Winter RV Camping Tips
Some people choose to venture out in their recreational vehicles only during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, camping can be a fun and exciting experience in winter, too. In fact, it’s one of the most beautiful and peaceful times of the year to experience the great outdoors. You can hike through the white wilderness, enjoy breathtaking snowfall views, and make the most of the unique experience that comes with winter camping. Not to forget that a bonfire always feels best in cold weather. Of course, you’ll be facing a unique set of challenges when you choose to go RVing in the winter.
At Lakeside RV Sales, we want to make sure that you’re ready for your wintertime adventure. That’s why we’ve gathered some useful tips to help you get prepared. If you need more information or you’re looking for some quality RVs for sale near Greenville, SC, be sure to give us a call or stop by our dealership in Anderson.
Add Insulation
One of the most important steps in preparing for winter camping is adding enough insulation to your RV, especially if you’re headed somewhere where the temperatures regularly drop below freezing. You might need extra insulation to keep you and your passengers warm and prevent your camper’s pipes from freezing.
Window film or bubble foil placed over the glass and around windows will help to prevent the transfer of cold air, while heavier drapes can block out drafts during high winds. Put some foam board insulation on the bottom of your RV to protect the pipes. An RV skirt can also help keep cold air out from under your camper. Just make sure to leave the tailpipe uncovered.
Stay Warm
There are several other ways to ensure you stay warm in your RV. For example, you can consider investing in a space heater. A compact space heater that’s portable can easily be moved from the living area to the bedroom so you can stay warm both day and night. If you plan to do a lot of traveling during the winter months, it might be worthwhile to install a specialized heating system. Propane heaters are another option worth considering, which hook up to the furnace.
The clothes you wear are also going to play a big part in keeping you warm. As you’re probably aware, the best way to stay warm isn’t having thick, insulated coats, but layering your clothes. Even when it’s freezing out, ultra-warm clothes can actually make you overheat and start to sweat. If that sweat freezes, it could put you in danger of hypothermia, so make sure you have a lighter, base layer, followed by a slightly thicker, long-sleeve layer, and finally a winter jacket. You can add layers as needed, depending on where you’ll be, but this will give you the option of removing layers if you start to get too hot.
Ventilate Your RV
Remember that RVs can easily accumulate moisture even at warm temperatures. It’s vital that you keep your camper well-ventilated to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to mold and mildew. The best way to avoid this is to ensure your vents are kept open as much as possible. You can also invest in a dehumidifier to reduce the moisture levels.
Protect Your Plumbing
One major concern during winter RV camping is preventing the plumbing systems from freezing in extremely cold temperatures. Heat strips are one way to prevent the water in your hoses from freezing. There are some parts of your piping system that might already be insulated simply by being placed behind access cabinets or panels, so you won’t need to worry about these.
Insulate your waste valve if it’s exposed to the elements and be sure to keep it shut when not in use. When storing any hoses, ensure that there’s no water left in them as it could freeze and cause potential damage.
Carry Emergency Supplies
Make sure you’re always ready for an emergency when traveling in the winter. You should never travel if you’re not completely confident in your driving skill. Towing an RV on ice makes any sway you experience much more hazardous, so don’t overreach. Before you head out, remember to pack the following items: tire chains, an emergency radio, emergency food, drinking water (stored where it won’t freeze), warm sleeping bags, extra blankets, a white gas camping stove, a blow dryer (for emergency defrosting), GPS, and extra propane tanks. You may also want to invest in a small portable power option like a gas generator, and back that up with solar panels so you can stay safe and warm even if you get snowed in.
If you are considering going on a winter camping trip, don’t let the cold weather get in your way. We hope that this guide helps you stay warm and safe on your excursion. Looking to upgrade your RV for some winter travel? Visit Lakeside RV Sales in Anderson, SC, to see what we have in stock. We proudly serve all those in Charlotte, NC, and Greenville, SC, so get in touch with us today!