Travelling in a camper van during winter, around the UK, can be a unique and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. There are a great many places well worth travelling to, to experience various activities during the winter months, such as skiing or snowboarding in the Scottish Highlands or storm watching around the beautiful UK coastline. Here are some tips to make your winter camper van adventure more enjoyable whilst keeping you and your travelling companions safe:
1) Insulation and Heating: Ensure that your camper van is well-insulated to retain as much heat as possible. Use thermal curtains, insulation boards and draft excluders for windows and doors. When everyone is in the van, it can warm up pretty quickly due to body heat, so it would be a shame to let the warmth escape!
Invest in a reliable heating system that’s right for your requirements. Options include propane heaters, diesel heaters or electric heaters. Ensure they are safe for indoor use as well as outdoor-proof as well.
2) Winterising Your Camper Van: Winterise your camper van by checking all around doors and windows for drafts, sealing any gaps and insulating vulnerable or exposed areas where the cold is more likely to get into the van. Use weather strips to seal doors and windows. Also, make sure to properly insulate the water supply system to prevent it from freezing.
3) Cold Weather Gear: When travelling in a camper van during winter, it is obviously vitally important to pack appropriate clothing for your outdoor excersions, including thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, hats and insulated footwear. For nights in the van, bring extra duvets and sleeping bags that are rated for cold temperatures.
4) Campsite Selection: Choose campsites carefully and be sure to book in advance. Don’t take a chance and just turn up to a campsite, as many of them may be shut for the winter season due to lack of customers while it’s cold. Look for locations with good shelter from the wind and where any sun can provide some warmth during the day. Avoid campsites in low-lying areas or too near rivers or bodies of water, where cold air can accumulate.
5) Snow Chains and Winter Tyres: If you’re travelling to potentially snowy regions such as the Scottish Highlands or mountainous regions, prepare to equip your camper van with snow chains and winter tires for better traction if the roads get icy. If the roads in the area do get some traffic then the packed down snow can be hazardous to drive on if you’re not equipped with the right traction and safety gear.
6) Battery Considerations: Cold temperatures can have an adverse effect on battery performance. Ensure your camper van’s battery is in good condition before setting off. Consider bringing along a portable jump starter just in case of emergencies. Emergency breakdown companies will be stretched during bad weather, so better to be safe than sorry!
7) Water and Plumbing: Use a heated water hose where possible, to prevent water lines from freezing. Empty and drain tanks regularly to avoid damage from any freezing that may occur.
8) Provisions: Be well supplied when travelling in a camper van during winter. Stock up on non-perishable, easy-to-prepare foods. Carry extra water supplies and high energy snacks in case of unexpected delays or emergencies that may occur during the winter season.
9) Emergency Kit: Prepare yourself an emergency kit that includes items such as a first aid kit, flashlight, extra batteries, a portable shovel and a basic tool kit.
10) Communication: When travelling in a camper van during winter be sure to check weather forecasts regularly, and be prepared to make changes to your plans based on changing weather conditions. Keep a reliable means of communication with you at all times, especially if you’re hiking, such as a charged cell phone or a two-way radio.
11) Plan for Shorter Days: Winter days are obviously shorter, so plan your activities and excursions accordingly. Be mindful of reduced daylight hours.
12) Be Prepared For Driving in Wintery Conditions: Practice safe winter driving techniques, such as keeping a safe following distance, driving patiently and avoiding the need to make sudden movements. Remember that winter conditions can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for unexpected challenges. Flexibility and adaptability are key to enjoying travelling in a camper van during winter months.