Some RVers choose to venture out in their rigs only during 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 breath-taking 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 Meridian RV, we want to make sure you’re ready for your wintertime adventure. We’ve gathered some helpful tips to help you get prepared. Stop by Meridian RV in Port Coquitlam and 100 Mile House, British Columbia, if you need additional help.
Add Insulation
One of the most important steps in preparing for winter camping is adding enough insulation to your rig, 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 RV. Just make sure to leave the tailpipe uncovered.
Stay Warm
There are 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 living area to 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.
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 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.
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 during your adventure. Looking to upgrade your RV for some winter travel? Visit Meridian RV in Port Coquitlam and 100 Mile House, BC, today to see what we have in stock. We proudly serve Vancouver and Kamloops, BC.
