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Winter camping can be slightly tougher than summer camping, but we’re here to make it easier for you. Prepare for your trip with our list of winter camping essentials, and you’ll be all set!
Winter RV camping may be less common than other seasons, but it has its highlights! Winter campers enjoy the best attractions with much less traffic, don’t have to deal with bugs and mosquitoes, experience quieter environments, and see famous landscapes blanketed in white snow. Of course, the unique winter camping experience also demands a winter camping checklist to equip you with everything you will need on the road. With different weather conditions, your RV may need extra upkeep, and so might your body in order to stay safe from the cold.
We’ve gathered a complete checklist to prepare you for your winter RV camping trip. From all you’ll need in your RV to camping essentials and safety equipment, we’ve got it covered. Take a read of our list of essentials below and start preparing!
RV Prep for Winter Camping
Living in a camper in the winter can be more difficult than in the summer. It will be colder, and many campgrounds may not be operating to accommodate RVs anymore. That is why preparing your RV before hitting the roads for every situation is important. Here are our top RV prep tips for winter camping.
1. Skirt Your RV
Your RV needs to be adequately insulated to function properly in the cold climate. Skirting is a great way to warm the underbelly of your RV and keep the wires and plumbing lines safe. The skirting equipment is made of various insulating materials and wraps around your RV's lower half.
2. Seal the Windows
Make sure that all of your RV windows are closed and sealed correctly. The same goes for your roof. If your RV roof sealants need to be improved, here is a list of the best RV roof sealants. Keeping the top and windows sealed adds to the insulation and warmth of your RV.
3. Propane Refills and Monitoring
Your RV is your winter camp for the season, and you’ll need to keep your base heated. Propane provides heating for your rig, and the more you use it, the quicker it will finish up. Try to find accommodations where propane stations are nearby for a re-fill. If that’s unlikely, pack some extra propane cans to be on the safe side.
4. Insulate the Pipes
The efficiency and function of your RV’s water and sewer systems rely on the pipes. The pipes can freeze and burst if exposed to extremely cold temperatures. You can insulate the lines of your RV with foam pipe insulation or heat tape. Also, consider adding RV antifreeze to your black and gray water tanks.
5. Battery Maintenance
Cold temperatures can drain your RV’s battery faster. Use a battery warmer or insulated cover to maintain battery efficiency. If your destination will have limited access to electricity, carry a portable solar panel or generator as a backup power source.
Sleeping Essentials
Even inside your RV, winter camping requires thoughtful preparation to stay warm and comfortable. Our checklist below covers everything from added padding to your bed to insulated tents for off-grid winter camping.
Foam pad for warmth
3- or 4-season tents (if camping outside your RV)
Dry bag
Cold-weather sleeping bags (rated for sub-zero temperatures)
Lightweight pillow
Insulated sleeping pad
Electric blankets or heated mattress pads (if plugged into power)
Clothing Essentials
Winter attires are all about layering up and staying warm. If you are one of those campers who like to do fun winter camping activities, like skiing or snowboarding, it is important to take along suitable clothing that stays dry and keeps you warm. Of course, closet space is limited in RVs, so just be sure to make space for the essentials we have listed below.
Base layer tops and trousers
Quick-drying underwear
Waterproof, breathable pants and jacket
Heavyweight down or synthetic jacket
Gloves and toque
Fleece jacket or sweater
Liner socks and waterproof winter boots
Gaiters or snowshoes (for deep snow conditions)
Kitchen Essentials
Only some RV campers are lucky enough to find winter camping tents with stoves. The rest have to make sure our RV kitchens are stocked with the essentials to get us through the cold weather and keep us healthy. Winter kitchenware is slightly different because it has to combat wetness and keep our items insulated. Don’t fret - we have listed all essentials below for your convenience.
Insulated water bottles
Hot drinks like tea, coffee, or cocoa
Lightweight cutlery and plates
Firestarter and waterproof matches
Liquid-fuel camping stove (ideal for cold weather cooking)
Pot set with lids for faster heating
Thermos for storing hot soups or drinks
Portable slow cooker (if connected to power)
Safety Gear
Whether you are traveling to a new destination or in a difficult season, it is crucial to be prepared for safety hazards. Safety gear becomes all the more important during winter camping because not all service stations and helplines may be operating in harsher weather. Here is a list of all the bases you should have covered when it comes to safety gear essentials.
First aid kit
Sunscreen (yes, UV rays reflect off snow!)
Disposable hand warmers
Headlamp and flashlight
Knife (with a safety locking blade)
Duct tape and repair kits for stoves, tents, and pads
Prescription medicine in a dry container
GPS device or map (cell service can be unreliable)
Ice axe and crampons for icy areas
Rain cover and snow chains for your tires
Emergency thermal blankets
5 Winter-Friendly Tech Upgrades
Heated Rugs or Mats: Keep your RV interior floor warm with heated rugs or mats, especially if the floor isn't insulated.
RV Skirting: This helps to keep the RV underbelly warm, preventing pipes from freezing and adding an extra layer of comfort.
Portable Electric Space Heater: A portable electric space heater can provide supplemental warmth to specific areas in your RV.
Smart Thermostat for RVs: Keep your RV cozy and energy-efficient with a smart thermostat.
Dehumidifier: Prevent condensation buildup inside your RV, which can lead to mold and mildew.
Conclusion
Snow-covered landscapes might be enticing, but a winter camping trip can get just as harsh if you are not appropriately prepared. From layered winter clothing to skirting your RV, packing the proper kitchen gear, and ensuring safety, this list will ensure you’re packed wisely for your winter camping trip. Invest in RV-specific upgrades, double-check your equipment, and head out to experience the magic of winter camping!
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