RV Tips: 6 Ways to Prep for Winter Camping

RVing is a popular pastime for many people, especially during the summer months. However, when the colder weather sets in, it’s important to prepare your RV for winter storage properly. Failure to do so can result in costly repairs and damage to your vehicle. Fortunately, with some planning and preparation, you can ensure that your RV remains in great shape throughout the winter season. Check out these RV tips below!

camping family

Check Your Tires

When preparing your RV for winter, it is crucial to check your tires before embarking on any cold-weather trips. Cold temperatures can cause a significant loss in tire pressure, leading to unstable driving conditions and potential tire damage. To prevent these issues, it is essential to regularly monitor and adjust the tire pressure accordingly. Start by using a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in each tire. If needed, add air to bring the pressure to the manufacturer’s recommended level.

tires

Protect Your Pipes

To ensure your RV pipes and tanks don’t freeze during the winter months, there are a few steps you can take. First, insulate any exposed pipes with foam board or heat tape to provide extra protection against the cold temperatures. You can also use heat tape on your water hoses, which will help prevent freezing and keep the water flowing smoothly. Another important step is to keep a faucet slightly open and allow it to drip slowly. This can prevent water from freezing in the pipes and causing damage. Additionally, using antifreeze in your black and grey tanks is essential to prevent them from freezing and potentially cracking.

Insulate Your Windows

During the winter months, it’s important to keep cold air from coming in the windows of your RV. One way to accomplish this is by using draft stoppers or weatherstripping to seal gaps around the windows. This can help prevent cold drafts from entering the RV and keep the interior warmer. Another effective technique is to cover the windows with thermal curtains or insulated window coverings. These can create an additional barrier against the cold air and help maintain a comfortable temperature inside the RV. Finally, you can also use window insulation film to reduce heat loss further; the film is applied to the inside of the windows and shrinks when heated, creating a tight seal that blocks cold air from entering.

window sealed with plastic

Head South for the Winter

Heading south in an RV during winter offers numerous benefits, especially regarding the reduced risk of driving on ice and snow. By heading south, RV travelers can experience a more relaxed and enjoyable winter adventure, free from the worries and hazards of navigating icy roads and snowy environments.

Use a Heated Water Hose

Use a heated water hose to prevent freezing of your water supply. Consider investing in a heated water hose. These hoses are designed to keep your water flowing in freezing temperatures. Connect the heated water hose to the spigot and your RV’s fresh water intake. The built-in heating element will keep the water warm and prevent it from freezing.

Ensure Your Sewage is Draining Properly

When winter RV camping, keeping your sewer hose off the ground and flowing downward is crucial to prevent freezing and ensure proper drainage. By elevating the hose, you minimize the risk of moisture pooling and freezing, which could lead to clogs and damage.

This sewage hose is not elevated properly and may lead to drainage problems.
This sewage hose is not elevated properly and may lead to drainage problems.

Contact us for more information on preparing your RV for winter. Our experienced team can help you find the best solutions to ensure your RV is ready for a safe and enjoyable winter adventure.

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