When the clocks go back and the mornings turn frosty, many motorhomes are rolled into storage, covered up, and left to hibernate until spring. But more and more motorhomers are realising winter can be one of the best times to get out on the road. Campsites are quieter, prices are often lower, and there’s something magical about waking up to a crisp winter morning in your ’van.
The big question, though, is this: is your motorhome really ready for the cold? A little preparation goes a long way. Get it right and you’ll be snug, comfortable, and safe. Get it wrong and you could end up with frozen pipes, flat motorhome batteries, and a trip you’d rather forget.
So if you’re not winterising a motorhome, here’s how to ensure that you and your motorhome are prepared for touring during the colder months.
Staying warm and dry
A key part of enjoyable touring during the colder months will be knowing how to keep a campervan warm in winter.
Your heating system is your best friend here. Before you even think about a frosty getaway, fire it up at home and make sure it’s working correctly. Whether you’ve got a blown-air or a wet heating system, a pre-trip test run will give you peace of mind. Remember, heating chews through gas far quicker in the colder months. If you usually get by on a single gas cylinder in the summer, consider carrying a spare in winter.
On electric hook-up? Be aware that many sites limit the amps they supply, so don’t be surprised if the kettle and the heating trip the system if used simultaneously.
Insulation is key, too. Silver screens on the cab, thermal blinds on the windows and even a draught excluder by the door can make a big difference. And don’t forget ventilation. It might feel wrong to crack a roof vent when it’s freezing outside, but a little airflow helps stop condensation building up.
If you decide you need some extra warmth on tour too, you can always consider buying the best heater for a campervan.
Protecting your water systems
Frozen pipes are the number one winter touring complaint. If your motorhome has internal tanks, keep the inspection lids firmly closed. If you have tank heaters, now’s the time to switch them on. External pipes and taps can be lagged to give them a fighting chance against the frost. Fresh and waste water need attention.
Some motorhomers use a portable waste container that can be stored inside the ’van to stop it freezing. Others slip a purpose-made insulating ‘sock’ over the grey water outlet.
And here’s a golden rule: if you’re leaving the campervan unused for a few days in sub-zero temperatures, always completely drain the water system. It takes 10 minutes and could
save you a costly repair.
Road safety
Winter roads need a little extra care. Check your tyres for tread depth and pressure (see what we have to say about motorhome tyre pressures for more on this). In some European countries, winter tyres or snow chains are a legal requirement, so if you’re heading abroad, do your homework.
Top-up the screen wash with a winter mix so it won’t freeze. Carry essentials such as a shovel, torch, blankets and traction mats – you may never need them, but if you do, you’ll be happy they’re there. And drive with a gentle touch. A motorhome is heavier than a car and reacts differently on icy roads. Smooth acceleration and braking are key.
Power and batteries
Batteries and cold weather aren’t the best of friends. A leisure battery that performs well in August might struggle in January. Keep them charged up, and if your battery is already showing signs of age, you could consider replacing it before the winter.
Campervan solar panels are great in summer, but in December you’ll get far less power from them, especially on short, grey days. Don’t rely on solar alone to keep you going.
Hook-up is the simplest solution, but if you’re wild camping, consider taking the best portable power station for a campervan as a backup for charging your phone and other devices. Check the health of both your leisure and vehicle batteries before winter trips. Waking up to find the lights, pump, and heating fan are all dead is a surefire way to ruin the adventure.
Creature comforts
Winter motorhoming is about making the ’van as cosy as possible. Pack extra blankets or a warm duvet, bring hot water bottles and layer-up with clothing. You’ll use less gas if you’re already warm before the heating kicks in.
Think about the long evenings, too. With shorter days, you’ll spend more time inside the ’van. Pack some books, board games, or load up that box set you’ve been meaning to watch. And don’t forget your four-legged companions. My border terrier, Reg, makes it very clear that he appreciates an extra blanket when the temperature drops!
Campsite considerations
Not every campsite stays open through the winter, so check ahead before setting off. Those that do are often well-prepared, with heated facilities, hardstanding pitches and sometimes even frost-resistant water taps. The best bit? You’ll often find them quieter, more peaceful, and more affordable than in the summer months.
Embrace the adventure
Winter motorhoming isn’t just possible, it’s brilliant. With a bit of prep, you can enjoy frosty mornings, empty roads and a steaming mug of tea in the cosiest place you know – your motorhome. So wrap up warm, get set for winter touring, and go and make some chilly but unforgettable memories.
You can find out more about Motorhome Matt and listen to his podcast at motorhomematt.co.uk.
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