Ultimate Roundup of Winter RV Tips

Tips for winter maintenance

Take care of your tires

Put the RV on blocks to relieve the weight, or park on a firm, clean, well-drained and level area so the pressure spreads evenly. Keep them properly inflated — underinflation stresses the sidewalls and causes flat spots. Use tire covers or plywood against UV, which cracks the rubber.

Keep the exterior in top shape with a cover

A cover stops the paint fading, protects the decals and keeps the interior fabrics from discolouring. Don’t use a plastic tarp — they don’t breathe and can trap moisture inside. A good cover also makes spring cleaning much easier.

Tips for winter RVing

Prepare your water system

With the tanks empty, pour half a jug of RV antifreeze down the sink drain to the grey tank, and the other half down the toilet to the black tank. Drain valve lubricant adds freeze protection if you’re using the system in the cold. Ask us how your particular model handles winter water use.

Watch the weather

Follow the extended forecast for the whole route, including the higher-elevation highways where conditions are different.

Be prepared for early evenings

Headlamps for campsite jobs, and awning lights for the long dark evening after.

Pack a winterized first aid and emergency kit

Thermal blankets, candles, non-perishable food, sand for traction, extra windshield wiper fluid, an ice scraper with a snow brush, de-icing crystals and a snow shovel.

Pack off-the-grid necessities

Winter camping is often without hookups — check, and bring water, wood or a generator.

Reduce humidity

Open the vents, crack a window for air circulation, and use dehumidifying crystals.

Be prepared with extra supplies

Several days of food, water and propane, especially if you’re going somewhere remote.

Sleep warmly

A heated mattress pad or an electric blanket takes the load off the furnace.

Pack a heated water hose

An insulated, heated hose is the cheapest way to avoid a frozen one.

Bring back-up heat

An electric space heater supplements the furnace and covers you if it fails or the propane runs out.

Pack cosy layers

Extra wool or thermal layers designed to wick moisture away, plus waterproof gloves and a hat.