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Travel Consultants and Travel Tips

Best Cold Weather Travel Trailers

January 15, 2021 by Charlotte Phillips

Last updated on December 10th, 2023 at 07:54 am

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What if your RV season didn’t have to end? What if instead of storing your travel trailer you became one of the brave few who kept on trucking through rain, sleet, and SNOW!

With the right setup, it’s entirely possible.

Not only does RV’ing through the winter allow you to see the world from an entirely different perspective, but it also means lower prices at campgrounds, and in some cases, you’ll have the campground all to yourself. Of course, that’s not for everyone and winter camping isn’t easy. But if you’re one of the brave few who wants to keep the adventure going, I’m going to review my 8 favorite travel trailers for winter and cold weather camping.

Why Travel Trailers?

You’ve got a lot of options when it comes to winter RV’ing but for my money travel trailers are one of the best ways to go. While driving anything in winter conditions is going to be difficult, the big benefit that you have with a travel trailer is the freedom to unhitch and hit the road. While this luxury is always nice, it’s absolutely awesome during the winter.

The last thing you want to do in bad conditions and drag your entire house to the store for a supply run. With a travel trailer, you don’t have to.

Travel trailers can also be just as hardy and warm as any other RV class so there’s no reason not to take advantage of the freedom they offer.

Do I Need An Arctic Package?

You’ve probably seen an RV labeled as being 4-seasons ready or being fully equipped with the arctic package. Unfortunately, there is no standard for what an arctic package has to include- which makes things confusing. It also means that one manufacturer’s version of an arctic package could be very different from what you actually need.

That’s why it’s important to not get distracted by the marketing; instead, you need to make sure you understand the specifics of what’s included in the 4-season or arctic packages. The biggest things to look for are additional insulation as measured by the rigs R-Value along with special warming mechanisms for tanks and fluid lines. Obviously being cold isn’t great but if you’ve got a frozen line in the middle of winter you could up with much bigger problems than being a little chilly.

When it comes to insulation, you should focus on the specific R-Value of the rig but make sure to figure out what it is for each part of the RV. Some manufacturers will really focus on a specific part of the rig and advertise super-high roof R-value, for example, which the rest of the rig could be lacking.

So should you put a lot of weight into whether or not an RV has an arctic package? While it can certainly help, at the end of the day it’s going to come down to the specific additions that have been added and not just the 4-season marketing. After all, there’s a big difference between being 4-season ready in Alaska vs Texas so make sure you know what kind of places you plan to roam before you buy.

1. Keystone Montana

Beautiful residential-style fixtures including hardwood cabinetry
22 different floor plans give you plenty of options to pick the perfect one for you
Four Seasons Package comes standard and includes 12V heating pads for the tanks and R-21 insulation on the floor.
Higher price compared to some other travel trailers but it’s well worth it if you’re looking for a winter-ready rig.

It doesn’t get much better than the Keystone Montana when it comes to staying warm and comfortable- no matter what the weather. No need to upgrade to an arctic package here since the Montana comes standard with a long list of winter-ready features including heating pads on holding tanks, heated underbelly, state of the art solar panels, and more.

But it isn’t just talk with the folks at Keystone! While I can’t track down the original post from Keystone, Guaranty explains that Keystone put the Montana to the test by placing the rig inside an extreme weather chamber. They then set the thermostat to a toasty 74-degree Fahrenheit while dropping the exterior temperature all the way to 0 degrees. Even with temperatures well below freezing, the interior of the Montana stayed nice and warm and didn’t drop below 70. Not only is that plenty warm, I’d say that’s a little too warm even!

As if that wasn’t enough, the critical tanks, dump valves, and other fluid lines stayed completely unfrozen and entirely operational. All thanks to the long list of features included standard in their Four Seasons Package.

The only real downside to the Keystone Montana would have to be the price but even that is hardly a downside. With an MSRP of $85,094, it may appear to be more expensive than other similar-sized Fifth Wheel and travel trailers but a big part of that is the Four Season upgrades that run standard. Let’s look at the R-Value of the flooring for example. A typical RV might have an R-Value of 10 to 15 while the Keystone Montana comes standard with an R-Value of 21!

If you don’t plan on taking advantage of this by braving the winter cold then this going to be overkill and you’ll end up paying for features you don’t really need. But if you’re planning on staying on the road this off-season in sub-freezing temperatures then the Keystone Montanan is probably worth every penny.

2. Northwood Arctic Fox 22G Travel Trailer

Extra insulation everywhere on this rig from every compartment door, to the roof and holding tank area.
Beautiful bathroom, especially when you consider the size of this RV
Luxury fixtures and features with a surprising amount of headroom
Budget-friendly with rigs available for less than $40,000.
The 22 foot 22G may be too small for some folks.

As the name implies, the Arctic Fox is ready for tough winter weather with a super tough trailer and plenty of insulation. But just because it’s purpose-built for winter weather doesn’t mean you have to skip the creature comforts and the Arctic Fox is packed with beautiful residential-style fixtures including a stovetop that I absolutely love. There’s also a supringly spacious dry bath, especially for a 22 footer, that includes a porcelain toilet and a skylight above the shower.

The chassis is built by Northwood Manufacturing and is offroad ready with a powerful steel frame. While most Class C or Class B RVs have a chassis that’s connected to a big name like Ford or Dodge, there can be a lot more variation when it comes to the chassis for travel trailers. That also means it can often be overlooked or taken for granted but if you’re planning on hitting the road this offseason, you need a rig that can handle the bumps and bruises that winter is going to dish out.

I believe that this chassis is ready for winter and the folks at Northwood take things a step further by having every chassis reviewed by an independent 3rd party tester. You can check out some footage of the chassis being built in this video:

When it comes to insulation, the Arctic Fox comes jam-packed with extra insulation on every inch of this rig. Including smaller areas that you might not immediately consider like the 1-inch thick insulated doors to all exterior storage areas. While it might not hit all the R-Values of the Keystone Montana, the Arctic Fox is still very comparable and won’t have any problems staying warm. All the usual features you’d expect in a winter-ready travel trailer are there too like extra insulation for fluid lines and extra heaters for the tanks.

Overall, it’s hard to go wrong with the Arctic Fox and with the folks at Northwood. They’ve got a long history of producing high-quality travel trailers that stand the test of time and with used models available for less than $40,000 at the time of writing, the Arctic Fox is a lot more affordable than some of the other specialized winter rigs.

3. Lance 2295 Travel Trailer (With Fireplace!)

This is one of the only RV’s you’ll find that includes an actual fireplace! What could be better for enjoying winter weather (and saving on propane)?
Nice sized oven with a beautiful three-burner stove
Huge slide out dining area with plenty of room for guests
Beautiful bedroom with a nightstand- which is another thing you’re not going to see in many other RVs!
The entertainment center in the middle of the overall layout feels a little clunky to me.

The Lance 2295 travel trailer is one of the more interesting travel trailers out there. Not only does it have a unique layout with but more importantly it has an electric fireplace placed in the center of the RV. While this certainly gives the rig a unique feel and ambiance it’s also practical- especially for winter camping. While you can’t exactly throw in a bunch of wood and call it day (although there are plenty of aftermarket wooden stoves you can add to your RV ) the electric stove can save you from burning out on propane when you’re hooked up at a campsite.

But for me, the style points you get for having a fireplace (electric or not) inside your RV are hard to beat!

In order to get the fireplace centrally located, the overall layout of this rig is a little different. There’s a center pillar that partially separates the bedroom from the rest of the RV and also houses the fireplace and television. You end up with a very separate bedroom and a television that’s in a much more central location than usual. I find that most folks either love this layout or hate it without much in between. You can see it in this video tour here:

Besides the fireplace, one of my other favorite features is the bedroom. It has a beautiful sloping window that will let you see the stars at night from the comfort of your own bed. Of course, you can also drop the blinds and sleep in. Because of the pillar in the center of the rig, the bedroom feels more secluded than a lot of other layouts which is actually something I love. If you’re sharing the travel trailer with another person there’s a better chance they can actually leave the bedroom and move about without waking you up.

Another nice touch in the bedroom is the addition of the nightstand. Most RV’s skip this small but really nice to have feature and the Lance has plenty of room for your nighttime needs complete with a simple recessed light. Of course, you’ll need to secure them when you hit the road.

When it comes to staying warm in the winter, the Lance has some nice features but isn’t going above and beyond like some of the other RVs on this list. It does have double-paned windows which can drastically increase the insulation factor of any space. The Lance also includes block foam insulation which is a little different from traditional insulation but still has comparable R-Values based on the research I could find.

Overall, the Lance 2295 is not only a great travel trailer for winter camper but also one of the more unique rigs on this list. You won’t find many RVs with a fireplace that comes standard and if you’re looking to recreate the cozy feel of your traditional home, the Lance might be the perfect fit. You can find used models for less than $50,000 which makes this a great way to get into the world of winter camping!

4. Forest River Cherokee Arctic Wolf with Extreme Weather Package

The Extreme Weather Package comes with plenty of great features for winter camping including a 35,000 BTU Furnace and upgraded insulation.
9+ flexible floor plans so you can find exactly what you need (including bunk beds for the kids)
Double slide outs make this rig very spacious with plenty of room for the family
Auto-leveling system which is especially nice if you’re working in tougher terrain
This RV also has a fireplace which may people will absolutely love
May be too big for some folks to tow

It’s hard to go wrong with an RV from the folks at Forest River and the Arctic Wolf is no exception. This travel trailer is on the larger side and most folks would consider this a fifth wheel. That means you’ll need a heavier duty truck to tow this but if you’re looking to stay comfortable throughout the winter (and any other kind of weather) then this makes a great choice.

For starters, you’ll also find that most floorplans include a fireplace! There are several floor plans and the location of the fireplace changes in each one so it’s worth looking closely at the available options . My personal favorite is the 321BH Floorplan which you can see here . It features a fireplace placed near the kitchen and entertaining area. As someone who loves to cook, I love the idea of having guests, my kitchen, and the fireplace all in the same area!

But let’s talk about weather. Forest River offers an extreme weather package that will get you ready not only for winter but any extreme temperature with additional fans and air conditioning units. The package includes a 35,000 BTU furnace, heated and enclosed underbelly, upgraded insulation across the entire rigs, several additional fans, and a ducted A/C unit. There’s also the option to even get a second air conditioning unit that specific to the bedroom. Not only is that more efficient since you don’t have to heat or cool the entire rig while you’re sleeping but it also gives you some extra power in terms of temperature control.

Overall, the Arctic Wolf has a great option for winter camping, especially if you pick up the extreme weather upgrade. But this luxurious travel trailer also comes in at a great price and you’re able to find 2021 models for as low as $32,000. That makes this a great option for getting the entire family started on a winter camping adventure this season!

5. Jayco Eagle 330RSTS

Available with Jayco’s Climate Shield upgrade for serious winter camping
Electronic leveling which is typically reserved for only fifth wheels
The beautiful two-tone interior gives this travel trailer a stylish look
A spacious bathroom which ceilings that are well above 6 feet tall
Tested by a third party facility for temperatures well below freezing
The lighting fixtures are nice but I’d personally always prefer recessed lighting over traditional fixtures
The modern IKEA-style interior design might not be everyone’s favorite

Jayco is another well-known RV manufacturer and they actually have two RVs on our list of the best Class C’s for winter . Jayco seems to specialize in cold weather rigs and they offer a Climate Shield upgrade that goes above and beyond the traditional arctic package. Available on a handful of Jayco RVs (including the Eagle Travel Trailer) the Climate Shield package includes a double-layer of fiberglass on the front cap to keep the bedroom nice and toasty along with a heated underbelly. You’ll also find PEX plumbing that’s tested for -40 degree Fahrenheit temperatures! Like the Forest River rig, this package also protects against hot weather with heavily tinted windows as well.

Jayco even took things a step further and put all this to the test by subjecting their RVs to 0 degrees Fahrenheit in a climate-controlled facility for 8 hours. Even after 8 hours of bitter cold (and some frost-covered tires) the interior of the rig was nice and comfortable with all plumbing working perfectly.

So there’s not really any doubt that the Jayco Eagle can handle cold temperatures- certainly anything most RVer’s will throw at it. But I also love the interior of this RV! It features a beautiful two-tone, black and white design that makes the entire travel trailer look like an IKEA set piece. For some folks, that might sound like a nightmare but I personally love the design. The bathroom includes a huge shower, massive ceilings, and several other nice touches like plenty of counter space. There’s even a backsplash which is not something you’re going to find in many RVs!While that doesn’t exactly bring a lot of function to the RV, it’s still a nice feature that makes this rig feel more like home.

I’m also a big fan of kitchen islands in any travel trailer and the Eagle has a great kitchen layout. There’s also tons of storage in this RV with enough room to squeeze in a washer and dryer in the bedroom .

You can get a feel for the layout and see if it’s something you like in this video:

Overall, the Jayco Eagle is a great travel trailer for winter camping with one of the most robust climate protection packages available. While not everyone is going to be a fan of the interior, if you like modern design like me you’ll probably love it. Compared to other RVs on this list, the Jayco Eagle is going to be a bit pricey and you should expect to pay a little over $50,000 for some of the newer models.

6. 2020 Heartland Big Horn 3985 RRD

bighorn fifth wheel travel trailer for winter

Raising electric beds is perfect for finding the best tv viewing angle but it’s also extremely practical when it comes to squeezing in extra storage.
An absolutely beautiful shower that gives you the feel of a full residential home
Comes standard with underbelly insulation and closure to keep the essential warm
R-34 insulation is more than enough for most RV’ers
More expensive than many others on this list with a roughly $70,000 price tag

Heartland is another manufacturer that’s no stranger to producing the 4-season RV market with several models that are purpose-built for cold weather. As a result, you can find a variety of features on the Big Horn fifth wheel that help it stand out from other rigs. For starters, there’s the massive 42,000 BTU furnace. Considering that most RVs have around a 30,000 BTU furnace this upgrade goes a long way to keeping you warm in the winter.

Then there are things like standard underbelly closure and insulation, the R-11 rating on the walls, and the R-34 insulation on the ceiling, and the always awesome PLEX plumbing. Add it all up and you’ve got a solid winter camping rig.

But I also love the interior of this RV with the most notable features being the bed and the bathroom. First off, the entire bed can be raised with the push of a button while that might not be everyone’s cup of tea, I love the options this gives for additional storage. I also like the idea of being able to sleep a bit higher off the ground to give my knees a break when I have to get out of bed in the middle of the night. The bathroom is beautifully designed and feels like a bathroom you’d expect in a full-size home with a sliding glass door and a proper vanity!

