travel trailers in cold weather

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Travel Consultants and Travel Tips

Best Cold Weather Travel Trailers

January 15, 2021 by Charlotte Phillips

Last updated on December 10th, 2023 at 07:54 am

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What if your RV season didn’t have to end? What if instead of storing your travel trailer you became one of the brave few who kept on trucking through rain, sleet, and SNOW!

With the right setup, it’s entirely possible.

Not only does RV’ing through the winter allow you to see the world from an entirely different perspective, but it also means lower prices at campgrounds, and in some cases, you’ll have the campground all to yourself. Of course, that’s not for everyone and winter camping isn’t easy. But if you’re one of the brave few who wants to keep the adventure going, I’m going to review my 8 favorite travel trailers for winter and cold weather camping.

Why Travel Trailers?

You’ve got a lot of options when it comes to winter RV’ing but for my money travel trailers are one of the best ways to go. While driving anything in winter conditions is going to be difficult, the big benefit that you have with a travel trailer is the freedom to unhitch and hit the road. While this luxury is always nice, it’s absolutely awesome during the winter.

The last thing you want to do in bad conditions and drag your entire house to the store for a supply run. With a travel trailer, you don’t have to.

Travel trailers can also be just as hardy and warm as any other RV class so there’s no reason not to take advantage of the freedom they offer.

Do I Need An Arctic Package?

You’ve probably seen an RV labeled as being 4-seasons ready or being fully equipped with the arctic package. Unfortunately, there is no standard for what an arctic package  has  to include- which makes things confusing. It also means that one manufacturer’s version of an arctic package could be very different from what you actually need.

That’s why it’s important to not get distracted by the marketing; instead, you need to make sure you understand the specifics of what’s included in the 4-season or arctic packages. The biggest things to look for are additional insulation as measured by the rigs R-Value along with special warming mechanisms for tanks and fluid lines. Obviously being cold isn’t great but if you’ve got a frozen line in the middle of winter you could up with much bigger problems than being a little chilly.

When it comes to insulation, you should focus on the specific R-Value of the rig but make sure to figure out what it is for each part of the RV. Some manufacturers will really focus on a specific part of the rig and advertise super-high roof R-value, for example, which the rest of the rig could be lacking.

So should you put a lot of weight into whether or not an RV has an arctic package? While it can certainly help, at the end of the day it’s going to come down to the specific additions that have been added and not just the 4-season marketing. After all, there’s a big difference between being 4-season ready in Alaska vs Texas so make sure you know what kind of places you plan to roam before you buy.

1. Keystone Montana

• Beautiful residential-style fixtures including hardwood cabinetry
• 22 different floor plans give you plenty of options to pick the perfect one for you
• Four Seasons Package comes standard and includes 12V heating pads for the tanks and R-21 insulation on the floor.
• Higher price compared to some other travel trailers but it’s well worth it if you’re looking for a winter-ready rig.

It doesn’t get much better than the Keystone Montana when it comes to staying warm and comfortable- no matter what the weather. No need to upgrade to an arctic package here since the Montana comes standard with a long list of winter-ready features including heating pads on holding tanks, heated underbelly, state of the art solar panels, and more.

But it isn’t just talk with the folks at Keystone! While I can’t track down the original post from Keystone, Guaranty explains that Keystone put the Montana to the test by placing the rig inside an extreme weather chamber. They then set the thermostat to a toasty 74-degree Fahrenheit while dropping the exterior temperature all the way to 0 degrees. Even with temperatures well below freezing, the interior of the Montana stayed nice and warm and didn’t drop below 70. Not only is that plenty warm, I’d say that’s a little too warm even!

As if that wasn’t enough, the critical tanks, dump valves, and other fluid lines stayed completely unfrozen and entirely operational. All thanks to the long list of features included  standard  in their Four Seasons Package.

The only real downside to the Keystone Montana would have to be the price but even that is hardly a downside. With an MSRP of $85,094, it may appear to be more expensive than other similar-sized Fifth Wheel and travel trailers but a big part of that is the Four Season upgrades that run standard. Let’s look at the R-Value of the flooring for example. A typical RV might have an R-Value of 10 to 15 while the Keystone Montana comes standard with an R-Value of 21!

If you don’t plan on taking advantage of this by braving the winter cold then this going to be overkill and you’ll end up paying for features you don’t really need. But if you’re planning on staying on the road this off-season in sub-freezing temperatures then the Keystone Montanan is probably worth every penny.

2. Northwood Arctic Fox 22G Travel Trailer

• Extra insulation everywhere on this rig from every compartment door, to the roof and holding tank area.
• Beautiful bathroom, especially when you consider the size of this RV
• Luxury fixtures and features with a surprising amount of headroom
• Budget-friendly with rigs available for less than $40,000.
• The 22 foot 22G may be too small for some folks.

As the name implies, the Arctic Fox is ready for tough winter weather with a super tough trailer and plenty of insulation. But just because it’s purpose-built for winter weather doesn’t mean you have to skip the creature comforts and the Arctic Fox is packed with beautiful residential-style fixtures including a stovetop that I absolutely love. There’s also a supringly spacious dry bath, especially for a 22 footer, that includes a porcelain toilet and a skylight above the shower.

The chassis is built by Northwood Manufacturing and is offroad ready with a powerful steel frame. While most Class C or Class B RVs have a chassis that’s connected to a big name like Ford or Dodge, there can be a lot more variation when it comes to the chassis for travel trailers. That also means it can often be overlooked or taken for granted but if you’re planning on hitting the road this offseason, you need a rig that can handle the bumps and bruises that winter is going to dish out.

I believe that this chassis is ready for winter and the folks at Northwood take things a step further by having every chassis reviewed by an independent 3rd party tester. You can check out some footage of the chassis being built in this video:

When it comes to insulation, the Arctic Fox comes jam-packed with extra insulation on every inch of this rig. Including smaller areas that you might not immediately consider like the 1-inch thick insulated doors to all exterior storage areas. While it might not hit all the R-Values of the Keystone Montana, the Arctic Fox is still very comparable and won’t have any problems staying warm. All the usual features you’d expect in a winter-ready travel trailer are there too like extra insulation for fluid lines and extra heaters for the tanks.

Overall, it’s hard to go wrong with the Arctic Fox and with the folks at Northwood. They’ve got a long history of producing high-quality travel trailers that stand the test of time and with used models available for less than $40,000 at the time of writing, the Arctic Fox is a lot more affordable than some of the other specialized winter rigs.

3. Lance 2295 Travel Trailer (With Fireplace!)

• This is one of the only RV’s you’ll find that includes an actual fireplace! What could be better for enjoying winter weather (and saving on propane)?
• Nice sized oven with a beautiful three-burner stove
• Huge slide out dining area with plenty of room for guests
• Beautiful bedroom with a nightstand- which is another thing you’re not going to see in many other RVs!
• The entertainment center in the middle of the overall layout feels a little clunky to me.

The Lance 2295 travel trailer is one of the more interesting travel trailers out there. Not only does it have a unique layout with but more importantly it has an electric fireplace placed in the center of the RV. While this certainly gives the rig a unique feel and ambiance it’s also practical- especially for winter camping. While you can’t exactly throw in a bunch of wood and call it day (although there are plenty of aftermarket wooden stoves you can add to your RV ) the electric stove can save you from burning out on propane when you’re hooked up at a campsite.

But for me, the style points you get for having a fireplace (electric or not) inside your RV are hard to beat!

In order to get the fireplace centrally located, the overall layout of this rig is a little different. There’s a center pillar that partially separates the bedroom from the rest of the RV and also houses the fireplace and television. You end up with a very separate bedroom and a television that’s in a much more central location than usual. I find that most folks either love this layout or hate it without much in between. You can see it in this video tour here:

Besides the fireplace, one of my other favorite features is the bedroom. It has a beautiful sloping window that will let you see the stars at night from the comfort of your own bed. Of course, you can also drop the blinds and sleep in. Because of the pillar in the center of the rig, the bedroom feels more secluded than a lot of other layouts which is actually something I love. If you’re sharing the travel trailer with another person there’s a better chance they can actually leave the bedroom and move about without waking you up.

Another nice touch in the bedroom is the addition of the nightstand. Most RV’s skip this small but really nice to have feature and the Lance has plenty of room for your nighttime needs complete with a simple recessed light. Of course, you’ll need to secure them when you hit the road.

When it comes to staying warm in the winter, the Lance has some nice features but isn’t going above and beyond like some of the other RVs on this list. It does have double-paned windows which can drastically increase the insulation factor of any space. The Lance also includes block foam insulation which is a little different from traditional insulation but still has comparable R-Values based on the research I could find.

Overall, the Lance 2295 is not only a great travel trailer for winter camper but also one of the more unique rigs on this list. You won’t find many RVs with a fireplace that comes standard and if you’re looking to recreate the cozy feel of your traditional home, the Lance might be the perfect fit. You can find used models for less than $50,000 which makes this a great way to get into the world of winter camping!

4. Forest River Cherokee Arctic Wolf with Extreme Weather Package

• The Extreme Weather Package comes with plenty of great features for winter camping including a 35,000 BTU Furnace and upgraded insulation.
• 9+ flexible floor plans so you can find exactly what you need (including bunk beds for the kids)
• Double slide outs make this rig very spacious with plenty of room for the family
• Auto-leveling system which is especially nice if you’re working in tougher terrain
• This RV  also  has a fireplace which may people will absolutely love
• May be too big for some folks to tow

It’s hard to go wrong with an RV from the folks at Forest River and the Arctic Wolf is no exception. This travel trailer is on the larger side and most folks would consider this a fifth wheel. That means you’ll need a heavier duty truck to tow this but if you’re looking to stay comfortable throughout the winter (and any other kind of weather) then this makes a great choice.

For starters, you’ll also find that most floorplans include a fireplace! There are several floor plans and the location of the fireplace changes in each one so it’s worth looking closely at the available options . My personal favorite is the 321BH Floorplan which you can see here . It features a fireplace placed near the kitchen and entertaining area. As someone who loves to cook, I love the idea of having guests, my kitchen, and  the fireplace all in the same area!

But let’s talk about weather. Forest River offers an extreme weather package that will get you ready not only for winter but any extreme temperature with additional fans and air conditioning units. The package includes a 35,000 BTU furnace, heated and enclosed underbelly, upgraded insulation across the entire rigs, several additional fans, and a ducted A/C unit. There’s also the option to even get a second air conditioning unit that specific to the bedroom. Not only is that more efficient since you don’t have to heat or cool the entire rig while you’re sleeping but it also gives you some extra power in terms of temperature control.

Overall, the Arctic Wolf has a great option for winter camping, especially if you pick up the extreme weather upgrade. But this luxurious travel trailer also comes in at a great price and you’re able to find 2021 models for as low as $32,000. That makes this a great option for getting the entire family started on a winter camping adventure this season!

5. Jayco Eagle 330RSTS

• Available with Jayco’s Climate Shield upgrade for serious winter camping
• Electronic leveling which is typically reserved for only fifth wheels
• The beautiful two-tone interior gives this travel trailer a stylish look
• A spacious bathroom which ceilings that are well above 6 feet tall
• Tested by a third party facility for temperatures well below freezing
• The lighting fixtures are nice but I’d personally always prefer recessed lighting over traditional fixtures
• The modern IKEA-style interior design might not be everyone’s favorite

Jayco is another well-known RV manufacturer and they actually have two RVs on our list of the best Class C’s for winter . Jayco seems to specialize in cold weather rigs and they offer a Climate Shield upgrade that goes above and beyond the traditional arctic package. Available on a handful of Jayco RVs (including the Eagle Travel Trailer) the Climate Shield package includes a double-layer of fiberglass on the front cap to keep the bedroom nice and toasty along with a heated underbelly. You’ll also find PEX plumbing that’s tested for -40 degree Fahrenheit temperatures! Like the Forest River rig, this package also protects against hot weather with heavily tinted windows as well.

Jayco even took things a step further and put all this to the test by subjecting their RVs to 0 degrees Fahrenheit in a climate-controlled facility for 8 hours. Even after 8 hours of bitter cold (and some frost-covered tires) the interior of the rig was nice and comfortable with all plumbing working perfectly.

So there’s not really any doubt that the Jayco Eagle can handle cold temperatures- certainly anything most RVer’s will throw at it. But I also love the interior of this RV! It features a beautiful two-tone, black and white design that makes the entire travel trailer look like an IKEA set piece. For some folks, that might sound like a nightmare but I personally love the design. The bathroom includes a huge shower, massive ceilings, and several other nice touches like plenty of counter space. There’s even a backsplash which is not something you’re going to find in many RVs!While that doesn’t exactly bring a lot of function to the RV, it’s still a nice feature that makes this rig feel more like home.

I’m also a big fan of kitchen islands in any travel trailer and the Eagle has a great kitchen layout. There’s also tons of storage in this RV with enough room to squeeze in a washer and dryer in the bedroom .

You can get a feel for the layout and see if it’s something you like in this video:

Overall,  the Jayco Eagle is a great travel trailer for winter camping with one of the most robust climate protection packages available. While not everyone is going to be a fan of the interior, if you like modern design like me you’ll probably love it. Compared to other RVs on this list, the Jayco Eagle is going to be a bit pricey and you should expect to pay a little over $50,000 for some of the newer models.

6. 2020 Heartland Big Horn 3985 RRD

• Raising electric beds is perfect for finding the best tv viewing angle but it’s also extremely practical when it comes to squeezing in extra storage.
• An absolutely beautiful shower that gives you the feel of a full residential home
• Comes standard with underbelly insulation and closure to keep the essential warm
• R-34 insulation is more than enough for most RV’ers
• More expensive than many others on this list with a roughly $70,000 price tag

Heartland is another manufacturer that’s no stranger to producing the 4-season RV market with several models that are purpose-built for cold weather. As a result, you can find a variety of features on the Big Horn fifth wheel that help it stand out from other rigs. For starters, there’s the massive 42,000 BTU furnace. Considering that most RVs have around a 30,000 BTU furnace this upgrade goes a long way to keeping you warm in the winter.

