Guides

Winter Camping

A Guide to Winter Motorhome Trips

Winter motorhome holidays can be magical, with serene landscapes and quieter campsites. Staying warm and safe takes a little preparation. Here is our guide to enjoying a cosy, comfortable winter trip.

1. Keeping Warm

  • Heating: Our motorhomes have gas and electric heating and hot water. If your campsite has an electric hook-up, use it for heating where you can, so your gas lasts longer. We will show you how everything works at your handover.
  • Layers: Dress in layers. Thermal underwear, jumpers and wool socks make a big difference.
  • Bedding: Bring warm bedding such as extra blankets or a sleeping bag rated for low temperatures. You can also add a bedding set when you book.
  • Rugs and slippers: Rugs or mats on the floor and warm slippers help keep feet warm.
  • Close the curtains: Draw the curtains and blinds in the evening to keep the heat in.

2. Cold Weather and Water

  • Freezing temperatures: If a hard frost is forecast, please call us before you travel and we will advise you. Please do not add antifreeze or make any changes to the motorhome yourself.
  • Keep it warm inside: Heating the motorhome overnight helps protect the water system from freezing.
  • Use water sensibly: Fill your fresh water tank when you can, and empty the waste water as normal.

3. Gas and Electricity

  • Gas: Heating and cooking use more gas in cold weather. Check how much you have left every day, and ask us at the handover how to check it and what to do if you run low.
  • Electric hook-up: A hook-up cable is included with every hire. Using a hook-up for heating saves gas and keeps the batteries topped up.
  • Solar: Solar panels help less in winter because the days are short and the light is weaker.

4. Winter Driving

  • Check the forecast: Check the weather and road conditions before you set off, and plan your route accordingly. Avoid travelling in severe weather.
  • Take your time: A motorhome is long and heavy, so leave extra stopping distance on wet, frosty or icy roads.
  • Allow extra time: Daylight is short, so aim to arrive at your campsite before dark.

5. Cooking and Ventilation

  • Cooking for warmth: Cooking inside helps warm the motorhome. Always ventilate while cooking and heating.
  • Condensation: Open a roof vent or window slightly, even in cold weather, and wipe down windows in the morning to prevent damp and mould.
  • Safety alarms: Our motorhomes have carbon monoxide and smoke alarms. Never cover the vents or alarms, and never use a barbecue inside.

6. Emergency Preparedness

  • First aid: Bring a first aid kit.
  • Emergency supplies: Keep extra blankets, snacks, water, a torch and a charged phone to hand.
  • If something goes wrong: Call us. Our number is on your paperwork, and roadside assistance is included.

7. Choosing the Right Campsite

  • Open in winter: Choose campsites that stay open in winter and have electric hook-up and heated facilities.
  • Sheltered spots: Pick a spot that is sheltered from the wind.
  • Book ahead: Some winter campsites have limited pitches, so book in advance.

Winter motorhome trips can be a delight, with beautiful landscapes and quiet campsites. Prepare well, stay warm and enjoy it. Happy winter travels!

Planning a winter trip with us?

Check availability and see the full price for your dates. The minimum hire is 4 nights, and longer in our busier seasons.

Check availability Choose a motorhome