The only downside is that this RV runs a little on the high side compared to the rest of the rigs on this list and you should expect to pay around $70,000 for the Heartland Big Horn.

7. Northwood Nash 18FM Travel Trailer

Northwood’s 4 season insulation package includes a combination of batt fiberglass and block foam insulation for cold winters
Residential style cabinetry gives this travel trailer some extra style
Fully insulated and heated fluid tanks, pipes, and valves
Murphy bed for extra space
Not much natural lighting inside this rig and overall the interior is a bit dark

I don’t think any list of the best travel trailers for winter would be complete without a little more from the folks at Northwood ! They’re well known for building durable and winter-ready rigs and the simply named Nash is a great option for folks that want something smaller than the Arctic Fox but don’t want to sacrifice any winter-readiness.

The Nash is part of the “Absolute Northwood” line which means it comes standard with an off-road chassis that’s great for rougher winter weather. You’ll also get a whole lot of extra insulation on the roof, walls, undercarriage, and tank housing. All of which makes this a truly 4-season RV.

You can check out all the insulation upgrades included in the Absolute Northwood package in this video:

In addition to the usual winter features, the Nash includes a Murphy bed which gives this rig a bit more space but some folks aren’t going to exactly love it. When it comes to smaller travel trailers, something has to give when it comes to space and while the murphy bed is a great addition it’s going to be hard to ever match the comfort of a traditional bed or the memory foam options that we’re seeing in a lot of RVs these days.

The biggest downside to this RV is the interior lighting. You can tell if you watch the walk-through in the video above that the interior is a bit dark and it’s clear that windows aren’t a priority. Part of that comes with the territory when you have a smaller rig that includes a slide-out but I’d still love to see some more windows on this travel trailer. After all, there’s nothing more beautiful than a snow-covered landscape.

The Northwood Nash is also budget-friendly with an MSRP of less than $40,000.

Honorable Mention: Ice Castle All Seasons Travel Trailer

With a name like “Ice Castle” you know that it’s winter-ready
Spray foam insulation covering every nook and cranny including plenty of insulation in the underbelly
Power lift bed that can be lowered or raised with a flip of a switch
A unique “second-floor” style lounge area that can be converted to an additional sleeping area
Okay, that much cedar might be everyone’s style and it can get a bit overwhelming
It’s made for ice fishing so it’s definitely not for everyone

While the Ice Castle is actually purpose-built for folks that love ice fishing, I didn’t think that this list would be complete with a travel trailer like this one! Considering that they named this travel trailer the “Ice Castle” you know that they take 4 seasons’ capability seriously and it shows in the heavy duty insulation you’ll find throughout this RV. They’ve paid extra attention to the underbelly of this RV which makes a lot of sense when you consider that it’s intended to be parked on a sheet of ice!

This travel trailer has a total of 6 holes scattered throughout the main living area that allow you to actually fish while you’re inside the RV. If you’re not planning on ever doing any ice fishing then this is definitely a take or leave it to feature but if some cold weather fishing is on your bucket list then this might be worth a look. You can see the ice fishing holes (and the rest of the travel trailer) here:

Does that mean you have to ice fish to consider this rig? Not at all! It’s still a fully functional travel trailer with a dry bathroom and a ton of sleeping space. Still, if you’re spending most of your time at campgrounds or in urban environments the heavy-duty nature of this rig is probably overkill. But if your idea of a good RV adventure is hitting the outdoors and breaking some trail without fearing freezing temperatures than this could be perfect.

One of my favorite features is the bed that can be raised up the ceiling. While this is intended to give you extra space for fishing, you can use it for any kind of extra space or storage. There’s as a unique “second-level” (it’s only a few stairs) that can be converted into additional sleeping areas.

Overall, the Ice Castle is definitely best for the ice fisherman, if you want a no-frills four-season powerhouse then it’s worth a look.

Closing Thoughts

Winter camping can be a lot of fun…if you’re warm! You could go with any of the RVs on this list and stay plenty warm all winter all while getting the flexibility of a travel trailer. But let me know down below if there’s a travel trailer I should have included on this list or which on is your favorite!

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Your Ultimate Guide to Winter RV Camping (Tips, Videos & Resources)

This ultimate guide provides tips, videos, and resources for winter rv camping. you'll be better prepared (& safe) to enjoy winter adventures….

1 This ultimate guide provides tips, videos, and resources for winter RV camping. You'll be better prepared (& safe) to enjoy winter adventures…
2 Our Top 5 Winter Camping Tips (video)
3 Ultimate RV Winter Camping Tips (video)
4 27 Effortless Winter Camping Tips for RVers
5 7 More General Winter Camping Tips
6 How to Insulate a Camper for Winter Use
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If you buy something through our links, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep our lights on so we can continue to provide helpful resources for RVers. Read our full affiliate disclosure here.

Our Top 5 Winter Camping Tips (video)

Like what you see in these videos? We'd appreciate it if you would Subscribe to our YouTube Channel ( easy to do right here ) and consider “ringing the bell icon” to be notified of any new video from us. 🙂 Thanks!

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It's a sad yet important warning of why RVers should never trust GPS completely. The article also gives tips on how to avoid GPS leading you to such a fate, especially in winter conditions… keep reading…

Family Tracker Apps: RVers Set Family at Ease with Life360

The Life360 app (like other family tracker apps) allows users in the same “circle” to see where each person is wherever there is a satellite connection.

I will tell you more about Life360 and a couple of alternative family locator apps RVers can use.

(By the way, we are NOT affiliates of Life360… just happy customers.) Keep reading…

When to Replace RV Tires (Advice from Real RVers)

Before you go winter camping, you need to assess your RV tires. This is important to do before any RV trip, but especially important if driving in wet and icy conditions.

Many new RVers are surprised to learn how often they really need to change RV tires. It may be more often than you want to, but you can learn from other RVers' experience that it's well worth it.

In this article, REAL RVers share their advice and experiences. Keep reading…

10 National Park Adventures Perfect for Winter

When it comes to national park adventures , winter pursuits can be just as thrilling for many than summer ventures.

Whether you're in the mood for downhill ski runs or the quiet bliss of solitude in a please-let-there-be-no-cell-service zone, America’s Best Idea has something for everyone, regardless of where you fall on the ideal Fahrenheit-reading spectrum.

In this article, we cover 10 great wintertime national park adventures to consider adding to your bucket list… Keep reading…

Our Winter Camping Trips

We weren't lying when we said we love winter camping trips! We have quite a few articles on our favorite cold-weather adventures.

Our trips may inspire you for your next RV trip. So, here's a sampling of some our RV winter camping trips:

Winter Camping Fun in the Upper Peninsula
Winter Camping and Meteor Showers in Idaho
Best Winter RV Camping
Camping the Lake Michigan Shoreline in Winter [SPECTACULAR]
Tahquamenon Falls camping in the wintertime

Camping Comfort Food for Chilly Nights

The 7 Coldest States you may want to avoid 1

Comfort food warms the soul and the tummy! If you're camping this winter, try the following delicious comfort food recipes from our sister site, CampingFoodRecipes.com :

Chorizo Casserole Recipe
Easy Turkey Vegetable Stew Recipe
Camping Mac & Cheese
Super Easy Campfire Chili
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe
How to Make Campfire Coffee

We Are Huge Fans of Winter Camping!

Your Ultimate Guide to Winter RV Camping (Tips, Videos & Resources) 8

Now we say that knowing many people are not. Indeed, you need to actually enjoy snow and cold. But we know there are thousands of RVers out there who just need a little coaxing and some tips to get out there and have fun in their RVs year-round.

So that’s why we wrote The Winter RV Camping Guide.

In this 36-page ebook – (NOT a Print book) we’ll walk you through what you need to do before you leave home to get your rig winter-ready, and we’ll cover what to do when setting up camp.

Published on 2024-01-15

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

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12 Best Ways to Insulate a Travel Trailer for Winter

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After hearing many campfire stories about living in a travel trailer during winter, you decide it’s time to give it a try. From what you remember, a camping friend of yours used the same model you have, and they boasted that this RV is best for winter camping.

You’re packed up and ready to go for that ultimate winter RV adventure. You have your winter clothing, skis, and other essentials. You also equipped yourself with all of the ice fishing gear the blog post and sales rep recommended (even though part of you thinks she took you “for a ride” when you think about the sales receipt).

As a test, the night before you leave, you spend the night in your travel trailer at home to see how it handles the Detroit Metro Area’s temperatures in late January. By 2 a.m., with the RV heater at full tilt, three blankets, and thermal underwear, you’re ready to go back into your warm house to suffer the “I told you so” from your partner.

You contact your friend and tell them about your experience. They inform you they have the all-season upgrades and used other DIY (do it yourself) techniques to stay comfortable in the cold conditions.

To avoid these mistakes, we’ll show you the 12 best ways to insulate a travel trailer for winter and other tips. These easy modifications will work for any RV, whether it has an all-weather package or not.

Do I Need to Add Extra Insulation to RVs and Travel Trailers?

RV manufacturers do their best, but motorhomes and travel trailers aren’t airtight. There are many points where air leaks out. Even when the seals and weather stripping are working correctly, RV insulation doesn’t have the same R-value (how well insulation restricts heat from passing through) as permanent built structures like homes or buildings.

RV Window Insulation Tips for Summer and Winter

Which Travel Trailers Have the Best Insulation?

The average R-value for RVs for the walls is R-7. Ceilings go as high as R-20, and floors are usually R-10. Insulation values at these ratings work well for containing the camping season in North America. American desert summers or the Canadian wilderness winters are too extreme for these R-values.

True all-weather RVs like the Heartland Bighorn 3375 fifth wheel would be better suited for these types of temperatures. The walls have a value of R-11, ceilings R-40, and floors R-38. Other winterization features make this coach ideal for winter.

12 DIY Insulating Techniques for Your Travel Trailer

Not everyone is ready to buy an all-season RV, convert their coach, or want to replace their dream travel trailer so they can go winter camping. There are many ways to insulate your camper for the winter. The following insulating techniques will help you keep a camper warm in the winter and keep your wallet padded enough to enjoy the trip.

1. RV Skirting

RV skirting is any type of material that covers the open space between the ground and the sides of your coach. It can be a tarp material or corrugated aluminum. The best RV skirting for winter will keep the weather and (hopefully) small animals from nesting underneath your unit. Using heavy-duty snaps, ground stakes, or other methods will secure the skirting to the RV and the ground.

There is a brand new RV skirt on the market called AirSkirts . It is an amazing skirt system that is reusable, durable, doesn’t require drilling 400 holes in your RV to install snaps, doesn’t require staking or weighing the bottom down and it provides excellent insulation for the underside of your camper! You can learn more by clicking the picture below!

2. Seal the Windows

Windows are your number one source of leaks both in winter and summer. Sealing RV windows should be a top priority for extreme weather. Repairing window caulk with silicone and rubber conditioner for the weather stripping should be on your preventive maintenance list.

Check out our article below about the best window sealants so you can find the best sealant for your particular window: – Best Sealant for RV Windows – Leakproof Your RV!

3. Multi-Pane Windows

A more expensive approach is to replace your RV windows with thermal pane windows. These windows are dual pane with argon gas in between the glass. This harmless gas is an excellent insulator that prevents heat energy from flowing through the windows. You can buy them tinted or transparent. Companies can manufacture the windows custom to your RV’s measurements.

4. Window Coverings

Thermal pane windows range from $200-$500 each. More manageable alternatives are window coverings. There are different materials you can use to cover your windows that are just as effective. To insulate a camper trailer window, you can use:

Radiant foil sheeting
Rigid foam board – Polyiso or XPS
Plastic film
Small area rugs

If you choose to cover your windows with a rigid foam board, there are two versions we recommend. Polyisocyanurate (polyiso) has a radiant film backing that insulates heat transfer and ultraviolet radiation. Extruded Polystyrene is more moisture-resistant than Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), so it will withstand condensation better. Check out our other recommendations .

When you attach these materials to your window, double stick tape, velcro, or 3M Command Hooks won’t ruin your walls. If you are going to use permanent attachments like screw-in hooks, screws, or nails, make sure you use a stud finder, and it’s going into wood. Newer RVs use aluminum framing around the windows to support the weight.

For a deep dive into the best window coverings to keep your RV warm (or cool in the summer) check out our article called: – RV Window Insulation Tips for Summer and Winter

5. Shanty Airlocks

Some have solved the wind/mudroom issue by creating airlock-type structures outside their RV door. They use plywood to create a tunnel passage that extends the entryway. Foam weather stripping forms a seal against the RV and the shelter. It serves as a place to take of muddy boots and blocks the wind from coming through the door.

If you attempt this, do your research. Winter winds or the weight of snow and ice can collapse these structures, so build them well. You also want to make sure that wherever you’re set up, the property owners or campground allows it.

6. Gift Wrapping Your Door

Plastic sheeting is a great way to add a layer of protection around your door. A single sheet can create that extra thickness you need that stops the draft. Using a secure but easily removable tape to secure it works well. Double-stick tape is a reliable alternative too.

If the sheeting isn’t enough, using foam stripping around the edges will be that last line of defense that stops the invading cold. It comes in rolls and has an adhesive side to it. Make sure you stick it to the inside door frame and give it an hour or two to secure before you use the door.

7. Roof Vent Lids and Covers

According to the laws of thermodynamics, heat rises. If your roof vents aren’t sufficiently secured, your heat is going to find its way out through these openings. RV roof vent leaking can be shored up both externally and internally.

Roof vents tend to chip and crack with age. Constant exposure to weather conditions makes the plastic brittle. These roof vent lids are easily replaceable for under $20. The hardest part of replacing the vent lid is making sure it’s the correct size, so make sure you measure correctly.

Adding a vent cover that fits over the lid will further prevent air and water leaks. These triangular shaped components are designed to let the air out, not in when the lid is open. The caulking around them creates an additional seal around the vent area.

8. Vent Insulation Pads

Vent Insulation pads (also called pillows) fit into the interior of your ceiling vent. Better versions have a radiant foil side that faces the exterior. The stuffing inside the pad creates a thick barrier that prevents cold air from seeping in from the roof. A fast-food order from your favorite delivery service will pay for the pads for both of your vents.

