cold weather camping - RVing with Rex

RV Emergency Prep for Natural Disasters

A lesson plan on natural disaster preparedness for RVers

RV emergency prep is the essential preventative maintenance most people never consider until it’s too late. When the sun is shining and the birds are chirping, it’s hard to imagine the raw panic of an evacuation with a dark, terrible tempest growing in your rearview mirror.

It’s the simple things, really—a little extra fuel, a stockpile of food, checking over emergency supplies, and having a straightforward plan—that go a long way. Nature is immutable, caring little for your lack of preparedness. No matter how large and heavy your RV a flash flood will handle it like a giant swatting a bothersome fly.

A natural disaster will devastate your weak points exposing your vulnerabilities and potentially endangering your life and the lives of your loved ones. You need a calm and steady mind in the advent of disaster and taking a little extra time to mind your Ps and Qs will pay dividends in the unfortunate event of a natural disaster.

Flash flood in Arizona *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Before disaster strikes

Fill your tanks

Although easier said than done, it’s never a good idea to park your rig with an empty fuel tank. Sure, it’s easy enough to get fuel on your way out of town if you’re not in a hurry but if severe weather is headed your way the last thing you’re going to want to do is to search for a fuel station when you need to prioritize distancing yourself from an approaching storm.

You’re going to want a full tank to put miles between you and the severe weather quickly and also some to spare so that you can run your generator if you end up in a place without electricity. In the winter months, you should also ensure that you have enough propane to keep your rig warm for several days.

Keep enough fresh water in your tank to sustain you and your family for several days. For our motorhome, we usually leave half of our fresh water tank full even if we’re planning to stay at a place with city water. It costs us more on fuel but it’s a small price to pay for the knowledge that we could survive a few days off grid at a moment’s notice.

Know your surroundings

When you settle at a new location, take a few moments to orient yourself to your surroundings. Know if there are any large trees or nearby power lines that could become hazards during a severe storm.

Oftentimes, weather alerts are issued by county so it’s important to know what county you are in when you first park your RV. Write this information down for reference and leave it somewhere that it is easily accessible such as on a stickie above the entrance door.

Know what roads will lead you back to a highway and ask around for where the closest safe shelter is if you ever need to evacuate your RV.

Have a reliable alert source

There are a lot of weather stations and apps out there, some being more reliable than others. Do some research and figure out a few weather alert sources that you trust before the weather is headed your way and you’re panicking about conflicting information on the internet. The AccuWeather App (for Android or Apple) is a personal favorite because of its reliability and real-time weather radar that can help you track a storm but NOAA Weather is also just as credible.

Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Alert Radio which will notify you of any extreme weather warnings in your area. It gives a bit of peace of mind to know that you will be aware of all alerts even in the event that you lose internet connection.

Dependable NOAA radios range in price from less than $20 to more than $100 and can be purchased online or in most sporting goods stores.

Most recommended is a hand-cranked weather radio. Some models feature a backup battery option as well. Take the time to investigate all of the “extras” available on some NOAA radio models. Some have helpful features like a flashlight, strobe warning lights, and cell phone charging capabilities. Purchase the weather radio that best fits your needs and budget. There are lots to choose from.

Stock up on essentials

Just as important as having enough water on hand is ensuring that you have sufficient food in your RV to last a several days. Particularly, it’s vital that you have non-perishables and canned goods because any loss of electricity could cause the food in your fridge to quickly spoil.

It’s also a great idea to keep a first aid kit in your RV and to potentially have a backup kit in a tow vehicle/toad.

Other essential items that could come in handy include flashlights, fire extinguishers, bottled water, and warm blankets.

Types of natural disasters

Flash flood at Catalina State Park, Arizona *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Floods

People often have a hard time envisioning the power of moving water. Each year when heavy rains pummel North America’s deserts or mountains, another camper endures a flash flood camping weather disaster. Those who live to tell about it are shocked to learn how these torrential storms can destroy everything in its path—including RVs.

The severity and speed of flash floods make them one of the most harrowing weather events adventurers might encounter. They occur when excessive water fills a normally dry canyon or wash and when creeks and rivers rise rapidly from rainfall within their watershed.

Risks to RVs:

Water damage to the interior and electrical systems
Physical displacement or overturning due to rapid water flow
Potential for mold and mildew buildup post-flooding

Preparation tips:

Always have an evacuation plan ready and pay attention to the weather
Plot a route ahead of time
Ensure your motorhome or tow vehicle has a full tank of fuel
Check your batteries, tires, fluids, seams, and seals
Empty your holding tanks, fill your freshwater tank, turn off your propane, and secure exterior items
Park your RV on high ground if possible and point the nose into the wind
Identify where to go if told to evacuate

Emergency actions:

You rarely have time to move your RV; get to higher ground and stay safe
Evacuate your RV if a flash flood warning occurs and move to the highest ground in the area
Secure items in your RV as time permits
Contact emergency services if you are unable to evacuate and are in danger, trapped, or need help

Helpful resource: Flash Floods: Safety Tips for RVers

Tornados

The United States averages 1,200 tornados a year, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Doppler radar has improved the ability to forecast tornados but still only gives a warning of three to 30 minutes. With such little forewarning, NOAA stresses that tornado preparedness is critical.

A Tornado WATCH is issued by the NOAA Storm Prediction Center meteorologists who watch the weather 24/7 across the entire U.S. for weather conditions that are favorable for tornadoes and severe weather. A watch can cover parts of a state or several states. Watch and prepare for severe weather and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio to know when warnings are issued.

A Tornado WARNING is issued by the local NOAA National Weather Service Forecast Office meteorologists who watch the weather 24/7 over a designated area. This means a tornado has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar and there is a serious threat to life and property to those in the path of the tornado. A tornado warning indicates that you should ACT NOW to find safe shelter! A warning can cover parts of counties or several counties in the path of danger.

Risks to RVs:

High winds can overturn or move the RV
Flying debris can cause punctures or shatter windows
Risk of being struck by other large objects like trees or parts of buildings

Preparation tips:

Monitor an NOAA Weather Radio
Know where the designated shelters are in your campground or local area
Stow chairs and barbecues and other objects that could become projectiles
Retract your slides if your area is under a tornado watch or likely to be
Latch all windows and doors and ensure your cell phones are charged
Have an emergency kit prepared

Emergency actions:

Go immediately when a tornado warning is issued
Wherever you find shelter stay away from windows
DO NOT plan on staying inside your RV
If you’re caught outside, find a ditch if possible, or the lowest point

Helpful resource: Severe Weather: Tornado Safety Tips for RVers

Hurricane damage at Rockport-Fulton, Texas *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Hurricanes

Hurricane season stretches from June 1 through November 30 each year.

Hurricanes give fair warning. Unlike RVing in natural disasters like wildfires, earthquakes, tornadoes, and flash floods, hurricanes give plenty of advance notice before making landfall. Theoretically you should have enough time to minimize the impact of a hurricane.

The preferred hurricane plan for an RV is to do what they do best—turn on the ignition and drive away! Our homes have wheels. USE THEM. RVs are perfect bug-out vehicles being self-contained wherever we land.

Risks to RVs:

Hurricanes aren’t just wind events; they can spawn severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, storm surges, and massive flooding rains
Risk of flipping your RV
Flying debris
Falling trees and large, heavy branches
Flash flooding is prevalent
Emergency services are generally shut down or slowed to a crawl (you’re on your own for a time)

Preparation tips:

Fill your fuel tank
Empty black tanks and gray water tanks
Fill your fresh water tank
Stock up on food for you and your RVing pets
Charge your electronics batteries
Verify your phone is set up to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts
Have a pre-planned evacuation route and don’t wait for authorities to tell you to leave; once you’ve waited that long, you’ll be an ant in an anthill, all evacuating at once
Place valuable papers in a water-tight container
Put together an emergency kit with enough food, water, and medicine to last for three days
As you’re evacuating, continue to track the storm—its path could change to intersect with your destination

Emergency actions:

Be somewhere else; thankfully, hurricanes come with a lot of heads-up time
If you can’t leave, park your RV in a secured facility (if possible) or park it next to a building
Follow all the guidelines and orders issued by the governor and local officials

Helpful resources:

Major snowfall at Fort Camping, Fort Langley, British Columbia *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Severe Winter Storms

Even the best home on wheels can only give limited protection from cold weather. The rest is up to you. Don’t learn winter RVing mistakes the hard way. If severe weather is approaching, it’s time to get serious about keeping warm, safe, and enjoying this year-round lifestyle.

Winter RV camping doesn’t have to be brutal. But even snowbirds that travel south for winter can get caught in unexpected snow storms. You can be warm, safe, and comfortable in cold temperatures if that happens to you. Just don’t wait to learn how to do it the right way.