Then there are things like standard underbelly closure and insulation, the R-11 rating on the walls, and the R-34 insulation on the ceiling, and the always awesome PLEX plumbing. Add it all up and you’ve got a solid winter camping rig.

But I also love the interior of this RV with the most notable features being the bed and the bathroom. First off, the entire bed can be raised with the push of a button while that might not be everyone’s cup of tea, I love the options this gives for additional storage. I also like the idea of being able to sleep a bit higher off the ground to give my knees a break when I have to get out of bed in the middle of the night. The bathroom is beautifully designed and feels like a bathroom you’d expect in a full-size home with a sliding glass door and a proper vanity!

The only downside is that this RV runs a little on the high side compared to the rest of the rigs on this list and you should expect to pay around $70,000 for the Heartland Big Horn.

7. Northwood Nash 18FM Travel Trailer

• Northwood’s 4 season insulation package includes a combination of batt fiberglass and block foam insulation for cold winters
• Residential style cabinetry gives this travel trailer some extra style
• Fully insulated and heated fluid tanks, pipes, and valves
• Murphy bed for extra space
• Not much natural lighting inside this rig and overall the interior is a bit dark

I don’t think any list of the best travel trailers for winter would be complete without a little more from the folks at Northwood ! They’re well known for building durable and winter-ready rigs and the simply named Nash is a great option for folks that want something smaller than the Arctic Fox but don’t want to sacrifice any winter-readiness.

The Nash is part of the “Absolute Northwood” line which means it comes standard with an off-road chassis that’s great for rougher winter weather. You’ll also get a whole lot of extra insulation on the roof, walls, undercarriage, and tank housing. All of which makes this a truly 4-season RV.

You can check out all the insulation upgrades included in the Absolute Northwood package in this video:

In addition to the usual winter features, the Nash includes a Murphy bed which gives this rig a bit more space but some folks aren’t going to exactly love it. When it comes to smaller travel trailers, something has to give when it comes to space and while the murphy bed is a great addition it’s going to be hard to ever match the comfort of a traditional bed or the memory foam options that we’re seeing in a lot of RVs these days.

The biggest downside to this RV is the interior lighting. You can tell if you watch the walk-through in the video above that the interior is a bit dark and it’s clear that windows aren’t a priority. Part of that comes with the territory when you have a smaller rig that includes a slide-out but I’d still love to see some more windows on this travel trailer. After all, there’s nothing more beautiful than a snow-covered landscape.

The Northwood Nash is also budget-friendly with an MSRP of less than $40,000.

Honorable Mention: Ice Castle All Seasons Travel Trailer

• With a name like “Ice Castle” you know that it’s winter-ready
• Spray foam insulation covering every nook and cranny including plenty of insulation in the underbelly
• Power lift bed that can be lowered or raised with a flip of a switch
• A unique “second-floor” style lounge area that can be converted to an additional sleeping area
• Okay, that much cedar might be everyone’s style and it can get a bit overwhelming
• It’s made for ice fishing so it’s definitely not for everyone

While the Ice Castle is actually purpose-built for folks that love ice fishing, I didn’t think that this list would be complete with a travel trailer like this one! Considering that they named this travel trailer the “Ice Castle” you know that they take 4 seasons’ capability seriously and it shows in the heavy duty insulation you’ll find throughout this RV. They’ve paid extra attention to the underbelly of this RV which makes a lot of sense when you consider that it’s intended to be parked on a sheet of ice!

This travel trailer has a total of 6 holes scattered throughout the main living area that allow you to actually fish while you’re inside the RV. If you’re not planning on ever doing any ice fishing then this is definitely a take or leave it to feature but if some cold weather fishing is on your bucket list then this might be worth a look. You can see the ice fishing holes (and the rest of the travel trailer) here:

Does that mean you  have  to ice fish to consider this rig? Not at all! It’s still a fully functional travel trailer with a dry bathroom and a ton of sleeping space. Still, if you’re spending most of your time at campgrounds or in urban environments the heavy-duty nature of this rig is probably overkill. But if your idea of a good RV adventure is hitting the outdoors and breaking some trail without fearing freezing temperatures than this could be perfect.

One of my favorite features is the bed that can be raised up the ceiling. While this is intended to give you extra space for fishing, you can use it for any kind of extra space or storage. There’s as a unique “second-level” (it’s only a few stairs) that can be converted into additional sleeping areas.

Overall, the Ice Castle is definitely best for the ice fisherman, if you want a no-frills four-season powerhouse then it’s worth a look.

Closing Thoughts

Winter camping can be a lot of fun…if you’re warm! You could go with any of the RVs on this list and stay plenty warm all winter all while getting the flexibility of a travel trailer. But let me know down below if there’s a travel trailer I should have included on this list or which on is your favorite!

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The Best Extreme Cold Weather RVs To Buy In 2022

by Chris Coleman

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Winter camping offers magnificent snowy landscape, but not every RV is meant for days out in such icy temperatures.

If you’d like to take your RV out during very harsh winters, you’ll need to invest in what’s commonly named an “arctic package”, which upgrades the existing insulation and provides additional heating.

Otherwise, if you live in or frequently travel in such weather, investing in the best extreme cold weather RV will give you a peace of mind.

There are certain models of RVs designed and built with extreme winter in mind. These are the vehicles that can brave below-freezing temperatures, icy winds, and even heavy snowing.

Whether you live in bitterly cold weather year-round or you want to enjoy unique winter camping experiences, these best extreme cold weather RVs will keep you warm and toasty. 

We have browsed that market and consulted reviews by professionals and full-time RVers to handpick the best extreme cold weather RV with a wide selection of functional features. Each will be accompanied by highlighting features as well as pros and cons.

That said, a helpful advice from many seasoned RVers is it’s a good idea to first rent an RV to see for yourself if it meets your needs. If you like it, you can buy it afterward.

Arctic Wolf by Forest River 

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The Arctic Wolf by Forest River has consistently been rated among the absolute best  extreme cold weather RV models by professionals and full-time RVers alike. The manufacturer, Forest River, is a name known for excellent quality, customer service and warranty. 

The Arctic Wolf is a worthwhile investment for the avid winter driver, thanks to the expansive and inclusive cold-beating features that are available. Arctic Wolf offers either an Extreme Weather Package or the Arctic Package for harsh winter excursions. 

Regardless of how cold the weather may be on your trip, you can rest easy knowing that the Arctic Wolf will keep you warm, comfortable and very well insulated, particularly with the upgrades in the Extreme Weather option, according to many seasoned winter travelers.

It is available with six floor plans to cater for the different requirements and budget of nearly every camper, so if quality and comfort are your priorities, there is definitely an Arctic Wolf for you. 

The largest models top out at a huge 10,000 pounds, equating to a hitch load of approximately 1,400 pounds. This weight is down to its generous proportions which max out at 35 feet in length and 11 feet in height. That said, for the less avid drivers, probably the only downside of this marvelous vehicle is the challenging parking, turning, and other maneuvers on long road trips.

Arctic Package

• Solar wiring
• Windows for the upper bunk
• Outside shower and outside TV bracket capabilities
• A kitchen faucet that pulls out
• Entry doors with friction hinges
• Home entertainment system
• Dinette drawers
• Top-level bunk windows
• Dinette draws, and the kitchen faucet can be pulled out

Extreme Weather Package

• Arctic insulation fitted throughout
• Ducted air-conditioner
• Featured fast cool fan
• Upper decking with insulation
• Powerful ceiling fan
• Underfloor heating
• High gloss wall construction
• A powerful furnace capable of outputting 35,000 BTUs in a matter of seconds

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Together with the Arctic Wolf, Keystone Montana is another favourite that often comes up in discussions on the best extreme cold weather RV. This fifth wheel Keystone Montana, as well as other Montana models, all come with the four seasons living package to keep you toasty warm and cozy on winter trips. 

Harsh winter means excessive wear and tear on your RV both externally and internally, painful maintenance and loss of comfort, however the Keystone Montana will keep all of these problems at bay with excellent cold-beating features. 

First off, insulation is top-notch. The all-season package includes an enclosed, insulated underbelly as well as 12V electric tank heating devices to prevent freezing damage to your RV. The main floor is kept warm with R-21 insulation while the slide-out floors are protected from cold temperatures by R-5 insulating material. The walls are shielded by a double layer of R-11 insulation, and the roof provides radiant technology R-38 protection for maintaining adequate heat inside your RV. 

In addition, the centralized heated external water and convenience center provides the luxury of an outside shower, water heater bypass, and low-point drains that are enclosed to ensure optimum functionality.

This top-rated RV also offers a dual thermostat and remote sensor and a second duct design air conditioner that is a frame and wire construction. Its foam core straight line heat duct system measures 3 by 14 inches, and this model is equipped with an auto-ignition 35,000 BTU furnace. Additional features of the Keystone Montana RV include in-floor water lines, dump valves, and holding tanks that are enclosed and of course insulated, a well-vented attic system, and a powerful free-flow air conditioning at 15K BTUs.

In case you are willing to pay to get some extras, the Montana also offers models with elite design features such as fireplaces and an expansive walk-in closet for storing your bulky winter clothing and gears. 

In short, with its optimal quality insulation, the Keystone Montana offers the ultimate comfort and convenience for the icy winter months, and it is essentially a solid year-round vehicle. The only con that one can find with this first class winter RV is its price tag. 

This advanced fifth wheel trailer is in the higher price range, selling for $48,000 – $49,000 at most dealerships, however any owner would swear by its value for money.

• 15,000 BTU free-flow air conditioning
• Dual thermostat with a remote sensor with the second A/C
• Insulated holding tanks and dump valves
• Heated, enclosed and insulated underbelly
• Electric tank heaters
• Heated exterior convenience center
• Heated low point drains for city water
• Water lines in floors
• 35,000 BTU auto-ignition furnace
• Heat duct system with foam core
• Electric fireplace embedded
• Fiberglass sidewalls with a double insulated layer (Equivalent to R-11)
• Insulated main floor (Equivalent to R-21)
• Insulated slide-out floors (Equivalent to R-15)
• Radiant technology insulated roof (Equivalent to R-38)

Another solid extreme cold weather RV by the renowned Forest River. Their Rockwood Windjammer 3008W is a travel trailer, which is a much cheaper alternative to full-blown RVs, thus this model is ideal for beginners and budget travelers. 

Despite its relative affordability, the Windjammer, as the name implies, is a fantastic option for camping in the harsh icy months with solid insulation and other features. No matter how freezing it is outside, you and your companions will be comfortably toasty inside.

A huge plus is this trailer is not exactly small, boasting an 897-pound hitch load and it can accommodate a maximum of five beds, so each member of your whole family will enjoy maximum comfort.

In addition to the spacious sleeping quarters, it can hold a generous 45-gallon black water tank, a 75-gallon gray water tank, and a commendable 45-gallon freshwater tank.

Additionally, the Windjammer offers a host of other features such as a wardrobe, linen closet, kitchen space with microwave, gas cooker hook-up and an awning to keep the sun or snow off. To top it all off, the master suite features a clever table that folds away and a large double bed.

Although it’s not much to look at, don’t let it dishearten you. The Windjammer is often included in lists of the best extreme cold weather RV for a good reason: what it lacks in the looks department, it more than makes up for in the functionality department. 

The only downside is it’s a heavy trailer to haul around compared to most other camp trailers. Given its size and weight, it might take a while to get used to driving it around.

The features that make this trailer a good fit for winter excursions:

• Holding tanks that are heated and controlled electronically
• The whole trailer is insulated
• Main bedroom area contains a heated mattress
• Upgrades for thermo-pane windows
• Upgrades for fireplace
• Ventilation fan and vent cover
• Floor-ducted furnace
• Two sliders to separate the living quarters
• Reasonably sized wardrobe in the master bedroom
• A foldable table in the master room
• The master bedroom can fit a bed which measures 60×10
• Linen closet
• Oven with microwave hookups, and a gas grill connector
• 44-inch dinette space
• Outdoor Awning

Northwood is a well-known brand for RVs made for cold weather , and very few arctic campers are held in such high regard as the Arctic Fox all seasons RV. The Arctic Fox guarantees a warm and comfortable winter camping and it also offers a ton of additional features, which means not just comfort but luxury on the road. 

That said, like everything else that borders the line of luxury, you’re going to have to pay for the privilege. The latest models from 2017 onwards will cost at least $56,000, and previous models don’t tend to depreciate a lot in value, which in itself is a testament to their quality and durability.

• Fully insulated through with four-seasons foam insulation, providing exceptional insulation properties
• Built into the bedroom are USB charging ports, as well as a well-proportioned mattress and carpeting throughout
• A fully function bathtub with a skylight and foldable shower screen
• A foot-operated toilet
• Powerful extractor fans in the bedrooms
• Inbuilt skylights and a sizable fridge as well as ample storage space
• A fully equipped kitchen including a microwave
• A booth eating area and L shaped sofa with comfortable pillows
• A digitally monitored and controlled thermostat for perfect heating
• Inbuilt smoke, carbon monoxide, and LPG detectors
• A foldaway 19-inch widescreen TV with Bluetooth connectivity and CD/DVD player
• Clever storage options.

Additional extras are also available, including solar panels, rearview cameras, holding tank heat pads, generators, bathroom and kitchen fan vents, thermal pane windows and an aluminum main awning.

Whereas the Lance brand is not as well known as Forest River or Jayco, they are specialized in all seasons RV models. Manufactured specifically for all-season driving, including winter and warmer weather, the Four Season Travel Trailer by Lance proves that you need not spend a fortune to get one of the best extreme cold weather RV. 

