Updated: Sept. 16th, 2024
Living van life can be an exhilarating adventure, allowing you to embrace a nomadic lifestyle and explore the beauty of the world on your own terms. However, as winter approaches, vanlifers face a unique set of challenges. From frigid temperatures to snowy roads, winter van life requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some essential tips to ensure a cozy and comfortable van life experience during the colder months.
Van life road trip in winter. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Pros
Flexibility and Mobility: Vans provide the ability to chase good weather or escape extreme cold, allowing you to travel to more temperate climates during winter months.
Cost Savings: Compared to traditional housing, van life in winter can be cost-effective, as heating a smaller space requires less energy and resources, potentially reducing utility bills.
Winter Wonderland Exploration: Embracing van life in winter allows you to experience the beauty of snow-covered landscapes, winter sports, and cozy atmospheres in various locations.
Adaptability: Vans can be equipped with winter-specific features like insulation, heaters, and snow tires, making them adaptable to colder climates and enhancing overall comfort during winter travels.
Cons
Temperature Challenges: Vans may struggle to retain heat in extreme winter conditions, leading to discomfort and the need for reliable heating solutions to stay warm.
Limited Space: Living in a confined space becomes more challenging during winter when extra layers, gear, and winter clothing need to be stored, potentially leading to clutter and reduced livability.
Condensation and Moisture: Cold weather can exacerbate issues with condensation inside the van, leading to moisture-related problems such as mold and rust if not properly managed.
Winterization Maintenance: Vans require additional winterization efforts, including insulating windows, checking for drafts, and preparing the vehicle for colder temperatures, which can be time-consuming and may require additional costs.
Prep Your Van for Winter
Before the winter chill sets in, it's crucial to prepare your van for the colder weather. Start by checking your vehicle's insulation. Ensure that there are no drafts or gaps that could let the cold air seep in. Consider adding additional insulation if needed, and don't forget to insulate windows and doors. Window coverings from Luno Life will significantly help insulate your vehicle!
Heating System Maintenance:
Check your heating system for optimal condition.
Clean or replace filters to ensure efficient operation.
Test the heater to guarantee warmth during cold nights.
Vehicle Components Inspection:
Inspect tires, brakes, and battery.
Cold weather can affect these components, so ensure they are in optimal condition.
Replace worn-out tires to maintain traction on icy roads.
Regularly check tire pressure to enhance safety in winter conditions.
You Can Do It Anywhere, But Location, Location, Location
Choosing the right location is crucial for a comfortable winter van life experience. While it's true that you can technically live in a van anywhere, the choice of location becomes even more critical during the winter months. Look for places that offer a balance of scenic beauty and practical amenities. Some of these places are warmer like Baja or Sedona, but if you enjoy skiing you can test your cold tolerance in places like Lake Tahoe, the Tetons, or Colorado.
For an easier experience, consider camping in areas with access to facilities like restrooms, showers, and water sources. One thing to note is that no many campgrounds and RV parks remain open during the winter, so make sure to check what is open and where you can stay if you decide to go this route.
Pro Tip: Research the local climate and weather conditions of the areas you plan to visit. Some regions experience milder winters than others, and avoiding extreme cold can make a significant difference in your comfort level. Coastal areas, for instance, tend to have milder winter temperatures compared to mountainous regions. Maybe consider exploring the Pacific Coast Highway by van.
Grab a Heater (A Mr. Buddy Works Great)
Investing in a reliable heater is one of the best decisions you can make for winter van life. The Mr. Buddy Heater, a popular choice among van dwellers, runs on propane and is highly efficient in heating small spaces. Its portability makes it easy to move around your van as needed, ensuring you stay warm wherever you are.
When using a heater, always prioritize safety. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide, and consider installing a carbon monoxide detector in your van. Keep flammable materials away from the heater, and never leave it unattended while it's running.
Wet is Hard, Try to Stay Dry in a Van
Winter often brings rain, snow, and damp conditions. Staying dry is essential for both your comfort and the preservation of your van. Invest in quality rain gear, including waterproof jackets, pants, and boots, to keep yourself dry when venturing outside. The issue here is now your wet gear is inside. So, to prevent moisture buildup inside your van, dedicate one area to hang your drying gear. Also, use moisture-absorbing products or silica gel packets. Cracking a window to allow for ventilation without compromising warmth can be a good way to cut down on moisture build up, especially when cooking. Lastly, regularly check for and address any leaks or drafts in your van, as moisture can lead to mold and mildew issues.
Toss an Extra Blanket on Your Bed
When the temperature drops, a cozy bed is your refuge from the cold. Invest in a high-quality, cold-weather sleeping quilt, like this one from Featherstone, or add an extra blanket to your bed for added warmth. Layering is key, so consider using thermal blankets or sleeping bag liners to trap body heat and create a snug sleeping environment.
If possible, insulate the floor of your van to prevent the cold from seeping in from below. My go to is a rug, that can be machine washed, to add an extra layer of insulation and provide a warm surface for your feet.
Carry Chains
If your van life adventure takes you through snowy or icy terrain, carrying tire chains is a must. Chains provide additional traction on slippery roads, reducing the risk of accidents and getting stuck in the snow. Before your journey, practice putting on the chains to familiarize yourself with the process and ensure you can do it quickly if needed.
Check local regulations regarding the use of tire chains, as some areas may require them in certain weather conditions. Be prepared for winter driving by keeping an emergency kit in your van, including items like a shovel, ice scraper, and extra winter clothing.
Go South for the Winter (The Final Solution)
For those who want to avoid the harshest winter conditions altogether, heading south is the ultimate solution. Many van lifers choose to migrate to warmer climates during the winter months, enjoying the sun-drenched landscapes of the southern United States, or exploring the beauty of Baja California in Mexico.
Heading south allows van dwellers to escape extreme cold temperatures and enjoy a more comfortable living experience. However, careful planning is still essential, as even southern regions can experience colder-than-expected weather.
Finding a warm destination to live van life during the winter, Sedona is ideal. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Living van life in winter requires thoughtful preparation and a willingness to adapt to changing conditions. By prepping your van, choosing the right locations, investing in heating solutions, staying dry, enhancing your sleeping setup, carrying chains, and considering a southern migration, you can make winter van life not only survivable but truly enjoyable. Embrace the challenges, stay warm, and continue to explore the world from the cozy confines of your mobile home.
