For many RVers, winter is a season for hunkering down, draining water lines, and sealing up the rig for the cold months ahead.

But for those in the know, winter RVing is an invitation to experience the road in a whole new light—literally— as green pasture and mountains give way to snow-covered starkly lit landscapes.

For them, there is a fresh kind of magic in crisp air, serene campgrounds, and frosty mornings that offer an entirely different side of the RV lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned (no pun intended!) RVer or someone considering hitting the winter roads for the first time here are tips and insights on how to embrace the chill and enjoy winter RVing like a pro.

Why Winter RVing?

But first, why you should even consider RVing in the winter? First up, the crowds of summer have faded away and you’ll find yourself with a greater choice of significantly less crowded parks and campgrounds. Leaving you closer to nature and far from the madding crowds. Winter is the quieter season in every way, as birds have flown, bears are hibernating and from snow-capped mountains to frozen lakes, the scenery is silently breathtaking.  And you get to experience it all in tranquility.

You’ll be surprised how many RV-friendly destinations, from national parks to ski resorts, are open year-round and offer exciting winter activities. Whether it’s snowshoeing, skiing, or simply cozying up by the campfire, winter RVing can be as adventurous or as laid-back as you want it to be.

Essential Prep for Winter RVing

If you want to be chilled as you embrace the chill you’ve got to be prepared. Having the right set up is essential, not just for comfort but for safety. So make sure you’ve prepped these must have items;

1. Insulated Skirting and Windows: RV skirting is vital in colder climates. By preventing cold air from circulating under your RV, skirting will keep the interior warm and lower your heating costs. Remember to insulate your windows with thermal curtains or bubble wrap to prevent precious heat loss.
2. Heated Hoses and Tank Warmers: Frozen water lines can will put a damper on your trip, so invest in heated hoses to keep your water flowing. Tank warmers will ensure that your holding tanks don’t freeze, so you can take hot showers and make warming coffee, not to mention flushing the toilet.
3. Electric or Propane Space Heaters: While most RVs come equipped with a furnace, using supplemental heating options like electric or propane space heaters can be a great way to keep specific areas extra cozy. Plus, it reduces the load on your furnace, saving fuel.

Winter Tires or Chains: Depending on where you’re headed, you might encounter snow and ice on the roads. Winter tires or tire chains provide extra grip and ensure safe travel. Snow can fall at the most unexpected times and ice can lurk in the long winter shadows, so it’s always better to be prepared.

Cold-Weather Camping Hacks

So now you’re good to go, let's talk about what will keep you safe and warm when you park up.

1. Close Off Unused Areas: If you're not using certain parts of your RV, close them off with curtains or barriers to keep heat                    concentrated in the areas where you spend the most time.
2. Use Rugs or Mats on the Floors: RV floors can get cold quickly, especially when temperatures dip. Lay down rugs, mats, or even foam tiles to create a warmer surface to walk on. It adds an extra layer of insulation and makes your living space feel much more cozy and welcoming underfoot.
3. Cook More Often: Using your stove or oven to cook not only fills your RV with delicious warming smells but also helps warm the interior. Hearty stews, casseroles, and baking will keep you feeling warm inside and out.
4. Maximize Natural Light: On sunny winter days, open up the curtains and blinds wide to let natural light and warmth into your  RV. The sun’s rays generate a surprising amount of heat and keep it warm inside.
5. Wear a hat. Even in bed: Even with all these precautions your RV will get cold at night. You’ll get more used to it as time goes by, but experienced RVers are no strangers to wearing a hat in bed, and keeping a pair of socks handy for nighttime excursions to the kitchen or bathroom.

Be Bold When It’s Cold. Great Winter Destinations

Winter RVing opens up a whole new range of destinations. Here are some ideas for the best winter RV experiences:

1. National Parks in Winter: Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Glacier National Parks are some of the most crowded spots in summer and the most breathtaking in winter. America’s most familiar landscapes are transformed by snow and ice, with way fewer crowds than in the summer months. Winter activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, and even winter wildlife watching take your adventure to the next level, creating post-worthy and boast-worthy phot ops at every turn.
2. Ski Resorts with RV Parking: Ski resorts are surprisingly RV-friendly and offer many designated parking areas for RVers. Places like Breckenridge in Colorado or Mammoth Mountain in California allow you to stay just steps away from the slopes. While your RV offers the perfect after-ski chalet to unwind after a long day on the slopes.
3. Head North For Lakes and Forests: To fully experience the “sound of silence”, head to the Northwoods of Minnesota, Wisconsin or Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where the frozen lakes and peaceful forests will transport you back to pioneer days. Perfect for ice fishing, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the serenity of winter the Northwoods command you to relax and wonder at impossibly clear starry skies at night and silent landscapes by day.

Make the Most of Your Winter RV Experience

Winter RVing for enjoying the little pleasures and happy memories that come with the cold weather. Hot cocoa by the campfire, bundling up in warm blankets, watching the snow fall from the comfort of your RV, and standing outside staring at the silent, yet vibrant night skies.

You won’t feel any pressure to rush your days or hit the sights. Instead, you’ll savor the slower pace that winter commands, just relishing the journey in a season where everything slows down, making it easier to take it all in. Leaving the hustle to summer.

With the right gear, a few strategic hacks, and a sense of adventure, you can hit the road this winter and create memories that will last a lifetime. Embrace the chill, take in the beauty of the season, and discover that winter RVing is an experience like no other.