Notable features include easily removable hatch covers that can be added or removed in a matter of seconds depending on the weather. The insulated covers are designed to keep the outdoor weather conditions from encroaching into the indoors of your RV.

Instead of the more traditional wood, this Lance model uses thermoplastic, a natural insulator which is adept at keeping the heat in and the cold out. This insulation won’t rot or is not prone to hosting mildew or mold, unlike wood tends to do. This material will also provide a certain amount of soundproofing, making your trip even more enjoyable. 

An extra cold-beating feature is an impressive ducted warming system. Clever engineering and design mean that the heating is equally directed across the whole interior of the RV, ensuring every room is warmed to the same level.

Lastly, the windows are dual pane and tinted, which provides an additional level of insulation and soundproofing. With such superstar insulation, you can rest assured that winter is kept outside of your toasty mobile home.

• 11 different floor plans available
• Block foam insulation throughout
• Ducted heat is routed into individually insulated holding tanks to keep them, the valves and PEX lines warm.
• Water heater bypass & winterizing valves make draining the system for winter storage a breeze.
• Insulated hatch covers add an additional layer of insulation to vents and skylights.
• Radius acrylic tinted thermopane euro window
• Aluminum-framed floor, ceiling, and sidewalls
• Decorative pull cabinet hardware
• Lite-ply cabinet construction

In addition to Lance, Heartland is another brand known for its all season RVs. Heartland puts an astounding level of craftsmanship and detail into all their all seasons RV products. 

Heartland’s all season RVs are not only functional in terms of guarding against icy cold weather, but also offer luxury aesthetics and great attention to details. Among them, the Bighorn is often regarded as one of the best extreme cold weather RV models. 

It has 11 floor plans to choose from, so you are likely to get one that meets your requirements and budget. There are different Bighorn sizes available, with the largest weighing 14,000lb, with a hitch weight of about 3,000lb, and measuring nearly 45 ft. in length.

Bighorn by Heartland introduced the industry to innovations such as the Universal Docking Center, 88 Degree Turning Radius front cap designs, laminated floors and sidewalls, drop frame Texas Size basement storage and hydraulic landing gear. Bighorn combines all of these industry firsts with the most luxurious interiors producing one of the most sought after luxury fifth wheels available today. 

The craftsmanship and durability is expressed throughout this fifth wheel. The bathroom features water lines Plumb-PLEX, while the fiberglass walls, dark tinted windows and laminated flooring make the camper trailer look sleek. The bedroom has a built-in closet, king-size bed with memory foam mattress, ceiling lights in the bedroom, extra storage shelves, a headboard and a pull-out storage drawer.

The majority of the floor plans offered with the Bighorn range, generally have the following winter comforts:

• The entire RV is fully insulated: R-38 flooring in the main living area, R-11 walls, R-14 flooring on the upper deck , R-34 roofing
• Heated, insulated underbelly
• Insulated air conditioning duct system in the roof
• The below-floor has its own heating system: single piece heating duct
• The roof has an internal air conditioning duct unit
• A high-quality furnace functions at a 42,000 BTU level
• A water system from the Plumb-Plex range so it’s just like your bathroom in your home
• Sleek interior and exterior design and layout
• Plenty of storage space
• A king-sized bed with a comfortable mattress made from memory foam.

The Redhawk 26XD by Jayco has a warmth and beauty not often seen in RVs, especially with the newer models. This trailer has been gaining a lot of popularity for the last couple of years, first making an impression with its huge space and beautiful design, then winning the hearts of seasoned campers with its host of functional features for withstanding winter. 

We do warn you though, that you will need quite some money to enjoy this solid beauty, but if you do, the Redhawk might be the best extreme cold weather RV that you can buy.

These models come with five different floor plans to choose from. All of these are built on a Ford chassis and include a spacious master bedroom with a queen-sized bed, a 13ft. awning, an 8 cubic-ft. refrigerator and linen closets.

Importantly, you will also be able to stay warm during winter in this gorgeous RV with a 15,000-BTU ducted air conditioner with heat pump, a 31,000-BTU furnace with wall thermostat with auto-ignition, a 6-gallon water heater,  solid bead-foam insulation for the roof, floor and all walls and well insulated doors and windows. 

There is no need to worry about space, as it is very spacious. As it can sleep eight passengers, you can hit the road whenever you want with family or friends.

The following are the standard features for this all seasons RV:

• 15,000-BTU ducted air conditioner with heat pump
• 31,000-BTU furnace with wall thermostat with auto-ignition
• Bead-foam insulation (R-15 max roof, R-9 max floor, R-5 max walls)
• Vacuum-bonded, laminated roof, floor and sidewalls
• Aluminum running boards
• Fiberglass, radius-cornered entrance door with screen door
• 6 gallon gas/electric DSI auto-ignition water heater
• Full bathroom
• Fully fitted kitchen, including countertops, upper shelves, large sink and microwaves
• Queen sized bed master bedroom
• Roomy, built-in linen cabinets and other closets.
• The living area comes with a 2-seater sofa and has a lot of space

With a hefty price tag of around $100,000 for a new one, you may have to settle for an old model, which will not necessarily have all these luxury features.

You may also like:

• How To Heat An RV Without Electricity: 5 Inexpensive Methods
• The Complete Guide on How To Winterize An RV

Extreme Cold-Weather RVs: FAQs & Tips

Cold weather packages, also referred to as arctic or polar packages, are a great upgrade to your RV when you are storing it during cold weather or wish to travel occasionally in extreme cold weather. Some of the upgrades include:

• Extra floor and roof insulation
• Double or the triple-paned windows
• Heating pads for freshwater and the wastewater tanks
• Enclosed underbellies
• Temperature guarantees
• Heated storage bays

The key to keeping your RV warm in the harsh winter is effective insulation , that is preventing cold air outside from leaking in and trapping the heat inside the RV. The two areas to focus most of your energy on if you want to improve insulation are windows and vents. 

Below are pro tips on how to keep your RV warmer in icy conditions:

1. Maximizing natural sunlight

Simply positioning your RV so that the largest windows point to the south and west to maximize your RV’s exposure to direct sunlight definitely will warm your RV up. It is one useful tip on how to heat an RV that many new RVers do not know or underestimate.

2. Fixing air leaks

Before trying to do anything to more effectively trap warm air inside your RV, you must make sure cold air cannot leak in from all the nooks and crannies first. Tiny air leaks from the rubber gaskets around your exterior windows, doors and vents are often overlooked, however keeping them in good shape will ensure cold air is not leaking into your interior. 

3. Reflective insulation

Relectix is a reflective insulation accessory consisting of an aluminum foil, which covers all your windows to rebound most of the heat that travels to them. Thus the existing heat will be trapped or condensed inside your RV while only a small amount will escape, thereby more effectively maintaining the ideal temperature. 

Simply attach these rolls to cover the whole area of each window. Also, if your RV comes with a shower skylight, don’t forget to insulate it too.

4. Hatch vent insulator

An RV’s hatch vents, roof and wall vents are also often overlooked and can let cold air in, thus all of them need to be covered. It is best to equip them with extra protection by adding another layer of Styrofoam right below the covers. 

The Styrofoam must be cut to fit precisely. Secure it in place with tape or another adhesive. The second option is to get a vent insulator. A vent insulator is a large piece of insulated foam that may or may not come with a reflective surface. 

5. Solar Heating

This green energy source will save you money in the long term, all the while being environmentally friendly. You can now buy solar panels from many sources. A panel typically costs between $500 and $300, depending on the durability, efficiency and size of the panel. The bigger the panel, the more green energy it can produce to heat your RV without electricity. 

Your RV might suffer substantial damage while in storage during the icy cold winter months, unless you own or rent a heated storage for it. Otherwise, if your budget doesn’t permit you to rent a storage unit, purchasing an RV cover is a great option to protect your RV in cold weather. Renting an RV storage unit is a more effective option but also the most costly.

 RV covers prevent ice buildup and snow accumulation on the exterior of your rig, thus minimizing damage to its surface and also keeping meltwater from seeping into the seams and panels. Below are a few steps that you need to take to safely store your rig under an RV cover during winter:

• Ensure that you drain out all your water systems.
• Clean and let dry the interior and exterior of the RV before covering.
• Remove the batteries and store in a secure place.
• Inflate the RV tires and it is best to cover them thoroughly with RV tire covers to avoid damage and maximize their lifespan, as RV tires alone are expensive.
• Double-check that the cover shelters all sides completely and snugly to avoid the cover billowing against your RV in the wind.
• Check the snow that accumulates on your roof regularly and remove it if required.

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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I’m constantly surprised to never hear about Outdoors RV, who only produce Four Season RV’s. Is there a problem with them?

I would be helpful if you expanded your Cold Weather/Four Season review to 20 or 30,…listed in order of best quality. Even that doesn’t guarantee an Outdoors RV mention,…but it would suggest that it isn’t in your top 20 or 30.

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The Best Cold Weather Travel Trailers to Survive Winter

Last Updated on December 9, 2023 by Jess

If you plan on using your RV in the winter, don’t just trust any old travel trailer.

We’ve found some of the best cold-weather travel trailers to keep you cozy all season long.

Surviving winter in an RV can be a challenge, but there are a few things you can look for when buying to set yourself up for success.

We want you to not only survive the winter in your RV, but we want you to do well. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Can you live in a motorhome in the winter?

Yes, you can live in a camper in the winter, and many people do. However, your comfort depends largely on the model and what cold weather features the manufacturer offers.

Most manufacturers design their RVs for recreational purposes, that is, for the peak season when most RV owners camp. This means that most RVs are designed for the summer and fall months.

However, if you are looking for an RV that is also suitable for the winter months, we have something for you. First, let’s take a look at a few important features to look for when shopping.

What to look for in a cold weather travel trailer

When buying a cold-weather travel trailer , it’s important to pay attention to a few things. The features listed below will help you stay warm and cozy all winter long.

Insulation value

Various “R-values” are used for insulation in mobile homes. The higher the R-value, the better insulated your RV is.

A typical RV sidewall has an insulation value between R-5 and R-7, but if you plan to live in it during the winter, don’t just use a typical RV.

A motorhome with a four-season classification has increased insulation. Typically, the side walls have an R-9 rating, the underbody has an R-11 rating, and the roof and front wall have an R-40 rating. You’ll appreciate having more insulation between you and freezing temperatures!

It is important to note that these insulation ratings are not the same as the insulation in your home. Many RV manufacturers layer their insulation values, which is a tricky way to increase the R-value.

For example, an RV might have a layer of Reflectix with an R-5 value in the underbody, then a layer of insulation with an R-10 value, and then another layer of Reflectix. This is touted as the R-20 value of the underbody, but it is actually three separate layers of insulation.

Two-pane thermal insulation window

The next feature you should look for is double-paned windows. The windows of a mobile home can let in a tremendous amount of cold air from the outside.

Manufacturers who want to build a weatherproof RV use double-glazed thermal windows. These are heavier and more expensive, but they provide excellent insulation for the vehicle.

Many RV owners like double-paned windows because they prevent condensation. The inside of your RV’s windows will sweat if the inside temperature is warmer than the outside temperature.

Fortunately, with double-paned windows, you don’t have to worry about condensation forming on the inside of your windows.

Pro Tip: Double-pane windows are great, but they can fog up. Here’s how to fix your fogged RV windows if you have them!

Heating system

If you live in your RV in the winter, you obviously need a heat source. Many RVs have a propane furnace that pumps heat through vents throughout the RV.

Some RVs also have electric fireplaces in the living room or bedroom. However, these use a lot of electricity, so they are not ideal if you are staying outdoors or paying for electricity at a long-term campground.

Finally, you can supplement your heat source with a portable heater. We recommend reading about the best propane heaters for RVs that will keep you warm if you decide to go that route.

Heated Underbody Panel

The best cold weather motorhomes have a heated underbody. This means that the RV’s heating system has a vent or two that blows warm air from the furnace into the underbody. This protects sensitive water pipes, plumbing, and other parts that should not be exposed to the cold.

While this does not keep the temperature as warm as the living space, it can often keep it above freezing to avoid potential damage.

If you have an RV with a heated underfloor, you should run your furnace regularly. If the furnace is not running, warm air will not be pumped into your underfloor.

Many RV owners make the mistake of running their electric fireplaces or heaters so often that the furnace does not come on regularly. If warm air is not pumped into your underfloor, water pipes and other components can freeze.

Learn more: Do you like discovering great products? Here’s some cold-weather camping gear you’ll really love!

Heated holding tanks

When your RV’s holding tanks freeze, you have no way to empty them. Motorhomes built for cold weather are always equipped with heated holding tanks.

Manufacturers wrap the tanks with some sort of electric heating blanket that RVers can turn on with the push of a button. The blankets warm the tanks enough to prevent the liquids inside from freezing.

Many of these heaters shut off as soon as conditions change and they are no longer needed.

The best cold weather travel trailers for winter camping

Now that you know what to look for in a cold-weather travel trailer , let’s take a look at some of the best on the market.

Lance 2285 travel trailer

MSRP: $74,073 Length: 27 feet 5 inches GVWR: 8,000 lbs. Cold weather features: The Lance 2285 Travel Trailer is equipped with the Lance all-weather package. This includes a ducted heater with vents in the enclosed underbody to protect your RV’s sensitive components.

Lance also has an easy-to-use water heater bypass that makes it easy to winterize your RV. It comes with insulated hatch covers that limit the loss of warm air through the roof vent.

About: The Lance 2285 is equipped with a 45-gallon freshwater tank, two 40-gallon gray tanks, and a 40-gallon black tank. This gives you plenty of room to store water and waste while braving the elements.

With a cargo capacity of 2,225 pounds, you’ll have plenty of room for just about anything you want to take with you.

The trailer has a large floor area and multiple doors for guests to come and go. Just because you live in a trailer in the winter doesn’t mean you can’t invite your friends and family.

