Van Life Guide to Winter Road Trips in a Campervan

Imagine cruising through the snow-covered landscapes, waking up to frosted pine trees, or soaking in a natural hot spring surrounded by an icy wilderness. All of this, and more, is what you’ll get when you go winter van camping. Not to mention, whether you’re an experienced camper or simply looking to try something new, travelling in the winter months can provide a refreshing change from the usual summer road trip.

At Travellers Autobarn, you can enjoy all the comforts you need while exploring the great outdoors at the chilliest time of year, especially with our heated campervan model. But before you hit the road, it’s important to have a plan in place. That’s what we’ll be helping you with here! Below, you’ll find all the information you need to plan exciting and safe winter adventures.

Why Take a Winter Road Trip?

While summer might be the more traditional time for road trips, winter offers some serious perks that are hard to beat. If you’ve never considered it before, here are some reasons why a winter road trip might be just what you need:

Fewer Crowds

One of the biggest advantages of traveling in the winter is the lack of crowds. Popular summer destinations like national parks, ski resorts, and scenic byways are often much quieter in the off-season, and this means more space, less waiting, and the opportunity to experience nature without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist seasons.

Unique Scenery

There’s no denying that winter transforms every landscape into a breathtaking wonderland. Snow-draped mountains, frozen lakes, and frosty forests offer views that you won’t find in any other season, while the crisp air and white surroundings create a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for photography or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

Seasonal Activities

From skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and snowshoeing, winter van life opens up countless ways to have fun in the deep snow! And, after a day full of adventure, there’s nothing better than returning to a cozy campervan to warm up and relax.

Less Expense

One of the best-kept secrets about winter road trips is that they can often be much more affordable than summer vacations, as year round campsites and national parks lower their rates during the off-season to attract visitors. You’ll also find that tours and outdoor activities are usually discounted at this time of year, giving you even more for your money.

Best Winter Camping Destinations

One of the most exciting parts of planning a campervan road trip in the winter is choosing your destination, and there are plenty to choose from. But, to make things a bit easier, here are a few top spots that are especially beautiful during the colder months.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone is a stunner in any season, but in the winter, it becomes a peaceful wonderland due to the lack of visitors and the stillness in the air. While you’re here, you’ll get to see steaming geysers at the Mammoth Hot Springs Campground, as well as frozen waterfalls with fewer tourists in sight. It’s also one of the best places to spot wildlife like bison, elk, and wolves, so it’s an ideal destination for any nature lover.

The Pacific Northwest: Oregon & Washington

The Pacific Northwest may be more rainy than snowy in the winter, but it’s also incredibly lush and green, and the region’s evergreen forests and misty coastlines are breathtaking in their own right. Whether you’re heading to Oregon’s Crater Lake or exploring Washington’s Olympic National Park, you’ll find plenty of peaceful, scenic spots for winter camping.

Colorado’s Rocky Mountains

If you’re a fan of winter sports, Colorado is the perfect place to set up camp, and from world-class ski resorts to snowshoeing and ice climbing, the Rocky Mountains offer an array of snowy adventures. You may be able to park your campervan in some residential streets near one of the many small mountain towns like Breckenridge or Aspen and enjoy the excitement that these winter destinations have to offer while knowing you’re not too far from civilization at the same time.

New Mexico’s Hot Springs and Deserts

Not really a fan of cold temperatures? Head south to New Mexico, where the lower elevation areas in the winter offer comfortable, cool weather that’s perfect for a winter road trip without the harsh cold. While it still gets cold, the state’s desert landscapes offer a different kind of beauty in the winter, and there’s plenty to do, too. For example, you can soak in natural hot springs, visit the unique white sands of White Sands National Park, or explore the vibrant art scene in Santa Fe.

Vermont’s Winter Wonderland

For those doing a spot of winter driving on the East Coast, Vermont offers a really picturesque winter experience. Probably best known for its skiing, small quaint towns, and cozy cabins, this state transforms into a winter playground in the winter, and driving through Vermont’s scenic byways with snow-covered hills and quaint villages feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. Don’t miss the chance to visit local sugarhouses while you’re here, too, where you can get a taste of fresh maple syrup!

Essential Winter Road Safety Tips

There’s no doubt that driving a campervan in winter conditions can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re not used to snowy or icy roads. However, with the right preparation, you can stay safe and enjoy a stress-free trip. Here are some winter driving tips to keep in mind:

Plan Your Route and Monitor the Weather

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so it’s very important that you plan your route and stay updated on weather forecasts throughout your vacation. Try to avoid areas that are prone to heavy snowfall or icy conditions unless you’re fully prepared for it, and download offline maps in case you lose signal in remote areas. Also, be sure to have a backup plan for alternate routes if your original one becomes too dangerous to drive.