Risks to RVs:

Severely cold temperatures can damage lead-acid batteries and hamper the efficiency of lithium batteries
Cold weather can freeze, expand, and burst waterlines
Cold temps can freeze holding tanks
Snow build-up and icing can weigh down and severely damage slide-outs

Preparation tips:

Maintain your RV generator
Check propane levels before departure making sure your tanks are topped off
Carry an alternate heat source such as an electric space heater
Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector
Check your seals and furnace vents
Keep de-icing tools handy and an emergency supply kit with enough supplies to last each person in the RV for a minimum of three days
Fill your RV fresh water tank with water and disconnect and stow your RV drinking water hose
Alternately use a heated water hose available at most RV dealers and stores selling RV supplies
Retain indoor warmth during cold temperatures with Reflectix insulation material
Keep RV cabinet doors open at night to prevent frozen water lines
Don’t tempt fate by blindly following your GPS as it can lead to deadly consequences
Always verify that road conditions are safe before heading out

Emergency actions:

If you are on shore power, remain in place and hooked up
Bundle up in heavy clothes made of material other than cotton
Utilize warming blankets, space heaters, furnace; conserve to the best of your ability
Do not use your propane oven as a heat source
Eat hot food and drinks
Maintain airflow throughout the RV since condensation is problematic and the airflow will help circulate the heat rising to the top of the RV
Keep an eye on the weather and gauge the use of your resources accordingly

Here are some helpful resources when it comes to surviving winter storms and winter camping:

Fallen tree damage during major thunderstorm and severe winds *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Severe Thunderstorms & Hail

The definition of a severe thunderstorm is one producing hail one inch in diameter (size of a quarter) or winds of 58 mph or more.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), “Each year across America there are on average 10,000 thunderstorms, 5,000 floods, 1,000 tornadoes, and six named hurricanes.” The NWS pointed out that weather disasters lead to about 500 deaths annually.

Every thunderstorm produces lightning.

Thunderstorms can produce high winds that can damage property.

Thunderstorms can cause flash flooding.

Lightning kills more people annually than tornadoes or hurricanes.

A thunderstorm WATCH means that conditions are right for a thunderstorm to develop in the watch area. Be ready to take cover or evacuate.

A thunderstorm WARNING means that a severe thunderstorm has been reported or detected on radar threatening danger to property or life. Take cover or evacuate if there is time and a safe escape route.

Cell phones, Internet weather reports, NOAA weather radios, TV news, weather stations, and local warning systems are some of the ways to be aware of weather threats.

Risks to RVs:

Hail can dent the exterior and break windows
Lightning strikes can cause electrical damage
Sudden wind gusts can destabilize or flip the RV

Preparation tips:

Check the trees and shrubs at your site for sturdy branches or ones that might break under high wind conditions
Check your site for chairs, tables, toys, BBQs, and other objects that can become projectiles in high winds
Retract any awnings and ensure they’re securely fastened
Ensure all exterior compartment doors are closed and secured, all seals and seams are checked, and all windows and doors are closed, latched, and secured
Make sure you have plenty of fresh water and an emergency supply kit
Unplug electronics like TVs, DVDs, computers, coffee pots, and so forth
Use cell phones and battery-powered devices
A battery-powered NOAA weather radio would be very useful
Flashlights, headlamps, candles, or other light sources
Locate your nearest storm shelter and make sure you can get to it in time of need

Emergency actions:

Remain inside for the duration of the storm and always remain inside for a minimum of thirty minutes following the last thunderclap
Don’t open your windows or doors
Unplug all electronics and avoid touching plumbing or metal objects
Don’t stand near windows or doors throughout the worst of the storm

Check this out to learn more:

Windstorms

RVs are especially vulnerable to heavy winds because of the large surface area of the RV which leaves no place for the wind to pass through to relieve the pressure. The wind simply pushes against the sides/front/rear of the RV and can literally move the rig no matter how heavy it is.

Travel trailers are susceptible to trailer sway in heavy winds. This can lead to driver over-correction resulting in a back-and-forth rocking that can send the trailer out of control.

It can be tiring to drive or tow an RV in high winds and sometimes it’s downright dangerous. It’s at these times when you need to find a safe area to pull over and stop driving until conditions improve.

There are four primary factors to consider when driving your RV in windy conditions:

Wind speed
Wind direction
Driving speed

How heavy the RV is loaded in relation to its GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating)

All of the factors noted above combine to create greater potential for problems. The higher the wind, the faster you drive, the closer your vehicle is to its maximum allowable weight, and the more direct the wind is to a 90-degree crosswind, the more dangerous it is to drive in windy conditions.

Risks to RVs:

High winds can tip the RV especially those with higher profiles
Wind-driven rain can penetrate seals causing interior water damage
Loss of external fixtures like awnings or antennas

Preparation tips:

When driving an RV in heavy winds adjust your speed; this simply means SLOW DOWN
Check the weather forecast and wait if necessary
Drive with both hands on the wheel
Be careful while driving on bridges and overpasses
Take breaks often
Avoid camping at the base of a cliff or point of sudden and extreme elevation
Don’t leave lightweight items lying around and retract/secure your awning
Secure your door and window latches

Emergency actions:

If you’re driving during a high wind, carefully pull over and point the nose of your RV into the wind (RVs are more susceptible to tipping while moving than while still)
Camp in places where you can park the RV on asphalt or concrete
Keep an eye on the weather and maintain a weather alert radio for sudden emergencies like sudden windstorms

Here are some helpful resources:

Dust Storms and Haboobs

Dust storms (also called Haboobs) are unexpected, unpredictable, and can sweep across the desert landscape at any time. Dust storms can be miles long and thousands of feet high. You can endure these brief but powerful windstorms if you know how to react.

Dust storms can occur anywhere in the United States but are most common in the Southwest.

In Arizona, dust storms most frequently occur during monsoon season (June-September) but they can pop up at any time of the year. If you’re in a vehicle and a dust storm is approaching, the most important thing to do is to not drive into the dust storm. That’s because visibility can drop to zero, leaving you and others driving blind and making for a dangerous situation.

Risks to RVs:

Reduced visibility during a dust storm can make it difficult to navigate increasing the risk of accidents or collisions
Strong winds can blow loose objects such as patio furniture, antennas, and other outdoor equipment, into and against the RV, causing damage
Fine particles of sand and dust can seep into the RV’s vents, seams, and crevices, potentially causing respiratory issues and damage to electrical and mechanical systems
Moisture and dust can compromise electrical connections and components
High winds can cause RVs to shift or topple, potentially damaging the chassis, frame, or roof

Preparation tips:

Retract awnings and antennas
Bring patio furniture, decorations, and other loose items inside or tie them down securely
Cover vents, windows, and doors to prevent sand and dust from entering the RV
Keep an eye on weather forecasts and warnings, and plan accordingly

Emergency actions:

DO NOT drive into or through a dust storm
Immediately check traffic around your vehicle (front, back, and to the side) and begin slowing down
Do not wait until poor visibility makes it difficult to safely pull off the roadway—do it as soon as possible
Do not stop in a travel lane or in the emergency lane; look for a safe place to pull completely off the paved portion of the roadway
Turn off all vehicle lights including your emergency flashers—you do not want other vehicles approaching from behind to use your lights as a guide possibly crashing into your parked vehicle
Set your emergency brake and take your foot off the brake
Stay in the vehicle with your seatbelts buckled and wait for the storm to pass

Tire covers protect from the sun and heat *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Extreme Heat and Heatwaves

Heat-related illnesses arise when an individual is exposed to environmental heat and their own body is not able to accommodate or acclimatize quickly. These symptoms are potentially life-threatening and should be taken seriously when they happen. But it’s not just about heat stroke.

There’s a spectrum of heat-related illness symptoms.

Heat-related illnesses can range from mild, requiring cooling and rehydration, to severe—requiring emergency medical treatment.

When the temperatures rise, getting enough to drink is important regardless of the activity. Keeping the body hydrated helps the heart more easily pump blood through the blood vessels to the muscles. And, it helps the muscles work efficiently.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke need to be taken seriously. If you feel like you’re becoming dizzy, weak, or nauseous after spending time in the sun, take care of yourself as soon as possible. These conditions can quickly get worse if you ignore them.

Risks to RVs:

UV radiation is enough to cause long-term damage to exterior aesthetics, rubber (tires and seals), plastic, and decals
Can cause eventual leaks thanks to the degradation of seals/sealants
Battery issues are prevalent in extreme heat
Intense heat is capable of causing malfunctions in appliances
Heat can cause the A/C to overwork and fail

Preparation tips:

It’s important to drink at least 16 ounces of water every hour in the heat to replenish your body to prevent dehydration; don’t forget your four-legged family members
Apply a generous amount of sunscreen or sunblock before heading outdoors
Wear light, loose-fitting, breathable clothing; sun glasses, a wide-brimmed hat, correct shoes, sunscreen, and wet bandanas to keep you cool while in the sun
Eating snacks such as jerky, granola, trail mix, tuna, and dried fruit is a fantastic way to nourish your body while on the trails
With high temperatures, heat-related illnesses are common, and having a friend around to help recognize the early symptoms can save you from getting sick
Clean and wax the exterior if you know you’re going to be in an area where extreme heat is possible or even prevalent
Clean and inspect your roof, paying close attention to the state of your sealants and weatherstripping
Use tire covers
Inspect your A/C unit and schedule an annual service if you think anything is off
Pack portable fans; a small USB fan will run for 24 hours on a 30,000 mAh portable charger
Cover your windows and park your RV in the shade if you can
Make sure your fridge is in tip-top shape because excess heat may be too much for it

Emergency actions:

Depending on the expected length of the heat wave, maintain your A/C on its highest tolerable setting and offset the warmer interior with portable fans
Use LED bulbs as often as possible, as they don’t give off any heat
Stay away from any oven cooking
Try not to open any doors or windows if you can help it to avoid letting the cool air escape the interior
Run the A/C on its coldest setting at night, even if you are uncomfortable
If an opportunity to move under some shade presents itself, don’t hesitate

Here are some articles to help:

Wildfires

Wildfires can start in a variety of ways. A dry climate, abundant winds, and dried vegetation provide prime conditions for a wildfire—and it only takes a single ember to ignite and destroy hundreds of thousands of acres and place humans and personal belongs at risk.