Arctic Fox North Fork 29RK

MSRP: $88,900 Length: 32 feet 3 inches GVWR: 10,400 pounds Cold weather features: The Arctic Fox North Fork 29RK is built for four seasons. You’ll appreciate the fully enclosed holding tank area that circulates warm air around the tanks to keep them from freezing.

Plus, the drain valves are enclosed in the heated compartment to prevent potential damage from freezing temperatures.

About: The 29RK is a quality vehicle from a reputable manufacturer of four-season RVs. The 58-gallon freshwater tanks, 35-gallon gray water tanks, and 35-gallon black water tanks are all insulated with thermal heating pads.

So you can be sure your tanks are protected from the elements with the push of a button. In addition, Northwood has a reputation for providing the highest quality RV frames in the industry that can take a beating.

Please note: Arctic Fox offers a wide variety of motorhomes! Therefore, we have created an Arctic Fox motorhome buying guide to help you choose the right motorhome for your needs!

Northwood Nash 24B

MSRP: $46,391 Length: 28 feet 8 inches GVWR: 9,200 pounds Cold weather features: Another of the best cold weather travel trailers to get through the winter is the Northwood Nash 24B. It has all the winter camping features a family could need to stay comfortable.

The insulated and heated holding tanks keep your tanks and underbody warm in freezing temperatures. Northwood uses high-quality batten and reflective foil insulation in its construction to strengthen the insulation of its units.

About: The Nash 24B travel trailer is great for families. It features double bunks with privacy curtains.

The fiberglass exterior and high-density block foam insulation create a barrier between you and Old Man Winter. You can easily keep your rig warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Jayco Eagle 330RSTS

MSRP: $75,218 Length: 40 feet 1 inch GVWR: 11,995 pounds Cold weather equipment: The Eagle has a fully enclosed and heated underbody. It also has double-sided radiant insulation in the roof, floor and front cap.

Combine that with the double-layer fiberglass insulation in the ceiling and floor, and you have a well-insulated, winterized vehicle.

About: If you’re tired of boring interiors from RV manufacturers, the 330RSTS is a vehicle you should consider. It has a fresh, bright white interior that looks like it came from a farmhouse.

The fresh colors give the interior a very homey look. However, if you prefer traditional colors, Jayco still offers that option. The Eagle series is one of the longest-running and most successful motorhomes on the market.

Bigfoot travel trailer B25

MSRP: $71,425 Length: 25 feet 6 inches GVWR: 7,500 pounds Cold weather features: Bigfoot Travel Trailers all have a two-piece fiberglass exterior. High-density insulation and thermal windows make the Bigfoot B25 one of the best-performing and most comfortable cold-weather travel trailers.

About: Bigfoot makes an RV that stands up to the elements to keep you comfortable.

Simple things like a porcelain toilet, innerspring mattress, and luxurious fabrics for the furniture will make you forget you’re in an RV.

Heartland Sundance Ultra-Lite 262RB

MSRP: $50,177 Length: 30 feet 10 inches GVWR: 7,780 pounds Cold weather equipment: With 2-inch furnace ducts blowing warm air into the enclosed and insulated subfloor, you won’t have to worry about frozen water pipes or your delicate plumbing.

Heartland uses Azdel laminated sidewalls to create an extra barrier between the inside of your RV and cold winter conditions. Stay warm and cozy in this cold-weather camper.

About: One of the first things you’ll notice when you enter the home is the massive ceilings. The vaulted ceilings provide plenty of headroom for even the largest of campers.

Turn on the electric fireplace and take a seat at the dining nook while you watch the snow fall outside. The queen-size bed has an upgraded mattress to give you a restful night’s sleep. However, many people love the lack of carpet.

Pro Tip: Heartland offers some of our most popular RV floorplans. To learn more about this brand and what it offers, please read Who makes Heartland RV?

Additional tips for cold-weather camping

Taking the time to prepare your RV for winter will help you weather the cold weather.

Before the temperatures drop, you should purchase a heated water hose. This will ensure that your water hose does not freeze and that you still have water in your RV when the temperature drops below freezing.

We also recommend installing RV skirts to prevent the cold wind from blowing under your vehicle.

You can have your own skirting made from insulation board for a few hundred dollars, or buy custom-made for a few thousand dollars. You can find pre-made options that fall between these prices.

Again, the key to surviving winter is the work you do before the temperatures drop. You don’t want to wait for snow to plan how to protect yourself and your RV from the cold.

If you do the work in advance, you can be sitting in your warm RV when the cooler temperatures finally arrive.

Take on the cold weather in one of these travel trailers

You won’t have to shiver through the winter with a travel trailer. These travel trailers can withstand even the coldest winter temperatures.

The most important features when looking for the best cold-weather RV are insulation, heating, and safety.

Take the time to prepare your RV for the elements, and you’ll have no trouble staying warm all winter long.

Depending on how much you enjoy spending time outdoors, you might fall in love with winter camping.

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9 Best Insulated Travel Trailers For Extreme Cold Weather

You can fight nature without being prepared. Same wise, you can’t enjoy extreme camping with an insulated travel trailer,

Camping in freezing weather requires a different type of checklist. Of course, picking a travel trailer with the best insulation is one of the priorities. There are many cold-weather travel trailer manufactures in the market, but which one should a new buyer consider?

Below are the best insulated travel trailers that can help you enjoy camping without worrying about the outside temperature.

Table of Contents

List of 9 Best Insulated Travel Trailers For Cold Weather

Northwood snow river travel trailer.

• This camper is one of the best-insulated travel trailers for all-weather; it offers high-density block foam insulation.
• There are two-floor plans to choose from; it offers features like exterior shower, power awning, outside speakers, and a kitchen grill.
• An exclusive diamond bumper wrap and residential wear floor covering make it one of the most durable options.
• Capable of towing more than 6.000 lbs GVWR.
• The floor plans do not differ a lot; snow river 266RDS is more spacious and weighs slightly more than the counterpart.

Lance 4 Travel Trailer

• Wintertime journeys are comfy with insulated hatch covers which can snap off or on depending on the weather. The covers prevent cold from invading the RV keeping the passengers warm and comfortable and making it one of the best-insulated travel trailers for all four seasons.
• Azdel Insulation replaces wood and prevents mildew, mould and rot that develops in the wood when exposed to wet and wintry conditions. This thermoplastic composite insulation also soundproofs the vehicle.
• A ducted heating system helps keep the whole space equally warm; it has hold tanks so that heated air can flow across the entire camper.
• It is equipped with dual pane insulated windows that also have soundproofing features.
• This vehicle has a water heater bypass for wintry conditions.
• No such drawbacks of this trailer. Although, the manufacturer can offer 4 Seasons package for toy trailers and truck campers .

Livin Lite Camplite Travel Trailer

• All Camplite models are made up of aluminium from top to bottom, and no wood is used even in the interior, making it durable and lightweight at the same time.
• This RV uses a thicker gauge of aluminium tubing to provide superior strength and lightweight towing ordeal; it saves your money in fuel and on the tow vehicle.
• It uses quality construction materials like six-sided block foam insulation, Azdel sidewalls Alpha Superflex, and laminated flooring to withstand all seasons.
• It offers various floor plans to choose from, like, bunkhouse, expandable, rear bathroom model.
• It also offers elegant exterior; there are many colour options to choose from, including silver, red and blue.
• If you have a family of three, including a child, it is perfect for you. For big families, it’s a big no.

Forest River Rockwood Windjammer Travel Trailer

• This travel camper features two entry doors and two slide outs. While entering from the rear entrance, there are two swivel rockers along the wall to relax during the journey.
• This vehicle offers space-saving furniture options like a 44″ dinette and a 67″ hide-a-bed-sofa, you can even swap the sofa with the theatre setting and the dinette with a standout table and four chairs.
• It comes fitted with a Serta queen bed and optional television set.
• This camper follows the v-nose design, making it ideal for people who want every possible space to be used and suitable for aerodynamics.
• The large size gives itself ample space for a 75-gallon grey water tank, 45-gallon freshwater tank, and a black water tank.
• The master bedroom has two slide wardrobes, a collapsible table which can space a bed that measures 60×10 and heated mattress.
• This camper is best for winters. With heated matters, you will get floor ducted furnace, upgraded fireplace, thermo-pane windows, electric-controlled heated holding tanks and insulation in the whole trailer.
• The bathroom is on the front side of this model.
• This camper is heavy, with 7482-pound ship weight and 897-pound hitch weight, you need a little experience to manoeuvre it flawlessly.
• It is quite lengthy so that it will require an ample parking space.

Jayco Redhawk 26XD

• This camper has the best entertainment features, from exterior/interior speakers to television set, it has everything.
• It has propane gas tank for the barbeque and is positioned in the rear part of the vehicle so that you need to worry about smoke going up in the RV.
• It offers 7500 towing capacity.
• This camper comes with electronic stairs; they come out as soon as the doors are open. An ideal feature for families with kids and elders.
• This RV offers seatbelts in all seating position for a safe road journey.
• It has all the essential kitchen amenities such as double sink, convection microwave, three burner cooktops, oven, a standard refrigerator.
• It comes with a walk around queen bed so that you don’t need to curl up in the corner; the bedroom has reading lights, a window for fresh and a big washroom with separate dry and wet areas.
• It can only store 42.5 gallons of freshwater water.
• It does not offer power-adjustable seats.

Keystone Raptor

• The MaxFlo zone-controlled air conditioners run at 15000 BTU’s that makes it a standout from all other cold-weather RVs.
• Raptor allows you to choose from eight different floor plans. You will get the same rooms as the master bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, handy storage, but everything is arranged differently.
• The master bedroom has mirror doors, full-size closet, shades, and vinyl flooring.
• It is equipped with 30,000 BTU’s air conditioning and 35,000 BTU’s heater, making it ideal for summer and winter trips.
• It offers both interior/exterior speakers and surrounds sound.
• The kitchen is located in the centre of the camper to offer a comfortable cooking ordeal.
• There are no cons. It is one of the best picks for extreme cold weather RV.

Heartland LM Arlington

• LM Arlington comes with optional Yeti Extreme cold weather package, which prevents extreme weathers and makes it one of the best winterized RVs in the market.
• The travel trailer comes fitted with a power-tilted bed and bedroom reading lights.
• It also has a lockable safe to keep all the costly things and cash secured.
• It also offers a stainless steel oven, high-rise coffee maker and a backlit tile backsplash.
• The core package will also include USB ports, 1000 watt inverter with surge protectors and an 80amp converter.
• A multiplex lighting system and soft tables come with this RV
• You can add extra features such as a 40-inch exterior television set, slide room awnings, dishwasher, a bathroom fan and Alumni-guard awnings.
• The Yeti Extreme cold weather package is not included in the core package, and you need to pay extra for that.
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Northwood Arctic Fox

• Northwood arctic fox offers four seasons construction and is ideal for every season.
• It has excellent heating and air conditioning facilities to keep the temperature of the interiors bearable.
• This camper provider best in class kitchen equipment such as six cubic foot two-way refrigerator, 22″ oven, microwave, pull out pantry, sliding storage space and more.
• It has hardwood hamper doors, and sliding battery rack for easy storage.
• It offers 59gallons fresh wastewater storage for off-road trails and camping.
• Rieco-Titan electric jacks, exterior speakers, Diamond plate knee wall, makes this camper an ideal choice.
• This 2021 model has an internal height of 6’7″ that makes it a big no for tall figures.

Keystone Montana

• It is a wise choice if you love going on off-trail hunting. It provides massive water storage. You can store 66 gallons of freshwater, 88 gallons of greywater and 49 gallons of black water.
• It is ideal for all seasons, as it is equipped with all necessities like 30,000 BTU air conditioning, 9000 BTU oven, a three burner cooktop and more.
• It has a unique heating system to keep you warm during extended winter breaks.
• This camper is spacious and has a full sliding master bedroom door and a large bathroom.
• Keystone Montana is not fuel-efficient.
• It is enormous and has dimensions of 35 feet and 8 feet, that means you will need a prominent parking place to park this RV.
• The travel trailer is equipped with everything and is a great choice, but their site does not work in some provinces, making it inaccessible to many people.
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Why You Need Best Insulated Travel Trailers?

For the one’s who share their one on one with wanderlust, travelling is like passion to them. However, it’s not always the hotels that give you the comfort of staying indoors and enjoying the serene beauty of the spot. Sometimes, it is the destination and the journey that gives you the desired taste of travelling.

Further, travelling is the essence of living and should always be done in the best possible manner, ranging from a cosy stay, serene beauty to enjoying all the local flavours you taste in a particular area. Otherwise, your trip/journey really won’t have much effect on the overall value that it should add.

Things well said, when you don’t experience all the aspects of your travel, you don’t really enjoy, it’s just time wasted. Having your time wasted in public travels is not something that anybody would prefer, right?

This is where things take a turn for better with travel trailers that give you the travelling experience you desire.

Travel trailers have been the go-to hotel rooms for a vast number of travellers, ever since time immemorial; therefore, them being able to pass the test of extreme weather is a must. Today, having proper knowledge when selecting the extreme cold weather RVs is a must.

Now, we know that most of you won’t agree with this or might have second thoughts. Relax, I got you covered.

Is it really important for my travel trailer to be insulated for extreme weathers?

First, Yes, it is extremely essential to have a winterized RV as it is the essence of your travel. Mind that not always you’ll go to destinations that have similar weather or temperature throughout the year. Further, if you visit a certain destination all the time, are you even travelling?

Therefore, whenever you make a purchase for your next on the go vehicle, make sure that you go through the list of these winterized RVs.

What Is The Importance Of Insulation In Travel Trailer Or Camper Van?

