How and When to Winterize Your Camper Van

When to Winterize Your Camper Van

Timing is everything when it comes to winterizing. As a general rule, you should begin preparing your van when nighttime temperatures consistently drop near freezing (32°F / 0°C). In the Pacific Northwest, that means late October and early November, though mountain and inland areas can see frost much earlier.

If you plan to use your van all winter for skiing or cold-weather camping, you'll still need to winterize, just differently. In that case, focus on insulating and upgrading systems so they can operate safely in freezing temperatures rather than draining and storing them. The key is to be proactive. Once water freezes in your plumbing or lines, the damage is already done.

Step 1: Drain and Protect Your Water Systems

The most common and costly mistake van owners make is failing to winterize their water systems. Frozen water expands and can crack tanks, burst hoses, and destroy pumps.

Here's how to protect them:

1. Drain all freshwater and greywater tanks. Open the drain valves and let gravity do the work.
2. Empty and flush your water lines. Run your pump until no water comes through the faucets.
3. Bypass the water heater (if you have one) so you don't fill it with antifreeze.
4. Add RV-grade antifreeze to your freshwater system. Use a hand pump or siphon kit to push antifreeze through your lines until it runs pink from each faucet.
5. Don't forget your shower and outdoor sprayer, if you have one — these freeze just as easily.

If you'd rather not deal with antifreeze, Camp N Car can help you blow out your lines with compressed air —a clean, non-toxic method safe for most systems.

Step 2: Care for Your Electrical and Solar Systems

Cold weather is tough on batteries. If you're storing your van for the winter, disconnect and remove lithium or AGM house batteries and keep them in a temperature-controlled space. For those who plan to keep their van plugged in, make sure your battery monitor and charge controller are set for winter operation to prevent over-charging or freezing.

Solar panels generally don't need special treatment, but it's worth checking all wiring and sealant before winter storms hit. Moisture intrusion is one of the leading causes of electrical issues in campervans.

Step 3: Prepare Your Propane and Heating Systems

If you have a propane-powered heater or stove, inspect all lines and fittings for leaks before temperatures drop. Condensation can cause corrosion, and cold metal fittings contract, which may lead to leaks if not properly tightened.

Keep your propane tank full to help maintain pressure in cold weather, and store smaller canisters upright in a dry, ventilated space. If your van uses a diesel or gas heater, clean the intake and exhaust ports and run it briefly every few weeks to keep the fuel lines clear.

Step 4: Protect the Interior

Moisture control is one of the most overlooked aspects of winterization. Cold air holds less humidity, so condensation can build up quickly when warm air meets cold surfaces inside your van.

• Use moisture absorbers or a small dehumidifier to prevent mold and mildew.
• Crack a roof vent slightly to allow airflow.
• Clean and dry your bedding, cushions, and gear before long-term storage.
• Check window seals and door gaskets to ensure a snug fit, as leaks can cause both water damage and heat loss.

If your van will be sitting outside, consider a breathable cover that keeps out rain and snow but allows condensation to escape.

Step 5: Don't Forget the Exterior

Before winter hits, wash, wax, and inspect the paint to help protect against road salt and moisture. Check your tires for proper inflation (cold air reduces PSI) and top up fluids like antifreeze, wiper fluid, and oil.

If you're storing your van long-term, disconnect the starter battery or use a battery maintainer to prevent it from draining over the winter months.

Winterizing for Use vs. Storage

There's a big difference between winterizing your van for storage and prepping it for winter travel. If you're storing your van, the goal is to remove or protect anything that can freeze completely. Drained lines, disconnected batteries, and a moisture-free interior are your top priorities.

If you're traveling through winter, the focus shifts to insulation, heating, and freeze-prevention. You'll want to add pipe insulation, heated water lines, and proper ventilation to manage condensation. Installing a diesel heater or propane furnace, insulated window covers, and cold-weather-rated batteries can make winter vanlife comfortable rather than miserable.

Camp N Car offers winterizing services and cold-weather upgrades for both scenarios — from simple plumbing protection to full four-season conversions.

Trust Camp N Car to Winterize Your Camper Van

Winterizing your camper van doesn't have to be complicated, but it does take attention to detail. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a full-time traveler, taking the time to prepare now will save you from costly repairs later.

If you'd rather not tackle it yourself, the Camp N Car team can help. From draining and winterizing systems to insulating and upgrading for four-season travel, we'll make sure your van is ready for whatever winter throws your way. Reach out to schedule winterization for your camper van at our Port Townsend, Washington shop, and keep your van adventure-ready all year long.