RV Camping In A Cold Weather: Camping Guide and Tips

Campgrounds in the winter can be relaxing and yet as cold as snow. One way to push through the camp is by taking your RV out to enjoy the outdoors, regardless of the cold weather. Here is a guide to make your winter camping trip happier and more comfortable.

1. RV Preparation

Your RV’s present condition must be good and able to face the cold. It should keep the family warm during the trip and be certain to prevent possible damages due to harsh weather.

Below are the ways to guarantee a safer trip with your RV:

Insulation: This will create a warm living space and is perfect for a winter camping trip. Check on the windows and doors if they are properly sealed to prevent moisture from entering. Install window film, reflective foil, or heavy drapes to insulate the windows. Additionally, foam boards and rugs can help to insulate the floor. Another alternative is an RV skirting that will block winds blowing underneath the vehicle which could freeze tanks.

RV insulation will require yearly maintenance for better performance.

Plumbing: Heat tape can help to prevent freezing the pipes and hoses of your RV. Make use of the internal water sources and a space heater instead of external sources to combat cold weather. To better protect your RV’s other components, use antifreeze and dump tanks if necessary. Have your plumbing system inspected by a professional from plumbing Scottsdale AZ to ensure that everything is working fine.
Engine: Before leaving for a trip, batteries should be fully charged and in the best condition to ensure better safety. For added protection, fill your car with 50% of antifreeze to block freezing temperatures. This engine block heater will warm up the car for up to five hours before starting the engine. As a result, your RV can withstand extremely cold weather.
Furnace: Hire a repair technician to inspect and clean your RV furnace. Monitor any damage on the vents that could stop airflow. Other heat sources include space and catalytic heaters but will add moisture that may lead to corrosion and damage to the engine. A dehumidifier can take away moisture and keep the vehicle dry.
Safety Devices: Adding up fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors can save your RV from damages. They must be working correspondingly, which includes the batteries before the trip.
Additional Tips: Some other tips can prepare your RV for a winter trip. Wooden blocks, for example, can keep stabilizing jacks from icy conditions. Covering the parts of your RV prone to breakage is important, such as the AC unit, air vents, and other plastic components. In addition one thing also to consider is your roof since it is the most vulnerable to harsh elements and weather conditions. To know more about how to protect your RV’s roof visit the site Camper Guide.

2. What to bring

Summer camping is a way different from a winter trip in terms of the supplies you need to bring. So, here is a checklist when packing up for a winter camping adventure:

Warm Sleeping Bag: Falling asleep in a cold environment can be challenging. It is essential to have a sleeping bag that will provide extra warmth.
Indoor Garments: Normal clothes may not be enough to cover your body against cold. You can wear a hat and socks to stay cozy at night, and also bring extra clothes to keep you warm.
Outdoor Garments: Playing in the snow will be more enjoyable with waterproof gloves and snow boots. Goggles are essential in case you encounter a snowstorm.
Emergency Kits: Take along extra food and water and keep them in a warm place. Propane tanks can also be a source of heat in case the furnace runs out. A battery-powered lamp will be responsible for the light when in the dark at campsite.
Other Equipment: Since you will go for an adventure, having tools such as shovels, tire chains, and a blow dryer will save you from the elements.
Waterproof Layers: Keeping yourself warm and dry is vital during a winter camp. Choose to bring both breathable and insulating materials to be used for your base and mid layers. Do not forget to bring extra blankets.

3. Keeping your RV warm in the evening

Heating your RV is possible for you to rest on after enjoying the outdoors. Its internal temperature shall increase through various types of heaters, and even parking in the sun can help to naturally keep your RV warm. Campers can pick between catalytic, electric, and portable heaters according to their needs.

Other Things To Consider At The Campsite

Winter camping could be a unique experience for some campers, so the following tips are to assist first-timers in planning for a trip.

Monitor the weather forecast: The weather is sometimes unpredictable thus knowing the forecast ahead of time will save you from possible danger, like a winter storm.
Look for an open campground: Before deciding to go on a trip, search for areas open for the winter.
Stay Alert: Black ice is the main cause of accidents on the way to the destination. It often occurs in shaded areas, and as a tip do not hit the brakes not to spin out.
Keep your tank full: Leaving the tank empty can limit the engine’s performance.
Enjoy: Make the best out of it! There might be challenges along the journey but a worthwhile experience.

Check Out RV Parts Express

An RV trip during the winter months would be a unique and amazing experience. You may not need air conditioning for your caravan, but rather heating products to keep you warm and cozy. Other RV accessories are also available to guarantee a safe trip.

Make sure your RV is ready for a winter adventure, considering its parts and other things you need to bring on the campsite. Have fun and enjoy the activities around the campground!