How to Prep Your RV for Your Next Winter Camping Trip
Winter vacations are a ton of fun in an RV! However, before you make plans to hit the road this holiday season, be sure to read our helpful tips on preparing your RV for winter. If you’re in need of any tools, parts, or repairs for your RV, you can stop by our location in Nacogdoches, Texas.
Engine
To start, we advise popping open the hood of your RV and giving your engine a quick inspection. Because winter can be so difficult on engines, you may want to give your RV an oil change, replace the antifreeze, and even add a bit of fuel stabilizer to the tank. While you’re under the hood, we advise quickly checking your brake fluid and coolant to be sure they’re still full and fresh. If not you may want to top them off or replace them completely if they’re looking dirty. Finally, be sure that your tires are completely filled. If you plan on driving through extremely snowy areas, you may want to invest in a set of snow tires.
Insulation
Now that your engine is good to go, it’s time to start insulating your RV. You’ll want to check the interior and exterior of your RV for any holes or cracks that could allow cold air to get in. You’ll most likely notice this around doors and windows. We advise placing some weather stripping, window foil, and even heavy drapes to keep warm air from seeping out. While you may be tempted to close your RV’s vents when temperatures get cold, we strongly advise against it. Ventilation is important for you and your RV’s safety, so it's better to keep your vents open.
Plumbing
It’s not impossible for plumbing to freeze if temperatures drop below zero. To avoid this, you may want to purchase a small space heater to keep your RV circulating with warm air. If temperatures begin to drop below zero, you may want to quickly insulate your waste valve and even add antifreeze to your black and gray water tanks (never in your freshwater tank).
While it may take a bit of prep, traveling and camping with your RV in the winter is a ton of fun! If you’re still in the market for one of these amazing vehicles, feel free to visit us here at Motorhomes of Texas. We proudly serve the nearby cities of Lufkin and Henderson, Texas, and our helpful sales staff will make sure you walk off our lot completely satisfied with your new RV.