If the wanderlust comes calling even in the colder winter months, travel addict Lisa Jansen shares her advice around ensuring you enjoy the wonders of winter, as well as tips for keeping warm, safe and happy on the road.
The colder months are officially here. For many RVers, that means the motorhome or caravan is parked up, patiently waiting for warmer weather (usually while its owners also wait, but with much less patience). So why not just embrace the winter wanderlust?
With the right gear, attitude and know-how, winter RV trips can be just as enjoyable as summer ones – sometimes even more so. You’ll find quieter roads, emptier campgrounds, better off-peak rates, and a whole new side of New Zealand to explore.
Whether you’re chasing the snow or escaping the cold and rain, here are the winter trends, essentials, and tips to keep you warm, safe and smiling on the road.
The Big One: Heating, Heating, Heating
When it comes to winter travel, ask any experienced RVer what matters most, and they will say the same thing: heating. A warm camper is a happy camper.
If your RV doesn’t already have a heater built in, and you want to be off-grid, then diesel or gas-blown air heaters are excellent options that can be retrofitted. Diesel heaters are dry and efficient and can run off your vehicle’s tank. Gas heaters, on the other hand, work well if you are already using gas for cooking and hot water. Just remember, both require good ventilation and a carbon monoxide detector for safety.
If you tend to stay at powered sites, a simple plug-in electric heater – either a fan heater or an oil column heater – will do the job nicely. However, keep in mind that they will only work when you’re plugged into power (unless you have a substantial solar system).
Don’t Forget About Insulation
Insulation is just as important as the heater itself. No matter how powerful your heating system, it will not be effective if warmth is constantly escaping. Insulated walls, floors and ceilings are ideal. However, they are difficult to retrofit. Thermal curtains and window covers, on the other hand, can be relatively simple to add and can make a big difference.
The floors of many RVs, especially older models or budget builds, are often not well insulated. Even with a heater running, heat rises and your floor – and feet – can remain chilly. A thick rug or carpet runner can instantly make your space feel warmer and more inviting. Adding foam tiles to the floor is also a good idea to help keep warm. You can buy them relatively cheaply at places like Para Rubber, Bunnings or Mitre10, and they can be cut to size with a sharp knife.
Wet Weather Gear Is A Non-Negotiable
In many parts of New Zealand, winters tend to be more wet than cold, so you need to be prepared for that. It’s not unusual to encounter rain several days in a row – heavy, drenching rain. So, a good raincoat is essential, and most seasoned travellers will also have a pair of gumboots stashed near the door, ready to slip on for midnight toilet trips or muddy campground walks. Popular options include waterproof Merry People boots and the iconic Hunter boot brand also recently landed in New Zealand.
If you have a dog that demands walks no matter the weather or simply enjoys getting out and about even when it rains, a doggy raincoat for your canine and waterproof trousers for yourself are a worthwhile addition. Torpedo 7 has an excellent selection, along with Kathmandu and Stoney Creek. A strong umbrella, ideally one that can handle a bit of wind (let’s hear it for Kiwi brand BLUNT) is also surprisingly useful. Remember, with shorter days, drying wet clothes can become a challenge. Preventing things from getting wet in the first place will make life much easier.
Sleeping Warm: More Than Just Blankets
A decent duvet and a couple of extra blankets are a great start, but when temperatures drop, you might want a little extra warmth. This is where 12V electric blankets are your best friend. Look for one that draws minimal power and consider using a separate power bank to run your electric blanket to ensure it does not drain the main battery.
For those who prefer a low-tech approach, hot water bottles remain a tried-and-true method. They are cheap, easy to use, and perfect for pre-warming your bed. Another pro tip: wear a beanie or hoodie to bed. Most of your body heat escapes through your head, so keeping it covered can significantly impact your overall body temperature.
Indoor Entertainment: Don’t Forget The Fun
With colder, wetter and shorter days, chances are you will be spending more time indoors than you do during summer trips. That makes it all the more important to bring things that help you relax and enjoy yourself inside the van.
For some, that means streaming TV shows or movies. If that’s you, make sure you have solid internet access or plenty of downloaded content. Others prefer books, magazines, crafts, puzzles, or board games. Whatever your thing is, bring it. Winter travel is a great time to slow down, embrace the slower pace, and treat the camper like your own cosy retreat on wheels.
Power: Plan For Less Sunshine
Winter brings shorter days and weaker sunlight, which means your solar panels may struggle to keep up with demand – especially if you are running heating, lights, and devices more often. If you usually rely on solar, you might find yourself needing to stay at powered campgrounds more frequently just to keep your battery levels up. It is worth planning your route with this in mind.
A small generator can be a lifesaver when you are freedom camping for longer stretches, especially in cloudy conditions. Positioning your vehicle to capture as much sun as possible during the day also helps, as does being mindful of how and when you use your power. Switching off unnecessary devices, using LED lights, and opting for lower-power heating options can all help you make the most of the energy you have.
Extra Considerations For Hardcore Winter Wanderers
If your idea of the perfect winter getaway includes snow-capped peaks, alpine roads, and sub-zero temperatures, then a bit of extra preparation is needed. Travelling to places like the Central Plateau, Southern Lakes or high alpine passes means you could encounter snow and ice – and you need to be ready for it.
Snow chains are a must even if you hope not to use them – it is always better to have them on board than not. To prevent your water pipes from freezing, look at adding pipe insulation or a temporary skirt around the bottom of your van. Thermal window covers or insulated vent plugs can also help keep your space warm and prevent heat loss through common weak points.
It is also worth checking ahead to ensure the campgrounds you plan to visit are open and accessible during the winter. Some remote sites reduce services or close completely outside the peak season.
Hot Winter Tips From Seasoned RVers
A good thermos is an underrated hero of winter travel. Fill it with hot water in the morning, and you can make tea or coffee throughout the day without needing to reboil the jug each time. Plus, you can easily take it with you during the day to warm up wherever you are.
Condensation is a common winter annoyance, especially in older or less insulated vans. Running a dehumidifier every now and then, especially when plugged into power, can make a noticeable difference.
A good pair of warm, comfortable slippers is a winter essential. They might not sound like high-tech camping gear, but ask any long-term traveller – warm feet are the key to a happy camper.
Finally, store wet gear in a sealed plastic tub to avoid spreading dampness throughout your space. Just don’t forget to get it out next time you have sunshine or access to a dryer.
Embrace the season
Winter RV travel takes a little extra preparation, but it is well worth it. From steaming hot pools under starlit skies to cosy days and nights in the camper and snowy peaks seen through a misty windscreen, winter offers a different kind of magic. And with the right gear, a good heater, and a sense of adventure, you’re ready to fully embrace your winter wanderlust.
