Winter Camping: Using Your Camper In The Cold

can you use your camper in the winter

RV camping in the winter can be fun and exciting, but the cold weather presents new challenges. It's important to prepare your RV for the cold, from insulating it to choosing the right heating system. You'll also need to take extra precautions to keep your water pipes from freezing and make sure you have enough propane or electricity to stay warm. If you're braving the cold, you'll be rewarded with fewer tourists and pests, cheaper deals, and spectacular views.

Characteristics Values
Camper type Four-season campers are designed for winter camping. Three-season campers can be used for winter camping but it is more challenging.
Insulation Add insulation to windows, floor, roof vents, and windows. Seal doors and windows. Skirt the camper to prevent heat loss from underneath.
Heating Use the camper's heating system, or a space heater. Choose between an electric or propane heater.
Water Use a heated hose, or the internal freshwater tank. Keep the water tanks full.
Pipes Use heat tape on pipes to prevent freezing.
Clothing Pack thermal undergarments, thick socks, and blankets.
Fire Campfires are necessary for cold-weather camping.
Food Stock up on food as metabolic response increases in cold weather.

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Insulating your camper van

Seal Windows and Doors

Check the seals and cords around your windows and replace any missing or weak areas. Place a weatherstrip around exterior doors to prevent cold air or moisture from leaking inside your camper van. You can also use window film and reflective foil as they are affordable and effective ways to insulate your windows further. Thick fabric drapes can also help block cold drafts and keep warm air inside during cold nights.

Insulate the Floor

Foam board floors can be used to insulate the floor of your camper van. If you prefer not to use foam boards, heavy rugs or carpets can also help block out cold air that can come up from the floor.

Install Skirting

Skirting is a material that you attach to the bottom of your camper van, encircling it completely. This creates a barrier between your vehicle and the cold ground, helping to keep the interior warmer. You can buy ready-made skirting or create your own DIY version using foam insulation boards or heavy plastic.

Choose the Right Heating System

Most camper vans use propane heaters, which are very effective, especially for smaller vehicles. However, you need to ensure the availability of propane in advance as your heater can go through a lot of fuel if used continuously. Electric heaters are also an option if you have access to power.

Minimise Moisture

Once your camper van is warm and cosy, beware of condensation. A dehumidifier is the best solution to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to the growth of mould and mildew.

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Choosing the right heating

There are several heating options for campervans, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common methods to keep your camper warm during winter:

Propane Heaters

Portable propane heaters are a popular option for camping, as they can be used both indoors and outdoors. They are an excellent choice for short-term camping trips or if you're camping off-grid without access to electricity. Propane heaters produce moisture in the air, so ventilation is crucial. Always choose a heater with a low oxygen shut-off sensor and a tip-over switch for safety.

Electric Heaters

Electric heaters are ideal for large motorhomes or campers with access to AC power ("shore power"). They are usually more expensive than propane heaters, but they are often more efficient. If you're building a mid-to-large adventure rig, consider installing an electrical furnace in addition to an off-grid-friendly alternative heat source. Remember to use heaters with a lower power draw to avoid overloading your RV's electrical system.

Diesel Heaters

Diesel heaters, such as the Webasto AirTop 2000, are a great choice for vehicle-dwelling heating. They can draw fuel directly from your vehicle's fuel tank, which is convenient and cost-effective. These heaters are typically fuel-efficient and quiet, although they may be a little noisy for city dwellers or stealth camping. Some models offer intelligent features like a 7-day timer and remote start. However, they require regular servicing and maintenance, adding to the overall cost.

Wood-Burning Stoves

Wood-burning stoves provide a romantic and nostalgic experience, offering a super-dry heat that eradicates moisture and condensation. The fuel source is usually free, and you can also use it for cooking, heating water, or warming items. However, finding dry wood can be challenging, and these stoves require more effort to get warm. They are also the heaviest heating option and may not be suitable for regulating heat output in confined spaces.

LPG/Natural Gas Heaters

LPG/Natural Gas Heaters operate similarly to diesel heaters but use natural gas to heat the air. They are efficient and easy to use, making them a popular choice for heating campervans. However, they require proper exhaust systems to expel fumes safely. LPG heaters can be expensive to install, and finding replacement fuel while travelling may be challenging.