Risks to RVs:

The nearness of a raging fire is enough to warp, melt, and ignite anything remotely flammable on or near your RV
Though not technically a danger to your RV, smoke inhalation is certainly dangerous to you if you are in or near your RV adjacent to a wildfire

Preparation tips:

Know the current wildfire conditions and fire restrictions for the area you are traveling
Check with the national forest, state, and county as individual governing entities may have different restrictions
Choose a campsite that has more than one escape route
Park for a quick departure
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should have functioning batteries
Pack plenty of non-perishable foods, potable water, and an emergency supplies kit
Keep your motorhome or tow vehicle topped off with fuel
Familiarize yourself with landmarks in the area (It’s difficult to see through smoke and landmarks can serve as a guide in an evacuation)
Know your evacuation routes and do not hesitate to take them if there is even the remote threat of a wildfire anywhere near your location
Avoid camping in areas that are under drought condition

Emergency actions:

Keep your windows up and your A/C blowing to reduce embers and smoke
Follow designated routes and pay attention to signals or warnings from fire officials
Remain inside your vehicle unless absolutely necessary to get out
Seek areas clear of trees, underbrush, and preferably clear of any vegetation
Remain on paved routes as much as possible
Buckle your seatbelts on and your headlights on
Keep your radio on and take it slow and easy as you head out

Earthquakes

Risks to RVs:

Shaking can tip or shift the RV, especially if not properly stabilized
Potential for nearby structural failures like tree falls or landslides impacting the RV

Preparation tips:

Know the risk of the area you are traveling to, as some are more prone to earthquakes than others
Check and maintain all your hoses, gas lines, cables, etc.
Secure your belongings and anything lightweight and loose throughout the camper
Don’t park your RV next to buildings, trees, or other structures that could potentially collapse or fall over
Have an emergency/first-aid kit available
Make sure your fresh water tank is topped off, along with gathering extra water
Secure any glass or flammable in the RV

Emergency actions:

Stay inside the RV throughout the earthquake
If you’re driving, pull over cautiously and move to the center of the RV
Stay away from windows or glass
If you are close to the ocean, drive in the opposite direction once the earthquake passes
Post-earthquake, conduct a maintenance check on your entire suspension system

Landslides

Landslides can bury RVs and campgrounds, damage critical infrastructure, block or damage roads, and disrupt vital utilities and communication lines. Landslides can happen with no notice or can take place over a period of days, weeks, or longer. Landslides are unpredictable. A slow-moving landslide can rapidly change to a fast-moving landslide. Some fast-moving landslides can travel thousands of feet, even across flat ground.

Landslides come in many varieties from small rockfalls or debris flows (mudflows) that occur quickly to mountain-sized slides. Landslides can be triggered by rainfall from hurricanes and rainstorms, ground shaking from earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

Risks to RVs:

Mud or debris flow can engulf the RV
Risk of being swept away or buried in severe cases
Blockage of escape routes with debris

Preparation tips:

Be aware of the area you are in and whether or not that area is known for mudslides
Never park the RV at a lower elevation point especially at the bottom of a hill/cliff or the base of a mountain
Familiarize yourself with the local emergency and evacuation procedures in the event of a landslide/mudslide
Maintain an emergency preparedness kit

Emergency actions:

If you’re in an RV that’s caught in a landslide, realistically, there is very little you can do other than brace yourself and do your best to brace and protect your family members
The best offense is a good defense so avoid parking your RV in places where a potential landslide could become an issue especially after a long or heavy rain

Worth Pondering…

As Yogi Berra said, “It’s tough to make predictions, especially about the future.”

National Weather Service Changes Cold Weather Alerts

National Weather Service makes changes to cold temperature and freeze watches, warnings, advisories

Just when I finally understood various weather alerts, the National Weather Service (NWS) is making changes. (Brace yourselves, fellow RVers!)

The NWS recently announced that it is changing how it issues cold weather alerts. This is part of an ongoing effort to simplify public safety communications. (Do we really need simplification?)

Starting this fall and winter wind chill alerts and hard freeze warnings will be streamlined into broader cold weather advisories, watches, and warnings. These updates are part of the NWS’s broader Hazard Simplification initiative which aims to make it easier for people to understand weather alerts and take appropriate action. (Hmm. Understand weather alerts?)

Camping at Angel Lake RV Park, Wells, Nevada *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

What’s changing?

As part of these changes wind chill watches, warnings, and advisories will be replaced with more generalized alerts for extreme cold. The idea behind this shift is to communicate that cold is dangerous regardless of whether the wind is a factor. (Just in case you didn’t already know that cold temperatures are dangerous and may necessitate a heated water hose and space heater for your RV.)

So, instead of seeing specific wind chill warnings you’ll see “extreme cold” watches or warnings. These alerts will still include information about wind chill but the focus will now be on the overall risk of dangerously cold temperatures.

Another change is the elimination of hard freeze watches and warnings. Instead, regular freeze alerts will cover both freeze and hard freeze conditions. So, if temperatures are expected to drop to the point where it could significantly harm vegetation or damage pipes you’ll still receive a freeze watch or warning but it will include details about how severe the freeze is. (Okaaay. I think I understand.)

Camping at Quail Ridge RV Resort, Huachuca City, Arizona *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Why the changes?

This simplification effort stems from feedback gathered from the public, meteorologists, and social scientists. (Notice that RVers didn’t provide feedback. That’s because we already understood the previous alert system.)

These changes follow a similar move in 2017 when winter precipitation alerts were consolidated to reduce confusion. The goal is to make the NWS cold weather alerts more user-friendly and to ensure that important weather information is easily understood.

According to the NWS, “The new Cold Product Suite will allow us to communicate that cold is dangerous with or without wind. Wind chill won’t disappear but the emphasis is on ‘cold is cold,’ regardless of the conditions.” (Cold is cold and is dangerous. Glad they cleared that up!)

Winter camping at Fort Camping, Fort Langley, British Columbia *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

What to expect

Extreme cold watches: These will be issued when dangerously cold temperatures or wind chills are a possibility. If you see an extreme cold watch it means you should prepare for freezing conditions by dressing warmly and taking steps to protect yourself and your home or RV.

Extreme cold warnings: When the danger is imminent or already happening an extreme cold warning will be issued. This means you should dress in layers, cover any exposed skin, and limit time spent outdoors (unless your RV is parked in Florida, Arizona, or South Texas).

Cold weather advisories: These will be issued when cold conditions are expected but they aren’t severe enough to be classified as extreme cold. Even though the cold might not be life-threatening you’ll still want to bundle up and avoid unnecessary exposure to the elements.

Cold is cold *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Freeze alerts

The NWS will also continue issuing freeze watches and warnings. A freeze watch is announced when temperatures are likely to hit 32 degrees or lower. A freeze warning comes when those conditions are either expected or happening. When temperatures dip to 28 degrees or below it’s called a hard freeze which can cause major damage to plants and infrastructure. This information will now be included in regular freeze alerts.

Additionally, frost advisories will remain unchanged. These advisories are issued when frost is expected usually in rural areas even if the temperature remains above freezing (33–36 degrees). Frost can still cause minor damage to vegetation so it’s important to stay aware of these advisories especially if you’re gardening or managing outdoor plants.

Regional variations

It’s important to note that the thresholds for issuing extreme cold alerts vary by region. For example what qualifies as “extreme cold” in Florida will look quite different than in North Dakota. So, while these alerts will be used nationwide the specific criteria depend on the area’s typical climate.

Heated water hose *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Recap

To summarize, the changes from the NWS are designed to reduce confusion and improve how cold weather risks are communicated. With more simplified alerts the focus will be on keeping the public informed and safe no matter the weather conditions. (Did you know that the National Weather Service receives between $6.2 billion and $7.3 billion in discretionary funding per fiscal year? I wonder how much money went into this simplification initiative?)

Chime in! Were you confused about the previous wording of winter warnings issued by the NWS? Do you think the new verbiage will help people better understand and respond appropriately to winter’s hazards?

You can find all National Weather Service alerts here.

Worth Pondering…

There is no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather.

—John Ruskin

Winter Woes: How to Stay Safe in an RV as Arctic Blast Hits US and Canada

Over 150 million Americans are under a winter chill advisory due to life-threatening temperatures. Every state besides Hawaii has issued some form of caution to residents as nearly 80 percent of the nation faces below-freezing weather.

The blizzard doesn’t last forever; it just seems so.

