Camping in colder temperatures might not be on the top of everyone’s list of things to do, but there are plenty of people that seek out winter destinations for RV getaways. And, there are a number of fulltime RVers that live stationary in locations that see cold winters. Whatever the case may be, if you plan on RV camping during the winter, you need to be prepared. Here are some key things you should know to keep your RV healthy and happy if you plan on camping in cold temperatures this winter.
Water
Ensuring your water systems are functioning properly might be one of the most important things to keep in mind when camping in the winter. When temperatures drop below freezing, ice-cold water can quickly lead to frozen pipes which can quickly lead to a huge headache and repair bill.
If you are hooked up to water, consider using a heated hose. This will keep water at the source, and that is flowing into the rig, unfrozen less likely to burst pipes. To completely avoid worrying about a frozen hose, fill your freshwater tank and use that as your water source. Only connect the hose when needing to refill your tank.
Plumming
Once the water’s in your pipes and holding tanks, you still have to worry about freezing. To keep pipes on the warmer side, open interior cabinet doors so your heating system is able to keep your internal plumping warm.
While some RVs come with heaters for holding tanks, many do not. You are able to add electric heaters to the tanks. They are available in both 12V DC and 120V AC models. Or, a small amount of antifreeze can be used in holding tanks to help keep that liquid from freezing. Only dump tanks when they are full to reduce the amount of times valves are opened.
Keeping Warm
Insulation is the best way to keep the inside of your RV warm while camping in winter. The floors inside your rig can get extra chilly so insulate under your feet using foam board flooring, carpeting, or rugs. Using an RV skirt is another fantastic way to keep cold air from getting under your RV. Not only will this keep your toes toasty warm, but your holding tanks and vehicle components as well.
A lot of cold can get in and a lot of heat can escape from your RV windows. Check for leaks and seal or caulk any areas that are not well sealed. Use weather stripping around doors to keep moisture and cold air out. Window coverings can also make a big difference. Foil can be used to reflect heat back into the camper and heavy drapes can help keep the heat in on chilly nights. If you are looking to spend a few extra dollars, dual pane windows are best for keeping warm. Don’t forget about your ceiling vents either! Vent cushions can be used for insulation.
As for an actual heat source, you basically have two options. The first one is a propane furnace. Before winter hits, make sure your furnace is running as it should, and that it is cleaned and ready to go. Use compressed air and a soft brush to remove dirt, dust, and debris from the furnace. Make sure vents are clean and unblocked. Your second option for a heat source is electric, such as space heaters or a catalytic heater. If you have hookups, electric heat is a great way to go as it saves on propane. Space heaters can lead to moisture in your rig so make sure to crack a window or use an electric dehumidifier.
Outside
There are some important steps that need to be taken to ensure everything outside your RV is ready for winter. For instance, your stabilizer jacks. To keep them from freezing to the ground below, make sure to use wood blocks beneath them. If you have slides, you will want to take care of them as well. Keep ice and snow from accumulating on top of awnings, and use sprayable antifreeze on gaskets to keep slides functioning. Lastly, consider using an insulated AC cover over the unit as you will not be needing that while RV camping in the winter, and it will help protect the unit while keeping out the draft.
Camping in the winter can be an exciting adventure and allow you the chance to enjoy all the fun that snowy destinations have to offer. If you take the time to prepare as you should, you and your rig should have no trouble weathering those frosty winter storms. Do you have winter camping experience? Share your advice with fellow RVers in the comments below!
Cast iron skillets are one of the most useful pieces of camp cooking equipment you can own. You can use them on the grill, over the campfire, in an oven, or on a stove. Once they’re properly seasoned they become nonstick and are easily cleaned. This set gives you three sizes so you can make delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, or dinner all while enjoying the outdoors.
These collapsible bowls are great for preparing, storing, and serving food. They’re portable and don’t take up much space, which is always important when you’re packing to go camping. Once you arrive at the campsite, simply pop the bowls out and start mixing up your tasty meal! Leak-resistant lids make it easy to store liquids without worrying about the mess. When you’re done using them, just collapse the bowls and slip them back into storage. You may find yourself using them at home as well as at the campground!
Have a portable grill but are missing a convenient prep area? This Folding Aluminum Grill Table has everything you need to prepare a feast at the campsite. The heat resistant aluminum top can hold a portable grill, while the fold-out sides are great prepping or serving spaces. It even has a bottom storage rack, a paper towel rack, and hooks to hang all your utensils so you can keep your prep area organized.
This Stromberg Carlson Open Fire Stake & Grill lets you cook right over the fire while you’re camping. Drive the stake into the ground next to the fire and attach the grate with the locking handle to keep it in place at the desired height. It’s perfect for grilling burgers and hot dogs, making coffee, or using with cast iron skillets. It’s a simple tool, but it makes cooking over a fire a breeze.
Every good cook needs a great chef knife. The Comfort Grip Chef Knife is the perfect knife to take with you while camping. The protective blade cover keeps the edge from getting dull in storage, and the seven-inch blade makes this knife incredibly versatile and a great tool for chopping, mincing, and dicing all your ingredients. It’s a great all-purpose knife that is the perfect addition to your camp cooking supplies.
It looks simple, but this tub is so versatile and helpful when cooking at a campsite. It’s the perfect way to wash dishes and clean up after cooking your camping feast. If you’re trying to conserve water, this size of tub makes a great makeshift sink. Or you can use it to hold food or supplies. The raised feet allow for water to flow underneath it, and it easily collapses for compact storage which makes it great for camping whether you’re in a tent or RV.
A dutch oven is another one of those must-have camp cooking tools. It’s perfect for slow cooking and baking outdoors. You can use it over a wood fire, or with charcoal briquettes on the top and bottom to create an oven-like cooking atmosphere for baking. It’s great for making cinnamon buns for breakfast or stews for dinner after enjoying the day outdoors.
This portable grill is perfect when you don’t have a ton of space but still want to grill over charcoal while camping. The grill folds flat and comes with a carrying case for easy portability while traveling. It quickly pops out to a 14” tall charcoal grill. Simply unfold, add the charcoal holder and charcoal, and light. You’ll be grilling delicious meals at your campsite in no time.
