A campervan isn't just for summer. The adventures don’t stop once the nights get longer and the mornings get colder. These are the perfect opportunities to get out, explore new places and see the stunning views and changing landscapes during the cooler months.
Many of our customers have spent long periods of time in colder climates in their vans. Even if you don’t want to sleep in your campervan during the winter, it makes an ideal day van, so you can make the most of your leisure time and use it as a cosy base for all your outdoor hobbies and spectator sports. But still, you’ll want to make sure you are keeping as warm as possible!
There are many ways you can keep warm in your campervan. Here are our essentials:
INSULATION
Having a correctly insulated Campervan is really important to maintain a moderate temperature inside. Ensure your van is fully insulated with plastic wadding, then panelled over and trimmed with a textile surface. This means they can withstand high temperatures as well as providing insulation during colder temperatures. Having a properly insulated van makes all the difference!
KEEP YOUR FEET TOASTY WITH A CARPET
Rugs are a great way to keep in the heat - no one wants to walk around on a cold floor! You can get floor mats which will fit the living space of your campervan perfectly. Not only do these provide extra insulation and warmth underfoot, they will make your van feel more homely.
COVER THE WINDOWS
Anyone who has ever travelled in a campervan knows the importance of curtains. However, many people fail to realise that campervan curtains are vital not just for protecting your privacy, but also for keeping you warm.
While heating might be your first thought when it comes to keeping warm, having a thick material to seal up the windows is just as important when it comes to keeping toasty on cold nights. The majority of heat is lost from a campervan through the windows, so picking the right ones should definitely be high up your priority list.
HEATING
There are many gas or electric options for heating your campervan. The SX electric system includes a thermostatic blown-air heater and runs off an underslung gas tank. If you require extra heating or your campervan doesn’t have an in-built system, we recommend a Handy Heater which plugs into a mains socket and keeps warm air circulating round your van, or a space heater if you’re after something a little bigger. It’s important to remember to switch these off overnight to avoid fire hazards.
INSULATED SLEEPING BAGS
Layers are essential! Make sure you have plenty of blankets, duvets, and sleeping bags. You won't want to be without if it gets too cold. We recommend a Duvalay sleeping bag which can keep you warm in her pop-top roof at night. Adding an extra duvet and blanket to this will keep you warmer in colder temperatures. Other clients have suggested using an electric blanket to warm up the bed half an hour before you get in!
KETTLE
Whether you’re a tea lover or prefer a hot chocolate topped with cream and all the toppings, a warm drink takes the edge off the outdoor chill. A kettle is also handy for filling hot water bottles to add to the end of your bed or keep next to you during the night. If it’s really cold where you are, it may also help keep the ice at bay!
A WARMING MEAL
Cooking up a warm, comforting meal has never been easier thanks to the cooking facilities available in most camper vans. With even the most basic hob, you can prepare a soup, a hearty chili or a full cooked breakfast to help warm you up on a frosty morning.
THERMAL LAYERS
Wearing an extra layer in the evening and at night will help keep the chill at bay. You can always remove some layers if you get too warm, but a long thermal vest, bottoms and socks will provide you a bit of extra warmth when sitting in the van in the evening.