9. Insulation Under the Mattress

In some travel trailers, there is a storage compartment under the bed and that compartment is not heated! So you have cold air right below your mattress.

If you’ve ever camped on a cold night with an innerspring mattress, you know those metal coils can magnify low temperatures. Other beds, like memory foam, have insulating properties that retain heat. If you’re not ready to make the switch, or you need something else to make use of your travel trailer in the winter nights, here are some great tips.

Adding an insulation layer under your mattress is a quick and easy way to block cold air from your storage bays or other places seeping into your bed. You can use radiant foil , rigid foam, or any other thick material.

10. Heated Mattress Pad

You can also purchase an RV mattress heating pad that goes under your mattress. It will keep you much warmer on those cold winter nights.

11. Sealing Up Slideouts

When fully extended, your slideouts have rubber weather stripping that creates a seal against the frame of the RV. To minimize air leaks, use an RV slideout conditioner on the stripping to keep the rubber pliable, so it forms the best barrier.

Adding door snake draft stoppers around the slideout edges gives you another layer of insulation. Door snakes are typically placed at the bottom of exterior doors to prevent cold air from coming through residential homes. Using them around your slideout will do the same thing.

12. Insulating Your Storage Bays

All-season RVs have insulated storage bay doors and route heat through the storage bay basement. It creates a thick layer of warmth under your floor that makes heating more efficient and keeps your gear from freezing.

If you don’t have this feature, there are steps you can take to compensate. You can use XPS or EPS foam board to insulate your bay doors, subfloor, and storage walls. Many travel trailers have electrical outlets inside a bay for outdoor needs. Hooking up a small space heater can keep your storage area warm enough to keep things from freezing.

Make sure you place the space heater on a fireproof platform, don’t turn it up too high, and check on it often. The last thing you need is your RV catching fire.

We wrote an entire article about RV skirting to help you find the best skirting DIY or commercial skirting for your RV. – RV Skirting for Winter – DIY or Brand Name?

Winter Camping Tips

Many of these insulating techniques will make your winter camping adventure a great experience. There are other things you can do to make your trip a successful one. Here are some best practices to avoid any problems.

Before the cold weather hits, make sure your caulking and weather stripping are in the best condition possible. Recaulk with silicone and replace weather stripping if necessary.
Winterize your plumbing, freshwater, and grey holding tank with anti-freeze RV liquid to prevent any damage. Here’s why winterizing your RV is so important
Close up your A/C ducting vents to minimize unnecessary heating space.
Use a tarp to cover the engine section of your motorhome. Doing this will prevent snow and ice from damaging essential components similar to putting sheets over furniture to protect the item from dust.
Dump your black tank only when it’s full. You want to minimize the chance of the contents freezing up. Frozen pipes and holding tanks can be prevented when you know what to avoid.
Use wooden blocks to prop up your stabilizer jacks and RV tires. Due to its insulation properties, wood won’t conduct the cold temperature into the coach.
Use five-gallon jugs for your water inside your RV.
Protect your connected water hose with heat tape to prevent freezing damage. Just remember that most hoses are 25 feet long so be sure to buy the correct size for the length of your hose. If your hoses have frozen up, here’s how to safely get the water flowing again.

Electric Heaters and Other Appliances

Built-in RV furnaces produce a significant amount of heat to keep you comfortable. The average BTU an RV furnace puts out is 30,000. This measurement isn’t arbitrary. RV manufacturers have determined that it takes 1,000 BTUs to heat a linear foot in an RV.

An RV furnace will run on propane for three hours on one gallon of propane if it continuously heats your coach. Therefore a 20-gallon propane tank will give you 60 hours. The good thing is all RVs with thermostats have temperature sensors with an auto-shutoff function.

In the winter, propane is more valuable than ever. It also runs your cooktop, water heater (if you’re using it), and refrigerator. Your RV furnace, while efficient, will drain your tanks within a week.

How to Heat a Camper Without Propane

Using electric space heaters is a great alternative to heating your RV while winter camping. Their power demands are low, so your solar system, solar generator, or other power sources can keep them running for a long time.

If you decide to use a space heater in an RV, ceramic or infrared space heaters are the best choices. They’re portable, directional, and very affordable. Make sure you keep the ceramic heater in a safe place away from loose things that are sensitive to heat and don’t leave it unattended. Learn about more heating alternatives .

Running a dehumidifier in an RV is another technique to heat your travel trailer. Removing the moisture from the air speeds up the heating process. Drier air heats up (or cools down) faster than moist air. These devices are also energy efficient and cost-friendly.

For some great ideas to heat your travel trailer and keep warm while camping in cold weather check out our article below! – 10 Creative Ways to Heat a Camper and Stay Warm While Camping in Cold Winter Weather

Insulating Your Travel Trailer Keeps You Cool in Hot Weather Too!

We’ve focused our tips on winter conditions. Many of them translate for the summer heat. If you re-read the tips above, the key points focus on preventing your interior temperature from leaking outside and vice versa. So you can reduce your heating and cooling costs all year round!

It all boils down to sealing up weak points, keeping up with your preventive maintenance, and finding energy-efficient ways to keep the interior comfortable. College students that live in the residence halls aren’t the only audience for portable fans. Those living the RV lifestyle depend on them to keep the air circulating to reduce the strain on their A/C systems.

We hope you’re enjoying your RV adventures comfortably and can’t wait to see you down the road.

2 thoughts on “12 Best Ways to Insulate a Travel Trailer for Winter”

I have been having condensation freezing under insulation between wall of slideouts and insulation.

Any suggestions?

Hey Dom. i am no expert. but it sounds like you have a draft somewhere that is causing the condensation. as i am sure you know warm air and cold air are mixing. your rv probably has batting insulation as well that condensation lasts longer with due to water absorbing into it. check for any cracks in sealant/rubber to ensure there are no holes. may be time to re insulate with foam board. my trailer was full of this problem due to leaks. its all fixed now

The Best Extreme Cold Weather RVs To Buy In 2022

by Chris Coleman

www.rvtalk.net is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Winter camping offers magnificent snowy landscape, but not every RV is meant for days out in such icy temperatures.

If you’d like to take your RV out during very harsh winters, you’ll need to invest in what’s commonly named an “arctic package”, which upgrades the existing insulation and provides additional heating.

Otherwise, if you live in or frequently travel in such weather, investing in the best extreme cold weather RV will give you a peace of mind.

There are certain models of RVs designed and built with extreme winter in mind. These are the vehicles that can brave below-freezing temperatures, icy winds, and even heavy snowing.

Whether you live in bitterly cold weather year-round or you want to enjoy unique winter camping experiences, these best extreme cold weather RVs will keep you warm and toasty.

We have browsed that market and consulted reviews by professionals and full-time RVers to handpick the best extreme cold weather RV with a wide selection of functional features. Each will be accompanied by highlighting features as well as pros and cons.

That said, a helpful advice from many seasoned RVers is it’s a good idea to first rent an RV to see for yourself if it meets your needs. If you like it, you can buy it afterward.

Arctic Wolf by Forest River

Keystone montana fifth wheels, forest river rockwood windjammer 3008w travel trailer, northwood arctic fox, lance 4 seasons travel trailer, bighorn 5th wheel by heartland, redhawk 26xd by jayco, what does a cold weather package cover, how do i make my rv warmer in extreme cold weather, how do i store my rv in winter if i cannot store it indoor, 202 1 best extreme cold-weather rvs .

The Arctic Wolf by Forest River has consistently been rated among the absolute best extreme cold weather RV models by professionals and full-time RVers alike. The manufacturer, Forest River, is a name known for excellent quality, customer service and warranty.

The Arctic Wolf is a worthwhile investment for the avid winter driver, thanks to the expansive and inclusive cold-beating features that are available. Arctic Wolf offers either an Extreme Weather Package or the Arctic Package for harsh winter excursions.

Regardless of how cold the weather may be on your trip, you can rest easy knowing that the Arctic Wolf will keep you warm, comfortable and very well insulated, particularly with the upgrades in the Extreme Weather option, according to many seasoned winter travelers.

It is available with six floor plans to cater for the different requirements and budget of nearly every camper, so if quality and comfort are your priorities, there is definitely an Arctic Wolf for you.

The largest models top out at a huge 10,000 pounds, equating to a hitch load of approximately 1,400 pounds. This weight is down to its generous proportions which max out at 35 feet in length and 11 feet in height. That said, for the less avid drivers, probably the only downside of this marvelous vehicle is the challenging parking, turning, and other maneuvers on long road trips.

Arctic Package

Solar wiring
Windows for the upper bunk
Outside shower and outside TV bracket capabilities
A kitchen faucet that pulls out
Entry doors with friction hinges
Home entertainment system
Dinette drawers
Top-level bunk windows
Dinette draws, and the kitchen faucet can be pulled out

Extreme Weather Package

Arctic insulation fitted throughout
Ducted air-conditioner
Featured fast cool fan
Upper decking with insulation
Powerful ceiling fan
Underfloor heating
High gloss wall construction
A powerful furnace capable of outputting 35,000 BTUs in a matter of seconds

Top 8 Best RVs for Full Time Living and Travel

12 Best Small Campers With Bathrooms & Showers

Together with the Arctic Wolf, Keystone Montana is another favourite that often comes up in discussions on the best extreme cold weather RV. This fifth wheel Keystone Montana, as well as other Montana models, all come with the four seasons living package to keep you toasty warm and cozy on winter trips.

Harsh winter means excessive wear and tear on your RV both externally and internally, painful maintenance and loss of comfort, however the Keystone Montana will keep all of these problems at bay with excellent cold-beating features.

First off, insulation is top-notch. The all-season package includes an enclosed, insulated underbelly as well as 12V electric tank heating devices to prevent freezing damage to your RV. The main floor is kept warm with R-21 insulation while the slide-out floors are protected from cold temperatures by R-5 insulating material. The walls are shielded by a double layer of R-11 insulation, and the roof provides radiant technology R-38 protection for maintaining adequate heat inside your RV.

In addition, the centralized heated external water and convenience center provides the luxury of an outside shower, water heater bypass, and low-point drains that are enclosed to ensure optimum functionality.

This top-rated RV also offers a dual thermostat and remote sensor and a second duct design air conditioner that is a frame and wire construction. Its foam core straight line heat duct system measures 3 by 14 inches, and this model is equipped with an auto-ignition 35,000 BTU furnace. Additional features of the Keystone Montana RV include in-floor water lines, dump valves, and holding tanks that are enclosed and of course insulated, a well-vented attic system, and a powerful free-flow air conditioning at 15K BTUs.

In case you are willing to pay to get some extras, the Montana also offers models with elite design features such as fireplaces and an expansive walk-in closet for storing your bulky winter clothing and gears.

In short, with its optimal quality insulation, the Keystone Montana offers the ultimate comfort and convenience for the icy winter months, and it is essentially a solid year-round vehicle. The only con that one can find with this first class winter RV is its price tag.

This advanced fifth wheel trailer is in the higher price range, selling for $48,000 – $49,000 at most dealerships, however any owner would swear by its value for money.

15,000 BTU free-flow air conditioning
Dual thermostat with a remote sensor with the second A/C
Insulated holding tanks and dump valves
Heated, enclosed and insulated underbelly
Electric tank heaters
Heated exterior convenience center
Heated low point drains for city water
Water lines in floors
35,000 BTU auto-ignition furnace
Heat duct system with foam core
Electric fireplace embedded
Fiberglass sidewalls with a double insulated layer (Equivalent to R-11)
Insulated main floor (Equivalent to R-21)
Insulated slide-out floors (Equivalent to R-15)
Radiant technology insulated roof (Equivalent to R-38)

Another solid extreme cold weather RV by the renowned Forest River. Their Rockwood Windjammer 3008W is a travel trailer, which is a much cheaper alternative to full-blown RVs, thus this model is ideal for beginners and budget travelers.

Despite its relative affordability, the Windjammer, as the name implies, is a fantastic option for camping in the harsh icy months with solid insulation and other features. No matter how freezing it is outside, you and your companions will be comfortably toasty inside.

A huge plus is this trailer is not exactly small, boasting an 897-pound hitch load and it can accommodate a maximum of five beds, so each member of your whole family will enjoy maximum comfort.

In addition to the spacious sleeping quarters, it can hold a generous 45-gallon black water tank, a 75-gallon gray water tank, and a commendable 45-gallon freshwater tank.

Additionally, the Windjammer offers a host of other features such as a wardrobe, linen closet, kitchen space with microwave, gas cooker hook-up and an awning to keep the sun or snow off. To top it all off, the master suite features a clever table that folds away and a large double bed.

Although it’s not much to look at, don’t let it dishearten you. The Windjammer is often included in lists of the best extreme cold weather RV for a good reason: what it lacks in the looks department, it more than makes up for in the functionality department.

The only downside is it’s a heavy trailer to haul around compared to most other camp trailers. Given its size and weight, it might take a while to get used to driving it around.

The features that make this trailer a good fit for winter excursions:

Holding tanks that are heated and controlled electronically
The whole trailer is insulated
Main bedroom area contains a heated mattress
Upgrades for thermo-pane windows
Upgrades for fireplace
Ventilation fan and vent cover
Floor-ducted furnace
Two sliders to separate the living quarters
Reasonably sized wardrobe in the master bedroom
A foldable table in the master room
The master bedroom can fit a bed which measures 60×10
Linen closet
Oven with microwave hookups, and a gas grill connector
44-inch dinette space
Outdoor Awning

Northwood is a well-known brand for RVs made for cold weather , and very few arctic campers are held in such high regard as the Arctic Fox all seasons RV. The Arctic Fox guarantees a warm and comfortable winter camping and it also offers a ton of additional features, which means not just comfort but luxury on the road.

That said, like everything else that borders the line of luxury, you’re going to have to pay for the privilege. The latest models from 2017 onwards will cost at least $56,000, and previous models don’t tend to depreciate a lot in value, which in itself is a testament to their quality and durability.

Fully insulated through with four-seasons foam insulation, providing exceptional insulation properties
Built into the bedroom are USB charging ports, as well as a well-proportioned mattress and carpeting throughout
A fully function bathtub with a skylight and foldable shower screen
A foot-operated toilet
Powerful extractor fans in the bedrooms
Inbuilt skylights and a sizable fridge as well as ample storage space
A fully equipped kitchen including a microwave
A booth eating area and L shaped sofa with comfortable pillows
A digitally monitored and controlled thermostat for perfect heating
Inbuilt smoke, carbon monoxide, and LPG detectors
A foldaway 19-inch widescreen TV with Bluetooth connectivity and CD/DVD player
Clever storage options.

