Winter RV road trips can be dangerous due to freezing temperatures. The good news is that it is possible to have a successful and enjoyable trip even in sub-freezing weather. But, it is worth taking some precautions to prepare for the cold months ahead.
First, make sure you check the weather forecast. This is especially important when camping in an area that has a high chance of freezing. You should also consider rescheduling your trip if there's a chance of unfavorable conditions.
An extra blanket is a great way of keeping warm. You can also bring a lantern powered by a battery. It's not uncommon for campgrounds to offer propane bottles for rental. It is possible to bring along a foot warmer.
You can add an electric blanket or heat pad to your RV for extra warmth. This will eliminate chilling from the RV's interior. You can also use an electrical dehumidifier to dry out the air. A container of moisture absorbent can be purchased if condensation is a concern.
Camco's heated drinking water hose can be installed to protect your water pipes against freezing. This is an affordable way to keep warm in winter. You can also protect your holding tank by adding antifreeze.
You can also use heat tape to insulate your pipes to keep them safe from freezing. This can prevent water from freezing inside your RV. If your pipes freeze, you can thaw them with hot water. You can also try running water through them to prevent them from freezing.
Although the temperature inside your RV's basement will not drop below freezing, it is a good idea keep a thermometer handy. This will enable you to check if the temperature in your tanks has reached a sufficient low to cause a freeze. You can also use the thermometer outside of your RV to measure the temperature.
Also, you should take measures to keep your RV’s engine running smoothly. You should maintain the proper fuel level, but it is a good idea to add a small amount of RV antifreeze pink to your holding tanks to prevent freezing. It might be worth considering a block heater to heat your RV if you're going somewhere cold. These can be purchased in 12V DC and 120V AC models.
Be sure to bring the right clothes for the winter weather when you're packing your RV for a winter roadtrip. You'll want to include a couple pairs of breathable base layers to wick away moisture and stay nimble, as well as a couple warmer-weight jackets or sweaters in case you end up camping in a colder part of the country.