Why learn to RV in the Winter?
Learning how to RV in the winter is crucial to having a good time. So if you do not know how to RV in the winter things can go south quick! To ease the possible frustrations of broken pipes, because this CAN happen overnight, or potentially freezing yourself take a look at our tips.
The information provided comes from our experiences and methods we use since we too had to learn how to RV in the winter. My husband and I grew up in Reno NV and let me tell you our winters are real winters. Whether it was camping, hunting, or winterizing we know what we are doing and are pretty passionate about not freezing to death.
Honestly RVing in the winter can be fun. If you love to ski or enjoy the activities such as snow shoeing we are here to let you know it is doable.
Let’s get after it!
The Right RV
Let’s start here. If you know there is a high possibility of you Rving in the winter then let me tell you something. INVEST. Invest in a good RV that will save you a whole lot of stress and arguments with your spouse in the long run. This is what I mean when I say a good RV for winter.
- Good insulation
- Not only in the walls of your RV but the underbelly. Insulated flooring will be keeping your tanks nice and cozy on those negative degree days. Remember if they freeze not only can they bust but you might not be showering for a while…
- Dual pane windows
- Yes they make these for RV’s! Not only do they insulate your RV but they cut out a lot of noise from your lovely neighbors.
- Larger propane tanks
- You will typically find 20 or 30 pound tanks in a new rig but if you plan on the colder weather a 40 pound (or two of them) would be best. You will find in lower temps you will blow through them and nobody wants to run out or be running to fill them every day. Running out of propane is an absolute nightmare! Please do not catch yourself in that situation! Here are our favorite digital propane gauges!
- Heat pumps
- They all stop working around 38*F and this is where your propane tanks kick in. But if you are in temperatures around 38 and on electricity it will save you a lot of money. Propane can get pricey.
- 4 season/arctic packages
- A REAL 4 season will have thicker walls. Our DRV for example has 3 1/4 thick walls in comparison to a regular RV that’s about 2 inches.
- Some arctic packages will have heated tanks and an insulated underbelly
- Just remember anything that is exposed and not insulated under the RV can freeze.
Accessories – useful to RV in the Winter
If you are feeling ambitious and want to try a few aftermarket accessories that we use and love for colder trips I have listed our favs. Some of these can be used both in the summer months as well when it’s a bit too toasty. It’s a win-win!
- Heated water hose
- Does it work? Yes but keep in mind it does not heat the water source or faucet therefore your water can still freeze. This is why we always fill our water tank just in case. Some RV parks might insulate their water sources if they are used to freezing temperatures. We use this one by Camco.
- Vent insulators
- Vent insulator/skylight covers are great for winter and summer. For winter they help keep the warmth in and in summer they block out the heat. Very inexpensive and easy way to insulate your rig And made with the same material as Reflectix.
- Reflectixs for windows
- Reflectix is a polyethylene bubble wrap enclosed in reflective aluminum foil. You can purchase this online or in a local hardware store in different sizes but can cut to the window size you need. It’s inexpensive and easily replaced. It is the same material you use in your windshield during the summer to keep the heat out! It’s a win-win and good for seasonal use.
- Space heaters
- Electric space heater should save you on propane and can be VERY helpful when your heat pumps aren’t functioning due to the cold. They are efficient but you also have to remember to look for safety features such as automatic shut offs and tip over shut off abilities.
- Heated Blankets
- My husband being a fireman swears by heated blankets! You can warm your bed before getting in or snuggle up on the couch while you watch a show!
- Propane monitor systems
- It’s 2am and you wake up chattering your teeth, it’s freezing. You go outside to realize you’re out of propane! YIKES! Next time you’ll use a monitoring system and keep an eye on it. It’s also smart to make sure your tanks have an automatic propane change over.
Your Job – Weather Man
We all know certain areas of the US get REAL winters while others feel like summer during winter months. Make sure to do your research before traveling to a new destination and keep a close eye on the weather. Always check weather prior to travel day to ensure an easy and safe trip. For towing in the winter don’t. If there is no other option you will need to carry chains. Not only can your truck slide but your RV is coming with you. That is one accident you do not want yourself in.
Quick Do’s and Don’ts
Want to prevent heat loss in your RV?! Here are a few important things to take note of of so you know how to RV in the winter properly.
Do
ALWAYS have enough propane
Keep water in your fresh water tank – just in case
Insulate your windows
Make sure snow is cleared off of your solar panels if covered in snow
Don’t
Leave your hose hooked to the spigot – it can freeze.. BUT if you are feeling risky you can use a heated water hose and insulate your spigot
Rely on your heat pumps to work at low temperatures
That’s a Wrap!
We both know learning how to RV in the winter can be the key to a successful trip and we hope you learned something from us. You’re ready to thrive in those winter months! We have been through the ringer and learned a lot throughout the years but hope we can get you to take the plunge and make RVing fun and memorable for you and your family!
Give us a follow on social media and don’t forget to subscribe to our mailing list!
Safe and intentional travels to all,
Four Season Travelers – The Brownings