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Preventing moisture

  • Use a dehumidifier: One of the most effective ways to remove excess moisture from the air is to use a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers come in two types: passive and electric. Passive dehumidifiers use materials like calcium chloride crystals to absorb moisture and do not require an external power source, while electric dehumidifiers have a higher capacity and are more effective at removing moisture but need to be plugged in. Regularly empty and clean the dehumidifier's holding tank.
  • Ventilation: Keep vents open to lower condensation and improve airflow. Opening a window or vent slightly when using a catalytic heater will also help prevent moisture build-up.
  • Insulation: Proper insulation is key to preventing condensation. In addition to insulating your windows, floors, and pipes, pay special attention to sealing drafty areas around windows, skylights, fans, doors, slide-outs, and roof vents. Use weatherstripping or foam inserts to seal gaps, and consider adding extra insulation in the form of foam panels, reflective foil, or thermal curtains.
  • Skirting: Install skirting around the bottom of your camper to create a barrier between your RV and the cold ground. This will help keep the interior warm and reduce the risk of pipes freezing.
  • Water management: Keep your fresh water tank as full as possible during cold weather. This will not only ensure you have enough water but also help prevent the tank from freezing. Regularly dump your grey and black water tanks to avoid freezing, and consider using holding tank heaters to keep the tanks warm.
  • Heating choices: The type of heating you use can impact moisture levels. Space heaters and catalytic heaters can add moisture to the air, so be sure to ventilate when using these. If using an RV propane heater, ensure it is well-maintained to avoid malfunctions during cold spells.
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Keeping water flowing

One of the biggest challenges of camping in an RV during winter is dealing with frozen pipes and water tanks. Here are some tips to keep your water flowing:

  • Insulate your water lines: Use Styrofoam tubing or wrap them in towels to prevent freezing.
  • Keep the tank full: A full tank helps insulate the water from the cold.
  • Use RV antifreeze: Add RV antifreeze to the lines to prevent water from freezing.
  • Space heaters: Use electric space heaters to keep the inside of your RV warm and prevent water from freezing.
  • Dripping faucets: Allow a small drip from faucets to keep water moving and prevent freezing.
  • Heated water hose: Use a heated hose to reduce the chance of water freezing.
  • Holding tank heater kit: Invest in a kit with heater pads for your fresh, grey, and black water tanks to prevent freezing.
  • Sewer hose: Keep the sewer hose off the ground and disconnected when the temperature dips below freezing.
  • Vent covers: Install vent covers to reduce condensation and keep airflow moving.
  • Dehumidifier: Use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air and prevent condensation.
  • Battery-powered heat pad: Use a heat pad with an ambient temperature sensor to keep your water tanks warm.

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Driving safely

Driving a campervan in the winter can be daunting, especially if you're navigating icy roads or dealing with freezing temperatures. Here are some tips to help you drive your campervan safely during the winter:

  • Be prepared for long, wide turns: Due to their larger size, campervans require wider turns than regular vehicles. When making a tight turn, position yourself further from the obstacle you need to pivot around and start the turn earlier.
  • Maintain a safe distance: Keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. Remember that campervans have longer braking times than smaller cars, so leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you.
  • Be mindful of your speed: Heavy vehicles like campervans require more time to brake. Lower your speed to give yourself more control and to save money on gasoline. Driving slower also creates gaps that allow other drivers to pass you safely.
  • Use your mirrors effectively: Campervans often have larger blind spots than cars. Adjust your wing mirrors to ensure you have a full field of view, and regularly check your mirrors, especially when turning or changing lanes.
  • Plan your route in advance: Whenever possible, choose routes that avoid narrow lanes, low-hanging obstacles, or sections of road that might be treacherous in winter weather.
  • Check your tires: Ensure your tires are properly inflated and suitable for winter conditions. Consider using snow tires or carrying chains.
  • Keep a winter emergency kit: Stock an emergency kit with essential items such as an ice scraper, sand or kitty litter for traction, road flares or reflectors, extra clothing, and bottled water and non-perishable snacks.
  • Stay informed: Stay up to date on weather forecasts and road conditions. Avoid driving in dangerous weather if possible, and be cautious when driving on icy or snowy roads.
  • Practice general safe driving habits: Drive defensively, use your indicators, and avoid sudden stops or abrupt changes in direction.

Frequently asked questions

Winter camping can be a unique and exciting experience. You get to enjoy pretty good deals, spectacular views, and have nature all to yourself. It's also a great opportunity to try out fun winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding.

To prepare your camper for winter, you should check your window seals and weather stripping, and replace them if necessary. Insulate your RV with foam boards or skirts to prevent heat loss. Empty and insulate your water tanks, and consider using heated hoses or tank heaters. Additionally, stock up on propane or extra fuel, and bring extra blankets and warm clothes.

To stay warm in your camper during winter, use multiple forms of heat. Supplement your camper's internal heater with electric or propane space heaters. Pack thermal undergarments, thick socks, and blankets. You can also use a campfire to stay warm.

Winter camping requires extra safety precautions. Keep an eye out for icy conditions and have an emergency kit with you at all times. Make sure to always have extra water, food, and blankets on board. Check for campground openings and be aware of the weather forecast before your trip.

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