching from a propane furnace to electric space heaters. Propane heaters emit moisture, while electric heaters will keep the space drier.
• Cooking on a stovetop can release steam into the air. Opt for using an RV oven, an Instant Pot, or cooking outdoors to reduce moisture buildup.
• Avoid taking hot showers inside the camper as it can increase moisture levels. Use campground bathhouses whenever available.

Insulation and Moisture Control:

• Enhance the camper's insulation with additional layers. Use reflective insulation and thermal blankets on windows, and draft stoppers to seal gaps.
• Insulate under the bunks and sleeping areas to prevent cold air from seeping in from the ground. Pile blankets or use foam insulation boards to create a protective layer.
• Cover windows with window shades or professionally-made window covers to prevent moist air from coming into contact with cold surfaces and forming condensation.
• Use moisture-absorbing products like DampRid in cabinets and other enclosed spaces to help absorb excess moisture.
• Regularly clear snow off the camper's roof to prevent potential damage and ensure structural integrity.

Water system winterisation

Water systems in pop-up campers are vulnerable to freezing temperatures. To prevent damage, it is crucial to properly winterise your water system. Here is a step-by-step guide to winterising the water system in your pop-up camper:

Step 1: Drain All Water Tanks

Completely drain all the water from your pop-up camper's water tanks, including the freshwater tank and hot water heater. It is crucial to remove all water to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

Step 2: Blow Air Through the System

Hook up air to the city water inlet and blow air through the faucet to ensure all water is removed from the water tank. Even a small amount of remaining water can freeze and cause damage.

Step 3: Use Antifreeze

Place the hand pump hose into a jug of antifreeze. Pump the hand pump until antifreeze appears in the sink, ensuring antifreeze reaches all pipes. Remember to clean the sink afterwards, as antifreeze can stain.

Step 4: Drain and Flush Toilets

If you have a toilet, ensure the holding tank is empty. Drain both fresh water and black water from your toilet. Then, pour antifreeze into the fresh water holding tank and flush it through the toilet using the hand pump.

Step 5: Winterise Shower and Sinks

If your pop-up camper has an indoor shower, you will need to winterise it. Use pink or coloured antifreeze so you can see when it comes out. Turn on both cold and hot water knobs, pour antifreeze into the freshwater tank and keep the faucets on. The antifreeze will start to come out of the faucet. Do this for both the shower and sink.

Step 6: Drain Hot Water Heater

Don't forget to drain your hot water heater completely. Ensure it is unplugged and adequately cooled before handling. If any water remains in the pipes, it will freeze and could lead to broken pipes.

Step 7: Protect Your Pipes

Insulate your pipes to provide an extra layer of protection against freezing temperatures. You can use materials like reflective insulation, thermal blankets, and draft stoppers to seal gaps and keep the cold out.

Remember, winterising your pop-up camper's water system is essential to prevent damage and ensure your camper is ready for the cold season.

Snow clearance

Use the right tools:

Use a broom, brush, or plastic snow shovel to remove snow from the roof. Avoid using a metal shovel, as it can cause damage. A snow rake is also a useful tool to have, as it can help you reach and remove snow from the roof without having to climb up.

Be careful when clearing:

When removing snow, be cautious not to damage any components on the roof, such as vents, antennas, or plumbing. The plastic on these components can become brittle in cold temperatures, so take care not to apply too much force or pressure.

Clear snow regularly:

Keep an eye on the snow accumulation and try to clear it before it gets too heavy. Check the roof periodically and use a ladder to reach and remove snow if needed. It is essential to monitor the weather conditions and be prepared to adjust your plans if sudden snowfall occurs.

Park strategically:

When possible, park your popup camper near physical windbreaks, such as large buildings, walls, or treelines. This will provide some shelter from the wind and snow, reducing the amount of snow that accumulates on your camper.

Use a cover:

Consider investing in a breathable RV cover with built-in UV protection. A cover will provide a layer of protection from the elements, making it easier to remove snow and preventing it from settling directly on the camper's surface.

Install a slanted surface:

The flat roofs of RVs make it easy for snow to accumulate. To mitigate this, you can install a lightweight piece of plastic or plywood on the roof to create a slanted surface. This will help deflect snow and keep the roof relatively clear.

Hire professional help:

If you are unable or uncomfortable with clearing the snow yourself, consider hiring professionals. They have the necessary equipment and experience to safely and effectively remove snow from your popup camper.

Cold-weather sleeping gear

When it comes to cold-weather sleeping gear, there are several things you can do to ensure you stay warm and comfortable in your pop-up camper during the winter. Here are some essential tips:

• Choose the Right Sleeping Bag: Invest in a high-quality sleeping bag designed for winter temperatures. Look for one that is rated for temperatures well below what you expect to encounter. A bag with a hood will help retain heat, and a draft collar will prevent cold air from entering through the neck opening. You may also want to consider a bag with a draft tube behind the zipper for added warmth. If you're not sure your bag is warm enough, you can add a sleeping bag liner, which provides extra warmth and protects your bag from wear and tear.
• Layer with Blankets: Bring along some thermal blankets to layer over your sleeping bag. This will help trap body heat and provide additional insulation.
• Use Insulated Sleeping Pads: Sleeping pads provide essential insulation from the cold ground. Look for closed-cell foam pads or self-inflating air mattresses, which offer better insulation than regular air mattresses. Consider using two pads for maximum warmth – a closed-cell foam pad on the bottom and a self-inflating pad on top.
• Wear Appropriate Sleepwear: Avoid sleeping naked or in tight-fitting clothing, as this can restrict blood flow to your extremities. Instead, opt for loose-fitting, warm base layers made from synthetic or wool materials. Synthetic fabrics wick moisture away from your body, while wool provides superior warmth. Don't forget to bring warm socks, gloves, and a cozy hat as well.
• Stay Dry: Moisture can quickly lead to discomfort and even hypothermia. Choose a sleeping bag with a hydrophobic treatment or a waterproof shell to keep moisture out. Also, make sure your breath doesn't condense inside the bag by cinching the draft collar and closing the hood around your face.
• Eat a Hearty Meal: Eating a nutritious meal before bedtime will help keep you warm through the night. Your body generates heat as it digests food, so fuel up before settling in for the night.
• Stay Properly Hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and before bed. This will help keep your body functioning optimally and regulate your temperature.
• Exercise Before Bed: Doing a few jumping jacks or jogging in place before crawling into your sleeping bag will get your blood pumping and warm up your body, making it easier to fall asleep.

Frequently asked questions