In simple terms, a winterized RV provides proper atmosphere inside your RV. In summer, it maintains the low temperature inside of an RV. Whereas, it gives the required insulation to tackle extreme conditions outside. Listed below are some of the most apparent reasons that should be put into perspective to pick your next insulated trailer:

Helps you withstand hot and cold temperatures rapidly

Insulation is a necessary aspect inside your travel trailer, especially when you decide to move to either of the two extreme temperatures (shiver-striking weathers or warm & melting temperatures). When you decide to buy a travel trailer with proper insulation, you prevent yourself and your fellow occupants from getting affected by the weather changes. Insulation cuts off the contact between the temperature outside and aims to maintain a seamless temperature inside. Promoting the required inner atmosphere.

Having an insulated trailer adds to the efficiency

Yes, this might come out as a surprise to many new owners of a travel trailer, but it’s true. When you make the right move and plan your next travel with winterized RV , you save yourself on the costs of travelling as well, interesting right?

Insulation cuts of all the overall energy that is utilized by the trailer while you are travelling besides maintaining a seamless temperature inside, no matter what the temperature is outside. To understand this concept, let’s understand the working of a standard heater or a cooler. A heater or a cooler’s function is to draw electric current from the battery and the fuel inside a vehicle to convert into the corresponding gas.

This way, they tend to maintain preferred temperatures inside the cabin. When your cabin is insulated, it cuts off the temperature outside and creates a vacuum, thereby containing the temperature inside. This way, you save your resources spent behind maintaining temperatures in a pocket-friendly manner.

Insulated trailers are water and fire efficient

Let’s face it, accidents can happen at any point in time while you are travelling. While your vehicle might be laden with features to help you overcome the damage, there’s not much you can do in case of accidental fire. However, this is not the case with trailers that are developed with insulating materials.

No, they aren’t fireproof but better at minimising damage.

Travel trailers make the use of foam board insulation, making them a reliable mode of transport under extreme cases as these boards are water and fire-resistant. This way, these boards really save you from the troubles of your walls, facing condensation when you are off to travelling in humid conditions. Further, the insulation provided over these vehicles counts for a reliable safety shield, keeping the occupants away from extreme temperature conditions.

Now that you have finally understood the importance of opting for the best insulated travel trailer for hot weather & cold weather alike, we know what you might be thinking next.

If you are already tempted to buy one, we suggest that you understand the checklist that you should be looking after when you are off to buy your new travel trailer. Understanding the suggested points help you get through the basics of buying your next travel trailer:

As mentioned above, insulation is the key to your ride, and one of the must check inside your travel trailers. The trick here is to check the insulation level inside your trailer as it is the only factor that determines the ability to withstand extreme temperatures. The type of insulations presents inside your travel trailer are responsible for the effective working of your vehicle.

There are different forms of insulation present inside a trailer, some of the most common being the listed three:

• Spun fibreglass

When you go to select your travel trailer, make sure that you measure the R-Value. The higher the R-value of the tour trailer is, the better insulation it will provide you with. So far, fibreglass is the best to keep constant temperatures.

Floor Plans

Your floor plan defines your layout of the travel trailer. Every trailer has a different format of floor plan. Therefore, you should always be aware of the floor plan inside your trailer as it represents the space and functionality inside.

Remember, the more varieties of floor plan your trailer has, the higher the functionality that it has to offer.

The piping inside your travel trailer plays a significant role in keeping up with the level of insulation inside the trailer. The water and septic pipes that are present inside the trailer add to its value as well.

We suggest you lookout for a trailer with PVC pipes as it allows you to enable multifunctionality. Insulated pipes prevent water from reaching its freezing point, thereby, saving you from the unnecessary pit stops in your journey.

Your travel trailer showcases your lifestyle. These best insulated travel trailers have not one but many significant advantages to add to your overall experiences while you are travelling. The more you understand the benefits of opting for an insulated travel trailer, the better it is for your overall experience of discovering new places on wheels.

• Best Quiet Generator For RV

Written by Shailesh Thakran

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7 Best Travel Trailers For Cold Weather

Living in an RV during winter can be an exhilarating yet challenging experience. The harsh winter climate demands a travel trailer that not only sustains but enhances your outdoor adventures. 

We first struggled during our first winter, but having the right cold-weather travel trailer, we overcame difficult situations and transformed them into opportunities. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the best winter travel trailers tailored explicitly for the demands of cold weather. From insulation and heating systems to durability and price, we’ll explore the standout features that set these trailers apart. So, if you want a warm and cozy haven in your trailer, even in the coldest climates, we’ve got you covered!

Can One Live in a Travel Trailer in the Winter?

Living in a travel trailer during winter is possible and can be quite enjoyable with the proper preparation and the appropriate four seasons travel trailer. 

Whether you live full-time or are new to the RV living world, choosing a travel trailer designed for winter living can provide adequate warmth and protection wherever you are. 

With the durability of your rig combined with features such as insulation and heating systems, you can always enjoy winter and continue to explore the great outdoors without any worry. 

The advantages of modern cold-weather trailers are that they come equipped with advanced insulation, efficient heating mechanisms, and firm construction, making RV winter living enjoyable and hassle-free for outdoor lovers.

What to Look for in a Cold Weather Travel Trailer

Before picking a travel trailer for cold weather, you must assess specific features that ensure comfort and functionality in low temperatures. Factors to consider include:

Four-Season RV Package

The first factor you want to assess is if the trailer, designed for all four seasons, has an enhanced insulation system, heated tanks, and weather-resistant components. I know this might cost way more, but it is worth it in the long run.

Dual-Pane Windows

Another thing that makes RV living easy during cold weather is the insulated dual-pane windows that help minimize heat loss and maintain a cozy interior temperature in cold weather conditions. 

These windows are meticulously designed to regulate the internal temperature by keeping cold temperatures from entering your space.

Insulation Rating

Before investing in any rig, spend some time understanding the insulation rating of the trailer you’re getting. 

How well is the trailer insulated? This might seem like a task because you need to ask questions or seek reviews from current owners.

Remember that trailers with high-quality insulation, including walls, roof, and flooring, are not only useful during one climate. They will serve you for years, so proper assessment is important before investing. 

Heating System

A heating system is a must-have for winter RV living. You need those appliances to stay active and confident by keeping your travel trailer warm. 

Consider a trailer with efficient heating systems, such as ducted heat or high-efficiency furnaces. These winter heating gear will provide consistent warmth throughout the living space.

Heated Underbelly Enclosure

A trailer with heated underbelly enclosures is excellent for winter since they seal up your underbelly to cushion the freezing effect of the weather on vital components of your trailer.

Heated Holding Tanks

Another factor that will save you is heated holding tanks. This helps to prevent water and waste systems from freezing, no matter the temperature. 

• How To Winterize a Travel Trailer

Best Travel Trailers for Cold Weather

1. Northwood Arctic Fox 22G

2. Lance 2285

3. Jayco Eagle HT 284BHOK

4. Jayco Eagle TT

5. Jayco White Hawk 29BH

6. Keystone Cougar 33RLI

7. Jayco Eagle 320FBOK

Northwood Arctic Fox 22G

The Northwood Arctic Fox 22G is a stalwart against harsh winter climates, providing a blend of features tailored for cold-weather enthusiasts. This 4-season travel trailer has an R-18 ceiling with reflective foil and block foam insulation in its roof and side walls.

With a well-engineered insulation system, including high-density foam insulation and thermal pane windows, the Arctic Fox 22G retains heat efficiently, ensuring a cozy interior even in freezing temperatures.

The heating system includes a furnace with ducted heat to keep the interior comfortably warm while maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the living space.

It has a heated underbelly enclosure and holding tanks that prevent freezing even at sub-zero temperatures.

The durable materials and solid construction are also instrumental in making this trailer withstand extreme weather conditions unsuitable for camping.

The Lance 2285 is an ideal choice for cold weather RV living thanks to its suite of features specifically tailored to ensure a comfortable and cozy experience in colder climates:

With Azdel composite panels and high-quality insulation, the Lance 2285 offers superior thermal efficiency, maintaining warmth even in freezing temperatures.

As a four-season giant, this trailer features insulated dual-pane windows and holding tanks, ensuring year-round usability in various climates.

It has a high-efficiency furnace and ducted heating, ensuring consistent warmth even in the coldest environments.

Built with top notch materials and sturdy construction, the Lance 2285 is not only well-insulated but also durable enough to withstand harsh winter conditions.

Whether for a short time camping or full-time living, the Lance 2285 is a reliable option for those seeking a cozy and effective cold-weather travel trailer.

Jayco Eagle HT 284BHOK

This travel trailer from Jayco boasts several features tailored to enhance your RV winter experience:

The Jayco Eagle HT 284BHOK is equipped with Jayco’s Climate Shield package, which is highly rated for exceptional insulation and weather protection.

The trailer has insulated dual-pane windows to reduce heat loss and improve thermal efficiency.

The heated underbelly and enclosed holding tanks are highly designed to prevent freezing, which can have devastating effects on your living space and plumbing system.

Above all, the Jayco Eagle HT 284BHOK has a high standard of durability and reliability, which is essential for navigating the challenging winter season.

Jayco Eagle TT

The Jayco Eagle TT is one of the best insulated RV trailer that offers a range of amenities for winter RV enthusiasts.

The trailer is designed with four-season camping in mind thanks to its insulation and features that adeptly handle colder temperatures.

It features insulated windows that help to minimize heat loss and maintain a consistent and comfortable interior temperature.

With the heated holding tanks and underbelly, you can rest assured that your water and waste systems are free from freezing.

The quality craftsmanship of this trailer is incredible. It’s a perfect and reliable option for seeking comfort and functionality from a winter-ready travel trailer.

Jayco White Hawk 29BH

The Jayco White Hawk 29BH presents a host of features tailored to ensure comfort and resilience in colder climates. If you’re looking for the best travel trailer for winter living, this trailer offers a ton of features to help you tackle winter challenges.

This trailer embodies innovative insulation design, including automotive-grade insulation and insulated walls, floors, and roofs that keep the freezing temperature from penetrating.

The all-weather engineering of this camper combines heated tanks, weather-sealed components, and advanced insulation to ensure year-round usability.

Aside from the shielding power of the insulation system, the Jayco White Hawk 29BH boasts a reliable heating system that efficiently maintains warmth, complementing its superior insulation.

Built on a reliable four-wheel-drive platform and crafted with Winnebago’s quality construction, you can’t go wrong with the durability this trailer possesses.

Keystone Cougar 33RLI

The Keystone Cougar 33RLI is a winter-ready trailer that boasts a range of amenities and features designed to ensure a comfortable and cozy experience in colder climates:

Featuring Keystone’s Polar Package Plus, this trailer is optimized for cold weather with additional insulation, heated underbelly, and ducted heat, ensuring enhanced thermal efficiency.

It has insulated dual-pane windows designed to minimize heat loss and keep the interior temperature consistent for a cold-weather RV living experience.

The trailer has heated holding tanks, ideal for RVing in extremely cold weather.

The durable construction standards of this rig provide reliability and sturdiness, which is essential for enduring harsh winter conditions.

Jayco Eagle 320FBOK

The Jayco Eagle 320FBOK is the fourth Jayco RV on this list because this particular one incorporates various features tailored to enhancing RV living in winter.

Equipped with Jayco’s Climate Shield Package – reflective foils and block foams- this trailer offers superior insulation for optimal temperature regulation and maintenance.

Aside from the efficient insulation system, the trailer also comes with insulated dual-pane windows that are highly effective for minimizing heat loss and maintaining a warm interior temperature.

If you’re always worried about freezing plumbing systems, the heated holding tanks prevent freezing, making it a perfect match for a full-time RVer.

Winter RV living offers lots of excitements and activities, and it is a reason to choose a top cold weather travel trailer for consistent warmth and a comfortable experience. Each of the models here offers unique features and supports, catering to different preferences and needs.

Whether for the most insulated travel trailers or all-weather designs, these specialized cold-weather RVs offer reliability and functionality to effectively tackle the harshness and challenges that come with this period.

1. What Is the Best RV for Winter Living?

While several RVs excel in cold weather, the best choice depends on individual preferences. Models like the Northwood Arctic Fox 22G, Lance 2285, Winnebago Ekko, and Jayco’s specialized cold-weather models stand out for their insulation, heating systems, and durability.

2. How Do You Survive in a Winter Camper?

Surviving in a winter camper involves proper insulation, heating systems, and preparedness. Consider trailers with proper insulation, effective heating, and features like heated tanks to ensure comfort and safety in cold climates.

3. Are Arctic Fox Travel Trailers Good?

Arctic Fox Travel Trailers, especially the Arctic Fox 22G, are highly regarded for their exceptional insulation, heating systems, and durability, making them excellent choices for cold-weather camping.

4. How Can I Keep My Travel Trailer Warm?

To keep your travel trailer warm in cold weather, prioritize models with superior insulation, efficient heating systems, heated tanks, and insulated windows. Supplement these with proper ventilation, and make sure to seal any drafts.

5. How Do You Stay Warm in a Trailer?

Staying warm in a trailer during winter involves using suitable bedding, insulating windows, sealing gaps, using thermal curtains, and utilizing space heaters or the trailer’s built-in heating system.

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Written by Johnathan R. Smith • April 27, 2018 • 12:07 am • Travel Trailers

Best 4 Season Travel Trailers (Extreme Cold Weather Trailers)

Is your goal to camp all year long anywhere in the country? Ambitious explorers don’t want to limit their camping experiences to the best times of year when the weather is ideal. Their goal is to travel and see the country throughout the year, including winter, spring, summer, and fall.

If you consider yourself a part of this group of campers and explorers, you’ll need the right vehicle.

There are a variety of RVs and travel trailers that can be used throughout the year, but if you want something you can hitch to your existing vehicle and use during every season, you’ll want a four-season travel trailer.

Four-season travel trailers can be lived in no matter the season.

Most are comfortable regardless of the weather or temperature unless you’re in an area experiencing extreme lows or severe storms. Even then, some people have outfitted their travel trailers to be especially durable and protective against severe elements.