—Ray Bradbury

More than half of U.S. states have experienced some sort of winter weather warning over the past few days with an Arctic blast bringing subzero temps to even Texas. Amid the cold snap, it’s important to keep yourself—and your pets and RV—safe and warm.

Winter RVing comes with its own set of challenges. Cold temperatures, snowy roads, limited daylight, and extreme weather events can all make for a more difficult and dangerous trip.

However, with proper preparation and knowledge, you can safely navigate the winter roads and enjoy all the beauty and serenity of winter camping.

In this blog post, I’ll share tips on how to prepare your RV for winter, plan your winter RV trip, and drive safely in cold weather conditions. I’ll also provide tips on staying warm and comfortable in your RV during your winter trip.

Angel Lake RV Park, Wells, Nevada *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

RV winter driving tips

It’s important to know how to safely navigate snowy and icy roads. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while winter RVing.

How to safely navigate snowy and icy roads

When driving on snowy or icy roads, patience is the key to staying safe. Following the 330 Rule will help set a good pace for your road trip and the following tips will help keep you safe:

Slow down and increase your following distance (it’ll give you extra time to stop)
Use your headlights and turn signals (rule of thumb: If your wipers are on your headlights should also be on)
Avoid sudden braking or accelerating so you don’t lose traction
Steer in the direction of a skid
Familiarize yourself with your RV’s heating and defrosting systems before you drive to keep your RV windows clear

Diamond Groove RV Park, Edmonton, Alberta *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

How to handle skidding and sliding on winter roads

Never take black ice for granted! Just because you can’t see ice on the road doesn’t mean it’s not there. Mentally prepare yourself by imagining what you will do if you start to slide.

If your RV starts to skid or slide it’s important to stay calm. Steer in the direction of the skid and avoid braking or accelerating.

If your RV has anti-lock brakes, make sure to use them correctly by pressing them consistently and firmly. If your RV does not have anti-lock brakes, pump the brake pedal gently to slow down (pumping the brakes helps give you traction).

Sun Outdoors Salt Lake City (formerly Pony Express RV Park), North Salt Lake City, Utah *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Always carry an emergency kit for winter travel

It’s also essential to prepare an emergency kit for your RV road trip whether winter camping or en route to a warmer snowbird retreat (in our case, Arizona). This should include items such as blankets, warm clothing, a first aid kit, flashlights, warning triangles or flares, and a tool kit.

It’s also a good idea to include a small shovel, a bag of sand or kitty litter (for traction), and a bag of salt or de-icer.

Additionally, make sure to have a fully charged cell phone and a way to charge it while on the road.

Know how to properly use snow chains and tire chains

If you’re planning to travel on snowy or icy roads, it’s important to know how to properly use snow chains or tire chains. These devices can be a lifesaver in snowy conditions but they must be used correctly. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and practice putting them on before you hit the road.

If you’re going to be traveling entirely in snowy weather consider putting snow tires on your motorhome or tow vehicle and travel trailer.

Be aware of rules and regulations for winter driving in the states and provinces you plan to drive through. Know where and under what conditions snow tires and snow chains/tire chains are required.

Fort Camping, Fort Langley, British Columbia *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

What to do if your RV is stranded in winter

If an emergency arises while winter RVing, it’s important to stay calm so you can think clearly. Call for help immediately and stay with your RV if possible. If you must leave your RV, make sure to take your phone, emergency kit, warm clothing, water, and a snack with you.

Here are some tips to help keep you safe:

Stay with your RV: An RV provides shelter and protection from the elements; it’s also much easier to spot an RV from the air than a person on foot.
Stay warm: Dress in warm layers, use a good-quality insulated mattress pad, and keep a duvet and extra blankets in the RV for added warmth. Use a space heater to supplement your RV’s heating system and make sure to keep your furnace or heating system serviced and maintained.
Create a signal for help: Place a brightly colored cloth or flag on the roof of your RV or on a nearby tree to signal for help. Keep a small light or lantern on at night (preferably one that is battery-operated and will not drain your house battery).
Conserve fuel and power: To conserve fuel and power only run essential systems such as the heating system and refrigerator. Turn off all lights and appliances when not in use.
Keep yourself hydrated and nourished: Ration your food and water to last for at least a few days in case you are stranded for an extended period of time.
Keep your phone on but preserve its battery: Turn on “battery saver mode” and only use it when trying to contact help.

Dangers of carbon monoxide

This is must-know information to make sure that you are safe in your RV. Since carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless, it can be an immediate danger to your health and, yes, some of your RV appliances do emit it.

How to Prevent and Detect Carbon Monoxide in Your RV

We need to know how to detect carbon monoxide in our RV. This is serious if you want to stay safe.

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that you don’t expect to encounter when traveling the great outdoors. However, some RV appliances emit carbon monoxide which can be dangerous to your health. It’s important to be aware of the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and how to prevent it while enjoying the RV lifestyle.

How to Keep Your RV Pipes from Freezing While Camping

Going on a winter camping trip? Here are some easy, affordable ways to keep your RV pipes from freezing while camping.

Camping in the snow is an entirely different experience and a great way to enjoy typical summer destinations in a whole new way.

However, RV owners must take the necessary precautions to protect their RV from the cold weather. One of the most critical issues to be aware of is the risk of frozen pipes which can cause serious damage to your RV’s plumbing system. And don’t forget about your RV holding tanks. In severe cold, these can freeze, too.

In this article, I’ll discuss the steps you can take to keep your RV pipes from freezing while camping in cold weather.

Cold weather camping *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Ultimate RV winter camping tips

One trip to the hardware store can get you most of the things on this list.

These tips should help protect your motorhome or trailer through the winter months. That way, you can enjoy your winter camping trip to the fullest.

1. Insulate your RV pipes

Properly insulating your RV pipes is the first step in preventing them from freezing. Insulation materials such as pipe sleeves or foam insulation can add an extra layer of protection. Or, try pipe insulation tape. These materials can be cut to fit any size pipe and can be applied to the exterior of the pipes.

Be sure to pay attention to all the pipes including those under the sinks and in the bathroom and kitchen.

2. Consider using heat tape

Another effective way to prevent your RV pipes from freezing is to use heat tape or heat cable. Heat tape is an electrical heating element that can be wrapped around pipes and plugged in to provide heat.

Make sure to choose a heat tape specifically designed for use on RV pipes and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use.

3. Skirt your RV

Skirting your RV is another way to protect your pipes from freezing because it increases the ambient heat beneath your RV. Skirting is a material that surrounds the bottom or underbelly of your RV to block cold winds.

This can be a DIY project with various materials such as insulated foam, vinyl, or heavy-duty plastic. Or you can purchase pre-made skirting kits.

EZSnap Skirting and Fabricover skirting are very popular in the RVing community.

Winter camping *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

4. Insulate your RV storage bays

Your RV storage bays are also vulnerable to freezing temperatures. To protect the pipes in these areas, be sure to insulate them as well. This can be done with foam insulation, foam boards, or fiberglass insulation.

5. Heat your RV storage bays

In addition to insulating the storage bays, you can also heat them to keep the pipes from freezing. Electric heating pads can be placed on the bottom of the storage bay and plugged in to provide heat.

Or, you can use a portable heater like a propane or electric space heater. Just keep in mind that these portable heaters can be dangerous if not used properly. So carefully read their manuals and check them often when in use.

6. Open your cabinet doors

One simple way to keep the pipes in your RV from freezing is to open the cabinet doors under the sinks. This allows warm air to circulate around the pipes and keeps them from freezing.

Electric space heater *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

7. Strategically place electric space heaters

Another way to keep the pipes in your RV from freezing is to strategically place electric heaters around the RV. This can be done by placing a small electric heater under the sink or in the bathroom to keep the pipes warm.

8. Use your tanks instead of hookups

If possible, use your freshwater tank instead of using a freshwater hookup. Your fresh water tank is insulated and protected from cold temperatures (or at least it should be). Your water hose on the other hand has a higher risk of freezing.

If you need to use fresh water hookups, buy a heated water hose. This heated hose connects to your water source and RV just like other drinking hoses. It’s easy to use and is one of the best ways to keep fresh water flowing to your RV.

On that same note, do not keep your sewer hose open. You shouldn’t leave your gray water tank and black water tank valves open while camping (common newbie RV mistakes) but it’s especially bad to do it in the cold. You certainly don’t want THAT liquid freezing in your sewer hose (aka stinky slinky).

9. Choose a sunny campsite

When choosing a campsite, look for one that’s in a sunny location. This will help to keep your RV warm and can also help to prevent your pipes from freezing. It’s a simple tip, yet very effective.

If you don’t think it will make a big enough difference, think about when you’re driving up the mountains. You’ll start seeing snow patches beneath trees much sooner than on open ground. So, try to park in a campsite where you’ll have as much direct sunlight as possible.

10. Install RV holding tank heaters

Finally, consider installing RV holding tank heaters. These heaters are specially designed to keep the water in your holding tanks from freezing and can be a lifesaver in extremely cold temperatures.

Bonus tip: Keep a heat gun or compact hair dryer on hand just in case you end up with a frozen pipe. You can defrost it and add pipe insulation or one of the other above tips to prevent it from happening again.

