There are many caravan sites across the U.K. that stay open in the winter to cater for the dedicated caravanners among us. If you are considering going away in a caravan this winter don’t forget to be prepared. There are a number of things that you will need for your winter trip that you didn’t need in the summer.

How to heat a caravan

For heating a caravan over the winter, gas appliances can be used, but be aware of the dangers of leaving them on overnight whilst you are sleeping. It is a better idea to invest in a low wattage electrical heater that you can leave on most of the time to keep the caravan warm.

Modern caravans are well insulated and being such a small space you may only have to heat the caravan for an hour or two a day. Buying a porch awning is a good way to preserve heat. It will stop cold air rushing into your caravan when you open the door. A porch can also be handy for storing things like wellington boots, wet shoes and large winter coats.

Take lots of extra bedding; it is worth investing in a high tog quilt or a expedition quality sleeping bag to keep you warm at night.

Pack lots of extra clothes, remember that you are likely to need extra pairs of everything as there may be adverse weather conditions to contend with.

Access to Water

Outside water containers are likely to freeze if the temperature plummets below zero. In order to ensure that you always have access to fresh water it is worth keeping an insulated tank inside your caravan. Many modern caravans have the advantage of having tanks in lockers on the inside of the caravan that are accessible from outside, often these are designed to prevent freezing. It is advisable to check the manual before you make your journey.

Filling up water tanks in the evening creates a large mass of water that will be more resistant to freezing than a small amount. The slightly higher temperature in the day time should help to prevent freezing in the daytime as you lower the water supply.

You can use anti-freeze or a similar product to keep waste water from freezing. Make sure that there is no chance of contaminating fresh water when you use any products of this nature.

Try to ensure that pipes are all flat so that no pools of water gather in them as this is when the water is most likely to freeze.

Other Things To Consider

Use propane and not butane. Butane will freeze when it reaches -4 degrees. Not being able to cook or heat up water if the temperature did drop below this would not be ideal. If you need to change from butane to propane use do not forget that you will need a different adaptor as they are not interchangeable.

Condensation can be an issue in the winter, try to make sure that if you are cooking or showering that the area is well ventilated. If necessary you can purchase moisture absorbing crystals to deal with this issue. They are widely available.

Keep moving parts of the caravan well oiled to prevent seizing.

If the weather is set to be ice and snow then consider buying winter tyres for your caravan and your towing car. The improved grip will make the journey much safer.