Additional extras are also available, including solar panels, rearview cameras, holding tank heat pads, generators, bathroom and kitchen fan vents, thermal pane windows and an aluminum main awning.

Whereas the Lance brand is not as well known as Forest River or Jayco, they are specialized in all seasons RV models. Manufactured specifically for all-season driving, including winter and warmer weather, the Four Season Travel Trailer by Lance proves that you need not spend a fortune to get one of the best extreme cold weather RV.

Notable features include easily removable hatch covers that can be added or removed in a matter of seconds depending on the weather. The insulated covers are designed to keep the outdoor weather conditions from encroaching into the indoors of your RV.

Instead of the more traditional wood, this Lance model uses thermoplastic, a natural insulator which is adept at keeping the heat in and the cold out. This insulation won’t rot or is not prone to hosting mildew or mold, unlike wood tends to do. This material will also provide a certain amount of soundproofing, making your trip even more enjoyable.

An extra cold-beating feature is an impressive ducted warming system. Clever engineering and design mean that the heating is equally directed across the whole interior of the RV, ensuring every room is warmed to the same level.

Lastly, the windows are dual pane and tinted, which provides an additional level of insulation and soundproofing. With such superstar insulation, you can rest assured that winter is kept outside of your toasty mobile home.

11 different floor plans available
Block foam insulation throughout
Ducted heat is routed into individually insulated holding tanks to keep them, the valves and PEX lines warm.
Water heater bypass & winterizing valves make draining the system for winter storage a breeze.
Insulated hatch covers add an additional layer of insulation to vents and skylights.
Radius acrylic tinted thermopane euro window
Aluminum-framed floor, ceiling, and sidewalls
Decorative pull cabinet hardware
Lite-ply cabinet construction

In addition to Lance, Heartland is another brand known for its all season RVs. Heartland puts an astounding level of craftsmanship and detail into all their all seasons RV products.

Heartland’s all season RVs are not only functional in terms of guarding against icy cold weather, but also offer luxury aesthetics and great attention to details. Among them, the Bighorn is often regarded as one of the best extreme cold weather RV models.

It has 11 floor plans to choose from, so you are likely to get one that meets your requirements and budget. There are different Bighorn sizes available, with the largest weighing 14,000lb, with a hitch weight of about 3,000lb, and measuring nearly 45 ft. in length.

Bighorn by Heartland introduced the industry to innovations such as the Universal Docking Center, 88 Degree Turning Radius front cap designs, laminated floors and sidewalls, drop frame Texas Size basement storage and hydraulic landing gear. Bighorn combines all of these industry firsts with the most luxurious interiors producing one of the most sought after luxury fifth wheels available today.

The craftsmanship and durability is expressed throughout this fifth wheel. The bathroom features water lines Plumb-PLEX, while the fiberglass walls, dark tinted windows and laminated flooring make the camper trailer look sleek. The bedroom has a built-in closet, king-size bed with memory foam mattress, ceiling lights in the bedroom, extra storage shelves, a headboard and a pull-out storage drawer.

The majority of the floor plans offered with the Bighorn range, generally have the following winter comforts:

The entire RV is fully insulated: R-38 flooring in the main living area, R-11 walls, R-14 flooring on the upper deck , R-34 roofing
Heated, insulated underbelly
Insulated air conditioning duct system in the roof
The below-floor has its own heating system: single piece heating duct
The roof has an internal air conditioning duct unit
A high-quality furnace functions at a 42,000 BTU level
A water system from the Plumb-Plex range so it’s just like your bathroom in your home
Sleek interior and exterior design and layout
Plenty of storage space
A king-sized bed with a comfortable mattress made from memory foam.

The Redhawk 26XD by Jayco has a warmth and beauty not often seen in RVs, especially with the newer models. This trailer has been gaining a lot of popularity for the last couple of years, first making an impression with its huge space and beautiful design, then winning the hearts of seasoned campers with its host of functional features for withstanding winter.

We do warn you though, that you will need quite some money to enjoy this solid beauty, but if you do, the Redhawk might be the best extreme cold weather RV that you can buy.

These models come with five different floor plans to choose from. All of these are built on a Ford chassis and include a spacious master bedroom with a queen-sized bed, a 13ft. awning, an 8 cubic-ft. refrigerator and linen closets.

Importantly, you will also be able to stay warm during winter in this gorgeous RV with a 15,000-BTU ducted air conditioner with heat pump, a 31,000-BTU furnace with wall thermostat with auto-ignition, a 6-gallon water heater, solid bead-foam insulation for the roof, floor and all walls and well insulated doors and windows.

There is no need to worry about space, as it is very spacious. As it can sleep eight passengers, you can hit the road whenever you want with family or friends.

The following are the standard features for this all seasons RV:

15,000-BTU ducted air conditioner with heat pump
31,000-BTU furnace with wall thermostat with auto-ignition
Bead-foam insulation (R-15 max roof, R-9 max floor, R-5 max walls)
Vacuum-bonded, laminated roof, floor and sidewalls
Aluminum running boards
Fiberglass, radius-cornered entrance door with screen door
6 gallon gas/electric DSI auto-ignition water heater
Full bathroom
Fully fitted kitchen, including countertops, upper shelves, large sink and microwaves
Queen sized bed master bedroom
Roomy, built-in linen cabinets and other closets.
The living area comes with a 2-seater sofa and has a lot of space

With a hefty price tag of around $100,000 for a new one, you may have to settle for an old model, which will not necessarily have all these luxury features.

Extreme Cold-Weather RVs: FAQs & Tips

Cold weather packages, also referred to as arctic or polar packages, are a great upgrade to your RV when you are storing it during cold weather or wish to travel occasionally in extreme cold weather. Some of the upgrades include:

Extra floor and roof insulation
Double or the triple-paned windows
Heating pads for freshwater and the wastewater tanks
Enclosed underbellies
Temperature guarantees
Heated storage bays

The key to keeping your RV warm in the harsh winter is effective insulation , that is preventing cold air outside from leaking in and trapping the heat inside the RV. The two areas to focus most of your energy on if you want to improve insulation are windows and vents.

Below are pro tips on how to keep your RV warmer in icy conditions:

1. Maximizing natural sunlight

Simply positioning your RV so that the largest windows point to the south and west to maximize your RV’s exposure to direct sunlight definitely will warm your RV up. It is one useful tip on how to heat an RV that many new RVers do not know or underestimate.

2. Fixing air leaks

Before trying to do anything to more effectively trap warm air inside your RV, you must make sure cold air cannot leak in from all the nooks and crannies first. Tiny air leaks from the rubber gaskets around your exterior windows, doors and vents are often overlooked, however keeping them in good shape will ensure cold air is not leaking into your interior.

3. Reflective insulation

Relectix is a reflective insulation accessory consisting of an aluminum foil, which covers all your windows to rebound most of the heat that travels to them. Thus the existing heat will be trapped or condensed inside your RV while only a small amount will escape, thereby more effectively maintaining the ideal temperature.

Simply attach these rolls to cover the whole area of each window. Also, if your RV comes with a shower skylight, don’t forget to insulate it too.

4. Hatch vent insulator

An RV’s hatch vents, roof and wall vents are also often overlooked and can let cold air in, thus all of them need to be covered. It is best to equip them with extra protection by adding another layer of Styrofoam right below the covers.

The Styrofoam must be cut to fit precisely. Secure it in place with tape or another adhesive. The second option is to get a vent insulator. A vent insulator is a large piece of insulated foam that may or may not come with a reflective surface.

5. Solar Heating

This green energy source will save you money in the long term, all the while being environmentally friendly. You can now buy solar panels from many sources. A panel typically costs between $500 and $300, depending on the durability, efficiency and size of the panel. The bigger the panel, the more green energy it can produce to heat your RV without electricity.

Your RV might suffer substantial damage while in storage during the icy cold winter months, unless you own or rent a heated storage for it. Otherwise, if your budget doesn’t permit you to rent a storage unit, purchasing an RV cover is a great option to protect your RV in cold weather. Renting an RV storage unit is a more effective option but also the most costly.

RV covers prevent ice buildup and snow accumulation on the exterior of your rig, thus minimizing damage to its surface and also keeping meltwater from seeping into the seams and panels. Below are a few steps that you need to take to safely store your rig under an RV cover during winter:

Ensure that you drain out all your water systems.
Clean and let dry the interior and exterior of the RV before covering.
Remove the batteries and store in a secure place.
Inflate the RV tires and it is best to cover them thoroughly with RV tire covers to avoid damage and maximize their lifespan, as RV tires alone are expensive.
Double-check that the cover shelters all sides completely and snugly to avoid the cover billowing against your RV in the wind.
Check the snow that accumulates on your roof regularly and remove it if required.

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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10 Essential Tips for Winter RV Camping

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Winter RV road trips are more popular than ever this year as people look for creative vacations that don’t involve the still-inflated prices of airplanes or hotels .

For some travelers, a winter RV road trip might mean driving to grandma’s house for the holidays but sleeping in your RV rather than a bedroom there. For others, it’s an opportunity to stay away from people and ditch the Christmas tree in favor of living trees.

But while renting an RV for a road trip may seem like a good idea, spending winter in an RV presents its own challenges. Here are 10 things to know before RVing in the winter snow and ice.

Advice for winter in an RV

1. decide whether your rv needs to be winterized — and learn what that actually means.

You’ll probably see the phrase “winterizing your RV” when planning a road trip someplace chilly. Your task is to figure out if your RV has already been winterized, and whether it needs to be.

Winterizing your RV means you’ve taken steps such as:

Emptying water tanks.

Draining the water heater and water lines.

Disabling plumbing in order to prevent the pipes (which run along the undercarriage of the RV) from bursting or being destroyed.

If you’re traveling someplace where temperatures are going to get below freezing, you’ll need to winterize your RV. It’s a process you can do yourself, though your local RV company may also be willing to do it for you.

“If you’re traveling in a cold weather state, chances are the vehicle you’re renting will be winterized before you take it out on the road,” says Jennifer Young, co-founder of RV rental site Outdoorsy.

But winterizing your RV is not always a must-do, especially if temperatures at your cold destination won’t actually get below freezing. If a vehicle has been winterized, you won’t be able to use the sink or bathroom inside the RV as usual (unless you take extra steps like using antifreeze).

2. Get the right heater

If your campsite is hooked up to electricity, then an electric heater is your best bet to save money. But if you’re camping somewhere without an electric hookup, avoid using the onboard heat systems. That’s because most onboard heating systems use propane, which JP Smith, full-time RV traveler and founder of the Ultimate RV Checklist app, warns will last only a couple of days.

A small, portable propane heater "will do the same job and only ‘sips’ propane compared to guzzling it,” he says. “It’s also plenty for the smaller spaces of RVs.”

As far as the RV’s built-in furnace, keep it clean by using compressed air or a soft brush to remove debris. Otherwise, obstructions may prevent air from flowing properly.

3. Insulate your RV properly

With the right insulation, you may not need to worry about a separate heater at all. Good insulation might also mean not needing to wear a heavy jacket indoors or using a sleeping bag every night despite spending winter in an RV. Some options include:

Don’t forget the slide outs: If your RV has slide outs (a cut-out portion of your RV that increases the living space available), RV blogger Ashley Mann recommends placing a foam board of insulation underneath each of your RV slides to reduce drafts. “Just don’t forget to remove the foam before pulling in your slides,” she warns.

Consider an RV skirt: It’s exactly what it sounds like — a skirt, often made of vinyl, that wraps around your RV. By creating a barrier of insulated air, the skirt is designed to keep the RV warmer inside. In turn, that helps prevent pipes from freezing, while allowing you to burn less propane (thus saving energy and money). RV skirts generally can cost as low as $150, but can cost thousands of dollars, depending on factors like quality and whether you need custom sizing.

Don’t have an RV skirt? “In a pinch, you can also pack snow around the battery bays,” advises travel blogger Taryn Shorr. “It’s a shockingly efficient natural insulator.”

4. Prepare your pipes and tanks so they don't freeze

It’s not just you who needs to stay warm: Your RV’s pipes need protection from the freezing cold too. Water leftover in pipes and hoses can turn to ice and expand, which can cause them to crack or burst.

Travel blogger Bettina Staerkle learned it the hard way during a winter trip through Alberta, Canada. The hot water tank froze and burst, flooding the inside of her RV.

If you’re traveling in an RV on only a few cold nights per year, Staerkle said an easy method to prevent pipes from freezing is to keep a faucet slowly running through the night, allowing the water to constantly move through the pipes. Moving water requires a lower temperature to freeze than sitting water.

Another easy alternative is to purchase heat tape, which you wrap around your RV water hose. Plug the tape into a power source, and the tape will remain heated as long as it is plugged in, keeping the hose warm.

5. Check your tires

If your RV doesn’t have snow tires and you’re planning to drive through icy road conditions, make sure you have a set of snow chains. In fact, driving with snow chains during adverse weather conditions is a requirement on some roads.

But depending on where your RV came from, you might not even be able to drive on those roads. Many big RV rental companies, such as Cruise America, explicitly prohibit renters from using chains on their motorhomes, as they can cause damage.

6. Pack the right gear

While you want to avoid overpacking, sometimes winter in an RV can call for a few extra items. Consider packing:

Vent insulator pillows: A $10 to $40 pillow that you insert into openings like roof vents to keep warm air in and cold air out. “When we first started RVing, we didn't realize just how much heat was escaping from our living room through the vents,” says travel blogger Laura Peters. “These cheap pillows saved us hundreds of dollars on heating throughout the winter and we highly recommend them to any first-timers.”

Apps to check the weather and road conditions: Apps like Weather Hi-Def Radar include snowfall and wind speed maps, which might be particularly helpful when driving an RV in the winter.

Gear to keep you warm: Pack electric blankets, hand warmer packets and waterproof, windproof clothing.

Slippers: You probably don’t want to be walking around your RV in dirty or snowy shoes; slippers can protect your feet from cold floors.

A snow shovel and ice scraper: You might need to dig out your RV and scrape ice from your windows when it’s time to drive.

Extra emergency items: Whether it’s additional driving equipment like chains or camping goods like canned food, make an exception to the "don’t overpack" rule when it’s in the name of emergency supplies.