Know the signs of frozen pipes

Even if you take all the necessary precautions, there’s still a risk that your pipes may freeze. It’s important to know the signs of frozen pipes so you can take action before they burst. Some common signs of frozen pipes include a lack of water flow, strange noises coming from the pipes, and frost on the pipes.

If you suspect that your pipes have frozen, you should first turn off the water supply to your RV. Then, open the faucets and turn on the hot water to allow any remaining water to flow through the pipes.

If the pipes are still frozen, you may need to use a hair dryer or heat lamp to thaw them. Never use an open flame such as a propane torch, to thaw pipes.

Where to find more support…

The Ultimate Guide to Cold Weather Camping

Whether you do winter RV camping by choice or by necessity, there are steps you’ll want to take to stay warm in your rig. That’s why I put together this Ultimate Guide for Cold Weather Camping.

I want you to know exactly how to use your RV in the winter—how to shield it from Mother Nature, how to winterize and store it if you want to, and even how you can make money renting your rig to others in warmer parts of the country.

Keep reading…

Worth Pondering…

And finally Winter, with its bitin’, whinin’ wind, and all the land will be mantled with snow.

—Roy Bean

Don’t Get Stuck in the Cold: RV Winter Driving and Survival Tips

Don’t get stuck in the cold in your RV. Here are ESSENTIAL RV winter driving tips and other helpful information including the link to all the road condition maps for each state.

Winter RVing can be a unique and exciting experience but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Cold temperatures, snowy roads, and limited daylight can all make for a more difficult and dangerous road trip.

However, with proper preparation and knowledge, you can safely navigate the winter roads and enjoy all the beauty and serenity of winter camping.

In this blog post, I share tips on how to prepare your RV for winter months, plan your winter RV trip, and drive safely in cold weather conditions. I also provide tips on staying warm and comfortable in your RV during your winter road trip.

Winter camping tips

Make your winter campout a lot more enjoyable with these quick five tips. It’s all about staying cozy so you can focus on enjoying the beauty of winter around you.

Cover your windshield to keep heat in and cold out
Invest in a battery heater (batteries work less efficiently in the cold)
Have a backup heater (i.e., space heater)
Put Reflectix on windows
Bring your fresh water in jugs and flush your toilet with antifreeze

Preparing your RV for winter

Before hitting the road for a winter RV trip, it’s essential to properly prepare your RV for the colder temperatures and inclement weather. Here are some tips to help you winterize your RV and prepare it to drive and camp in winter conditions.

Insulate your RV

Winterizing your RV plumbing and water systems

One of the most important steps in preparing your RV for winter is to winterize the plumbing and water systems. This process usually involves draining the water tanks, adding RV-specific antifreeze to the plumbing lines, and protecting any exposed pipes from freezing.

If you’re unsure how to winterize your RV plumbing and water systems, it’s best to consult your RV’s owner’s manual or have a professional do it for you. But, the following articles will help:

Maintain and inspect your RV tires, brakes, and batteries

It’s also crucial to maintain and inspect your RV tires, brakes, and battery before heading out on a winter RV trip. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread to handle snowy and icy roads. Check your brakes to ensure they’re in good working condition and consider investing in winter tires or tire chains. Also, make sure your RV battery is fully charged and in good condition as it will have to work harder in the colder temperatures.

Planning your winter RV trip

Once your RV is prepared for winter, it’s time to start planning your trip. Here are some tips to help you plan a safe and enjoyable winter RV adventure.

Check weather forecasts and road conditions

Before hitting the road, it’s essential to check the weather forecasts and road conditions for your destination and the route you plan to travel. This will help you prepare for any potential winter weather such as snow, ice, or freezing temperatures.

Know the winter driving restrictions by state

Some states restrict RV driving in certain weather conditions. For instance, Pennsylvania DOT puts motorhomes in Tier 1 (the most restrictive tier) when it comes to “winter weather events.” It’s always a good idea to google “winter driving restrictions in (state)” before you leave. This might spare you from getting stopped at a state border with different restrictions. Also, check out the link to ALL the State Driving road conditions below.

Choose the right route for winter driving

Avoid mountain passes and remote areas if possible as they can be more difficult to navigate in the winter. Also, be aware some roads close for the winter.

Winter road conditions for every state

And here is the website link (and phone number) for the latest road conditions for each state.

Always carry an emergency kit for winter travel

It’s also essential to prepare an emergency roadside kit for your winter RV trip. This should include items such as blankets, warm clothing, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a portable charging device for your phone.

It’s also a good idea to include a small shovel, a bag of sand or kitty litter (for traction), and a bag of salt or de-icer.

Additionally, make sure to have a fully charged cell phone and a way to charge it while on the road.

Know how to properly use snow chains and tire chains

If you’re going to be traveling entirely in snowy weather, consider putting snow tires on your motorhome or tow vehicle and travel trailer.

RV winter driving tips

Once you’re on the road, it’s important to know how to safely navigate snowy and icy roads. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while winter RVing.

How to safely navigate snowy and icy roads

When driving on snowy or icy roads, patience is the key. Following the 330 Rule will help set a good pace for your trip and the following tips will help keep you safe:

Slow down and increase your following distance (it’ll give you extra time to stop)
Use your headlights and turn signals (rule of thumb: If your wipers are on, your headlights should be on)
Avoid sudden braking or accelerating so you don’t lose traction
Steer in the direction of a skid
If your RV has anti-lock brakes, press the pedal firmly and consistently
If your RV doesn’t have anti-lock brakes, pump the brake pedal gently to help gain traction while slowing down
Familiarize yourself with your RV heating and defrosting systems before you drive to keep your RV windows clear

How to handle skidding and sliding on winter roads

Never take black ice for granted! Just because you can’t see ice on the road doesn’t mean it’s not there. Mentally prepare yourself by imagining what you will do if you start to slide.

If your RV starts to skid or slide on a snowy or icy road the most important thing to do is to stay calm. Steer in the direction of the skid and avoid braking or accelerating.

What to do if your RV is stranded in winter

If an emergency arises while winter RVing, it’s important to stay calm so you can think clearly. Call for help immediately and stay with your RV if possible. If you must leave your RV make sure to take your phone, emergency kit, warm clothing, water, and a snack with you.

Here are some tips to help keep you safe:

Stay with your RV as it provides shelter and protection from the elements: It’s also much easier to spot an RV from the air than a person on foot.
Stay warm: Dress in warm layers, use a good-quality insulated mattress pad or sleeping bag and keep extra blankets in the RV for added warmth. Use a space heater to supplement your RV heating system and make sure to keep your RV furnace or heating system serviced and maintained.
Create a signal for help: Place a brightly colored cloth or flag on the roof of your RV or on a nearby tree to signal for help. Keep a small light or lantern on at night (preferably one that is battery-operated and will not drain your battery).
Conserve fuel and power: To conserve fuel and power only run essential systems such as the heating system and refrigerator. Turn off all lights and appliances when not in use.
Keep yourself hydrated and nourished: ration your food and water to last for at least a few days in case you are stranded for an extended period of time.
Keep your phone on but preserve its battery as much as possible. Turn on “battery saver mode” and only use it when trying to contact help.
Know How to Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Your RV to ensure your heating appliances don’t poison you!

How to stay warm while camping

When you’re not on the road, it’s important to stay warm and comfortable inside your RV. Here are some more tips to help you do just that.

Keep windows and doors closed and use insulated window coverings or thermal curtains to keep the warm air inside
Use a space heater or portable electric heater to supplement your RV heating system
Add weather stripping or door sweeps to your RV doors and windows to prevent drafts
Use a generator to power your RV heating system
Insulate your RV’s underbelly, pipes, and tanks with heat tape or foam
Use an RV skirt to reduce heat loss from under your RV
Keep the windows clean to allow maximum sunlight in during the day
Use a good-quality insulated mattress pad or sleeping bag to keep you warm during the night
Dress in layers and keep extra blankets in the RV for added warmth
In severe cold, confine yourself to one room and focus on heating that small space.

Worth Pondering…

And finally Winter, with its bitin’, whinin’ wind, and all the land will be mantled with snow.

—Roy Bean

RV Winterizing Tips: 11 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Winterizing your RV? Keep your rig protected all winter long by avoiding these common mistakes.

Along with the beautiful colors of fall comes the closure of a wonderful camping season and the need to prep your RV for storage. While it may not be a fun task, winterizing your rig is imperative to keeping it maintained and preventing damage from freezing temps.

There are a few ways to approach winterizing your RV: You can do it yourself, use a mobile RV maintenance company, or take your rig to a service center. This can cost anywhere from $75 to $200 depending on location and what services are included.

Whether this will be your first year prepping your RV for winter or you’re a seasoned pro, it’s useful to go over the most common mistakes. This way, you won’t be the one making them.

Winterizing your RV *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Winterizing mistake #1: Not removing your house batteries

When preparing your RV for winter, don’t forget to pay attention to your house batteries. A dead battery consists mostly of water which can freeze and cause broken connections, bent plates, and shorten the battery’s lifespan. Remove the batteries from your RV and store them in a temperature-controlled area through the winter but be sure not to store them on a concrete floor.

It’s also recommended that you use a battery charger so they’re ready to go when you are.

