The camper has no seasonality
Among the destinations of autumn foliage, winter snow
and those who flee to warm countries,
we start again with the advice of Assocamp dealers
to always be prepared on the road
Summer is over, but campervan season lasts twelve months a year . Campervan owners don't stop at changing weather conditions, and prepare to face autumn and especially winter, to enjoy landscapes in shades of red and yellow or completely white. And, with rising utility bills, many campers are keen to escape to warmer destinations.
"If in past years these were the first weeks of check-ups at affiliated workshops after the end of the holidays and in anticipation and preparation for winter tourism, between ski slopes and Christmas markets, this fall many, especially retirees or digital nomads, are preparing to head to warmer destinations. Perhaps also to combat the high bills. Morocco and the Canary Islands are among the destinations that will welcome many campers, but also Sicily and other destinations in southern Italy. It doesn't take much to heat a camper, if the temperature is mild, and with photovoltaic panels you can be truly independent. For colder temperatures, gas or diesel heaters are used, and photovoltaic panels power utilities such as lights, refrigerators, heating, boilers, plumbing, and televisions ," comments Ester Bordino, President of Assocamp, the Italian Association that brings together over 90% of our country's recreational vehicle dealers, when she reviews the coming months. " For getting around, even in this season, professional camper rental can be a good solution: Rates, especially over long periods, are competitive and the fleet offers a wide choice to satisfy the most diverse needs.
Esther Bordino,
President of Assocamp
Experienced campers know that summer and winter campervan travel are very different. When the weather is colder, you need to be well prepared and have the right equipment. Campers are designed to be used even in cold weather : onboard, of course, there's heating and hot water. The roof and walls are well insulated, and additional covers can be applied to the windows to prevent heat loss.
Assocamp's affiliated professional operators have drawn up a comprehensive guide to tips , especially for beginners, to help them enjoy weekends in nature and on the ski slopes even when temperatures drop.
VADEMECUM
TO FACE THE WINTER MONTHS IN A CAMPER
WHAT TO BRING ON BOARD – Renters should check when booking which supplies are available and which are optional. The essentials include snow chains (or snow tires), a power cable, a water hose, and essential heat shields. Wheel chocks, two "wedges" that the camper's wheels can slide onto to correct any uneven terrain and ensure a level sleep, can also be useful. Naturally, duvets are a must. The key: be prepared.
THERMAL BRIDGES – Before setting off, it's a good idea to check you have a complete set of heat shields. The most important is the one that insulates the driver's cabin, where the large windshield and side windows are a major source of heat loss. In most modern campers, the driver and passenger seats rotate to create the "living" area. In this case, the option is to use a heat shield, a sheet of insulating synthetic fabric that covers the windshield and windows. There are two types: those that are applied to the glass from the inside with suction cups, or those that are applied from the outside. The latter is preferable because it insulates better and prevents condensation from forming on the glass. There is an even more comprehensive version called a "coat," which also covers the engine hood, offering the best insulation from the cold. If the heat shield is installed on the inside of the windshield, it's a good idea to lift the windshield wipers off the glass to prevent them from sticking to the windshield.
HEATING – Most campers are usually heated by gas, using cylinders. Some models, however, run on diesel. Experienced drivers know how to safely operate their system. First-time renters should have the dealer explain in detail how the system works, what to do if the cylinder runs out to replace it, and where to purchase one if needed. It's also a good idea to always have two full cylinders on board. In winter, it's better to use propane gas rather than butane. And, experts say, always carry a flashlight ; problems often arise in the middle of the night.
BELOW ZERO? ALWAYS LEAVE THE HEATER ON AT MINIMUM – The gas heating system is equipped with a safety device that opens the boiler valve (emptying the entire water tank) if the internal temperature drops below 5°C (41°F). This prevents the water in the boiler tank from freezing and damaging the system. For this reason, it's important to leave the heater on at minimum power, even when you're skiing or leaving your camper for a hike.
WINTER DIESEL – Being below freezing can cause starting problems for diesel engines. Diesel's freezing point is around 2°C because it contains paraffin, which solidifies below that temperature. Refueling at mountain gas stations has the advantage of filling the tank with a product designed for low temperatures: winter diesel.
WATER SYSTEM – A camper has three tanks. The drinking water tank is always located inside the cabin and is not at risk of freezing. A removable tank connected to the toilet is used in conjunction with special liquids and presents no particular problems in winter. Then there's the tank for collecting water from the shower, sink, and kitchen sink, called the gray water tank. This, however, is susceptible to outside temperatures. Therefore, it's a good idea to add an antifreeze to prevent the water and the valve from freezing.
EXTRA TIP – Driving a camper in winter isn't particularly problematic. You'll need to be more careful when going downhill because the weight involved is different from that of a car, and ice can make control more difficult. Always remember that you're taller than you're used to, and on campers with an overhead cabin, this can reach three meters. Be careful of balconies, overhangs, and underpasses. When maneuvering, it's helpful to have a helper positioned so they can be seen in one of the rearview mirrors and give directions while reversing.