The Best 4 Season Travel Trailers

• Keystone Montana
• Jayco Jay Feather Travel Trailer
• Dutchmen Aspen Trail Travel Trailer
• Livin Lite Camplite Travel Trailer
• Heartland Bighorn

These are just a portion of the 4 season trailers available on the market.

1. Keystone Montana

Trailer Overview

You won’t regret taking a look at the Keystone Montana with the high number of 4 season features that it has built-in. With insulated floors, sidewalls, as well as insulated water lines. It also comes with a 35,000 btu furnace and air conditioning systems in both the living room and bedroom. It’s a true 4 season trailer thats meant to keep its occupants comfortable in even the most extreme weather.

2. Jayco Jay Feather Travel Trailer

3. Dutchmen Aspen Trail Travel Trailer

4. Livin Lite Camplite Travel Trailer

5. Heartland Bighorn

What Is A 4 Season Travel Trailer?

Four-season travel trailers allow you to travel and camp in comfort no matter the season or temperature. They provide a warm environment in the winter and a cool space in the summer months. They also have all of the benefits of any travel trailer, including offering convenience and ease of travel.

You might be wondering what makes a four-season travel trailer different from other options.

The truth is most travel trailers and RVs are not equipped for four-season use. In many cases, manufacturers advertise their travel trailers and RVs as being so, when in reality they just offer a little extra protection if temperatures dip to the 40s or 30s.

To truly have a comfortable four-season experience, you need a trailer that measures up to what is offered. Additionally, you might need to customize your trailer a bit to get the comfort level you want, especially if your goal is to live in the trailer in less-than-ideal weather conditions.

4 Season Travel Trailer: What Does It Actually Mean?

There are no official criteria or standards for a four-season travel trailer. Though there are features that are pretty standard and “must haves” when it comes to a weather durable trailer, it isn’t as if manufacturers need to include certain features to be labeled four-season – it’s not an industry designation.

In fact, just about any travel trailer can be considered a four-season and comfortable year-round if the owner makes the appropriate additions and customizations.

In many ways, “four-season” is a marketing term used to get the attention of those who want to camp year-round or not have any regard for the time of year when they do camp. It can mean a trailer is more durable, but it doesn’t necessarily guarantee what you’re buying will be equipped with any particular feature.

If you do buy a “4 season trailer” you might still need to make some additional adjustments. 

How To Make A Travel Trailer 4 Season Ready

1. Enclosed Tanks

You don’t want to be able to see the tanks on a travel trailer because that means it isn’t protected from the weather. Insulation on the underside or underbelly prevents tanks from freezing or being exposed to too much heat. Some call this an enclosed underbelly, while others just look for the underside to have foam or insulation on the bottom of the trailer. Essentially, the less plumbing and piping you see the better, and in some cases, if you’re planning to camp in extremely cold areas, you’ll want there to be heating elements to keep the tanks warm.

2. Water Connection

The water connection on a four-season travel trailer will be located in an interior compartment, or there will be an outdoor electrical outlet near the water connection. This allows the hose to be heat taped. You can buy heat tape here.

3. Sewer Hookup

The sewer hookup on a four-season travel trailer should allow you to run the hose with as little exposure as possible, so it should be on a close to or slide. This allows you to avoid having to tape the sewer connection with heat tape.

4. Dual Pane Windows

Just as you would want dual pane windows in your home to protect against the elements, you’ll want them in a four-season trailer, assuming your trailer has windows. If your trailer is the kind that breaks down and you don’t have official windows, you’ll want to insulate in whatever way you can once things are set up at a site. It’s also a good idea to have tinted windows because this helps protect against sun damage and keeps temperatures cooler indoors during the hotter summer months.

5. Ducted Heating System

The more efficient the ducting in your trailer, the better. This will prevent there from being hot and cold spots inside, which means the more even the temperature, the less energy you’ll use making the space comfortable.

6. Bypass for the Water Heater

If your trailer has a water heater, you’ll want there to be a bypass and winterizing valve. This makes storing the camper easier and ensures the longest life and best performance.

7. Insulated Hatch Covers

If you intend to camp during the winter months, especially in colder climates, you’ll want to have insulated hatch covers. This makes a big difference when it comes to ensuring the heat you pump into your trailer stays in your trailer, and it allows you to keep the cold outside from seeping in. It’s a must-have feature if you intend to camp year-round, especially if those plans include camping in the dead of winter.

What To Know About Buying A 4 Season Travel Trailer?

In addition to the features you want to look for, there are a few things you should consider about your specific camping experience before investing in a four-season trailer.

There are standard features everyone will want in a trailer that will be used year-round, but there are also things that might be specific to your needs.

Or possibly something you can forego, depending on your situation.

What questions should you ask before you begin shopping for a four-season trailer?

• Do you plan to travel with others or by yourself? If others, how many people at a time?
• Do you usually camp with hookups?
• Do you usually stay at campsites or rugged, off-road areas?
• Do you intend to vacation in your trailer or is your intention, now or ever, to live in your trailer? Most people tend to upgrade to a full-size
• Do you intend to take short-term or long-term trips? Chances are if you’re thinking about a four-season trailer you intend to take longer trips, but this isn’t always the case. Sometimes people just want to be able to take their short, enjoyable camping vacations year-round.

Additionally, you should consider the temperature rating, which should be a wider span if you’re planning to travel for extended periods of time. If you’re a weekend warrior, even all year long, look for temperature ratings from 40 to 80 degrees. If you intend to camp for longer than two months at a time, you’ll want to expand that to 30 to 90 degrees.

Once you’ve thought about your situation, you can consider the four most important features in a four-season travel trailer:

• Venting and the trailer’s heating and cooling system

You’ll want to pay attention to the ratings regarding these four things and think of them as the most important considerations when shopping. If you’re going to splurge on any upgrades, do so in these areas if you want the option of four-season camping and traveling.

If you have any other special needs or there’s anything unusual about your circumstances, you’ll want to take that into account, too. Travel trailers can be equipped to handle just about any situation, as long as you plan ahead and have an idea of how you intend to travel and camp.

Other Features 0f 4 Season Travel Trailers

Another important consideration of a four-season trailer is the materials used in construction. There are variations from manufacturer to manufacturer, but the important thing to note is that they are durable and that the trailer was designed and constructed with four-season use in mind.

Four-season trailers tend to have higher quality roofs and walls, insulation in the ceiling, and of course, the enclosed tanks. A good way to determine if the claims a manufacturer is making about its travel trailer are accurate is to check user ratings. If people who are using their trailers year-round in all weather conditions are happy with their purchase, you can assume the manufacturer’s claims are legitimate.

You’ll also want to consider air circulation. It’s one thing to have a trailer that’s capable of heating up to a cozy 72 degrees during the dead of winter, but still have cold spots where it’s not more than 40 degrees. Good circulation of air will allow the entire camper to feel warm in the winter and cold in the summer.

Looking for the Perfect Four-Season Travel Trailer?

The number of things you need to consider when it comes to buying a four-season travel trailer can seem overwhelming. And it doesn’t get better once you begin shopping. It’s common for people to find options that offer all but one or two features they need or want, and to have those missing features be different from manufacturer to manufacturer. It’s a lot like buying a new home – the perfect home is rarely out there, and you need to prioritize the features that are must-haves versus those that are wants.

It can help to make a side-by-side comparison of the materials used in the construction of the trailer. If you are having a difficult time deciding between two different options and there is no comparison between the two available, write a list of each feature and mark side by side which of the two trailers have it. This gives you a broad overview of which choice outweighs the other.

You can also check out online camping forums for more information. You don’t want to use the opinions of others to make your final choice, but if these opinions and reviews can confirm a direction in which you are already leading it can be helpful. For instance, if you think one travel trailer is better than another based on your research and online reviews rave about it, you can have more confidence in your buying decision.

If you do intend to use a forum for information, make sure you conduct some research about the quality of reviews. There are a lot of great options out there, but there are also those using review sites to promote their own products or degrade the competition. When using reviews to purchase any product, look for patterns from various reviewers to get a sense of whether something is truly a problem or benefit, or one bad apple reporting his or her experience.

Ultimately, if you discover the perfect traveler trailer isn’t out there, you can modify one that’s near perfect, so it suits your needs. Among the customizations and modifications that are common for four-season travelers to make are:

• Adding your own insulation to windows, much as you would do in your home if you can’t afford a new window upgrade (You can find a simple DIY insulation kit here
• Adding weather stripping to the doors
• Covering the vents and other seepage areas with foam
• Lining windows with foil-backed insulation that reflects the sun and makes it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature inside of the trailer
• Buying a tank heater separate
• Covering water lines with heat tape
• Using antifreeze in the tanks when the trailer is not in use
• Running a humidifier or dehumidifier inside the trailer

Conclusion on 4 Season Travel Trailers

Finding the right four-season travel trailer to suit your needs can take some time, but it’s an important part of your investment. If you do the appropriate amount of research and go into the process with an open mind, you are more likely to find a trailer that you love and that you’re able to use for years to come.

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Best RV And Travel Trailers For Winter And Cold Weather

Do you want your camping adventures to become year-round events? Are you looking for a travel trailer that will be able to keep you warm when the cold weather sets in?

If so, you’re in luck. There are a number of RVs and travel trailers available that are specifically designed for winter campers. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at five of the highest-rated ones to determine whether or not they’re worth your money.

2020 Jayco Redhawk 26XD

2021 forest river cherokee arctic wolf 251mk, 2020 keystone montana 3781rl, 2020 heartland bighorn 3995fk, 2018 jayco 327ckts eagle.

Table of Contents

RVs and Travel Trailers for Winter: What To Look For

4 season RVing differs from traditional summer RVing in many respects. If you’ve never experienced it before, you might not understand which features translate well to colder climates. Here are the ones you should pay closest attention to when making a decision.

For this type of camping, you’ll need a rig that’s properly insulated. Look for the highest R-value available if you’ll be using the RV in colder climates. For campers, the R-value should be around a 10 for the walls and a 20 for the ceiling. Often, the company will advertise an “arctic package” or something similar. This means that extra insolation can be included for an additional price.

There are three different types of insolation for RVs and travel trailers: spray foam, foam board, and fiberglass.

Spray foam uses a combination of chemicals to create a compound that will harden once the foam has been applied. Because it can expand to cover hard-to-reach corners, it’s an efficient option for the lower portion of the RV, where the floor and water tanks are located. Most manufacturers will restrict its use to these areas.

Foam board is a more popular choice, one that’s present in many RV models. It’s made up of panels that are built into the walls and ceiling. Because it’s water-resistant and flame-retardant, it can help to extend the life of the camper by reducing the risk of damage due to condensation.

Fiberglass used to be more popular, but time has not been kind to this method. Although it’s cheap and easy to install, it’s also prone to water damage. That makes it more susceptible to mold, which spells death for the panels–once they’re moldy, you’ll have to replace them immediately.

As a final note, pay attention to the windows—where they’re located and how many there are. Features like skylights might seem appealing in the summer, but when the weather turns, they’re just another way that heat can escape. The best 4 season RVs will windows that can be well-sealed to keep the living space warm when the wind is howling outside.

This is something you wouldn’t pay a great deal of attention to if you planned to store your RV during the cooler months. For year-round camping, however, you’ll want to make sure the furnace cranks at l east 30,000 BTUs.

The plumbing system should be equipped with a special heating feature to keep the pipes from freezing. You should also plan on adding RV antifreeze to the system by pouring it down the shower drain and flushing it down the toilet. For obvious reasons, this trick won’t work for the freshwater tank. If the water tanks don’t have a heating function, you’ll need to pack your drinking water separately.

Because ice and snow can damage the slide-out mechanisms, it’s a good idea to steer clear of them when possible. Using them in the winter also allows more cold air to seep in. If the trailer does have slide-outs, look for the ones that have awnings attached. These will help to prevent snow and ice damage.

While we hate to address the elephant in the room, it must be said: RVs and travel trailers that are designed for cold weather camping don’t come cheaply. You can expect to spend more on a 4-season travel trailer than you would for a 3-season unit. However, keep in mind that winter campers will give you a greater return on your investment in the long run.

5 Tips For Camping In Colder Weather

There are a few other precautions you can take when you’re braving the elements in your RV. Here are some of the hacks we’ve learned over the years:

• Park with the front or the rear of the trailer facing the wind, rather than broadside.

2. Try to find a parking spot that has some type of wind barrier in front, like a building or a row of trees.

3. When you’re at a campground, use the bathhouse as much as possible to cut down on the amount of gray water you generate. You’ll also conserve power this way.

4. Clean the exterior vents well before setting out.

5. Also, make sure the batteries are fully charged and all the tanks are full.

Pack plenty of warm clothing and blankets, just in case the power fails.

Best RVs and Travel Trailers for Winter and Cold Weather: Product Review Guide

A class C motorhome with splendid ambiance, the Redhawk 26XD is custom-made for chilly nights. Measuring just under 29 feet in length, it’s small enough for novices to handle yet roomy enough to offer the ultimate in camping luxury.

A queen-sized bed in the rear is supplemented by a sturdy bunk in the cabover and a pull-out sofa with plump cushions. What with the wardrobe in the bedroom and the storage space available beneath the dinette benches, you’ll have plenty of room for all your gear.

The bathroom is small but serviceable, with a stall shower in addition to the sink and toilet. A three-burner stove, refrigerator, and double sink make up the kitchen facilities.

With foam board insulation and a 31,000 BTU furnace, you’ll stay nice and warm in the Redhawk 26XD. Thanks to the patio awning, you should be able to get good use out of it during the summer months as well. The unit comes with a hefty price tag, but if you’re enthusiastic about year-round camping, it’s a bargain.

Manufactures Website

The Cherokee Arctic Wolf 251MK is one of the most luxurious models in our roundup. With its comfortable theater seats, high ceilings, and electric fireplace, it’s more than just a place to sleep–it’s a true home away from home.