If you store them in a heated garage or basement be sure to put them up on something appropriate. Flooded lead-acid and AGM batteries CAN freeze when they aren’t being charged, so plan accordingly.

Winterizing mistake #2: Not draining and flushing all water lines

It’s important to always double- and triple-check that you haven’t forgotten any of your water lines including your ice maker and washing machine lines.

One common mistake in blowing out the lines is not dialing down the air pressure before starting—you don’t want to put more than 100 psi into your water system. Remember, it’s the volume of air, not the pressure that will push the remaining water out. Read your owner’s manual to verify what the maximum pressure can be before you start. Most city water lines are in the 40 to 50 psi range. Always pull your water filters off and install the filter bypass kits before flushing your lines.

Check your owner’s manuals for specific instructions on winterizing your dishwasher, ice maker, and washing machine. These are all important to protect but will require a different procedure for each.

Winterizing your outdoor shower *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Winterizing mistake #3: Forgetting about your outdoor shower

This can be one of those out-of-sight out-of-mind mistakes. Every time you’re hooked up to city water the outside shower is ready for use—even if you don’t use it.

A common mistake that many people make is to forget to winterize their outside shower. This is an important RV winterizing tip because the outside shower is easy to forget. However, if you fail to winterize your outside shower plastic fittings and valves will almost certainly crack and the pipes that route out to the outside shower could burst.

So, if you have your winterizing steps recorded somewhere, be sure to add a note saying, “Don’t forget the outside shower!” You’ll simply need to run the shower until the water turns pink (as with your sinks and your inside shower) or if you winterize by blowing out your plumbing lines with an air compressor, make sure to blow out your outside shower… both the cold and hot water lines!

Winterizing mistake #4: Not closing low point drains

After draining your low-point drains ensure they are completely closed before filling the water system with RV antifreeze.

Winterizing mistake #5: Skipping important steps with your water heater

Bypass and completely drain your water heater before adding antifreeze to the water system. If you have an electric water heater always turn off the switch or breaker before starting this task to prevent damage to the heating element. It’s important not to forget the drain plugs or anode rods if these are features that are a part of your unit.

Not all RVs are equipped with a water heater bypass kit. Make sure your RV has one installed and you understand how to use it. Aftermarket kits can be purchased and installed if your RV does not have one.

Winterizing mistake #6 – Forgetting to winterize the sinks

Many RV owners forget to pour antifreeze down their kitchen and bathroom sinks which means any water remaining in the p-traps (the curved section of piping underneath the sinks) can freeze and cause problems.

Winterizing mistake #7: Waiting too long to purchase antifreeze and ‘trusting the weather’

Don’t let early winter storms or freezing temperatures catch you off guard. Buy your antifreeze early and be prepared if the temperature takes a sudden drop.

Several factors play into how fast a problem can occur in freezing temperatures. It’s best to take precautions anytime the temps will get below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temps are dipping down to freezing and you haven’t been able to winterize—don’t panic, just run the heater on low that night. Yes, it will cost you money in propane but you will save your pipes and tanks.

Winterize your RV before the start of winter *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Winterizing mistake #8: Leaving items in your cabinets

Open all of the cabinets and outside storage compartments to remove maintenance supplies, food items, soaps, toiletries, and anything else with liquid in it. It’s easy to forget about those items in the back of the cabinets and if you do you’ll come back to some sticky situations.

Winterizing mistake #9: Leaving fluids in your RV

Change your diesel fuel (summer blend) to winter diesel (winter blend) or get a winter additive before you store your RV. If forgotten, you could end up with gelled fuel. Also, change your windshield fluid to a winter blend to avoid a cracked reservoir or pump.

Winterizing mistake #10: Mouse-proof your RV

This is part of the mouse patrol preparation but worth mentioning as a separate RV winterizing tip. Use steel, brass, or copper wool to fill any openings that could allow the little devils into your rig. This is important even if you use your RV in the winter.

Mice, squirrels, and other little critters are looking for warmth and food all winter long. If you’ve got either to offer you can bet they’ll find their way to your winter palace and then tell all their friends where the party is. Do everything possible to keep them out.

Winterizing mistake #11: Not embracing cold weather camping

Some RVers re-winterize multiple times over the winter so they can enjoy winter camping. Make a quick checklist from your owner’s manual and keep it handy. It makes running through all the steps easier without worrying about skipping anything. If you don’t feel like winterizing your fresh lines multiple times you can go on camping trips using only your black tank and bringing water with you.

You can camp in a winterized unit and just not use water. A Thetford Porta Potti is a great bathroom alternative in a winterized RV.

Whatever you do, don’t let winterization and freezing temps hinder your traveling experience.

Top 3 Winter RV Camping Must-Haves

Staying comfy starts with these three winter RV camping must-haves

After a long, hot summer, the first cold front of the season recently arrived. These three winter RV camping must-haves will help you be ready for the drop in temperature.

Heated RV water hose

A heated RV water hose will give you safe drinking water even when temperatures dip below freezing. These hoses cost over $100 depending mostly on length but will save you a lot in frozen pipes and related issues.

The material remains flexible down to -20 degrees which makes it easy to coil and store. A 25-foot hose typically uses about 2.5 kWh of electricity a day and will cost about 25¢ a day to keep water flowing to your RV in the coldest of temperatures.

Heated water hoses have long heat strips that run along their length. These prevent water from freezing when it travels through the tube. These hoses need to be plugged into electrical outlets to function and they have a variety of sizes and energy requirements.

Heated water hoses are an essential piece of gear for anyone who plans to use their RV in cold areas. You always need to be sure that your sinks, showers, and toilets are working when you’re living in an RV.

Electric space heater

Ceramic convection heaters are the most popular type of portable space heaters for good reason. Not only are they affordable (you can get a good one for under $50) but they are also efficient and quickly take the chill out of the air. Ceramic heaters work by heating the air and circulating it around the room.

When shopping for a portable electric space heater for an RV, consider the safety features of each model. When using high heat to warm small spaces it is paramount to use a heater that has safety features. Also, be aware of the amount of space the heater will cover. There is no use buying a heater that does not have enough power to warm your rig.

These little units are powerful and can easily warm up a small room. However, they’re also a fire hazard because they produce heat. Therefore, it’s important for every RVer to know some small space heater safety tips.

Never leave a space heater unattended. If things unexpectedly malfunction you won’t be there to deal with the situation. It may be tempting to turn on the heater and do some chores while it warms up. This is a dangerous thing to do.

In addition, you are wasting electricity if you run a space heater in an empty room. When you plan to leave the room, turn off the heater, unplug it, and store it somewhere where it will be out of the way.

Dehumidifier © *Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

3. Dehumidifier

Cold and wet is bad. Not just for you, but for your RV, too. Insulated RVs can quickly fill with moisture and humidity especially when frequently showering and cooking inside. The moisture and condensation can cause damage and promote mold and mildew growth.

When winter camping it’s advisable to use several dehumidifiers in the RV (bathroom and kitchen are particular problem areas). Moisture absorbers such as DampRid will help reduce damaging condensation. Applications for RVs include disposable absorbers (10.5-ounce tub), refillable absorbers (10.5-ounce tub), hi-capacity absorbers (4-pound tub), and hanging absorbers (14-ounce hanging bag).

DampRid’s crystals absorb excess moisture in the air to create and maintain the optimal humidity level in your RV.

The Ultimate Guide to Cold Weather Camping

Looking to go winter camping, but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, you’re in the right place.

‘Tis the season where the mercury starts dropping and RVers the world over begin to hunt for warmer pastures. After all, one of the best parts of owning or renting an RV is the fact that you can chase 70 degrees as it gets colder up north.

But what if cold weather camping is your jam? Or suppose you want to be close to a ski hill or other place that’s great for winter RV camping? Or do you live in your RV full-time but work still requires you to be in a cold-weather spot?

Whether you do winter RV camping by choice or by necessity, there are steps you’ll want to take to stay warm in your rig. That’s why I put together this Ultimate Guide for Cold Weather Camping.

I want you to know exactly how to use your RV in the winter—how to shield it from Mother Nature, how to winterize and store it if you want to, and even how you can make money renting your rig to others in warmer parts of the country.

What is cold weather camping?

Cold weather camping can be defined as any time you camp in your RV in the winter when the temperature is consistently below freezing. That’s because temps above freezing don’t usually bring with them the same problems and considerations that winter camping brings with it.

When temps dip below 32 degrees, that’s when you have to worry about freezing pipes, increasing heat needs, and cold—and complaining—family members.

Another consideration with cold weather camping in an RV is wind. Even if the temps are above freezing, winter weather can still bring cold winds. Cold winds can make RV camping in winter a tough proposition because the winds more easily penetrate RV windows and doors than in a house.

Why cold weather camp?

Cold-weather camping can get you into some of the best places to hang out in your RV. You could stay close to a ski hill for a fraction of the cost of a condo, you could hang right by certain national parks and have them nearly all to yourself, or you could just stay in an area you want to stay in despite the wrath of Mother Nature.

None of this means that RV camping in the winter has to be uncomfortable. There are ways to explore the outdoors in a place you enjoy and still come home to a home-on-wheels.

