Whether you’re a first-time RV owner or a weathered pro, you can still have questions about how to properly prepare your rig for winter travel. The process can vary depending on the climate where you live and the destinations you plan to visit. However, the following tips and recommendations are a good place to start.
Assess Your Heating Situation
To stay safe and comfortable on your winter RV adventures, make sure you have the proper heating setup before heading out. Test out the built-in heater system to gauge how well it heats the rig.
Chances are, you’ll need to use an additional heat source, like a portable unit. If you’re heading to a campsite or destination where you’ll have an electricity hook-up, then a portable electric heater is a good option. Otherwise, you might need to look for alternative solutions, like a propane-powered unit that’s suited for small areas.
Either way, make sure to pack the proper clothing for cold-weather conditions, such as a heavy coat, gloves, stocking caps, thermal underwear, and plenty of layers.
Winterize the Water System
If you expect your destination to have temperatures below freezing, you’ll need to partially winterize the RV to avoid damaging your water or plumbing system. Before travel, drain the water lines and disable your plumbing. This means you won’t be able to use the sink or bathroom on board as you normally would. However, it’s a necessary step to avoid serious damage and costly repairs.
You can winterize the RV on your own. But, if you’d prefer to have a professional handle it, your local RV dealership may offer a winterization service.
Prepare Your Tires
You may need to use chains or snow tires if you’re going to drive on winter road conditions in your RV. This may even be a requirement in certain areas. You should also check for tire pressure and top them off with air if needed before you head out.
Make sure to plan ahead and research the road conditions before you set out on your travels. If you’re not used to driving on icy roads, especially in a large vehicle like an RV, it’s best to use precaution and avoid routes that have severe winter conditions.
Don’t Plan on Traveling This Winter?
If you’re planning to store your RV away during the colder months, you’ll need to fully winterize it to avoid any damage that might ensue from freezing winter conditions.
Consult with the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific recommendations for your RV, though here are some of the general steps you’ll need to take to get the rig ready for winter storage:
- Drain all water lines to avoid pipe bursts
- Check for cracks in the exterior or worn door/window/vent seals that can lead to leaks
- Thoroughly clean the interior to prevent pest infestations, mold, and mildew
- Disconnect the main battery
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Written by Bailey Schramm in partnership with Werever outdoor kitchen cabinets
