Tips for winter RV camping

Camping in the winter? It might sound like something other than the most popular experience ever, but owning a winterized RV can change everything. Winter RV camping allows you to enjoy a frozen landscape's splendor without the frigid sleeping conditions. Review these winter RV tips and tricks for getting the most out of your cold weather camping.

How to winterize your RV

First thing’s first – is your RV winterized? If not, your camping experience may not be as comfortable as you’d like. If your RV is also where you live permanently, you might wonder, “Do I need to winterize my RV if I live in it?” It depends on whether you live where the weather gets cold, but if you do, yes, you should. Maintaining a warm RV in the winter can be essential, not just for your enjoyment but also for your safety. Here are some ways you can winterize your camper:

1. Insulate your windows by adding a heat-reflective covering.
2. Use insulation to prevent cold from coming through roof vents.
3. Ensure doors and windows are correctly sealed, replacing weather stripping where needed.
4. Use an RV skirt to minimize cold air blowing underneath your RV.
5. Keep a backup heat source within the RV, such as an electric space heater.
6. Insulate your RV’s pipes, which can help prevent them from freezing and bursting. [1] 

How to keep your RV warm in the winter

Whether you’re just out for a weekend winter getaway or living full-time in an RV in the winter, insulating a camper for winter living is critical to a safe, enjoyable experience. Even if you’ve already winterized your RV or bought one that was already winterized, there are additional steps you can take to keep the heat in:

• Cover as much floor space as you can with thick rugs.
• Use heavy curtains on your windows to give your insulation a boost.
• You should also have warm clothes and blankets inside the RV to help conserve body heat. [1]

Winter camping gear  to bring on your trip

Winter RV living isn’t entirely about the RV – you must have proper gear, too! From additional warmth for the inside of your camper to tools you may need for outdoor tasks, here are some of the items you’ll want to bring:

• Thick blankets and other warm coverings
• Waterproof clothing
• Tire chains for additional traction in snowy/icy conditions
• A shovel, in case you need to dig your RV out of snow or create a depression for a campfire
• Light sources like flashlights or headlamps
• Backup fuel source [1]

How to keep pipes from freezing  in an RV

Keeping yourself warm while camping is one of the most important things you can do. But if you’re camping in an RV, keeping your pipes warm might be next. Managing your plumbing is essential for learning how to live in a camper in the winter. Here are some tips on how to prevent your pipes from freezing:

1. Keep your waste tanks closed and wait until they are almost full to dump them – this may help ensure the fluids within do not freeze.
2. Add small amounts of antifreeze to your wastewater via your toilet and sink.
3. Wrap external hoses and pipes with heat tape.
4. If the weather turns particularly cold, consider letting your taps drip to keep water moving inside – this may help slow the rate at which it freezes.
5. Keeping the temperature in your RV warm may prevent your internal water tank from freezing.
6. Choosing a heated hose may help the water reach your RV without freezing if you're at a campsite with a city water connection. [1]

Unlock unique camping experiences by following our guide on winter camping in an RV. With proper insulation for your plumbing and living space, an RV can be a reliable home on the road, no matter the time of year. If you want to keep that home protected, Nationwide RV insurance may be able to help. Some level of protection may be mandatory depending on the state you’re in, so be sure to learn about the required coverage before you set out on your first adventure. 

[1] “Winter RV camping: A guide for cold weather campers,” (Accessed July 2024)