Toiletries: When your lodging is an RV, you can't just call the front desk to bring you more shampoo. Make a list of toiletries you regularly use, and don't forget to pack them. With camping, consider plastic-free versions of your toiletries. And even if it's snowing out, don't forget items like sunscreen. In frigid conditions, chapstick is essential too. Organic lip balms like Eco Lips provides the best of both worlds.

7. Keep cold air from coming in the windows

You might not get to wake up to a winter wonderland, but keeping the shades closed when its snowy will keep you warmer.

“It sounds counterintuitive, but the extra layer creates an air gap from the window and keeps some of the cold away from entering the main coach,” says Jerome Braga, who has been traveling in his RV, even spending winter in an RV, since 2015.

As far as the windows themselves, make sure they’re properly insulated.

“Insulating the windows with a plastic film that shrinks when you heat it makes a big difference in reducing heat loss,” says Ashley Mann, who runs the RV Inspiration blog.

8. Check the campground schedule

If you like to drive without an itinerary and stop whenever you feel like it, you’ll still need to do some advance planning. Many campgrounds close in winter, so verify potential campsite locations are open before you hit the road.

But even if a campground looks officially closed online, it doesn’t hurt to call.

“Many campgrounds and RV parks that close in winter will accept campers on a day-by-day basis,” says Damian Tysdal of the Safe Travels podcast. “They don’t want to be ‘officially’ open, but are often around and are willing to have campers.”

9. Drive carefully

Driving an RV in winter requires the same common sense you need to drive an RV any other day: Slow down and avoid being on the road when it's dark.

But winter brings new variables: Motorhomes typically have rear-wheel drive (as opposed to front-wheel drive in most passenger vehicles), so the brakes will handle differently on slippery roads than what you’re used to. With RVs, it’s even more important that you ease on the brakes, and leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle ahead.

And when driving in snowy conditions, put your headlights on the low beam setting. “The brighter your lights are, the harder it will be for you to see through the snow and keep your eyes on the road,” Young warns.

10. Head south

When all else fails, set your GPS to go south. At least that’s the advice of full-time RV traveler Michelle Fishburne.

“Just the thought of road ice and an RV causes me to flinch and brings back scary images of when my father tried to control the slide of our car as ice got the better of us. We camped in a parking lot because it was too dangerous to continue driving,” she says. “I'll skip the stress and the potential for standing in the frigid, snowy air as I call for help.”

Fishburne drives throughout the U.S., but her winter route will take her from Raleigh, North Carolina, through Texas and Arizona, and will eventually end up in San Diego, California.

“If you aren't accustomed to driving on ice and snow in your car, don't even think about trying it in a motorhome,” she says.

Winter travel trailer camping, recapped

A winter RV road trip can be a grand adventure, and a refreshing way to travel in nature without having to get on an airplane or ending up in a busy hotel lobby. Pack your own food to make on the stovetop and marshmallows to roast over the fire, and you won’t even have to enter a restaurant.

Driving an RV in winter presents its own set of unique challenges: You’ll need to make sure your RV is set to handle winter conditions, and you'll have to track down additional winter gear and take extra precautions when driving and camping that a warmer destination wouldn't necessarily require.

If all else fails, you can always take your RV out this winter, but head south for a warm-weather getaway.

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Winter RV Camping Guide: 13 Tips for RVing in Cold Weather

It’s that time of year again when the weather can be unpredictable in many states, especially at night. We are often asked by new cold-weather RVers what to do when the forecast is showing under 32º.

We’ve spent the last several winters camping in our fifth wheel, so here are our best tips for full-time RVing in cold weather when the temperature dips below freezing!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using my links at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Table of Contents

1. Keep an Eye on the Weather

One of the most crucial aspects of planning a successful winter RV camping trip is keeping a close watch on the weather conditions.

Knowing when to expect freezing temperatures, snowfall, or icy conditions is essential to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable camping trip.

There are numerous weather apps and websites that you can use to keep an eye on the weather, but our personal favorite is the StormShield app.

Be sure to monitor not only the current weather but also the extended forecasts.

Knowing when a cold front is expected to move in or when a winter storm is on the horizon can help you make informed decisions about your route, camping location, and necessary supplies.

Our 5th wheel RV in winter. The travel trailer has black skirting surrounding it, and the ground is covered in snow.

2. Unhook and Drain Water Hoses

When cold weather RVing, leaving your hoses connected to the water spigot when it’s freezing out is a recipe for trouble.

We’ve learned this the hard way, and let me tell you, it’s no fun dealing with frozen hoses and potential damage to your RV’s plumbing!

So, what do we recommend? Take the time to disconnect those hoses and drain them properly.

After that, store them away in your RV storage area, where it’s nice and warm. This not only keeps them from freezing but also helps prolong their lifespan. Win-win!

An alternative to this would be purchasing a heated water hose . There are heated water hose options for temperature ratings of -20º or -40º, depending on what you need for your travel trailer.

You can also use heat tape on your water spigot to keep it from freezing at the source during winter camping.

3. Disconnect RV Water Filters and Bring Them Indoors

Living full-time in an RV in winter can have its costs for sure. We have made the mistake of leaving a water filter outside, only to discover that once frozen, they bust and have to be replaced.

This goes for all water filters, regardless of the brand.

If you’re RVing in freezing weather, we’ve found that bringing your filters inside is the best way to protect them. Place them in a sink to prevent any water from leaking out overnight.

Learn from our mistake, and save yourself the hassle and cost of replacing busted water filters!

We have chosen to use the ClearSource triple canister water filtration system to filter our water. We run all of our water through this system before it enters our rig.

Use code TUCKNAE25 for $25 off of any ClearSource water system ! This is one of our main RV essentials that we recommend you get.

The ClearSource Ultra water filtration system hooked up to an RV

4. Keep Your Holding Tanks From Freezing

If your RV is equipped with holding tanks with a built-in heating element, switch it on whenever the temperatures are expected to dip below freezing.

This simple thing can be a game-changer, allowing you to continue using fresh water even when you’ve disconnected your water hoses.

On the flip side, a word of caution: if your fresh water tank doesn’t have a heating element, it’s best to avoid filling it up during freezing weather.

Why? Because when the water inside freezes, it can expand and potentially damage or burst your tank. The last thing you want during your winter camping trip is to deal with a busted tank!

5. Leave Your Faucets on Drip

The idea is simple: moving water is less likely to freeze. So, by leaving your faucets open just a bit to let them drip, you’re creating a constant flow of water through your plumbing system.

This minimizes the risk of your water lines freezing. We usually leave both the bathroom faucet and the kitchen faucet open to drip overnight.

Oh, and here’s a quick note on your sewer hose: never leave it connected or open when you’re not actively using it. Doing so can allow cold air to creep up into your RV, which is definitely not something you want.

6. Open the Cabinet Doors Under Your Sinks

Wondering how to keep RV pipes from freezing while camping in cold weather?

Leaving the cabinet doors under your sinks open can allow warm air to reach your water pipes and helps to keep the air temperature regulated.

Have you ever opened the cabinet door under your sink in the winter and felt the immediate difference in the air temperature under the sink in the cabinet?

Leaving the door open helps keep the air temperature regulated and keeps cold air from collecting under your sinks.

We’ve also found that doing this can prevent condensation from forming under your sink and potentially causing water damage.

You may also want to consider putting a Damp Rid container under your sinks, which brings us to our next tip!

A used DampRid and a new DampRid in an RV

7. Run a Dehumidifier or Use Damp Rid to Keep Indoor Condensation Down

When you’re camping in cold weather, you’ve probably noticed that as the temperature drops outside, condensation tends to form on your RV windows inside.

If left unattended, this moisture buildup can lead to potential water damage. So, here’s a tip to keep your RV interior dry and comfortable.

We run this dehumidifier , and let me tell you, it’s always surprising to see just how much moisture it can collect in such a short time.

If you don’t want to purchase a dehumidifier, you can also use Damp Rid containers throughout your rig.

They are designed to collect and trap the extra moisture in the air. You can find them at your local Walmart or order them online.

8. Add RV Skirting to Your Rig if You are Stationary

If you’re stationary for a while, adding skirting around your RV can be a game-changer. We opted for vinyl skirting on our rig, which made a big difference in our winter RVing experience.

RV skirting serves as a protective barrier around the base of your RV, and it helps to create an insulated environment underneath.

Even if your RV comes with an enclosed underbelly, skirting can still prevent your holding tanks from freezing and retaining the precious heat within your rig.

One of the immediate benefits we noticed was the improved temperature regulation underneath our RV.

It allowed us to go through the entire winter season without any issues with our tanks or water lines freezing, even with sub-zero temperatures and tons of snow!

The upfront cost of RV skirting might seem like an investment, but it’s an investment that pays off in the long run.

By keeping your RV better insulated, you’ll use less propane to stay warm, saving you money in the process.

If you want to learn how to install RV skirting yourself, you can check out our DIY RV Skirting post . It’s a worthwhile project, especially if you make stationary winter RV living a part of your plan.

A dog sitting on a picnic table in front of an RV in the snow

9. Run Your Furnace and Supplement Heat with Space Heaters

When we hit the road in our travel trailer during the winter, we’ve faced some frigid days and nights, often below freezing for extended periods.

To save on propane (because, let’s face it, those tanks can run dry fast in the cold), we added a couple of electric heaters to our setup.

But here’s where we goofed: We relied entirely on those space heaters, which made our living space toasty warm, but we had no clue our water tanks were turning into ice blocks until we tried to turn on the faucet!

So please don’t make the same heat source mistake we did. Instead, run your RV’s furnace alongside your space heaters.

While space heaters are excellent for making specific areas comfy, they probably won’t heat every part of your RV, especially the underbelly where your water lines run.

Your furnace can help distribute the warmth and, more importantly, keep those crucial water lines from freezing.

Most RVs like ours run heat throughout the entire RV, including the underbelly, which helps to keep your tanks, pipes, and water lines from freezing.

That being said, we highly recommend investing in a good electric space heater for RVing in winter as well! They’re great for warming things up quickly and supplementing your propane usage.

10. Monitor Your Propane Levels

Propane is a lifeline in the cold, serving as a source of heat for your furnace, hot water, and even your stove if you plan on cooking warm meals in your RV.

Running out of propane during a winter excursion can quickly turn an adventure into a shivering ordeal, so here are some tips on monitoring your propane levels effectively.

Start by investing in a propane tank gauge or sensor . They provide a real-time reading of your propane levels, allowing you to know precisely how much fuel you have left.

This knowledge is invaluable; it helps you plan refills or replacements well before running out.

It’s a small investment that can save you from the discomfort and inconvenience of unexpectedly running out of propane in the middle of a cold night.

In addition to using a tank gauge, make it a routine to inspect your propane tanks visually. Check for any signs of damage, rust, or loose connections.

Leaks or other issues can be dangerous and costly, so catching them early is crucial. Ensure that your propane tanks are secure and that there are no obstructions or debris around them.

This enhances safety and allows for proper ventilation, which is essential when using propane appliances.

Another smart practice is to keep spare propane tanks on hand. An extra tank or two can provide a safety net, especially if you’re camping in a remote area where refilling can be challenging.

When you notice that one tank is running low, you can easily switch to a full one without interrupting your comfort or worrying about finding a propane refill location in a hurry.

Always store spare tanks upright in a well-ventilated area and away from heat sources or open flames.

A propane refill station at Menards. The sign shows instructions.

11. Check Your Tires

When embarking on a winter RV camping journey, your tires are crucial in ensuring safety and peace of mind.

Cold winter weather can significantly affect tire performance, so it’s essential to take extra care when it comes to tire maintenance.

Here’s what you need to know about checking your tires for winter RV travel.

Start by inspecting your tires’ condition. Check for wear, damage, and adequate tread depth.

Tires with worn-out treads are less effective at gripping the road, which can be especially risky in cold and wet conditions. If you spot any significant wear or damage, consider replacing them before you hit the road.

Maintaining proper tire pressure is equally crucial. Cold weather can reduce tire pressure, affecting handling, traction, and fuel efficiency.

Regularly monitor and adjust the pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Underinflated tires can pose safety risks and wear out faster.

Consider using winter or all-season tires if you’re heading into snow or ice-prone areas. They’re designed for better performance in cold conditions, with special tread patterns for improved grip.

Carrying tire chains or traction aids can also be a wise precaution.

Driving down the road with snow on the sides of the highway and mountains in the distance

12. Pack the Essentials For RVing in Winter

When hitting the road in winter, a well-prepared RV can make all the difference. Here are some essential items to pack to ensure a cozy and safe winter camping experience:

Heated Water Hoses : Prevent freezing issues by using a heated hose to ensure a steady fresh water supply.
RV Skirting : Skirting your RV traps heat underneath, keeping the underbelly and plumbing from freezing.
Window Insulation : Thermal window covers or insulating films help retain warmth and reduce condensation.
RV Antifreeze : Use RV antifreeze in extreme temperatures to protect your plumbing system from freezing.
Emergency Heating Source : Carry a portable heater or a backup heating source for emergencies. We carry a Buddy Heater.
Snow Shovel : A sturdy snow shovel can be a lifesaver in case of heavy snowfall or getting stuck.
Electric Blankets : These are efficient at providing personalized warmth, reducing the need for excessive heating, and conserving energy in your RV during winter.

A Voltage fifth wheel RV and truck in the snow

13. When & How to Winterize Your RV

Knowing when and how to winterize your RV is important for protecting it from the harsh effects of cold weather.

Here’s a guide on when to do it and the steps to follow:

When to Winterize:

Temperature: You may want to consider winterizing your RV when temperatures consistently drop below freezing, which can vary by region. To be safe, consider doing it when the temperature hovers around 32°F (0°C).
End of the Season: If you are not going to be camping in the winter, then typically, it’s best to winterize at the end of your camping season, just before the cold weather sets in. This ensures your RV is protected during the winter months.
While Winter Camping: If you are camping in freezing temps and don’t have a way to protect your water lines from freezing and busting, you can winterize your RV while still using it. Obviously, you wouldn’t have clean, fresh water for drinking or showering, but you can still use and flush the toilet with antifreeze in your tanks.