Heated water hose for winter camping *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

How to keep an RV warm in the winter

Each RV is unique and some are better equipped for cold weather. Despite the marketing sticker on the outside of your RV saying something like “Extreme Weather Package”, very few RVs are ready for freezing temperatures without some modifications.

It is important for you to know specifically what is installed on your RV such as a heated and enclosed underbelly, holding tank warmers, or insulated pipes.

You can take the following steps to make sure you’re ready for cold-weather RV camping:

Add to your insulation
Use clear marine vinyl or Reflectix to create an additional insulation barrier on your RV windows
Cover your RV with area rugs for an extra layer of floor insulation
Insulate your RV roof vents
Install heavy drapes that insulate your windows against the cold
Check to ensure all doors and windows are well sealed and replace old seals/weather stripping as needed
Purchasing or fabricating an RV skirt to seal your RV’s underside
Use multiple forms of heat—furnace, heat pumps, electric space heaters
Blankets, thermal undergarments, and thick socks go a long way in keeping the family happy while cold weather camping.

Electric space heaters help to keep the interior warm *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

RV camping in winter: Maintain your furnace BEFORE it gets cold

RV propane furnaces haven’t changed much since the early days of RVing but they can still be a pesky appliance to keep running efficiently. And you can be pretty much certain that it won’t be on a 60-degree day in the middle of the week that it dies. It will be on a cold holiday weekend when you’re hundreds of miles away from civilization. As part of preventive maintenance have your furnace tested and serviced by a certified tech before the winter season.

Keep water flowing with a heated water hose *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

How to keep RV pipes from freezing while camping

Keeping water flowing—and unfrozen—is your most important winter camping mission, apart from staying warm yourself.

You should take these precautions to keep RV pipes from freezing:

Use a heated water hose: This will keep water flowing through your city water connection
Use the RV fresh water tank: If you don’t want to use a heated hose or aren’t connected to city water, your fresh water tank is a viable option
Practice strategic dumping: Leaving your black and grey tanks open is never a good idea; instead, dump only when your tanks are about 70-75 percent full
Use low-temp heat tape on hoses: Heat tape can be easily wrapped around external hoses to keep them thawed while using your RV in the winter
Let your water drip: I don’t particularly like this one because it wastes water but if you’re in a pinch this will keep your water hose from freezing because sitting water freezes before running water
How to pack for cold weather camping

Faucet protector and heated water hose *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Now that your RV is ready for winter camping, it’s time to prepare your family for the adventure. Here is what you want to pack in your RV for cold-weather camping:

Sleeping bags and thick blankets
Breathable underlayers such as thermal underwear that wick away moisture
Thicker mid-layers like fleece or wool sweatshirts
Toque, warm socks, and waterproof boots/shoes
Gloves
Waterproof outer layer
Headlamp and lantern
Snow brush/ice scraper
Shovel

Vista del Sol RV Resort, Bullhead City, Arizona *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Where to go

Many RVers opt for winter camping in southern destinations because their winters are far less harsh. While you may still need to take certain precautions to keep your RV warm, most snowbirds find southern California, Arizona, Texas, and Florida comfortable during the winter months. Other states that attract snowbirds include Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Nevada.

On the flip side, if you plan to chase the snow, consider Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and even northern New Mexico. If you’ve decked out your RV to be the ultimate cold-weather camper, ski resorts can be a great place to winter camp.

To experience the snow in less harsh conditions consider Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, northern Georgia, and western North Carolina. Since winters here are relatively mild, you’ll get snow without the extreme cold (usually). Explore Smoky Mountain National Park when few people are there and enjoy southern hospitality as you cold weather camp.

The Pacific Northwest is known for mild winters, light snow and rain, and ocean fun. Even during the winter, the Oregon coast is a fun spot for cold-weather camping. And north of Washington State in the Fraser Valley of British Columbia, you’ll experience Seattle-like weather.

The Springs at Borrego Golf & RV Resort, Borrego Springs, California *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

How to stay safe while cold weather camping

Cold weather camping brings with it a few extra precautions.

First, keep an eye out for icy conditions—especially black ice. Ice is a sticky situation for any vehicle but it can be especially problematic when driving an RV. Second, be sure to have an emergency RV kit with you at all times in case you get stuck on the side of the road. Finally, be sure you always have extra water, food, and blankets on board at all times in case you get stuck in cold weather.

How to winterize your RV

While cold-weather camping is appealing to many RVers, it’s not for everyone. Sometimes you just want to tuck your RV away for the winter until spring arrives. Storing your RV for the winter can be a great option. If you choose to do this, you should take the following steps to prep your RV for cold-weather storage:

Drain your water lines via your low point drain: Consult your owner’s manual to find the location of your low point drain. Once you find it, open it to drain all the water from your lines.
Drain your water heater and bypass it. Your owner’s manual will tell you how to do this. It’s very important that you allow the water in your water heater to cool before you do this so you don’t get burned.
Pump non-toxic RV antifreeze through your water lines.
Store your RV batteries in a climate-controlled location: You can extend the life of RV-deep-cycle batteries by storing them in a temperature-regulated place.
Pour a bit of non-toxic RV antifreeze down your sink drains: This helps to protect the P-traps. Also leave some in your toilet bowl to protect those parts.
De-winterize your RV in spring before you head back out.

Sea Breeze RV Resort, Portland, Texas *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Want to rent out your RV this winter?

Winter RV camping can be a fun journey if it’s your jam. But what if you’d rather make money with your camper during the winter? Many parts of the U.S. still experience high demand for RVs during the winter and there are many ways you can connect with individuals who want to rent RVs in these climates. Moving your RV south for the winter could be a great option for you if you were otherwise planning to store your camper for the winter.

While it might seem intimidating to have your RV rented out to strangers in a faraway place, there are many ways you can have peace of mind while your RV makes money as a winter camping rig.

Hit the winter roads

Cold-weather camping is a tried and true path that many have trod. While it’s not necessarily for everyone, the bottom line is that you have many options for your RV in the winter from storing it to camping in it to making money with it. No matter which way you choose to use your RV in the winter it’s good to know that cold weather doesn’t need to stop your camping plans.

Worth Pondering…

—W. Bruce Cameron

The All-time Coldest Temperatures Ever Recorded in Each State

Record-breaking cold, life-threatening wind chills plunge 150 million Americans into deep freeze

A bitter and potentially deadly blast of arctic air is continuing to charge its way across the U.S., dropping wind chills to as low as between negative 50 and negative 70 degrees across the northern Plains and 30 below zero in the Midwest triggering rare Hard Freeze Warnings along the Gulf Coast and helping to fuel a monster blizzard that will bring those frigid temperature across the Great Lakes and into the Northeast.

The dangerously cold arctic air began its week-long journey by surging to the south out of Canada last weekend dropping low temperatures Monday morning to negative 20 degrees and lower across northern Montana.

Record breaking cold and snow *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

As the arctic blast brings bitterly cold temperatures to much of the U.S. through Christmas weekend, you might be wondering how low the temperature has ever gone in your state.

All but one of the 50 states has documented a temperature below zero with Hawaii being the sole outlier having only dipped as low as 12 degrees. Nearly a dozen states have plunged to minus 50 degrees or colder.

January and February comprise the coldest time of the year for the majority of the U.S. so it should come as no surprise that’s when most of the records were achieved. However, there are a few exceptions to the rule.

Five states set their low-temperature records in late December including Nebraska, Tennessee, Vermont, Washington, and West Virginia.

Meanwhile, Hawaii’s all-time record low wasn’t even achieved during the winter. The Mauna Kea Observatory at an elevation of 13,796 feet on the Big Island of Hawaii dipped to 12 degrees on May 17, 1979.

The lowest temperature ever recorded in the U.S. was minus 80 degrees in Prospect Creek, Alaska, north of Fairbanks, on January 23, 1971.

In the Lower 48, Montana holds the record for the all-time coldest temperature at minus 70 degrees, set at Rogers Pass—on the Continental Divide at 5,610 feet above sea level—on January 20, 1954.

Illinois is the most recent state to reach its lowest temperature on record. Mount Carroll, in the northwestern corner of the state plunged to minus 38 degrees on January 31, 2019.

Mount Washington *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The longest-standing record in the U.S. is held by Mount Washington, New Hampshire, the highest mountain in the Northeast where the temperature bottomed out at minus 50 degrees nearly 140 years ago on January 22, 1885.

In the Northeast, New York can claim the coldest temperature ever recorded in the region with an all-time record low of minus 52 degrees set in Old Forge on February 18, 1979. Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine all share the same record of minus 50 degrees.

All-time records in the South might be colder than you think. Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, and South Carolina have all dipped into the teens below zero while Alabama has been as cold as minus 27 degrees and Tennessee as low as minus 32 degrees.

The Midwest has a large range of low-temperature records with North Dakota and Minnesota claiming minus 60 degrees as their all-time record lows but states south of the Great Lakes such as Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio have only dropped into the minus 30s due to winds off the lakes keeping temperatures relatively higher.

Most of the all-time record lows in the Western states were documented in the higher elevations. California’s record of minus 45 degrees was set in the heart of the Sierra Nevada in Boca at an elevation of 5,528 feet above sea level on January 20, 1937. The record low in Arizona was achieved at Hawley Lake where the temperature plunged to minus 40 degrees at 8,200 feet on January 7, 1971.