A queen-sized bed dominates the sleeping area, which also includes a sizable wardrobe. The bathroom sits adjacent to the bedroom and features a stall shower, sink, and toilet. The door to the bathroom is configured so that it’s just as accessible from the living area as it is from the bedroom. A three-burner stove, farm-style sink, refrigerator, and microwave round out the kitchen facilities.

Be aware that the Arctic Wolf 251MK sleeps just four people, so it’s not suitable for larger families. Couples or families with just one or two children, meanwhile, will be pampered and cozy in this model.

Outdoor enthusiasts who love to cook will gravitate toward this luxury fifth wheel. The kitchen includes an 18-cubic foot refrigerator and a separate island for prep, in addition to a giant pantry. A convection microwave and three-burner cooking range round out the options. With a kitchen like this, you might feel as if you’ve never left home.

The perks don’t end there. The Montana 3781RL features an electric fireplace, a bathroom with dual sinks and a large stall shower, and a sleeping area with a queen-sized bed. The sofa can be converted into a bed also, and the free-standing dinette is the perfect place to gather in the evenings. When you invest in the Four Season Living package, you’ll get insulated in-floor water lines, dual attic vents, and heated and insulated holding tanks and dump valves.

Despite its size, this fifth wheel has a sleeping capacity of just four people. If you happen to have four people who like to spread out, however, they’re in for a treat.

The Heartland Bighorn 3995FK is outfitted with a furnace that cranks out a whopping 40,000 BTUs, which should be enough to keep you toasty even on the coldest January nights. While it lacks the frills of some models listed here, the layout is impressively designed and quite spacious for a fifth wheel camper trailer.

You may never want to get out of the huge, plush king-sized bed, situated in a rear sleeping area that also includes a roomy wardrobe. The bathroom is easily accessible from the sleeping area, with an oversized shower and a floor that sits level so there’s no danger of tripping over the threshold.

The kitchen offers an 18-cubic foot refrigerator and a three-burner cooking range with a built-in oven in addition to the microwave. Best of all, the walls have an R-value of 11, while the floor and ceiling are rated at a cozy 38.

This unit sleeps up to six people, but we think that’s pushing it–five would probably be our limit if given the choice. There’s plenty of room for everyone to gather, though, and the durable construction and powerful furnace make this an excellent choice for roughing it in chilly climates.

Jayco stocks many quality units, and this one is especially well suited for wintry expeditions. The 2018 model ranks so high on the cozy scale, you’ll want to become a full-timer–that is, if you aren’t already.

The bathroom in the Eagle model is larger than you might expect from a fifth wheel trailer, with a linen closet, sink, shower, and toilet. The kitchen facilities are impressive, too, with a hutch and oversized 21-cubic foot refrigerator.

The bedroom sports not only a queen-sized bed, but a walk-in closet and washer-dryer combo. Reclining chairs and a plush sofa round out the comfortable living area.

If you’re hoping to take the 327CKTS out year-round, you should invest in a cold-weather package with a tankless water heater and double-pane windows. Once the rig is equipped with all these goodies, you’ll be ready for any type of weather they can dish out.

In Conclusion

All of the campers listed above are quality 4 season models, designed to keep you warm when the icy weather sets in. Which one you choose depends on your budget, the the size of your party, and the amenities you prefer. Using the guidelines we’ve mentioned should help point you in the right direction.

Best of luck, and happy camping!

Check out our article on: How To Keep RV Pipes From Freezing While Camping

Please keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

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How to Build or Buy the Best Winter Camper

By TAXA Habitat Specialists \ January 13, 2022

Winter is upon us, and family vacations are in the mix. For many, this means strictly staying indoors, whether traveling is involved or not. Others seek to embrace the cold with the help of an adventure vehicle . With this in mind, there are some key measures to take when battling the cold in the wilderness, namely picking the right habitat in which to keep warm. Choosing the right vehicle for the family can be all the difference to not only their comfort, but how enthusiastically they interact with the outdoors. While your choice and criteria will be subject to your specific needs, here are some considerations to keep in mind when looking for a trailer for your next winter expedition.

What size vehicle makes the best winter camper?

Let’s start off with the foundation of your expedition, the vehicle itself. These types of trips with multiple people exploring the wilderness usually come down to two camps of people (no pun intended): Those who use a smaller RV, and those who use a travel trailer.

A class C RV is a type of motorhome defined by its middle ground in size between class A and B vehicles. Most class C’s merge a cutaway van chassis with the rest of the home. While typically not as luxurious as class A models, class C RVs are generally thought to be easier to maneuver, and a more economical option to boot.

On the other hand, people define travel trailers less by a specific size and more by how they are towed. Travel trailers require a hitch to attach to a car or truck. They have no mobile function on their own and as such, their characteristics vary wildly. For the sake of simplicity and comparison, we’ll be using the TAXA Mantis as a realistic travel trailer option that a family might use.

If you already have a TAXA and need to prepare it for the cold weather, check out our step-by-step guide for this process .

Space comparison

Obviously, adequate space is a requirement for any family outing. Kids and parents alike need personal space to keep spirits high. Not only that, but a robust footprint enables families to bring all the essentials to stay warm and play hard. Cold-weather items are generally bulky, so having enough storage for everything you need is important.

Class C RV:

• Sleeps 4 to 8 people
• Typically between 21 and 33′ long
• Between 1,000-1,500 of cargo capacity

Mantis Travel Trailer:

• Sleeps 4 comfortably, potential to add 3 or more with additions like a rooftop tent or bunkbed system
• 1,028 cargo capacity

Heat capabilities

Maintaining a comfortable temperature indoors is essential to keeping the family charged up and ready to explore. While layering and having warm drinks on hand will play a role in this, the habitat itself will most likely do the heavy lifting. Power sourcing proves the most influential here, so you’ll need adequate power to keep the main furnace working while also fueling supplemental heat sources.

• Electric or gas furnace depending on the model
• Battery-reliant electrical system
• 2-3 days of electrical capacity with multiple batteries and moderate use
• Truma Combi Eco Furnace & Water Heater System
• Battery-powered electrical system, and many travel trailers (including Mantis) feature a solar-powered inlet
• 2-3 days of electrical capacity, potential for 7 plus days off-grid power with adequate sunlight for solar power

Family-friendly extras

Equally important, different vehicles flaunt different living amenities. Generally speaking, a class C RV and a larger-sized travel trailer should have at least the basics. Families need some way to make and store food and also require some method of bathing and using the restroom. Further, most vehicles include some space to interact and encourage social activity.

• Internal wet bath
• Full galley kitchen
• Small living area with stationary furniture
• Small living area with modular furniture, convertible seating for 6

Rugged limitations

Another consideration for the differences between an RV and a travel trailer is their terrain limitations. A class C RV can visit traditional campsites, but many travel trailers like Mantis have much more robust suspension and impressive ground clearance to get to harder-to-reach spots. The Overland versions of our campers boast even higher clearance for more versatility and access. Due to these modifications, Mantis and its overland version can safely travel over much more rugged terrain than an RV, expanding the number of potential destinations your family can visit.

Drivability challenges

Some drivers might not feel safe or comfortable maneuvering a 30′ vehicle like a class C RV. While towing a trailer is also tricky, this arrangement allows you to at least drive from the comfort of your traditional vehicle.

Price difference

A class C RV typically ranges between $75,000 – $100,000. It also carries other potential expenses like storage costs or extra money spent on gas. A travel trailer represents one of the more reasonable price options in the family-sized recreational vehicle market. The TAXA Mantis, for example, retails at $46,000. It also fits in most 7′ garages and weighs in under 3,000 lbs, keeping fuel costs to a minimum.

Additional winter camper features to look for

As you can see, there are pros and cons to each of these common options and a decision will depend on your priorities and interests. However, there are a few features or factors that are necessary for winter adventures , no matter what vehicle you choose. These are features that you should look for when purchasing, or keep in mind to upgrade individually later.

Comprehensive heating system

Interior heating elements are essential for fighting off the cold while living in a travel trailer. While smaller plugin elements help a bit, a climate-controlled master furnace is essential for comfortable temperature regulation overnight. Interior kitchens also provide lots of heat for short periods of time and hold a distinct advantage over exterior pull-out kitchens.

For instance, TAXA’s Cricket and Mantis both boast interior kitchens as well as the Truma Eco Furnace & Water Heater System. The Truma runs on both gas and electric for a quick, efficient, and safe hybrid approach to heating a vehicle, so you never have to worry about going cold.

Reliable power supply

A consistent power supply is vital while exploring in cold climates. Even if certain heating elements on the vehicle run on gas, many of these still require some sort of electrical input to function correctly. Not to mention, supplementary accessories such as space heaters or pads absolutely need electrical power.

Thus, the best cold-weather travel trailer should have multiple solutions in place to keep electricity flowing, in case it’s overcast or you run out of propane. When it comes to TAXA’s offerings, all of our travel trailers come with pre-wired solar input and run on swappable batteries so you have peace of mind.

Plenty of storage

Staying warm is important while out in the cold. However, it’s far from everything — in fact, storage capacity is often a more critical factor in cold weather trips.

Just think about it. Low temperatures attract bulk. Coats, jackets, and blankets all take up more space than their warm-weather counterparts. Bringing along heaters or firewood only adds to the problem further. This also doesn’t account for any extra sporting equipment common among cold weather trips such as skis, snowboards, or helmets.

With that said, the best cold-weather travel trailers have a robust storage capacity. This provides explorers with adequate layering options as well as the opportunity to bring gear for specific activities if desired. If you’re considering our Mantis , it once again excels in this area. With over 1,000 lbs of cargo capacity and roof rack options for bulky items up top, there’s no shortage of space for getting everything comfortably packed.

Experience the outdoors without freezing

The best cold-weather travel trailers battle the cold through functionality. They equip explorers with multiple power solutions to keep all heating strategies operational and employ robust heating elements within the trailer itself. The vehicles also have plenty of room for any and all cargo necessities despite the bulk of cold-weather items.

We at TAXA prefer a functional approach to vehicle design, with our goal being to build thoughtful mobile habitats and other equipment that facilitate connections with nature. If a travel trailer ready for the outdoors (and equipped for snow or sun) sounds like what you’re looking for, our Mantis and Cricket campers might be everything you need and more. Both are spacious options with pop-up roofs, with plenty of features to keep you comfortable — but not too far away from nature. Talk to one of our habitat specialists today!

Best Insulated Travel Trailers (RV) For Hot And Cold Weather

by Glynn Willard | Dec 29, 2023 | Fulltime RV Living | 0 comments

Last Updated on 03/31/2024 by Glynn Willard

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The two most important reasons for seeking a travel trailer (or any RV) with the best insulation are:  

• Maintain the comfort of the RV’s interior.
• Minimize the use of your air conditioner in the summer or minimize heat loss in the winter.

  No doubt, you want to be comfortable. But I bet most of you want to save money too!

Let’s explore the best travel trailers or fifth wheels for hot weather and cold temperatures.

Why did I write this article?

I grew up in the 80’s with a father who specialized in building super-insulated efficient homes.

I learned a few things.    

Types Of Extreme Weather Conditions For An RV

The desert can get hot even in the shoulder seasons.

But some of us prefer to move away from the RV crowds, which means our rigs need to have better insulation.

My family learned early on that if you have an all season trailer and stay in “less than perfect” weather, you end up with more boondocking locations from which to choose.

The same applies If you stay in RV parks or campgrounds.

We chose not to stay in the extremes, but rather to push further into the shoulder seasons.

Some individuals enjoy “full-on” winter camping. Camping in the cold of the winter months is not for us.

However, some considerations need to be addressed when shopping for a cold-weather travel trailer.

We’ll address those in a moment.

One important note: the best RV for winter camping is also the best RV for extreme heat.

The only difference is the direction of heat transfer.

As long as the RV comes with the right kind of extra insulation and windows, it will function well in extreme cold and heat.  

Heat Transfer As It Relates To An RV

So in the winter, warm air is trying to get out of your RV.

And during the summer, the warm air is trying to get into your RV.

Technically, it’s always trying to reach thermal equilibrium between the boundary of the inside and the great outdoors.

This boundary includes your exterior walls, windows, roof, and underbelly.

Each one of those boundaries varies in its building materials and insulation.

In most RV’s the weakest points are the windows and window frames. Especially if the trailer only came equipped with single-pane windows.

One also has to consider the thermal conductivity of the materials used in your RV’s build.

In other words, how much heat transfer occurs through the aluminum studs in the wall or ceiling?

If you place a thermal imaging camera in front of an RV, you’ll see the skeletal outline of the studs and rafters.

Aluminum studs have a relatively high thermal conductivity and are technically referred to as a thermal bridge.

In other words, you will experience heat moving toward cold through the aluminum wall studs.

I’m not sure if any RV manufacturer utilizes a thermal break, which blocks the aluminum from the interior and exterior layering.

It’s worth exploring.  

Important Aspects Of An RV For Weather Extremes

• Smaller floor plan, i.e., the less living area to heat or cool, the easier it is to on the HVAC systems.
• Insulated and heated underbelly to prevent your water lines, fresh water tanks, and holding tanks from freezing. Most of the manufacturers featuring an extreme weather package come with an enclosed underbelly.
• A heavily insulated roof since a lot of heat is lost through the roof in the winter. Look for the highest R factor in the roof that you can find if winter camping is your intention.
• Dual pane windows that are tinted to keep sunlight to a minimum.
• A robust heating system (propane furnace) and air conditioning system. Especially for larger floor plans of a fifth wheel.
• Ability to apply RV skirts during the winter. This helps prevent the winds from harsh weather from freezing your underbelly.
• Holding tank heaters also helps to prevent your water systems from freezing. They’re usually standard with a cold weather package.
• Solar panels to keep your battery bank topped off since you’ll be relying a lot on your electrical systems to heat or cool your rig.