How to Winterize:

Drain All Water Systems: Start by draining all water tanks, pipes, and faucets. Open all the valves to ensure water is completely removed. You can also blow out all water lines.
Bypass the Water Heater: Bypass the water heater to prevent antifreeze from entering it. You’ll use a separate winterizing kit to pump antifreeze.
Add RV Antifreeze: Using an RV-specific antifreeze , pump it through your water lines until it comes out of all faucets, including showers and toilets. Flush the toilet and run water through the water lines for each faucet.
Empty and Clean Tanks: Empty the black and gray water tanks. Clean and flush them thoroughly to prevent odors and buildup during the winter.
Seal Windows and Vents: Seal any gaps around windows, doors, and vents with weatherstripping to prevent drafts.
Remove Batteries: Store your RV’s batteries in a cool, dry place and keep them charged to maintain their health.

A Montana High Country fifth wheel in the cold of winter with snow on the ground

FAQ About RVing in Cold Weather

How cold is too cold for an rv.

Below-freezing temperatures are a concern; it’s important to be prepared or to winterize your RV to prevent damage in cold temperatures under 32ºF.

Can you drive an RV in cold weather?

Yes, you can drive an RV in cold weather, but be prepared for potential challenges like icy roads and cold interior temperatures.

Is it possible to live in an RV in the winter?

Yes, it’s possible to live in an RV in the winter, but you need extra insulation, heating, and possibly even winterization.

Is it hard to keep an RV warm in winter?

Keeping an RV warm in winter can be challenging, but it’s manageable with RV insulation, propane and electric heating, and sealing gaps.

How do I keep my RV from freezing in the winter?

Prevent freezing by winterizing your RV, using heated hoses, and keeping the interior warm with your propane heater.

How do you make an RV livable in the winter?

Make an RV livable in winter by insulating, adding DIY RV skirting, using quality heating sources, and managing condensation.

How do I protect my RV in freezing weather?

Protect your RV in freezing weather by winterizing, sealing gaps, and, if possible, covering it when not in use.

Will RV holding tanks freeze?

RV holding tanks can freeze in cold weather, but using tank heaters or insulating them can help prevent freezing.

In Closing: Winter RV Camping Guide: 13 Tips for RVing in Cold Weather

I hope you’ve found this list of tips for RVing in winter helpful!

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Prefer watching instead of reading? Check out our detailed YouTube video below!

Is there anything you would add to this list? Be sure to let us know in the comments below what else you do to prepare for full-time RVing in cold weather!

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6 thoughts on “winter rv camping guide: 13 tips for rving in cold weather”.

This wad JUST the blog post I needed yo read as winter is approaching!! I learned so many good tips I didn’t know before like running the furnace as well! Will be sharing with the hubs. Thanks Janae!!

Yay! So glad you found it helpful Laura! ♥️ Thanks for reading 😊

Great tips!! We usually chase the sunshine but definitely will be referencing if we ever find ourselves in some cold weather!

Enjoy the sunshine! ☺️

I was so curious about RVing in the cold weather since this is our first year. We’re home basing in FL but hope to venture out next year and this will be super helpful, thank you!

Florida sounds like the perfect place to winter! Enjoy your time there! ☺️

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Winter RV Camping: What You Need to Know

Maintaining the health of your RV’s water system is arguably the most important factor of winter RV camping. Getting clean drinking water for your RV is always important, but when outside temperatures drop below freezing, water can freeze in your pipes and your freshwater hose.

Frozen water expands, which can cause your pipes to burst. Even if your pipes don’t freeze completely, a frozen section can increase water pressure enough to stress pipe joints to the point of bursting.

Unregulated water pressure will lead to major repairs when you don’t want to be working on your motorhome or travel trailer . Repairing your RV’s plumbing also comes with a hefty bill. Avoid the expense with a little preparation.

Winter Considerations When Hooking Up to City Water

If you’re hooking up to city water, you’ll need a heated hose that plugs into an AC outlet in your RV or at your campsite. A heated hose keeps water from freezing at the source while it’s flowing into your RV.

There are many designs, but we recommend the Camco Freeze Ban hose because it comes with insulated sleeves that slide over the hose fittings at the inlet and outlet. It’s also rated for temperatures down to -20℉. Learn more about this Camco insulated water hose.

Some people add insulation to their heated hoses if they know temperatures will remain below freezing for long stretches. This can be done by wrapping the entire length of the hose in foil or foam insulation tape.

Technician Tip: Check the recommendations and read through the manual that came with your heated hose before adding insulation .

Winter Considerations When Filling Your Freshwater Tank

fill-freshwater-winter-rv-camping-12-2022

If you don’t have a heated hose, you can fill your freshwater tank instead of connecting to city water. Many modern RVs designed for winter camping feature heated holding tank compartments to prevent water from freezing in your tanks.

For older RVs, you can add your own insulation to your holding tank compartments or place a drop light in the compartment. The heat produced by the light will be enough to keep the water in your tank from freezing unless you encounter extremely cold temperatures.

Technician Tip: Drop lights must use incandescent bulbs rather than LED or fluorescent bulbs to produce heat to warm your tanks. Extreme caution should be exercised, so heat doesn’t damage the coach or start a fire.

As a rule of thumb, only connect your water hose when filling your freshwater tank. Disconnect it when you’re finished, and drain all water out of the hose before storing it. This will prolong the tank’s life and the hose while preventing potential freezing.

How to Keep RV Pipes from Freezing While Camping

pipes-from-freezing-winter-rv-camping-12-2022

So you’ve got running water into your RV – excellent, but you’re not out of the woods yet. To keep your RV pipes from freezing, open cabinets, so the heat from your furnace heats your entire coach. You can also leave faucets barely open, so they drip overnight, but this runs the risk of overfilling your grey water holding tank while you’re sleeping.

Some RVs come with heated holding tank compartments, and you can add a tank blanket if yours doesn’t. Tank blankets are typically available in 12V DC and 120V AC models, allowing you to choose one that suits your off-grid or on-grid winter RV camping trips.

Technician Tip: It’s best to consult with a local Camping World specialist for assistance on modifications to avoid adding a heater that damages your plumbing.

Additionally, many towable RVs have exposed water lines underneath the unit. These are the most likely candidates for freezing when camping in cold temperatures. An easy way to reduce the risk of exposed water lines freezing is to add foam pipe insulation and wrap it with foam insulation or heat tape.

How to Keep Your RV Sewer Hose from Freezing

It’s best to wait until your grey and black water holding tanks are completely full to hook up your sewer hose and empty. This reduces how long the valves are open, and heat can escape.

Some RVers enjoying long-term winter stays leave their sewer hose hooked up to an outlet for the duration of their stay. If you do this, only open tank valves when your tanks reach two-thirds of their capacity to empty.

It’s also a good idea to empty your tanks during the hottest part of the day and ensure the hose is empty after dumping. This may require lifting the hose or using sewer hose supports , so it drains completely and minimizes the risk of waste particles freezing in the hose.

How to Prepare Your RV’s Interior for Winter Camping

Winter RV camping should be enjoyable, but that’s tough if you’re perpetually cold. Fortunately, we have plenty of tips to keep your living space warm and cozy throughout the winter.

How to Insulate an RV Floor

Because hot air rises and cold air sinks, floors often feel extra chilly in the morning. Fortunately, there are many ways to insulate under your feet, such as interior rugs and runners , carpet tiles , and floor mats .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ♡ RV RENOVATIONS (@lovethatrv)

How to Insulate RV Windows and Doors

insulate-windows-winter-rv-camping-12-2022

The next two obvious places for heat loss are your RV windows and doors. An RV with dual-pane windows is best for winter camping, but there are ways to insulate single-pane windows if your budget doesn’t allow for that upgrade.

You can add foil insulation to windows and doors to reduce heat loss. If you don’t like that look, you can upgrade to thicker window shades. Door window covers and a reflective sunshade that fits your RV’s front window will also help.

If you can’t find exact matches for all your windows and doors, you can purchase a foil insulation roll and cut squares to the needed dimensions. While you can, most winter RVers don’t cover ALL their RV windows, so they can still enjoy natural light and heat from the sun during the day.

Check out Camping World’s complete selection of insulation, shades, and covers to add to your RV doors and windows.

In addition to adding insulation, check the weather stripping around your RV doors. If it’s partially detached or missing, replace it to keep cold and moisture out.

Technician Tip: Use caution when installing window insulation, so you don’t block the weep holes or cause them to become obstructed with ice. The condensation will back up and run down the walls inside your RV if you’re not careful.

How to Insulate RV Roof Vents

insulate-roof-vents-winter-rv-camping-12-2022

Because you won’t necessarily need these vents for air circulation during the winter, you can install vent cushions to reduce heat loss further.

Vent cushions can also be used during the warmer months to trap cool air from your AC inside your RV, making them an excellent investment for conserving energy . The good news about these cushions is that they can be installed or removed in seconds.

Electric Vs. Propane Heat Sources

There are three main heat sources to help you stay warm when winter camping. The first is your RV’s propane furnace . Your furnace is the best way to heat the inside and underbelly of your RV efficiently. So, before your winter camping trip, take the time to ensure your furnace is in good working order and check to see if it’s time to replace your furnace filter (if applicable).

Technician Tip: Never install a filter on a furnace that was not equipped with one by the factory.

Use compressed air and a soft brush to remove dirt, dust, and debris from the furnace. Make sure all vents are clean and unblocked. Perform a test by setting your RV thermostat to the desired temperature and measuring its effectiveness with a digital thermometer .

Contact a local Camping World Service Center to schedule a furnace inspection if your furnace isn’t maintaining the desired temperature.

Your second option is a portable electric space heater . Electric heaters can supplement your RV furnace if you’re plugged into AC power all winter. They can even conserve propane and lower your energy bill, depending on the electric costs in your location.

The issue with space heaters is that they heat the living space above the floor, causing the furnace thermostat to switch the furnace off. Only a ducted gas furnace will send heat to your RV’s underbelly. The heated tank spaces are no longer heated if the furnace is off.

Technician Tip: Portable space heaters can overwhelm your coach’s electrical system if used simultaneously with multiple other RV appliances. This may result in inconveniences, damages to the coach, or even fires. Avoid models with a maximum wattage rating over 1,500 watts and turn it off before powering on other high-draw appliances like your microwave.

Your final option is to use a catalytic heater or a portable propane heater that relies on a small propane cylinder. Ensure the unit is safe for indoor use, and stock up on extra propane cylinders if you want this to be a reliable heat source for winter camping.

The issue with propane space heaters is that they can increase condensation and cause a dangerous accumulation of carbon monoxide. They should never be used in a tightly sealed RV, so you’ll need to crack a window and use a dehumidifier to avoid moisture issues .

External Vs. Onboard Propane

When winter camping, you’ll burn propane faster than usual. Your onboard propane container(s) supplies propane to your stove, oven, central furnace, and water heater. Refilling propane is vital to your warmth and comfort when it’s cold outside.

For travel trailers and fifth wheels , propane cylinders can be disconnected and exchanged or refilled at local hardware or grocery stores. Just know that small portable LP containers are subject to refrigeration in cold weather.

Technician Tip: In cold weather, small LP containers seem to run out of gas when they’re only half empty. Keeping your containers above half full is your best bet for reliable propane supply when winter camping.

For motorhomes, however, you’ll need to pay a propane fill service to come to you or move your RV to a fill station, which can be treacherous on winter roads. Some motorhome owners pay for an external propane tank to be installed outside. This requires a propane adapter kit and a propane company to deliver and attach the tank.

Call multiple propane providers in your area to compare prices and services. If given the option of “Keep Full” or “On Call” service, “Keep Full” eliminates the hassle of running out of propane because you forgot to check the level regularly.

How to Protect the Outside of Your RV

From getting snow off the roof to ensuring your stabilizing jacks don’t freeze to the ground, there are some important steps to protect your RV’s exterior on winter adventures.

How to Insulate an RV Underbelly

To keep RV stabilizing jacks from freezing to the ground, place wooden blocks, leveling blocks , or stabilizing jack pads beneath them. If you store recreation items under your RV, place them on a tarp or in sealed bins to avoid water damage.

Using an RV skirt provides another level of insulation for the open space beneath your RV. A skirt can keep your floors, holding tanks, and vehicle components warmer when outside temperatures drop below freezing. Portable or long-term insulated skirting makes a massive difference in comfort and efficiency. Any warmth you can trap inside your RV or underbelly works to your advantage.

An added benefit of skirting your RV is protected exterior storage. If you have kayaks or bikes that don’t have anywhere else to go, slide them under your RV before skirting to keep them out of the elements.

Technician Tip: RV skirting can make an attractive home for critters. Use insect and rodent deterrents to keep them at bay throughout the winter.

How to Make Exterior RV Steps Safer

Your convenient RV step can quickly turn into a slippery hazard in freezing temperatures. The best way to add grip is to install wraparound step rugs . You can also install an external handrail for added safety when entering and exiting your RV in the winter.

Technician Tip: Choose step rugs carefully. The open styles with aggressive textures are best for winter camping, as the carpet-styles can still turn icy in cold, wet weather.

Inspecting RV Window Seals

You should also check the status of your RV’s exterior window seals. If you haven’t addressed them in a few years, adding caulk or sealant might be helpful before winter camping. Many of these products have temperature limits that must be observed, so check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper use.

There are several caulk and sealant products for resealing around your RV windows. Ideally, find a non-sagging or quick-drying product so you can do this job quickly without making too much of a mess.

Consult your owner’s manual for recommendations on compatible sealant products for your RV.

Protecting your Roof, AC, Slide-Outs, and Awnings

Avoid snow and ice accumulation anywhere on your RV. No matter how cold it is, the best way to protect your RV when winter camping is to push the snow off after each storm. This includes your slideouts, and you can use slide-out supports to protect them from the added weight of snow and ice.

Technician Tip: Your best bet in heavy snow events is to close slide-outs until the storm passes.

When removing snow and ice, be careful to avoid damaging your roof or awnings. We recommend a broom with soft bristles to clear a light dusting of snow. For larger accumulations, use a plastic shovel to clear the top layer before pushing the bottom layer off with the broom.

Climbing up your RV ladder can be the most dangerous part of this effort. Shoes with soft rubber soles are best for handling slippery surfaces, and you should also ask a partner or friend to spot you if possible, but be aware that a harness and fall protection are the only true ways to guarantee your safety when climbing on a fully walkable RV roof.

We also want to note that it’s best to leave your main RV awning closed when winter RV camping. Weight from snow and ice and the potential for high winds make the risk for awning damage high in the winter.

If your awning is damaged, consult your guide to RV awnings for information on removal, installation, and awning fabric replacement.

Lastly, consider installing a cover over your A/C unit because you most likely won’t use it in the winter. An insulated A/C cover protects the unit from damage while keeping out those dreadful winter drafts.

