How To Make Winter Touring a Success

You can often still have all of the usual comforts, such as heating shower blocks and mains electric hookups, so don't let winter stop you touring. If you prepare correctly, you can still enjoy your trip. Use our tips to make your winter journeys just as fun as the summer ones.

Get Good Heating

The first thing you want to do is make sure you're going to be warm on your winter tours. To avoid getting chilly on winter nights, you won't necessarily need extra heating. If your caravan is well-insulated, which most modern ones are, and you have a good duvet or sleeping bag, you can still warm overnight without the heating on. Insulated covers on the cab windows of motorhomes can help to keep heat in. For campervans and conversions that aren't so well-insulated, you might need some extra help.
You can choose between wet central heating or blown air heaters, which will both provide the heat you need. A small fan heater can be useful to boost the temperature too. Make sure you have enough gas and battery power if using a heater to keep it running. Be especially careful with gas or diesel heating; you need to make sure the flue won't get blocked. A carbon monoxide alarm is essential, particularly when running your heating overnight.

Watch Your Water

There is a risk that the water in an outdoor container could freeze if it gets cold enough. It's a good idea to keep water inside too, where it will be a bit warmer and shouldn't freeze. On-board water tanks aren't as likely to freeze. Other options to help prevent freezing include insulated covers and heating devices. When it comes to waste water, you can also use these solutions to prevent freezing. Adding salt to the container is also a good idea, or you can use a caravan antifreeze if it is glycol-free.

Switch Your Gas

During the winter, it's best to use propane gas if you don't already. Liquefied butane doesn't turn to gas when temperatures reach freezing, so it's best not to use in case it gets too cold. Propane isn't quite as efficient, so you might want to switch back to butane when it's warmer.

Choosing the Right Towcar

If it's your first winter touring trip, you probably aren't going to rush out and buy a new car. However, if you want to go on regular trips, it can be a good idea to invest in a four-wheel drive or all-terrain car. Winter tyres and snow chains can also be useful during the winter months, especially if you're planning to go to areas where you can expect more snow and ice.
Get out on the road with your caravan this winter by being well-prepared before you go. Plan your trip well and make the most of the quieter winter months.