People often associate RVing with basking in the sun during the summer months. Why limit the fun to only half the year? 

Some fortunate souls head south in order to avoid winter altogether, but the rest of us need not fret. Wintertime features spectacular views, great camping, skiing, and even reduced rates at many campgrounds. 

In order to prevent cold temperatures from ruining your trip, take precaution and winterize your camper by heeding the following advice. 

Don’t limit your camping adventures to the summer months. Camp in comfort during the winter by winterizing your RV. 

Heating Your Camper: 

Properly heating your camper is a matter of getting the best bang for your buck. Your first line of defence, of course, is your furnace. To avoid mishap, always have a spare, full propane tank on hand. When you use it, replace it with another spare immediately. 

Space heaters can be a more economical option, especially when you have electronic hook ups and aren’t forced to use your battery. Make sure you buy a reputable brand, and ensure safe operation. 

Simply parking in the sun, when possible, can also provide an extra source of natural light and heat. Baking not only provides a nice warm treat, but can raise the temperature inside the camper as well. 

Other heat sources, such as catalytic heaters and pellet stoves have their pros and cons, so research carefully or consult a trusted dealer. 

Insulate Your Camper: 

Let Old Man Winter know that he’s not welcome at your party by sealing his favorite entrances. 

Cover your windows with some combination of heavy curtains, clear plastic, bubble wrap, StyroFoam and plexiglass. Place a towel or curtain over the door. Use rugs to cover the cold floor. Seal cracks in your exterior and insulate light fixtures. 

It is important, however, to leave a vent cracked. This allows an escape point for unwanted carbon monoxide, and also prevents excess humidity. A dehumidifier also works well. 

Insulate Yourself:

Winter warriors know that you’ve got to dress for the occasion. Visit a thrift store and stock up on seasonal clothing. Layers will help as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Invest in a good sleeping bag that is designed to withstand cold temperatures. An electric blanket can help you get through the cold night and can also be useful during the day when draped over a sofa or seating area. 

Exercise is another great way to raise body temperature, so layer up and go for a vigorous walk. If there’s a public gym nearby you get the added bonus of a hot shower after you conclude your workout. 

Text: Beat the cold by engaging in some vigorous exercise, such as hiking, snowshoeing or skiing. 

Dress Your RV Up… In a Skirt: 

For people, skirts are not exactly the best way to battle frosty temps, but for RVs they can be very helpful. Cold often enters the camper through the floor, so it’s best to insulate from below. 

Skirting can be fabric, plastic, vinyl, wood or even metal and can be insulated with Styrofoam. 

Vinyl cement can be used to attach a Velcro or zipper splice to the outside of your camper. This can then be used to affix the skirt. In a pinch you can even warm a camper’s bottom by piling snow around the perimeter to keep out icy winds. This is not recommended for a human’s bottom. 

A skirt will protect more than just the floor, which leads to our next point…

Protect Pipes, Hoses and Tanks: 

Keeping the area below your camper warm will prevent tanks and pipes from freezing (and potentially busting). In addition to skirts or other enclosures, consider placing a small, but heavy-duty, space heater beneath the camper. Wrap your water heater with an insulated blanket. Insulate hoses and pipes, or research and purchase ones that are resistant to cold temperatures. 

Antifreeze can prevent your black tank from freezing. To add, simply pour and flush. 

Another option is to avoid the potential for freezing altogether by draining tanks and utilizing bottled water and public restrooms. 

Make Sure Your Camper is Road Worthy:

Do a tune up to ensure your camper is ready for winter trips. Batteries may not hold charge as well in cold temperatures, so ensure yours is in good working order. Have tire chains on hand for poor road conditions. Keep windshield wiper fluid and antifreeze at the ready. 

Get creative while enjoying your camper during the frigid season and, of course, never head out on a camping trip without your Lynx Levelers. Twelve months a year, they are the best way to ensure your camper remains stable.

Warm or cold, Lynx still hold. Don’t forget to bring Lynx Levelers on your camping adventures.