Technician Tip: DO NOT install an A/C cover when your coach is in use if your units have a heat pump.

Driving Tips for Winter RV Camping

If you aren’t full-time winter camping in one place, you’ll need to navigate wet, slippery roads between destinations. Here are a few tips for safe winter RV driving:

Get all-weather tires.
Check the weather early and often, especially when navigating mountain passes.
Accelerate and decelerate more slowly than normal.
Avoid quick lane changes and turns, which are always bad ideas in an RV.
If chain restrictions are in place, don’t go.
Consider investing in traction boards to help you self-rescue if you get stuck.
If you feel uncomfortable with the weather conditions, stay put.
Slow and steady wins the race.

Enroll in Good Sam Roadside Assistance to know help will be on the way if needed!

Camping in the winter can be an exciting adventure and allow you to enjoy all the fun that snowy destinations offer. When you get home, winterize your RV properly, so your RV doesn’t have any trouble weathering those frosty winter storms.

Do you have experience camping in cold weather? Share your advice with fellow RVers in the comments below!

Winter RV camping - what you need to know

Comment (11)

I watched the video regarding hooking electricity and filling your water tank. I have a few comments about things that I feel should have been added to the video. First, it’s not safe to assume that the power panel/box you’re going to lug into is wired correctly. I always check this with a polarity tester before I connect to anyone’s power supply. I’ve had too many checks that show me that the nuetral is not wired correctly. Secondly, when I fill my RV with water even at home, I run fresh water through my hose regardless of if it’s new or used to flush out any debris or old existing water filter or not. Secondly, I disconnect my hose from the faucet and add 1 teaspoon of Clorox bleach for every ten gallons of water that will be added to the tank. This keeps my water fresh in the tank and eliminates bacteria. The measurement of one teaspoon per 10 gallons came from Everpure which I believe is now Pentair. I use an ADC water filter inside my RV’s which removes the chlorine taste along with a few over nasty components. I add this chlorine to my water regardless of if I’m filling up with city water or well water. One other thing I’ve been considering but have not done at sites with full hookups, is to spray any water and sewer fixtures with a solution chlorine and water, especially water connections if nearby a sewer connection. Many people don’t think about the possiblities of getting diseases from these things. Thats one reason why I don’t like to fill my water tank at a dump station.

Many of the winter camping suggestions are great ideas and I’d like to add to them . For removing snow I use a cordless leaf blower it works great for light to medium snow and if it’s heavy wet snow a push broom works great. For additional heat we use an electric quartz space heater . If your budget allows purchase additional 20# propane tanks, we carry 2 spares so we always have 2 that are full and swap them as needed. We found that during winter camping that the window kits for adding plastic to house windows works great in the rv . It’s a little bit of a chore to install because of the sizing but it works great and will last the entire winter. For skirting the trailer we used bales of straw. Not hay. Also under the trailer we used a string of work lights that had 7 bulbs and in those we used 100 watt incandescent bulbs to heat underneath. For water we used a portable 35 gal. Plastic tank we would fill at a local spring and then gravity feed tha into our water tanks. To monitor the temperature under the trailer we used a remote temperature sensor so we knew what was going on temp wise at all times. So we camped in our trailer all winter in 2014/2015 and survived while our new home was being built so all of the above works flawlessly with the addition of vigilance and work .

This excellent article is obviously written by an individual who has experience in winter camping. I’m enthusiastic about considering everything presented. There is one key idea that has been missed: The original manufacturer can far more easily and effectively provide winter camping capability than the consumer. The best method for consumers to acquire 4-season capability is to dispose of inferior products and then shop 4-season capability at the outset. This will save HUGE amounts of wasted time, money and frustration. It is easier said than done since there is no enforceable 4-season industry standard and nearly all manufacturers make claims but fail to test their products for temperature capability. The only solution is to RENT or borrow a unit and test it yourself in the temperature extremes you anticipate BEFORE PURCHASE. Hypocritical manufacturers will not like this. But credible ones will support it.

How can an electric heater add moisture I think you meant the propane heaters will add moisture

Hi All! I’ve been working on tracking down some four-season motorhome options, but this information is tougher to find than I’d like. Most state they are insulated, but to what extent, I cannot say. Look for features like dual pane windows and heated holding tanks when shopping for 4-season motorhomes.

Here are a few makes/models you can research further:

Forest River Georgetown 5 Series: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/forest-river/georgetown-5-series Entegra Vision: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/entegra-coach/vision

Class B Winnebago Travato: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/winnebago/travato Thor Sanctuary: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/thor/sanctuary

E450 Class C

Jayco Greyhawk: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/jayco/greyhawk Forest River Forester: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/forest-river/forester

Class C Sprinter

Thor Delano: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/thor/delano Winnebago View: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/winnebago/view

Dynamax Isata 5: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/dynamax/isata-5 Jayco Seneca: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/jayco/seneca

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with additional questions!

Great recommendation Benjamin! Anyone interested can check pricing and availability of Arctic Fox models in their area here: https://rv.campingworld.com/product/northwood/arctic-fox

Hi Steven! These are all good recommendations. Using a surge protector is another way to check the wiring at a power pedestal before plugging your RV in. We cover some surge protector specifics here: https://blogcw.local/rv-basics/what-you-need-to-know-about-rvs-and-surge-protectors/

To your second point, sanitizing your fresh water tank is an annual maintenance task for all RVs. Most people do it in the spring after de-winterizing their RV. Here’s our guide to sanitizing your RV’s fresh water tank: https://blogcw.local/rv-basics/sanitize-your-rvs-freshwater-system-in-5-simple-steps/

Finally, I’ll say that I personally also use a water filter whether filling up my fresh water tank or connecting to city water. It’s better safe than sorry!

I appreciate your comment. We’ve been shopping for a four-season motorized RV, but it’s not clear which models are specifically built for that purpose except for the rare 4×4 or AWD models with double-pane windows. One salesman said as long as we’re not camping in Minnesota, one of the 2WD Class C rigs we were looking at would be “fine” in the winter. We stayed in our travel trailer in winter in NM for a month at a time twice, and it did well, but we want an RV that we can drive and use all year long.

Northwood makes a good 4 season. I have a 2019 arctic fox that is 4 season and I’ve had zero problems in freezing temps

Hey Stephen, renting is a great suggestion. Good Sam has its own rental network that people can rent an RV from. I highly recommend it. https://www.rvrentals.com/

There are several great suggestions here, Carl. Thanks for the input.

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4-Season, Off-Road, Off-Grid Camper Trailer: 2024 Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 Review

Overlanding in the dead of winter, surrounded by snow and rarely seeing the thermometer climb into double digits , probably seems counterintuitive to the majority of RVers who tend to seek out much warmer climes. But, if you're one of those adventuresome types who enjoys everything Mother Nature has to offer and embraces four-season off-grid outings, winter camping is both exciting and invigorating - if you have the right RV.

That's where an Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 travel trailer comes into play. This 26-foot RV is one of the best couples' overlanding-type trailers built for off-grid use and extreme weather conditions, winter and summer.

In short: The 2024 Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 has a hefty price tag and requires a big vehicle to tow it. It’s also a premium all-weather camper trailer that offers up impressive comfort. It excels at extended off-road and off-grid travel because of its state-of-the-art suspension and robust solar and battery systems.

2024 Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195

Length 26'1"
Weight (Empty) 5,500 lbs.
GVWR (Loaded) 9,920 lbs.
Suspension Independent w/air
Fresh water 60 gals.
Gray water 60 gals.
Sleeps 3
MSRP $143,000
Highest R-values in RVs (R18.75 walls/roof, R15 floor)
21" of ground clearance to skid plates
Air-adjustable independent suspension (±5")
Heated enclosed underbelly
Dry flush toilet
Heavy-duty chassis w/articulating hitch
Composite side, roof, and floor
60-gallon fresh/gray water tanks
Big price tag puts it in the Premium category
GVWR requires full-size pickup/SUV for towing

Bruce Smith

2024 Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 Review

The tandem-axle X195 is the product of Imperial Outdoors, owned by Nelson Industries . This Wisconsin-based company has built up a stellar reputation over decades of building custom ice-fishing houses. That expertise transferred nicely into the design and manufacturing of this rugged camp trailer - and its smaller single-axle, 21-foot twin, the XploreRV X145.

See my review of the XploreRV X145 .

XploreRV X195: Extreme Temps Rated

The X195 trailer’s body utilizes a one-piece composite roof, sides, and a floor that are nearly 3 inches thick, and that encase block foam built to withstand the rigors of extreme weather (120 to -40 degrees F). The walls and roof have an R18.75 value, while the floor is rated at R15. This design is the best insulation and heating system I've ever seen in a camp trailer of this size, a testament to its icehouse DNA.

"We spent a lot of time designing this camper from what we learned in building high-end fish houses," says Steve Geary, Marketing Manager for Imperial Outdoors/Nelson Industries. "The block-insulated walls of our coach are almost three inches thick, so they really add to the ability to retain heat in the winter and cool in the summer.

My wife and I were amazed at how well this design kept the subfreezing temps at bay during one of our midwinter outings where the outside temps never got above 20 degrees.

The 14,300-BTU Truma Combi Eco Plus , which is both a furnace and tankless water heater, never struggled to keep the interior a cozy 72 degrees. It also made the shower water instantly hot, even when the outdoor temps hovered in the lower teens. It's an amazing piece of equipment, and so quiet you forget it's even turned on.

Windows Matter

"The one-piece composite floor and roof construction with lightweight acrylic thermopane windows (with nitrogen gas charge and built-in shades) also contribute to insulating against extreme weather conditions by reducing the opportunity for both heat and cold transfer," says Geary.

The thick window shades on the living area windows act as another level of insulation from the heat/cold of the outside, and the separate window screens let fresh air flow during warm weather without letting in pesky bugs.

Another nice touch are the window locks in the living area that can be opened in varying degrees to cut down on the heater and A/C use. Each window has four locking latches that can be set to just crack the window open for a breath of air seeping by the seals to prevent condensation you'd get in the winter. Or, the latches can be rotated to allow the windows to open from one-third to full.

Bigger Is Better, in This Case

The 26-foot X195 is roomy and a much more comfortable setup for a couple or a family with one or two youngsters than its single-axle near-twin. The interior measures just over 19 feet long; it’s 6.5 feet wide with a ceiling height of 6 feet, 3 inches. The interior is built of composite materials and the upper cabinets have high-end latches, hinges, and support struts for the lid.

That extra 5 feet more of interior floor length than the X145 allows the use of a larger dinette/sofa to sleep a third person, and placing the full-size RV bed in front in a north-to-south orientation makes for easier access.

Across from the dinette is the galley. While the smaller X145 had a little fridge and single-burner cooktop, the X195 is much better equipped for multiday stays with a stacked 6.9-cubic-foot freezer/fridge and a dual-burner cooktop. It also has a slightly larger counter for improved prep space.

Camper Trailer Bathroom Done Right

The bathroom in the XploreRV X195 is identical to that found in the smaller X145. It's bright and roomy for a trailer of this size. The shower easily accommodates 6-footers and has a sliding glass door to separate it from the rest of the bathroom. The sink is deep and the vanity is spacious.

When you check the specs, there's no black-water tank. That's because the XploreRV campers use the Laveo Dry Flush waterless toilet system, which is popular in the marine industry. It's a really sweet setup. We spent nearly 5 days camping off-grid and came to love the Laveo toilet for its simplicity and efficiency.

After a half-dozen or so uses of the toilet, sprinkling a little gelling agent after each deposit, the "flush" button is hit. The inside of the toilet spins around, sucks, and seals the waste that's been deposited in the shiny mylar bag, and then pulls the sealed waste downward leaving another clean, new silver bag from the replaceable cartridge in its place ready for use. Check out the process in this video .

Simple. No muss. No smell. And, no need for a black tank or an RV dump station. It's a really neat and sanitary setup for off-grid camping that negates the need for a black water tank.

Xplore X195 Trailer Offers Abundant Storage

One aspect that makes one expedition/overlanding trailer a step or two better than another is storage space - or lack thereof. The XploreRV X195 has a lot of storage in upper storage cabinets, big drawers beneath the counter, and a pull-out storage area for cookware beneath the induction cooktop.

More interior storage is located underneath the seats at the dinette. They are large enough to keep extra bedding, backpacks , clothing, or other bulky items out of sight but within easy access.

Outside there's an abundance of cargo brackets, grid panels, utility boxes, and accessories to bring along everything from a Hi-Lift jack and Jerry cans to mountain bikes and kayaks.

Abundant Off-Grid Electrical Power

One of the many features of the XploreRV X195 that I liked was the camper's healthy 12V GoPower solar and Expion360 LifeP04 lithium-ion battery system.

The demo model reviewed was outfitted with the optional Stage 3 three-battery (1,080aH) package and Stage 3 (1,240W) solar roof panel kit. It also had the 2,000W inverter with a monitoring panel. Upgrading the XploreRV's standard solar panel/lithium batteries to higher levels is recommended for anyone planning extended off-grid camping trips and who doesn’t want to power up a gas-powered generator.

My wife and I spent 5 days camping off-the-grid relying only on the solar battery system under several days of overcast skies. We used the cooktop multiple times each day, kept the interior and exterior LED lights on late into the night, ran the furnace and water pump, and were still left with more than 40% power when we headed back into civilization.

Independent-Axle With Air Suspension

When it comes to towing, the XploreRV X195 (and little brother X145) sits atop a powder-coated, heavy-duty boxed-steel frame.

The trailer is also fitted with a Cruisemaster ATX Off-Road Independent Air Suspension imported from Australia. The adjustable air suspension allows up to ±5 inches of adjustment per side. At full lift, it provides 21 inches of clearance between the ground and the steel skid plates.

The skids protect the 60-gallon fresh water and gray water tanks mounted in the enclosed and heated underbelly. The plumbing and wiring of the X195 is routed well above the frame, as well. This gives those critical parts excellent protection from damage that can be caused by encounters with rocks and other large obstructions.

Also of interest to those camping way off the grid, the X195 rides on 33-inch mud-terrain tires with heavy-duty disc brakes.

XploreRV X195: A Smooth Tow

In addition to everything else under the X195 body, the frame is fitted with a Cruisemaster DO45 Plus articulating hitch that allows the trailer to swivel, pivot, and rotate separately from the tow vehicle. Most newcomers to off-road/expedition-style camping rarely consider the importance of the hitch. A standard ball-mount receiver hitch transmits a lot of jerking motion into the cab.

