Wintercamping No-Gos

Let’s start with the biggest winter camping mistake: not to try it in the first place! Do take your motorhome out when the mercury is dropping, it is absolutely worth it – a very special adventure in a very special season. Make sure to avoid the following mistakes and we promise you will have the best times.

Overrating your abilities

Don’t take any chances when it comes to safety on a mountain pass road – if you’re told to put on snow chains, DO IT! Not only are you risking your own well-being, but you also might be fined. Putting other road users at risk can result in severe penalties, and causing an accident may lead to criminal charges.

Traveling underequipped
When traveling through winter wonderland, make sure to bring your chains and a shovel as well as a broom and a ladder to clear the roof of snow (make sure to regularly clear it, not just before heading home).

Further items to be well prepared: a headlamp (!), a rug (or a quick-drying microfibre mat) to insulate the floor and provide extra comfort, and sturdy work gloves to spare your good ski gloves from rough jobs like attaching snow chains.

Not opening up

No matter how chilly it is outside and how cosy and warm inside: ventilation is a must. Especially in wintertime, it is essential to prevent the build-up of moisture to keep mould at bay. Make sure to let fresh air in by opening all windows and doors at least twice a day.

And in case you don’t have a rear garage: Avoid drying your clothes in the camper and instead use the drying rooms at the campsite for your skiwear and ski boots.

Sinking in

You park in cold temperatures – then the temps warm up… To prevent your tires from sinking into the mud, use wide wooden planks or support plates to give them a sturdy base. Plus, it can also get tricky when it gets icy or slippery. Make sure to bring a traction aid (like multifunctional ramps or mats) as even the grippiest winter tires have their limits. Grit can also be useful at times, and it is general something to bring as it helps reduce the risk of slipping around your campervan.

Forgetting about the entertainment

This may come as a surprise: In summertime, the temperatures are warmer and the days are longer. Yes, we all know that… But take it as a friendly reminder that you’ll be spending a lot more time in the camper in winter. So, pack a stack of books, some games, pen and paper, maybe an ukulele (leave the saxophone at home) or put together a list of podcasts and audio books in advance.

Learn the basics of handling water, electricity, and heating in wintertime with these helpful tips: Wintercamping