If you're planning a winter RV road trip, you may be concerned about freezing temperatures. The good news is that you can still enjoy a pleasant and successful trip even in subfreezing temperatures. However, you should prepare yourself for the colder months ahead by taking a few precautions.
First, you should check the weather forecast. This is especially important when camping in an area that has a high chance of freezing. It's also worth considering rescheduling if you experience adverse weather conditions.
One of the best ways to keep warm is by having an extra blanket or two on hand. A battery-powered lantern is another option. There are often propane bottles available for rent at campgrounds. You might also want to bring a foot warmer or two.
You can add an electric blanket or heat pad to your RV for extra warmth. This will eliminate the chill caused by the cold air in your RV. You can also use an electrical dehumidifier to dry out the air. If you're worried about condensation, you can also buy a container of moisture absorbent to prevent it from forming.
Camco heated water hoses can also be used to protect your water pipes. This is a great option to keep warm in winter snowy weather as it can be relatively affordable. Similarly, you can protect your holding tank from freezing by adding antifreeze.
You can also use heat tape to insulate your pipes to keep them safe from freezing. This can help to keep the water from freezing inside your RV. If your pipes freeze, you can thaw them with hot water. To prevent freezing, run water through the pipes.
The temperature in your RV's basement shouldn't fall below freezing for very long. However, it's good to have a thermometer. This will let you determine if your tanks have reached the right temperature to cause a freeze. The thermometer can also be used to determine the temperature of any pipes located outside of your RV.
Also, you should take measures to keep your RV’s engine running smoothly. Although it is important to keep your fuel levels at a safe level, you might consider adding some RV antifreeze (special pink) to your holding tanks in order to protect against freezing. It might be worth considering a block heater to heat your RV if you're going somewhere cold. These can be purchased in 12V DC and 120V AC models.
While you're packing for your RV's winter road trip, be sure to pack the right types of clothing for the weather you're going to encounter. You'll want to include a couple pairs of breathable base layers to wick away moisture and stay nimble, as well as a couple warmer-weight jackets or sweaters in case you end up camping in a colder part of the country.