The DO45 Plus hitch design greatly reduces trailer movement into the tow vehicle because it swivels and rotates with the trailer's movement, softening the tow. A DO45 Plus hitch also provides a stronger, more secure hitching system than the traditional ball-mount.

We towed the 5,500-pound (unloaded weight) X195 behind a 2022 Ford F-250 Super Duty 4×4 over more than 50 miles of rutted, single-track, sometimes rocky snow-covered backroads in Oregon's high desert. Never once did the trailer have an adverse affect on our ride quality or comfort.

Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 Review: Final Thoughts

Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 is a stoutly built, top-tier towable. It should hold up well through decades of challenging, overlanding/expedition-style four-season use, delivering a comfortable camping experience regardless of the season or location.

The downside for the average outdoor enthusiast is the XploreRV X195 is also in the rarified air in cost of top-tier expedition-style towables, with a starting price of $143,000. Its price is surpassed only by the line of Australian-made tandem-axle Bruder expedition trailers. But even those don't compare when it comes to keeping the occupants comfy when temps go to the extremes of summer and winter.

Find your local Imperial Outdoors dealer and dive into the specs of the XploreRV X195 camper trailer even further.

Self-Propelled and Remote-Controlled Luxury Travel Trailer: Meet the 2025 Bowlus Rivet

With an unmistakable design the Rivet camper trailer carries the Bowlus name into new territory. While still full of luxury, this trailer drops the price of entry, enables off-road excursions, and even has a self-propulsion system on offer. Read more…

The 10 Best Camper Trailers of 2023

From solo travelers to couples, families, and groups, here are the most reliable, enjoyable camper trailers for road trips and overland adventures. Read more…

The post 4-Season, Off-Road, Off-Grid Camper Trailer: 2024 Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 Review appeared first on GearJunkie .

The 9 Most Beautiful RV Campgrounds in the U.S., According to Travel Experts

Exploring the great outdoors in an RV offers a unique blend of adventure and comfort. Across the United States, RV campgrounds provide a gateway to stunning landscapes, from serene lakesides to majestic mountains.

These destinations are not just places to park; they are meticulously curated to enhance the natural beauty of their surroundings. Experts in the field agree that the best RV campgrounds combine scenic views with top-notch amenities, ensuring every traveler finds their slice of paradise.

Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or a novice to the nomadic lifestyle, these campgrounds cater to all levels of RV enthusiasts. They offer a mix of peaceful retreats and active hubs, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and even participating in organized community events.

Each site promises a memorable experience, showcasing the diversity and splendor of America’s landscapes. Embracing the freedom of the open road and the community spirit of campground living, these places stand out as top picks for anyone eager to explore the vast, breathtaking expanses of the U.S.

Beautiful RV Campgrounds in the U.S.

Salt creek recreation area & campground in port angeles, washington.

Salt Creek Recreation Area & Campground, located on the Olympic Peninsula, provides stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the surrounding terrain. This campground is well-loved for its direct access to tidal pools and sandy beaches, as well as its proximity to the lush forests of Olympic National Park.

The campsites are equipped with necessary amenities and are suitable for both tents and RVs. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the coastal areas.

The campground’s unique location also offers opportunities for star-gazing and enjoying serene sunsets over the water.

Hilton Head Harbor RV Resort & Marina in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Harbor RV Resort & Marina is a luxury destination, perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure in a scenic waterfront setting. This resort, situated on the northern end of Hilton Head Island, features fully landscaped sites with concrete pads and offers a range of activities including water sports.

Guests can enjoy two swimming pools, tennis courts, and a well-equipped marina. The on-site restaurant, The Sunset Grille, is renowned for its delightful dining options, making it a highlight for visitors.

The resort’s welcoming atmosphere is complemented by top-notch amenities and the natural beauty of the South Carolina Lowcountry.

Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor in Petoskey, Michigan

Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor offers an exquisite RV experience in the heart of Michigan’s scenic landscapes. This award-winning resort sprawls across 26 acres, providing ample space for both privacy and community engagement.

The resort boasts an array of upscale amenities, including a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness center, tennis courts, and a cozy community lodge. Each RV site features a concrete pad, full hook-ups, and is surrounded by meticulously groomed landscapes, offering both beauty and practicality.

The park is celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere and a range of organized activities that cater to all ages, ensuring a memorable stay filled with relaxation and fun activities.

Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio

Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point provides a unique blend of thrill and comfort, positioning itself steps away from the roller coasters of Cedar Point Amusement Park. This campground offers full hookup RV sites and luxury cabins, enhancing the traditional camping experience with modern comforts and amenities.

With its picturesque setting along the shores of Lake Erie, guests can enjoy stunning views and easy access to the amusement park. The facilities include clean bathhouses, a swimming pool, and convenience stores.

Ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike, Lighthouse Point combines the excitement of an amusement park with the tranquility of lakeside camping.

Zion River Resort in Virgin, Utah

Zion River Resort near Zion National Park is a premier destination for nature lovers. The meticulously maintained grounds are equipped with full hook-up sites and deluxe amenities including a swimming pool and spa, a social hall, and a convenience store.

The resort’s close proximity to Zion National Park allows guests to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and bird watching. The resort is particularly noted for its friendly staff and clean facilities, making it a perfect base for exploring the natural wonders of Southern Utah.

Guests often commend the peaceful environment and the stunning backdrop of towering cliffs and pristine rivers, making every stay at Zion River Resort a rejuvenating one .

Rafter J Bar Ranch in Hill City, South Dakota

Rafter J Bar Ranch offers a blend of wilderness and comfort, providing a gateway to the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota. This campground is divided into several sections, each offering unique views and experiences of the surrounding forest and meadows.

It’s particularly popular among families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore nearby national parks and historic sites. The ranch features full hook-up sites, along with a variety of recreational facilities including a swimming pool, playgrounds, and access to hiking trails.

Its spacious layout ensures privacy and tranquility, making it a perfect spot for those who wish to immerse themselves in nature.

Boyd’s Key West Campground in Key West, Florida

Boyd’s Key West Campground offers an unforgettable camping experience at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys. This waterfront campground allows guests to enjoy beautiful ocean views right from their RV sites.

Boyd’s provides various amenities including a swimming pool, boat ramp, and full hookup sites. It is particularly noted for its lush, tropical setting and proximity to Key West’s vibrant attractions and nightlife.

The campground also organizes activities and events, making it a lively and engaging environment for visitors. Whether you’re looking to explore the unique culture of Key West or simply relax by the water, Boyd’s offers a perfect mix of both.

Schoodic Woods Campground in Winter Harbor, Maine

Located in the quieter part of Acadia National Park, Schoodic Woods Campground offers a serene escape amidst Maine’s rugged coastline. This campground is known for its spacious sites, which are well integrated into the surrounding forest, offering privacy and direct access to biking and hiking trails.

The campground features modern amenities such as solar-powered electric hookups and well-maintained restroom facilities, blending comfort with sustainability. The area is less crowded than other parts of Acadia, providing a more intimate experience with nature.

Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the ocean and are often treated to sightings of local wildlife. Schoodic Woods is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the great outdoors, with easy access to coastal towns and scenic drives.

Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA in Wilmington, New York

Set in the heart of the Adirondacks, Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA offers a gateway to outdoor adventures with a backdrop of New York’s stunning mountain scenery.

This campground is well-equipped for both relaxation and active pursuits, with amenities such as bike rentals, hiking trails, and a swimming pool. It’s especially popular among those looking to explore nearby attractions like Whiteface Mountain or the historic Olympic venues in Lake Placid.

The campground is known for its friendly staff, clean facilities, and a range of site options, from tent camping to RV hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

Exploring beautiful RV campgrounds in the U.S. offers more than just a place to park your travel home. Each site brings its own slice of America’s vast beauty, from serene waterfronts and lush forests to panoramic mountain views.

These campgrounds not only provide essential amenities but also enhance the experience with their unique settings and opportunities for adventure. They are ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Fall/Winter/Spring RV Visitor Services Volunteer

1 Wildlife Circle Austwell , TX 77950 United States

Volunteer Position Overview

About this position.

Provide visitor orientation in our new, state-of-the-art Visitor Center (air-conditioned) and answer Visitor Center phone. Answer questions regarding the refuge, local natural and cultural resources, safety precautions, rules and regulations, recreational opportunities, and area services. Operate a cash register (collecting refuge fees and selling passes).
If interested, assist with and/or lead interpretive tours and educational programs, or rove on trails and interact with visitors.
Assist staff with operations and light maintenance of facilities, including cleaning bathrooms, restocking brochures, emptying trash containers, ensuring refuge is free of litter and other more complex maintenance and visitor facility projects within your abilities.
Occasionally help with special events on-and off-site.
Represent the Fish and Wildlife Service by wearing a volunteer uniform and interacting with visitors in a friendly, courteous, tactful, and helpful manner.

SCHEDULE AND TIME COMMITMENT:

Volunteers are expected to volunteer 3 days/24 hours per week. This position works weekends and non-federal holidays.
We request a minimum 3-month commitment.

ACCOMODATIONS

Full hook-up RV spot provided (includes water and electric). Must be able to provide own lodging (RV, 5th wheel, travel trailer).
Access to volunteer facility. Amenities include bathrooms, showers, laundry, full kitchen, TV, couches, and tables. Wi-fi provided in volunteer facility.
We will provide on-site training.
A valid Driver's License is REQUIRED for driving government vehicles.

CONTACT INFORMATION

For more information, contact Laura Bonneau ([email protected])

Duties/Activities

Stories about volunteering.

Little River at Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

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Alerts in effect, temporary campground closures, mammoth campground.

Mammoth Campground will remain closed for the 2023-2024 winter season and will reopen in 2024 (dates TBD).

During the 2022 flood, a sewer line adjacent to the road that carried wastewater from Mammoth Hot Springs to a sewage treatment plant in Gardiner was ruptured. Currently, work is underway to connect the Mammoth Campground to the new wastewater treatment system in Mammoth.

Norris Campground

Norris Campground will be closed to the public for the 2024 season.

Day use at Norris has risen substantially over the past decade requiring staff to focus largely on day-use issues such as increasing parking congestion, the need for bathroom cleaning, and public safety. Due to Norris’ remote location, the park does not have the staffing required to effectively respond to emergency incidents occurring overnight (law enforcement, emergency medical services etc.).

Pebble Creek Campground

Pebble Creek will remain closed for the 2024 season for flood recovery work. The campground was significantly impacted by the 2022 floods; many sections of the campground have over 2-3 feet of material (rocks, dirt) from the floods that need to be removed.

Tower Fall Campground

The National Park Service is making a variety of repairs to the Tower Fall Campground. Also, due to a lack of housing availability, portions of the campground will likely be used to house camper trailers for contractors working on the Northeast Entrance Road. At this time, there is no set date for when the campground will open.

Learn about places to stay and eat in the park.

Pick a lodge that's right for you and make a reservation early!

Yellowstone is seasonal. Plan your visit by learning about current conditions, seasons, road conditions, services, activities, and more.

Last updated: December 18, 2023

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Contact info, mailing address:.

PO Box 168 Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168

307-344-7381

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WATCH VIDEOS

Massive fire erupts at RV dealership in Santa Fe Springs after burglary call, causes $1.5M in damage

SANTA FE SPRINGS, Calif. (KABC) -- A burglary call turned into a massive firefight at a Santa Fe Springs RV dealership, which suffered a loss of at least $1.5 million.

The incident happened around 12:30 a.m. Thursday at Mike Thompson's RV Super Store on Firestone Boulevard.

According to the Whittier Police Department, which covers the city of Santa Fe Springs, officers responded to a possible burglary in progress after the dealership's alarm went off in the gated lot.

When they arrived, they encountered flames that quickly spread among the closely bunched vehicles.

Authorities say at least 15 fifth-wheel trailers were either damaged or completely destroyed. The total damage is reported to be between $1.5 million and $2 million.

Surveillance video of the RV lot from the time the fire started reportedly shows a suspicious man in the area.

The cause of the fire has not been determined. Investigators who were at the scene Thursday, which included ATF agents, interviewed individuals who live in a homeless encampment in the area. No arrests were made.

Mike Thompson's RV Super Store was started in 1972. It's a family owned and operated business with four locations in Southern California.

Santa Fe Springs Mayor Jay Sarno praised the city's fire department for their swift and coordinated response, which saved some of the businesses inventory. Because of that, the RV business was able to continue operations on Thursday.

Anyone with relevant information is asked to call the Whittier Police Department. The anonymous tip line can be reached at (562) 567-9299.

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COMMENTS

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Install heavy drapes that insulate your windows against the cold. Check to ensure all doors and windows are well sealed and replace old seals/weather stripping as needed. "Skirt" your winter camping trailer — A substantial portion of heat loss in RVs happens when cold winds blow underneath them.
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11. Jayco Redhawk 26XD. What makes the Jayco Redhawk 26XD so great is its the perfect RV for the cold and for living in. It comes equipped with Climate Shield technology for those cold winter months. It comes with your full kitchen needs like a stove burner, microwave, fridge, and cabinet space.
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Forest River Rockwood Windjammer 3008W Travel Trailer. Forest River Rockwood Windjammer 3008W. Another solid extreme cold weather RV by the renowned Forest River. Their Rockwood Windjammer 3008W is a travel trailer, which is a much cheaper alternative to full-blown RVs, thus this model is ideal for beginners and budget travelers.
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Fall/Winter/Spring RV Visitor Services Volunteer
Full hook-up RV spot provided (includes water and electric). Must be able to provide own lodging (RV, 5th wheel, travel trailer). Access to volunteer facility. Amenities include bathrooms, showers, laundry, full kitchen, TV, couches, and tables. Wi-fi provided in volunteer facility. TRAINING We will provide on-site training.
Camping
Mammoth Campground will remain closed for the 2023-2024 winter season and will reopen in 2024 (dates TBD). ... Also, due to a lack of housing availability, portions of the campground will likely be used to house camper trailers for contractors working on the Northeast Entrance Road. At this time, there is no set date for when the campground ...
Massive fire erupts at Mike Thompson's RV Super Store in Santa Fe
The incident happened around 12:30 a.m. Thursday at the Mike Thompson's RV Super Store on Firestone Boulevard. ... CA's 2nd largest reservoir hits full capacity thanks to wet winter. 33 minutes ago.