The temperatures may be dropping, but that doesn’t mean the adventurers stop. While some travelers seek comfort by opting for warmer climates in states such as Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, others prefer the presence of snow-covered peaks and world-class ski resorts. Winter RV camping can become a vacation of a lifetime.
If you are wondering what it would be like to wake up in your RV surrounded by blankets of snow, continue reading. We will cover all the essential items and tips you need to know to turn your holiday-style adventure into a memorable trip.
Winterizing Your RV
Winterizing your RV is crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable winter camping experience without unnecessary hiccups. Heated hoses and space heaters will do you no good if your vehicle is incapable of handling freezing conditions. Fortunately, there is a lot you can do to upgrade your motorhome to protect it from damage and avoid expensive repairs.
For starters, remove pre-installed inline water filters to pour antifreeze through your water system. Opening your faucets (hot and cold lines) is a solid strategy to prevent any damage that can accumulate on your pump. Make sure to close your faucets after the water has drained. Similarly to the last tip, you’ll also want to drain your vehicle’s gray water tanks.
If your campground provides access to sewer hookups, you can leave your hose connected to drain your tanks. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions applicable to your motorhome.
Must-Have Winter Items
Now that you have a better understanding of how to maintain your RV in freezing conditions let’s go over the essentials you’ll need before heading out on your adventure. The following are some winter RV camping must-haves to check off your list:
Heated water hoses
Heated hoses are essential if you’re spending your vacation in areas where temperatures might drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. A proper one will have insulation and provide enough power to keep your pipes from freezing and bursting. This way, water will continue to flow naturally. Ensure your selected hose has enough PSI to withstand increased water pressure.
Electric blankets
There is nothing more brutal than lying awake on your mattress with chattering teeth as you wait for the sun to come back up. Avoid night shivers by purchasing an electric blanket. How do they work? These fuzzy fabrics rely on electricity via an outlet to heat their wires. Best of all, modern ones contain automatic shut-off timers based on heat intensity and time of usage.
Space heater
Depending on the size of your motorhome, you may want to consider investing in a space heater to maintain your interior at a comfortable overnight temperature. A quality option will help travelers conserve their propane and allow them to adjust the thermostat. On top of their adjustment features, they also contain safety components that prevent them from overheating.
Reflective window covers
Reflective window covers can do wonders for you if you are trying to keep cold from entering through your windows. Remove it to let the sun warm up your motorhome during the day before putting them back up at night. For the best quality, look into thermal drape options.
Dehumidifier
If high humidity and condensation are taking a toll on your motorhome’s interior, then you should invest in an RV dehumidifier. These products reduce the buildup of moisture inside your vehicle. The good news is that they come in multiple shapes and sizes, so there’s something for everyone. Not only can you place them anywhere inside your RV, but there are non-electric options too.
Snow removal products
Let’s face it: no one wants to spend their time scraping snow and ice off their RVs. However, if you’re traveling to Alaska-style regions or the Cascade Range, you don’t have much of a choice. Extendable scrappers are a solid choice for scrubbing large windshields. Opt for a reasonably-sized snow shovel, so you don’t spend endless hours digging yourself out of snow.
Heated apparel
Proper clothing can mean the difference between a splendid, Christmas-style vacation and an unbearable nightmare. If you’re traveling to the Midwest region for a winter RV camping trip, bring heated clothes. These cozy garments rely on wires that heat up when electric charges pass through. Some options are powered by rechargeable batteries, including gloves, jackets, and socks. Jackets have their batteries stored in a hand pocket. For gloves, you can easily access the battery with the push of a button.
Remember not to use them in water. If you do, you will damage the battery.
Stay Cozy With Cruise America
A winter RV camping trip can be your first step in getting out of your comfort zone as you explore snowman territories. Cruise America wants to turn your expedition into a lifelong memory. Select one of our customized RV rentals and surround yourself with home-like necessities to keep you warm and satisfied.
Contact us today to get started.
