If you’re living in a motorhome during winter, then the realities of keeping warm might present a little bit of a challenge. After all, when your home is made from metal, it’s difficult to keep the heat in. Given that it’s much more affordable to take a break at this time of year, and there are opportunities for unique festive getaways, this is a downside that’s there to be managed.
With that said, there are a few strategies you might employ to stay cosy, and to limit the amount you spend between now and next year. Let’s take a look at a few of them.
External Thermal Screen
Your windows are a point of vulnerability. After all, they’re not going to be double-glazed in the same way that those of a brick-and-mortar home might be. You can minimise loss with the help of thermal screens, which can be installed over the top of windscreens and windows.
Thermal Clothing
The reality is that you’re going to need to wrap up warm when you’re in your home at this time of year. But that needn’t mean going for bulky coats and blankets. Thermal base layers, leggings and jackets can keep you toasty while still allowing for comfort, freedom and flexibility. Get a few blankets and a hot-water bottle, and you’ll be able to stay snug even during the coldest winter nights. Remember, it’s better to bring more extra layers than you need, than not enough.
Carpeting
A hard floor is a sensible choice for a campervan, in that it’s low-maintenance and easy to clean. But it lacks the cosiness provided by a quality carpet. In a small space, you needn’t spend a huge amount. If you already have a quality hard floor down, then you might elect to go for a rug, instead.
Insulate
Some heavy-duty insulation on the inside of the vehicle can make a huge difference. This works just like cavity-wall insulation in a home. Most vans come with an inner and an outer wall, which can be filled with lining. The difference is that you can remove insulation of this kind – and thus it might be a good idea to remove it when summer rolls around again. Be aware of the effect that this can have on moisture retention, and the effect that this might have on your motorhome insurance.
Install a Heater
If you’re going to be getting a lot of use out of your motorhome during cold weather, then it might be a good idea to install a heater. If you have a propane or butane tank, then hooking it up to keep your interior warm might not pose such a challenge. Just make sure that you observe all of the relevant safety precautions – you are dealing with gas, after all. An alternative comes in the form of electric or log-burning heaters. You can compare the available options here.