There are few things as special as a winter camping trip with friends and family. Hiking a snow-packed mountain or ice skating on a pond are memories that will stick with you for life. However, you have to know how to arrive and depart your destinations safely. RV camping in a snowstorm can be dangerous if you don’t take precautions to ensure your safety. Before you try your hand at RV living in the snow, make sure you check off these best practices for a safe experience.
Pack For Worst-Case Scenario
Be sure to have warm clothing, blankets, extra food, and plenty of bottled water with you. If a situation arises where you are stuck, you’ll want to have all the necessities to keep you comfortable. It’s also a good idea to be stocked on propane and invest in an RV snow removal tool. Hope for the best, but pack like you’re expecting the worst!
Winterize Your Rig Before RV Camping in the Snow
Remember that your RV pipes can freeze. The last thing you want is to end up with the inconvenience of frozen pipes and an enormous repair bill after your trip. Some newer models have heated water duct systems, but if you’re not sure if yours does, your motorhome specialist can help you out. Some tips they commonly offer to prevent freezing include using RV-specific antifreeze for your water systems and wrapping your pipes in heat tape.
Inspect Your Batteries
Cold weather weakens your battery power, and the last thing you need is to be stranded in the cold in an RV that won’t start. So, before you go, ensure your batteries are fully charged and in working condition (and don’t forget auxiliary batteries too). Be confident that your RV’s power will be ready for the winter adventure.
Use Low Beams Whenever Possible
When driving on icy roads or a snowy landscape, our vision can be blinded by the reflection of the sun. Did you know that our high beams create the same effect? If possible, avoid driving your RV in the snow altogether at night. However, if you must, use your low beams to not impair the vision of other drivers.
Invest in Snow Tires
If you plan to RV in the winter, your vehicle should be adequately equipped for the conditions. The standard tires that come on most RVs are great for summer, but they don’t have the proper grip to keep you safe on snowy roads. In addition, look to purchase snow chains for RVs; they fit to the tires’ exterior for greater grip on the road. In certain states, chains are even required by law during winter road conditions.
Know How The RV Will Handle
Remember that your RV drives differently from your car in bad weather. Handling an RV in snowy or icy conditions can prove to be treacherous, so it is vital to keep a few things in mind. For starters, your rig is most likely rear-wheel drive, whereas your car is more likely to be front-wheel drive. The bulk of the mass of an RV usually sits on the front wheels, which can mean less traction, so you don’t want to brake too hard or too late. Be sure to leave plenty of room between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you, be cautious with your speed, and brake easily.
Prepare With Professionals
Before you gas up and hit the open winter roads, be sure you are prepared for driving your RV in snow. The professionals at All-Rite Custom Manufacturing can help you prepare to get out and make memories on an RV trip unlike any other. Visit our website today to see how we can help.