As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, it’s time to think about winterizing your camper van. Whether you’re planning to hit the road in colder climates or want to make sure your van is protected in storage, winterizing is key to ensuring your van stays in top condition and your van life adventures remain stress-free.
Here’s how to properly winterize your camper van and get ready for winter travel:
1. Protect Your Water System
One of the most important steps in winterizing your camper van is preventing your water lines from freezing. Frozen pipes can cause serious damage, so it’s crucial to drain your fresh water tank and empty the lines. If you have a water heater, make sure to drain it as well. You can also add antifreeze to your plumbing system if you’re planning to store your van during the winter months. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for specific instructions on winterizing your system.
2. Check Your Batteries
Cold temperatures can be tough on your van’s batteries, especially if you’re using a solar powered system. Make sure your batteries are fully charged and in good condition. If you’re not using your van in the winter, disconnect your batteries to and bring them indoors prevent them from draining. If you’re planning to keep your van in storage, invest in a battery maintainer to keep the charge level steady.
3. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Drafts and leaks can make your van uncomfortable in the winter. Inspect your van’s doors, windows, and seals for any gaps or cracks. Use weather stripping to seal any leaks and ensure your van stays as warm as possible.
4. Prepare Your Engine
If you’re planning on driving in cold temperatures, make sure your engine is winter-ready. Check your antifreeze levels, replace the oil with a winter-grade version, and inspect the belts and hoses for any wear and tear. If your engine runs on diesel, make sure to fill up your tank once the gas stations switch to winter diesel.
5. Install Winter Tires
One of the most important upgrades for cold-weather driving is switching to winter tires. Unlike all-season tires, winter tires are specially designed with a unique tread pattern and rubber compounds that perform better in freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. They offer improved traction, handling, and braking, reducing the risk of accidents in slippery conditions.
If you’ll be driving in snowy or icy regions, like us in the Colorado Rockies, it’s a good idea to invest in high-quality winter tires. Make sure to check the tire pressure regularly, as it can drop in colder temperatures. Depending on your drivetrain and conditions, consider using tire chains for added traction on icy or mountainous roads.
6. Maintain Proper Ventilation
While you want to keep the cold out, it’s important to maintain airflow inside your van to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold. Use roof vents, side vents, or small fans to keep air circulating, especially when you’re using your van as a living space in winter.
7. Prepare for Cold Nights
If you will be using your van during the winter, consider adding a heater to your van! Maintaining a consistent temperature in your van will make sure you stay warm, and you reduce the chances of your water system freezing. Additionally, carry extra blankets and layers for cold nights.
8. Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Finally, make sure you’re well-prepared for any winter road conditions. Roads can close for many hours during extreme weather or accidents. Always keep a full tank of fuel, and keep in mind where the next gas station is in remote areas. Keep an emergency kit in your van, stocked with blankets, a first-aid kit, extra food and water, a flashlight, and basic tools. You may also want to keep windshield washer fluid, snow brushes, and shovels on hand in case you encounter snow or ice.
Winterizing your camper van isn’t just about protecting your vehicle—it’s about making sure you can enjoy winter van life travel comfortably and safely. By taking these steps to winterize, you’ll be ready for the chilly months ahead and able to enjoy the magic of winter camping in your RV without the worry of breakdowns or frozen pipes.
Need to schedule a winterization service for your Van or RV? Click the link below to schedule, or give us a call at (303) 900-2454.