The chart below shows the all-time record low in each state according to data from NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information.

State Minimum Temperature Date Location

Alabama -27 degrees F January 30, 1966 New Market

Alaska -80 degrees F January 23, 1971 Prospect Creek Camp

Arizona -50 degrees F January 7, 1971 Hawley Lake

Arkansas -29 degrees F February 13, 1905 Gravett

California -45 degrees F January 20, 1937 Boca

Colorado -61 degrees F February 1, 1985 Maybell

Connecitut -32 degrees F February 16, 1943 Falls Village

Delaware -17 degrees F January 17, 1893 Millsboro

Florida -2 degrees F February 13, 1899 Tallahassee

Georgia -17 degrees F January 27, 1940 Beatum

Hawaii 12 degrees F May 17, 1979 Mauna Kea

Idaho -60 degrees F January 18, 1943 Island Park Dam

Illinois -38 degrees F January 31, 2019 Mt. Carroll

Indiana -36 degrees F January 19, 1994 New Whiteland

Iowa -47 degrees F January 12, 1912 Washta

Kansas -40 degrees F February 13, 1905 Lebanon

Kentucky -37 degrees F January 19, 1994 Shelbyville

Louisiana -16 degrees F February 13, 1899 Minden

Maine -50 degrees F January 16, 2009 Big Black River

Maryland -40 degrees F January 13, 1912 Oakland

Massachusetts -35 degrees F January 5, 1904 Tauton

Michigan -51 degrees F February 19, 1934 Vanderbilt

Minnesota -60 degrees F February 2, 1996 Tower

Mississippi -19 degrees F January 30, 1966 Corrinth

Missouri -40 degrees F February 13, 1905 Warsaw

Montana -70 degrees F January 20, 1954 Rogers Pass

Nebraska -47 degrees F February 12, 1899 Bridgeport

Nevada -50 degrees F January 8, 1937 San Jacinto

New Hampshire -50 degrees F January 22, 1985 Mount Washington

New Jersey -34 degrees F January 5, 1902 River Vale

New Mexico -50 degrees F February 1, 1951 Gavilan

New York -52 degrees F February 18, 1879 Old Forge

North Carolina -34 degrees F January 21, 1985 Mount Mitchell

North Dakota -60 degrees F February 15, 1936 Parshall

Ohio -39 degrees F February 10, 1899 Milligan

Oklahoma -31 degrees F February 10, 1911 Nowata

Oregon -54 degrees F February 9, 1933 Ukiah

Pennsylvania -42 degrees F January 5, 1904 Smethport

Rhode Island -28 degrees F January 11, 1942 Wood River Junction

South Carolina -19 degrees F January 21, 1985 Caesar’s Head

South Dakota -58 degrees F February 17, 1936 McIntosh

Tennessee -32 degrees F December 30, 1917 Mountain City

Texas -23 degrees F February 8, 1933 Seminole

Utah -50 degrees F January 5, 1913 Strawberry Tunnel

Vermont -50 degrees F December 30, 1933 Bloomfield

Virginia -30 degrees F January 21, 1985 Mountain Lake

Washington -48 degrees F December 30, 1968 Mazama and Winthrop

West Virginia -37 degrees F December 30, 1917 Lewisburg

Wisconsin -55 degrees F February 2, 1996 Couderay

Wyoming -66 degrees F February 9, 1933 Yellowstone NP

What about the Great White North, you ask?

The following is a list of the all-time low temperatures ever recorded in Canada’s 10 provinces.

Alberta -78 degrees F (-61.1 C) January 11, 1911 Fort Vermillion

British Columbia -74 degrees F (-58.9 C) January 31, 1947 Smith River

Manitoba -63 degrees F (-52.8 C) January 9, 1899 Norway House

New Brunswick -52 degrees F (-46.7 C) January 18, 1925 Chipman

Newfoundland -60 degrees F (-55.1 C) February 17, 1972 Esker

Nova Scotia -42 degrees F (-41.1 C) January 31, 1920 Upper Stewlacke

Ontario -73 degrees F (-58.3 C) January 23, 1935 Iroquois Falls

Prince Edward Island -35 degrees F (-37.2 C) January 26, 1884 South Kildare

Quebec -66 degrees F (-54.4 C) February 5, 1923 Douset

Saskatchewan -70 degrees F (-56.7 C) February1, 1893 Prince Albert

A careful study of the above chart reveals that the lowest temperature ever recorded in the United States (-80 degrees F in Alaska) is colder than the all-time low in Canada (-61 degrees in Alberta). But, how can that be?

In addition to the above 10 provinces Canada also has two far-north Territories—Northwest Territories and Yukon. The all-time low temperature recorded in Yukon was -81 degrees F (-63.0 C), 1 degree F colder than Alaska’s all-time low of -80 degrees F.

Merry Christmas! May your days be filled with peace, hope, and joy this holiday season as we celebrate the birth of the Christ Child!

Worth Pondering…

Christmas is the day that holds all time together.

—Alexander Smith

I’ve never gotten used to winter and never will.

—Jamaica Kincaid

Winter RV Camping Must-Have: Heated Water Hose

The winter camping season is upon us and it’s time to get prepared for the freezing cold temperatures. One of the best things you can invest in for winter camping adventures is a heated RV water hose.

I hate that first hard freeze of winter. If I’m lucky enough to get a warning, I fill my freshwater tank and disconnect from the RV park water connection. It’s such a hassle! But I can avoid it and stay warm inside with a heated RV water hose. This is a winter RV camping must-have for any RVer.

A heated water hose has a heat strip along the side of the hose that heats up when plugged into a 110-volt electrical connection. Made with food-grade materials, a heated RV water hose comes in several lengths. Rated for use in temperatures down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit, plug it into a 110-volt outlet at the utility pedestal. It stays on to prevent a frozen water hose. The material remains flexible down to -20 degrees, making it easy to coil and store. A 25-foot hose typically uses about 2.5 kWh of electricity daily and will cost about 25¢ daily to keep water flowing to your RV in the coldest of temperatures.

How heated RV water hoses work

Important things to know about heated water hoses

When you’re looking at buying a heated hose for your RV there are a few things you should know. Overall these hoses are pretty simple pieces of equipment but there are a couple of little quirks and tips you should know before you look into getting one for yourself.

Before I get to anything else, it’s important to recognize that these hoses aren’t an unnecessary product or something that only luxury rigs need. Frozen hoses and pipes can cause serious damage to RVs that can affect them in the long and short term.

Certainly, it’s won’t be fun if your water supply freezes. You won’t be able to use water for the kitchen or bathroom and you can forget about having a hot shower. But much worse damage can happen if you don’t have the right equipment and properly maintain it.

If the pipes, holding tanks, or hoses in your RV freeze with water inside them, the ice can expand and cause permanent damage to the infrastructure of your RV. Burst pipes, flooding, and leaking are nothing to take lightly and they are not easy to fix.

But if you’re careful and choose a quality heated water hose you can prevent these problems before they start. Let’s look at some of the requirements for heated hoses and what you can do to keep them in good shape.

Make outlets available

First of all, you will need an electrical outlet to use a heated water hose. They run on electricity after all, so they won’t be able to do their jobs if they’re not connected to a power source. There is a range of different heated water hoses but they require access to a standard-issue 110-volt electrical connection.

Choose the appropriate hose length

I mentioned earlier that heated hoses come in a variety of lengths. This range of options can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on the camping areas you visit. A hose that’s too long can be awkward to set up and maneuver. They’re also more likely to get tangled in knots or get in the way at your campsite.

On the other hand, hoses that are too short can be dangerous to mess with. If you have to stretch your hose out to reach the water outlet, you’ll be putting a strain on it that can damage the hose material and heat strips. Leaks are much more likely to pop up if you’re using a hose that’s too short. Further, your water hose may not reach the utility box, period.

To resolve this, it’s sometimes best to buy more than one length of heated hose. Having a couple of options will help you choose the best one for your situation plus you’ll have a backup if one of them becomes non-functional. If you are winter camping in one site for the entire season it may be best to delay the purchase of a heated hose until you arrive at your camping site. This way you will be certain of the hose length you require.

Be aware that having a heated hose does not ensure that the rest of your water system will be safe from subzero temperatures. You may need to take additional precautions to prevent freezing and damage in the other parts of your water system.

The water tap and metal connections on either end of the water hose are often vulnerable as are the holding tanks for your freshwater and wastewater. If the RV has an enclosed underbelly with a heating system, that will prevent freezing in most cases. You can also apply heat tape to the vulnerable areas to keep them protected and warm.

Your entire water system has to stay in a liquid form to do its job. Heated hoses are great but they still can’t do everything. Help them out by adding protection to all the pieces of your winter waterworks.

Store your heated hose when not in use

Heated hoses are vital parts of the winter kit in your RV. As such, you need to keep them in good condition and maintain them throughout the year. So when the weather starts to warm up, don’t just pitch the hose into a storage bay.

Most heated hoses come with packaging and storage cases for when they’re not in use. Carefully coil the hose when spring arrives and store it in its case. If you take good care of your heated water hose you’ll be able to use it for many more winters.