Although your RV might be your second—or even primary—home, it doesn’t come with the same insulation as a traditional house. But that shouldn’t stop you from going on winter adventures! RVs are popular for their summertime fun, but you can still enjoy your RV year-round with a few simple steps to keep you snug and warm in a Texas RV park.
Don’t Underestimate the Temperature! The Dangers of Cold Weather for You and Your RV
Just layering extra blankets on your bed won’t keep you warm enough when the temperature outside drops close to or below freezing. Nor will it protect your pipes, which are particularly vulnerable to the cold weather and can burst if not properly insulated and heated.
The ability of your RV to withstand the cold will depend on the type of rig you have but for most, 32 degrees Fahrenheit is the lowest you should go. Don’t forget to check your RV’s manual and documentation—your manufacturer might have specific advice for cold-weather camping.
If you’re going on a cold-weather adventure and you’re worried about your pipes freezing, you should avoid below-freezing temperatures for more than 24 hours (if you don’t have tank heaters and furnace vents).
And if you’re ill-prepared with things to keep yourself warm, you could experience hypothermia, which is a potentially life-threatening condition. It’s important to take the cold seriously and make sure you’re adequately prepared for all conditions.
8 Ways to Keep Warm in Your RV This Winter
- Start by checking for any air leaks around windows, doors, and vents. Install weather stripping or caulk as needed to seal up any drafts or leaks. You should also add insulation around windows and doors if possible, as cold air could be coming in from the outside.
- Next, invest in some extra layers of insulation for your RV walls and flooring. Thermal curtains are a great option to keep out drafts during winter months. Make sure that you properly wrap your pipes in heat tape and insulate all the tanks in your RV with tank heater blankets, as these are particularly susceptible to the cold.
- Consider investing in a portable space heater if you don’t already have one. This will help keep the air warm, but make sure to follow all safety precautions for using a heater indoors.
- Winterizing your RV for the cold weather doesn’t just mean keeping the interior warm. It’s also important to prepare your engine and plumbing systems for cold temperatures, as these are particularly vulnerable to freezing. To do this, you should use anti-freeze and engine winterizing agents. Anti-freeze is a solution of water and glycol that can withstand freezing temperatures.
- One important item to consider when preparing for cold-weather camping is the heated water hose. A freeze-proof heated water hose can help protect your plumbing system from freezing, as well as prevent the pipes from bursting due to extreme temperatures.
- Keep an ice scraper on hand so you can easily remove snow and ice from your windows, as this will help keep the air warm inside.
- Invest in good quality blankets and quilts for your bedding. The blankets should be made with specific materials like fleece, wool, and down insulation. You can learn more about insulation and temperature ratings here.
- And finally, if all else fails, don’t be afraid to take a few days off in between destinations! This gives you a chance to stay at a Texas RV park with electricity or hook up your water and sewer lines so that you can access power and running water.
Give Your RV a Break—How to Find a Good RV Park for Winter Stops
Finding a good Texas RV park for winter stops can be tricky, but if you’re willing to do a bit of research and plan ahead, it can make all the difference. Here are some tips for finding an RV park that’s right for you:
- Check reviews and ratings of nearby parks; this can help you make sure that the park you’re considering is up to your standards.
- Look for parks with electricity, running water, sewer connections, and laundry facilities—these are all essential amenities for winter camping.
- Ask other campers in the area for recommendations. Word of mouth is often the best way to find a great RV park!
- Check if the park offers any special rates or discounts for winter months. Some parks offer discounts on winter stays, so it’s always worth checking out what’s available.
Stay at the Best Texas RV Park: Good Shepherd RV Park!
Good Shepherd RV Park is the perfect Texas RV park to stay for winter camping. With the state’s mild temperatures and our modern amenities, you’ll be sure to enjoy a comfortable vacation.
Our Gunter, Texas RV park has all the necessary facilities, including electric hookups, running water and sewer connections, as well as laundry rooms with washers and dryers. Book online today to get ready for your stay!
