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The cold weather is here and winter itself is just around the corner. If you haven’t already, now is the time to figure out what to do with your RV this winter.

Many people believe there is really only one option when it comes to RVs and wintertime, but that isn’t actually the case. Yes, the most common option of storing the rig is one choice, and it’s a fine choice for many. That said, there are a few other options out there, and there might be a better one for you.

Of course, in order to know whether there’s a better option for you and your RV this winter, you need to know what those options are. That’s what this article is for!

Below we’ve outlined the top five ways RV owners handle their rigs in the winter months, as well as some tips for each option. Read on to learn more.

Store Your RV

As mentioned above, the first and most obvious option is to store your RV for winter. This is a great option if you’re happy with your current RV setup, plan to RV next summer, and/or have access to a place to store the rig. That said, there is some work involved, and for some, storing for the winter can be a relatively large financial investment.

Here’s what you need to know about storing your RV for the winter:

  • You will need to winterize your RV. This involves emptying the rig of all water and running RV through the water lines. Learn more about winterization here.
  • Storage options include storing on your land, a friend’s land, or paying for an indoor or outdoor storage spot. There are pros and cons to each and all should be considered.
  • If storing outdoors, we recommend using an RV cover or even building an RV shelter if possible.

Take Your Rig South

The next option is to take your rig down south to keep on camping and avoid the cold weather altogether. Obviously, this is really only an option if you are retired or able to work remotely. That said, if you are in a position to move south for the winter, it can be an awesome option, especially if you aren’t a fan of cold weather.

Here’s what you need to know about taking your RV south for winter:

  • The best warm weather winter destinations are Florida, south Texas, Arizona, and southern California.
  • RV sites in these places tend to fill up quickly. Grab your site(s) as soon as possible.
  • If you prefer boondocking, we recommend heading to Arizona or southern California where there are tons of amazing boondocking options.
  • Even the warmest destinations can be cold occasionally. Be prepared for some chilly weather no matter where you go.

Rent Your Motorhome or Trailer in the South

Want to avoid winterization and storage but can’t head south yourself? Why not send your RV south without you? That’s right, some RV owners choose to send their RVs to RV rental companies in the south to be rented out on consignment. This allows you to make a few bucks off of your rig rather than paying to store it, but it does require that you’re comfortable with sending your RV out with other campers.

Here’s what you need to know about sending your RV south to be rented:

  • You will want to find a reputable rental company to rent your RV out. Be sure to go over all details carefully, and don’t leave without a signed contract.
  • Remove all personal items and valuables from your rig. If you aren’t okay with losing it forever, it shouldn’t be in your RV when it’s rented out.
  • When considering this option, think about the cost and time involved in transporting the RV to and from its final destination. Also, factor in the wear and tear that the RV will accumulate when being rented.

Embrace the Winter Weather and Go Camping

Cold weather doesn’t mean you can’t camp at all, it just means you’ll have to be more prepared than you’d usually be. If you love camping and don’t want to stop for the winter, then don’t! Instead, make the proper preparations and get out there and enjoy the RV life.

Here’s what you need to know about camping in winter weather:

  • Depending on how cold your area gets, you might want to winterize the water system and camp without running water for the coldest months.
  • Make sure you always have full propane tanks when you head out.
  • Using space heaters (when you have access to electricity) can save on propane and help reduce condensation in the RV.
  • DampRid will also help reduce damaging condensation.
  • A work light placed under your rig can help keep tanks from freezing.
  • More winter camping tips can be found here.

As you can see, there are a few good options when it comes to dealing with your RV in the winter. Which option will you choose?

May contain affiliate links.


About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

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