Camping is usually thought of as a summer activity. But when you’ve invested in an RV, you and your family can go camping at any time of year, even in the dead of winter.
Even though you won’t be sleeping outside, you still need to prepare for the weather when you take your RV on a winter camping trip. From taking precautions with your appliances to making sure you have the right supplies, there are several things you’ll need to take into consideration to make sure your camping trip is warm, comfortable, and safe.
So where should you begin? Here are some tips on how to prep your RV for a winter camping trip.
Prep the Exterior
Prepping the exterior of your RV can make a big difference to your comfort levels while camping in winter. Check for any leaks or damage to your seals that could risk letting cold air in. It’s also important that you make sure the vehicle is waterproof to stop the rain or snow from getting in. A thorough inspection can highlight any issues that have the potential to affect your trip. If your RV is older, you might also consider investing in some new insulation to provide that extra layer of protection and warmth for your RV.
Check on Your Interior Appliances
If you haven’t used your RV in a while, then it’s time to check on your interior appliances too. Items like your fridge and furnace are essential, so you’ll need to double-check that they’re also in good working order. If you’re unsure about doing this yourself, you should bring in a professional to give them the once-over and make any necessary repairs. You’d hate to go away only to furnace isn’t working, so be sure to make those checks in advance.
Check for other interior items that might need updating, like your RV mattress. If you have trouble sleeping, your mattress can make or break your vacation. So it’s a good idea to invest in a custom mattress that you know will help you enjoy being well-rested on your camping trip.
Inspect Your Plumbing
Just like your home, one of the essential things your RV needs is functioning plumbing. Having your plumbing fail could be a disaster, and it could cause lasting damage if it were to freeze.
There are several things you can do to stop your RV plumbing from freezing, including the following:
- Use heat tape, especially around valves and connections.
- Help the rest of your heating keep your plumbing warm by keeping doors open to help warm air circulate.
- Keep your water moving by allowing a slight drip from your taps (this can stop the water from freezing due to lack of movement).
- Space heaters can make an excellent addition for your RV; you can use them to provide extra heat, as well as keep them near your plumbing sources if they’re not already near a heat source.
Engine and Battery Checks
Before you set off on any journey in your RV, you should always carry out basic checks on things like your engine batteries. This is especially important in the winter, because if these items fail in the middle of nowhere, you could be in for a very cold and uncomfortable time.
To check your RV battery, you should make sure it’s not in charging mode first. This will ensure you’re given a more accurate reading. You can also do a voltage test or try some light testing by turning on the lights or a couple of smaller appliances to give you some assurance that the battery is working as it should.
Pack the Right Supplies
In addition to basic RV winter prep, you also need to think carefully about the kinds of supplies you take with you. Plenty of blankets and warm clothing is a must for your trip, and they can keep you all warm during those cold nights. You should also take plenty of flashlights and consider other kinds of heat sources like hand warmers in case you need to walk somewhere in the cold. Make sure you take plenty of food and water with you too, including food that can be heated up over a fire if necessary. Canned goods are great for camping and can save you a lot of time and stress!
Prepping your RV can help make sure your winter camping trip is a successful one. From checking your vehicle’s plumbing to packing the right supplies, these precautions can help make sure your RV survives your winter camping trip. Now all you need to do is get on the road and drive safe!