Pack Winter Essentials

Along with your regular camping gear, there are a few extra items you’ll need for winter road trips. Make sure to pack extra blankets, a good-quality sleeping bag, and a portable heater, all of which are available in the Travellers Autobarn premium winter bonus pack. Bring along food and a fresh water tank that won’t spoil easily, too, just in case you get stuck somewhere for a while.

Other must-have items include a snow shovel for digging out your vehicle if it gets snowed in, ice scrapers and de-icer for your windshield, a first-aid kit and emergency supplies, and extra fuel for your campervan and portable heater.

Drive Cautiously

While you should always drive carefully, winter driving requires a little more caution than other months. Slow down and increase your following distance, especially on icy or snowy roads, and keep an eye out for black ice. If possible, avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, too, as these can cause you to lose control, and if you find yourself in a snowy or slippery situation, try to steer gently and use your vehicle’s low gears for better traction.

Snow Chains

If you’re traveling through areas with heavy snowfall or icy roads, carrying snow chains is extremely important for safety, as they will provide extra traction and help your campervan navigate slippery or steep roads. It’s a good idea to practice installing them before your trip so you’re not caught off guard in freezing conditions and keep in mind that many mountain passes, especially in places like Colorado or the Sierra Nevadas, may require your vehicle to have snow chains by law during winter months.

Winter Van Life Essentials

One of the best parts about taking a campervan road trip in the winter is having a warm, cozy space to retreat to after a day of exploring. But to make things feel even more homely, there are some essentials you should consider taking with you to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible while camping in the colder months.

Stay Warm with a Heater

When the temperature drops, you’ll appreciate having a heater to warm things up again! We recommend choosing a campervan with a built-in heater to keep you snug during those cold winter months.

Unless your campervan includes a heater as a feature, you’ll need to camp at a powered campsite to run an electric heater, which can limit your options.

Blankets

Even if you do have a heater, packing some blankets is a sure-fire way of keeping yourself warm and cozy while you’re enjoying winter van life. Likewise, sleeping bags will add to your comfort levels and make sure you don’t get cold at night, particularly when you’re camping in an exposed area.

Warm Clothing

Layers are your best friend when embarking on a winter van life adventure, so make sure you pack plenty of warm clothing. You’ll need to dress sensibly while exploring, too. Start with thermal base layers, add an insulating mid-layer like a fleece or down jacket, and top it off with wet gear to create a waterproof, windproof outer layer. Don’t forget to bring warm accessories like hats, gloves, scarves, and thick socks, as well, and having a good pair of waterproof boots will help keep your feet warm and dry while exploring snowy or icy trails.

First Aid Kit

In winter, having a well-stocked first aid kit in your campervan becomes even more important, especially as extreme cold can present specific challenges such as frostbite, hypothermia, or slips and falls on ice. Make sure your kit includes essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers, and it’s also well worth adding winter-specific items like thermal blankets, hand warmers, and extra medications in case you need to wait a few hours in emergencies.

Winter-Proof Cooking

Cooking in a campervan during winter can be a fun and rewarding experience, and most campervans from Travellers Autobarn come complete with a gas stove. So, whether you’re making a hot cocoa or cooking a hearty stew, using your stove can make meals much more enjoyable and warm you up after a day of exploring the wintry wilderness. Just be sure to ventilate properly when cooking inside the campervan to avoid condensation buildup or carbon monoxide risks.

Entertainment

While the nights are much longer, spending time inside your campervan during winter doesn’t have to be boring! Instead, embrace the slower pace of winter by planning some indoor entertainment, such as a selection of books, board games, or card games for cozy nights inside the van. You can also download your favorite podcasts or movies onto your devices for offline viewing or listening when Wi-Fi is out of reach.

Final Thoughts

A campervan road trip in the winter can be an unforgettable adventure full of breathtaking scenery, fun seasonal activities, and the peace and quiet that comes with traveling during the off-season. And, with the right preparation and a few extra precautions, winter van life can be just as comfortable as summer traveling.

When renting from Travellers Autobarn, you’ll enjoy the freedom of unlimited miles on your journey and a Free Winter Bonus Pack, which includes a heater, heated water bottle, and sleeping bags – all of which are essential for staying warm and cozy on the road.

So what are you waiting for? The open road awaits, and if you need any help deciding where to go, check out our Top 5 Winter Road Trips For Camping Enthusiasts. Happy winter travels!