Now is the Time for Cold Weather Adventures

Words and Photos by Perry Mack

While building a house in 2020, permitting was delayed by six weeks, and as a result, completion of the house was delayed by four months. Our existing home was already sold, so instead of a month in our RV in October, our 5th wheel became our winter home from October to March. Needless to say, we learned a great deal about cold weather RVing.

Winter RVing can be a magical experience, offering stunning snowy landscapes and a peaceful escape from crowded campgrounds. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your cold-weather adventure while staying safe and comfortable.

Choosing the Right RV

Not all RVs are built for winter conditions. If you plan to camp in freezing temperatures, look for an RV with adequate insulation, a heated underbelly, and double-pane windows. If your RV isn’t winter-ready, consider adding insulation to windows and doors, skirting the bottom to keep cold air out, and using space heaters inside.

Preparing Your RV for the Cold

  • Insulate Your Water System: Use heated hoses or wrap your water hose in insulation to prevent freezing. Drain and store your freshwater hose when not in use. We did both, wrapping heating wire around the hose and pipe insulation on top of everything. If the temperature drops to -20°C, a few centimetres of unprotected hose can freeze and create a blockage.
  • Protect Your Tanks: Keep your black and gray tanks from freezing by using tank heaters or adding RV antifreeze. We didn’t have heated tanks, and instead used skirting and a space heater to heat the underbelly and kept the tanks from freezing.
  • Seal Drafts: Check for air leaks around windows, doors, and vents, and seal them with weather stripping or thermal curtains. Window film works great to simulate a second ‘pane’ to keep about drafts and adds a second layer of insulation.
  • Skirting your RV will make a huge difference in keeping your RV warm. We’ve used Airskirts under our 5th wheel and EZSnap under our travel trailer.
  • Check Your Furnace & Heat Sources: Ensure your furnace is in good working condition, and consider having a backup heat source like a catalytic heater or electric space heater. Depending on your length of stay and style of RV, bring extra propane and service your generator.

Staying Warm & Comfortable

  • Use Proper Bedding: Invest in warm blankets, sleeping bags rated for cold temperatures, and thermal pajamas. Down comforters and flannel sheets worked great for us.
  • Cover the Floors: Use rugs or foam mats to add insulation and keep your feet warm.
  • Cook Inside: Cooking indoors not only provides warm meals but also helps heat your RV.
  • Dress in Layers: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, and insulated outerwear when venturing outside.

Safety Considerations

  • Monitor Carbon Monoxide Levels: If using propane heat, ensure your CO detector is working properly to prevent dangerous buildup.
  • Keep Pipes from Freezing: Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
  • Have an Emergency Kit: Pack extra food, water, blankets, batteries, and a portable power source in case of unexpected weather or power loss.
  • Be Ready for Slippery Roads: If traveling in snowy areas, carry tire chains, check road conditions frequently, and drive cautiously.

With the right preparation, winter RVing can be a cozy and memorable experience. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of the season!