Travelling in a camper van during the winter is a unique experience that combines adventure and the freedom of seeing snowy landscapes. However, facing cold temperatures requires some preparation to get the most out of it. Here's how to prepare your camper van for a winter trip and what to consider before you hit the road. Read on and be perfectly prepared!
Why is travelling in a camper van in winter a great idea?
Many people may associate camper vans with summer, but travelling in winter has its own charm. During this season, roads are usually less busy, campsites offer more peace and quiet and tourist destinations are less crowded. Can you imagine waking up next to a frozen lake or surrounded by snow-capped mountains? These are experiences that only winter can offer.
What's more, travelling in a camper van gives you a great advantage: you can control the pace of your trip. If you find a place you love, you can stay longer. On the other hand, if the weather turns cloudy, you can easily move to a sunny spot.
However, to take advantage of this freedom, it is essential that your camper van is prepared for low temperatures.
Basic check before you set off: make sure everything is ready to go
Before setting off on any winter adventure, it is essential to carry out a basic check of your camper van. Here is a checklist to make sure you don't miss anything:
- Heating system:Check that the heating is working properly and that you have enough fuel for the trip.
- Winter tyres:don't forget to also carry chains for better traction on icy or snowy roads.
- General mechanical check:like before any long trip, check brakes, lights, oil and coolant levels (anti-icing).
Doing this basic check will give you peace of mind that your camper van is ready for whatever comes your way. So all you have to worry about is enjoying yourself.
Essential equipment for a winter camper van trip
In addition to preparing your vehicle, it is also important to bring the right equipment when travelling in a camper van in winter. Here is a list of the must-haves:
- Suitable clothing:take several layers of thermal and waterproof clothing. Don't forget gloves, hats and scarves to protect you from the cold. Make sure you also have suitable footwear for snow or rain.
- Blankets and sleeping bags:even if you have heating, winter sleeping bags or blankets will help keep you warm while you rest.
- Cooking utensils adapted for winter:All our motorhomes are equipped with gas cookers so you can prepare hot meals to keep you warm. Also consider carrying a thermos flask to keep drinks warm during the day.
- Torches and portable chargers:winter days are shorter, so if you want to go outside you'll need good lighting. A couple of powerful torches and external chargers for your devices are a must.
- De-icing products:taking motorhome-grade antifreeze and a de-icing spray for windows or locks can also be useful.
Being well-equipped during your trip not only ensures comfort, but also prepares you to enjoy yourself to the full.
Benivan models that are ideal for winter travel in a camper van
When planning a winter trip, a camper van that combines comfort, functionality and resistance to the cold is key. All the Benivan from Benimar are designed to offer a unique experience, even in winter conditions, but here are two of our featured models that are perfect for your getaways:
Benivan B160 XT
For those looking for a spacious, versatile model, the Benivan B160 EXTREME is a 6.36m vehicle with twin bed layout. It offers a mix of premium functionality and the ability to make the most of the winter scenery because the XT models come with the Polar Pack as standard:
- Heating power boosted to 6000 W with the Truma D6E Combi heater (including altitude kit).
- Insulated and heated waste water tank
- Reinforced heating pipe insulation
- Insulated dashboard
- Curtain kit (pleated curtain in dinette + curtains on rear doors)
- Internal thermal window coverings
Benivan B100 PS
Compact, agile and efficient, the B100 model is ideal for those seeking mobility and comfort in a compact vehicle. At just 5.41 metres long, it offers a surprisingly large capacity and an optimised interior design. You can also choose the Polar Pack as an option!
Finally, remember that our Winter tent (thermal insulation for our PopUp) will be your ideal companion if you are a lover of sleeping in a pop-up roof and don't want to give it up even in cold weather.
With your camper van ready and with the necessary equipment, you are ready for a unique winter experience. The tranquillity of empty roads and landscapes that look like something out of a fairytale, travelling in a camper van this season is a plan that doesn't disappoint.
Remember that, in addition to technical preparation, the key is to enjoy the journey and adapt to the road conditions. If something doesn't go as planned, improvising is also part of the adventure! So wrap up warm, get your camper van ready and set off to explore the charms of winter.