How to Live in a Camper, Van, or RV in the Winter

How to Live in a Camper, Van, or RV in the Winter   For many, van life is a way to explore freedom, travel on their terms, and enjoy the great outdoors year-round. But when winter comes, living in a camper brings unique challenges. Whether you’re already on the road or planning to hit the highways in colder months, understanding how to live in a camper in the winter is essential. With preparation and some helpful tips, van life in winter can be comfortable and rewarding! What You’ll Face in the Winter Living in a camper during winter isn’t as simple as parking and staying warm. You’ll face some challenges that can make daily life more complicated than RV winter living in the warmer months. Winter Driving Conditions Snow, ice, and slick roads present significant risks for any vehicle, but more so for campers and RVs, which are heavier and harder to maneuver. Reduced traction and visibility can lead to accidents or getting stuck. A few tips: Get to know your van and how it drives well before taking off into snowy conditions. Drive like your brakes might give out (because in some areas, there’s a good chance they might be useless). Leave more space than you normally would between your van/RV and other vehicles. Invest in winter tires or chains (all-season tires won’t cut it). 4×4 is nice, but if you don’t have it, definitely get some winter tires or chains. Familiarize yourself with how RWD and FWD work, and make sure you know the ins and outs of winter driving with whichever your van has. Closed Campsites and Facilities Many campsites, RV parks, and public facilities close during winter, especially in colder regions. Finding a safe place to park with access to electricity, water, and other services can be harder. A few tips: Most ski resorts don’t allow overnight parking, but it always pays to check ahead and see if they have a designated area. Take advantage of van life parking apps that help you plan your spot or even reserve ahead of time. Spend more time looking for hotel or city street parking spots. When in doubt…Walmart. Staying Warm Inside the Camper     Even if your van or camper is insulated, keeping warm can be a struggle. Cold weather seeps in, and without proper heating, your living space can become uncomfortable or even unsafe. Invest in insulated window shades and thermal curtains. They’ll keep you warmer at night and save energy by preventing more warm air from escaping. It gets pricey, but marina wool is super effective in keeping warm and dry. If you haven’t yet bought a heater for your van, consider one with a dry heat source. Consider adding foam board or reflective insulation to your camper’s walls and roof. Never let your van interior freeze. Imagine coming home to frozen water pipes, frozen body wash, frozen drinking water…you get it.   Frozen Water Systems Water tanks, pipes, and hoses can freeze in low temperatures, leading to potential damage and the inconvenience of no running water. This issue can also affect your ability to use the bathroom, cook, or clean. Proper insulation is the key to preventing this, as well as having a heater running almost constantly. If you have a gas or diesel heater, follow instructions carefully to avoid carbon build-up. If your heater is electric, just plan strategically as to not use up your entire power supply and find yourself SOL. Tips for Living in a Camper in the Winter Successfully navigating van life in winter requires preparation and the right equipment – but it is possible! Here are van life essentials to help you handle the cold and stay comfortable: Invest in a Reliable Heating Source: A portable propane heater, diesel heater, or built-in furnace can provide warmth. Make sure to follow safety guidelines, including proper ventilation, to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Electric space heaters can be used if you have access to shore power. Winterize Your Water System: To prevent freezing, use heated hoses or insulate your water lines. Consider using an RV antifreeze for the gray and black water tanks. Keep a small amount of antifreeze in the toilet bowl (if you have a bathroom in your van) to prevent it from freezing. In extreme conditions, you might opt to use bottled water for drinking and cooking and a portable toilet to avoid using the built-in systems. Cook Warm Meals: Hot meals can help keep you warm. Use a propane stove or electric induction cooktop to prepare soups, stews, and hot beverages. Cooking inside the camper can also raise the indoor temperature. Layer Up: Invest in thermal clothing, thick socks, and insulated jackets. Use layers to stay warm, both inside and outside the camper. Sleeping bags rated for low temperatures are essential for cold nights. Use Heated Blankets: Electric blankets or heating pads can provide extra warmth, especially at night. These can be powered by your camper’s battery or shore power when available. Sleep on top of it to stay warm all around (heat rises). Choose Your Location Wisely: Research campsites and parking spots that remain open in winter and offer amenities like electricity and water hookups. Look for places with natural wind barriers, such as tree lines or buildings, to help shield against the cold. Tips for Winter Driving Driving a van, rv, or pulling a camper in the cold weather is different from driving a solo passenger vehicle.  Check the Weather Forecast: Always check weather conditions before setting out. Avoid traveling during snowstorms or when ice is expected on the roads. Use Winter Tires: Equip your camper with winter tires for better traction on snow and ice. Consider carrying tire chains, especially if traveling in mountainous regions where they may be required. Drive Slowly and Carefully: Reduce your speed and increase the following distance between your camper and other vehicles. Take turns slowly, and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding. Keep Emergency Supplies: Carry a winter