  Just because a trailer has a heated underbelly, doesn’t mean it’s adequately insulated.

Many manufacturers will state the RV is “four-season” by adding tank heaters even though it’s poorly insulated.

Your priority is great insulation all around the rig!  

Types Of RV Insulation

  Not all RV’s insulation is created equally.  

Fiberglass insulation:

  As far as I’m concerned, fiberglass insulation has no place in any kind of RV. It settles, is useless when wet, and is prone to mold.

Closed cell rigid foam

A cut out of ORV’s insulated walls.

Reflective foil

Spray foam insulation, rv hvac systems.

  Sure, you can purchase the largest air conditioning system possible.

Or the highest BTU furnace, but you’re just going to spend more money and resources if your trailer is poorly insulated.

Let’s look at the options available for heating and cooling your RV.  

There’s more than one heat source option for an RV:

Our smallest space heater could run off our Bluetti.

Electric Space Heater:

Electric fireplace:, diesel heater:.

  You can learn more about electric space heaters in an RV in our article:

Can You Safely Use An Electric Space Heater In An RV?

Several options to produce cool air:

Standard roof-mounted air conditioner:.

  Just about every travel trailer amongst the popular choice brands comes with a roof-mounted air conditioner.

Conventional in-window air conditioner:

  Yes, there are a few RV manufacturers that use this style, but it’s not common.

Mini split system:

Electric fan:, not sure what you need for your rv.

Things That You’ll Actually Use In Your RV

Essential Tools You Should Have For Any RV

Essentials For Boondocking

RV Manufacturers With True Four-Season Travel Trailers (For Most Budgets)

  Some luxury travel trailer manufacturers build true “live aboard” RVs with great insulation.

One such is Living Vehicle, but the price point is too high for the average consumer.

Although they do build an amazing trailer that checks all the boxes!  

Outdoors RV

Photo Credit: Outdoors RV website

It’s well insulated and equipped for both hot and cold weather, but it’s heavy.

I would not tow an ORV with anything smaller than a 3/4 ton pickup.  

Northwood Arctic Fox

Photo Credit: Arctic Fox/Northwood

These campers are also well insulated and equipped for both cold and hot weather, but again, they’re heavy.

The same applies about using a 3/4 ton pickup to tow at a minimum.  

Oliver Travel Trailers

Photo Credit: Oliver Travel Trailers

This is not bad, but if you have a family of four or more, Oliver Campers will not accommodate that number of people yet.

We reached out to them and building a bigger unit is on their radar, so stay tuned.

Thermal pane windows (double pane windows) are incorporated into the construction for a high R-value (for a window).

Overall, I believe this is the best travel trailer for both hot and cold environments.

But again, it’s only suitable to sleep three or fewer for now.  

Photo Credit: Lance Camper

They offer lightweight units that sleep four, which is a bonus.  

My Pick For The Best Recreational Vehicle For Cold Climates

  For winter weather, I’d go with Arctic Fox if there are more than three of you and Oliver Travel Trailers if there are three or fewer of you.

Oliver Travel Trailers has a better-than-average build quality that focuses on efficient climate control.

If they produced a unit that slept four, they would be my first choice for winter camping.  

My Pick For The Best Travel Trailers With A High R-Value For Hot Outdoor Air

  This is a toss-up between Outdoors RV and Oliver Travel Trailers. The deciding factor comes down to the number of family members who will be staying in the trailer.

If you have four or more, Outdoors RV is very well insulated and built like a tank! But it’s heavy.

If there are only two of you, Oliver Campers is a great option for camping in high temperatures.  

Our Experience With Our Outdoors RV

Otherwise, we were very impressed with how cool it stayed in the heat and how warm it stayed in the winter months.

I wasn’t too happy with the loose fiberglass insulation in the floor.

​Our P-trap loosened in the shower and leaked into the underbelly. It didn’t take long to realize that the fiberglass creates a real mold potential.

Regardless, we didn’t have any big problems with our ORV. Perhaps we just got lucky.

But over 35k miles in a short period puts any travel trailer through its paces.

It stood up to the challenge and asked for more!  

Craving Video?   Visit Our Channel

Wrapping Up The Best RV For Extreme Temperatures

• A lot of quality insulation all the way around the RV. Specifically high-density rigid foam and a reflective material.
• Dual-pane windows to accommodate for the “weakest link” in the chain.

  Oliver Travel Trailers is a newer company with a completely different take on RV construction.

And I’m impressed! We reached out to them to inquire about plans for a larger unit to accommodate more sleepers.

It’s on their radar and in talks to build a bigger trailer. Keep an eye on this company.

They’re doing it right!

If you have a family of four or more and prefer to boondock in all seasons, Outdoors RV is your best choice.

One last point to mention.

Arctic Fox and ORV trailers are heavy. Make sure you have the appropriate tow vehicle.

Lance and Oliver trailers weigh less but still make sure you pay close attention to the tongue weight of a loaded trailer.

Which travel trailer has served you well in extreme weather?   Meet the author.   We appreciate any help in bringing you great content. Donate or buy us a coffee on our Ko-Fi site . Or subscribe to our YouTube Channel .

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Can Travel Trailers Be Used for Winter Camping?

Published on October 21st, 2020 by Ray & Tammy Roman This post was updated on October 5th, 2023

So you’re thinking of using your travel trailer for winter camping? Yes, you can use it. But don’t try until you learn what you need to know about cold weather RV living.

Although fifth wheels and travel trailers can be used in fall camping weather , and winter, too, they work better and keep you more comfortable if they have cold weather camping accessories. In this article, we discuss:

• What is a four season RV?
• What to ask when buying a winter camper.
• Must have winter RVing upgrades and accessories
• The best fifth wheels and travel trailers for winter camping

What is a Four Season RV?

There’s no arguing that fifth wheels and travel trailers with a four-season accessory package are the best choice for winter RVing. These are the kind of cold weather travel trailers that can be used throughout the year. But four season RVs are even better in winter. This is because their underbelly is better insulated and heated.

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Unfortunately, there is no RV industry standard definition of a “ four-season RV” arctic package . All manufacturers define “four season RV” differently.

Winter Camping Upgrades

The best four season travel trailers have cold weather camping features like:

• Added insulation in ceiling, floors, and walls
• A heated and enclosed underbelly
• Dual pane windows
• High btu furnace with floor or wall ducting
• Pex pipe plumbing (expands if water freezes)
• Additional (or larger) propane tanks
• The best RV generator and/or extra RV batteries

RVs with these “four season” features help keep you warmer in cold temperatures. The majority of campers are not outfitted with these features. And without them, using your travel trailer in winter means you are only comfortable when the weather gets as low as 40 degrees. You may find yourself at the nearest hotel if the temperature drops lower.

Let’s dive into the details about four season RV accessories:

Enclosed and Heated Underbelly

If you can see holding tanks underneath your camper, you should not use your trailer for winter RV camping. A four season travel trailer has an enclosed and insulated underbelly to protect tank contents from freezing.

Heated Water Connections

In a four season travel trailer, water lines run through an inner compartment which keeps them from freezing during cold weather. Some water lines are heated. Others can be wrapped in heat tape purchased from RV parts dealers. You can also purchase heat tape to protect the potable water supply that fills your freshwater holding tank.

Dual Pane Windows

The windows on your travel trailer for winter RV camping should be dual pane windows. These windows literally have two layers to provide better protection from the cold. The extra layer prevents cold air from passing through.

Word of Caution – Dual pane windows sometimes crack. Air gets trapped between layers, and the windows fog up. This is a costly repair. Having said that, many RV owners will not get any other type of window for their campers.

Ducted Heating System

An RV with a ducted heating system prevents cold spots inside the camper. If the air ducts are spaced appropriately, they can create a comfortable, even temperature throughout the interior of your RV.

One thing to watch out for is loose connections in the ductwork. This allows heated or air-conditioned air to escape. Regularly inspect your HVAC and associated ductwork to keep warm air inside your camper.

Skylight Insulators

Insulated skylight covers keep cold weather from seeping into your camper. They also protect pumps and generators and any gear you may have stored in the pass-through storage compartment.

Unlike copper or solid plastic pipe, Pex pipe expands if water was to freeze in them. Once the water thaws, Pex pipes are not likely to have any ruptures, cracks, or leaks.

Robust RV Furnace

If your RV only has an air-conditioner and heat pump you’ll quickly find out that setup is inadequate when the temperature drops below 32F. The heat will simply not generate enough heat to keep the RV warm.

Look for an RV furnace that can provide 30,000 BTUs, and that is connected to a good heat duck system that will distribute the heat evenly throughout your camper.

A custom RV skirt you make or buy prevents cold air from passing underneath your camper. Once installed, it prevents cold floors and stops cold air from seeping in through openings under the camper. RV skirting can be permanent if you don’t move your RV.

Top questions for four season RV Buyers

Whether you buy an RV for winter camping , or to enjoy all year long, it’s critical to know how and where you intend to use the RV. These questions can help you get the answers:

• Are you planning on long winter camping trips or short ones?
• Will other people live in the RV with you?
• Do you want to try winter boondocking ( dry camping )? Or will you get full hookups (power, water, sewer) at an RV campground?
• Will you take your trailer off-road in remote, rugged areas?
• Is full-time living something you want to do?

Your answers to these questions will help you determine your must have features in a four season travel trailer.

Best 5 Travel Trailers for Winter Camping (and Fifth Wheels Too)

Once you understand your RV living style, it’s time to shop for a four season RV. Below are five travel trailers and fifth wheels designed to be used in all four seasons. They all meet the minimum criteria we discussed above. Some go above and beyond, and we’ll point those out.

Northwood Manufacturing Arctic Fox North Fork

At the top of our list of the best four season travel trailers for winter camping is the Arctic Fox North Fork by Northwood Manufacturing. The Arctic Fox is available in 6 different floor plans, including three dual-entry travel trailers. They range from 29′ 5″ to 38 ‘ 11″.

Northwood’s 4-Season Package includes a fully insulated holding tank, enclosed knife valves to keep them from freezing, and various residential quality insulation such as Rigid Foam, Batten & Reflective Foil.

Here are some additional Northwood 4-Season Package features:

• Auto-ignition furnace – (25K to 30K BTU depending on floor plan)
• High-density foam block insulation
• R-15 Reflective Foil Insulation in Roof / Slide
• Heated holding tanks
• Frameless Thermal Pane Windows
• Extra Large Fridge (10 Cu Ft) w/ Cold Weather kit

Overall the Arctic Fox is a great travel trailer you can use in the winter just about anywhere.

Heartland Elkridge 5th Wheel

The Heartland Elkridge 5th wheel is a 4-season camper with great features and amenities. It is available in 6-floor plans.

These are well-made luxury four-season 5th wheels with features such as Amish-crafted cabinetry, solid surface countertops, lots of storage space, and all have one or more slideouts for extra space.

When it comes to its four-season preparedness, the Heartland Elkridge does not disappoint. For instance, the 37 Bar included the following:

• 35,000 BTU furnace
• R11 Rvalue for the wall insulation
• Heated and enclosed underbelly
• R-38 Rvalue for the floor insulation
• R-40 Rvalue for the roof insulation
• Azdel laminated sidewalls.
• Ducted heating system

Overall the Heartland Elkridge is a great 5th wheel for all-season camping. The features and amenities that come with it are hard to beat, and the luxury interior will make you feel right at home.

Outdoors RV Mountain Series

When manufacturing a 4-season travel trailer right out of the box, no one comes as close as Outdoors RV . Their Mountain Series has been built to withstand the rigors of the cold climate in the Mountain States and Western Canada.

The Mountain series of campers is available in various floor plan classes.

• The Creekside class is under 6,000 lbs, with floor lengths ranging from 18 to 21 feet. There are 5-floor plans available in this class.
• The Timberridge class ranges in weight from 6,000 lbs to 7,750 lbs and has a floor length of 22-28 feet. There are 8 available floor plans in this class.
• The Blackstone class is over 7,000 lbs and has a floor length of 26-31 feet. There are 6-floor plans in this class.

The final class of the Mountain Series is Glacier Peak. These are 5th wheels and available in three floor plans.

The features that make the Outdoors RV Mountain Series 4-season are as follows:

• Mountain Extreme Thermal Pane Windows
• Triple-Layered Four Seasons Roof Insulation
• Fully Enclosed Heated Insulated Underbelly
• Insulation Wrapped Holding Tanks
• 1″ Thick Thermal Insulated Luggage Doors
• Thermal Insulated Bedroom Ceiling Vent
• XL Furnace for Extreme Camping Heat System
• Norcold (Refrigerator) Cold Weather Kit – Operation Down to – 0 F
• Exterior Shower Protected by 1″ Insulated Door
• Semi-Auto Winterization System

Outdoors RV is not one of the RV brands you don’t hear much about. But as you can see from the specs, they make excellent travel trailers for winter camping.

Keystone Montana

The Keystone Montana is a luxury 5th wheel that goes above and beyond regarding full 4-season specifications and their case testing.

The Keystone Montana is available in 17 different floor plans. Montana is solid with welded aluminum-framed walls and floors, 8-inch floor decking, seamless roto-cast holding tanks, laminated sidewalls, and a double-insulated rear wall.

Its 4-season fifth wheel features are just as impressive:

• 3″x 14″ in-floor straight line heat duct system (Four Season Living Package)
• 35,000 BTU Furnace (Four Season Living Package)
• 16,500 Btu heat pump on the main air conditioner (Four Season Living Package)
• 12V electric tank heaters (Four Season Living Package)
• Enclosed and heated low point drains (Four Season Living Package)
• Dual-pane frameless windows (Optional)
• (R-21) Insulated Main Floor
• (R-38 Equivalent) Radiant Technology Insulated Roof
• Enclosed, Insulated and Heated Underbelly
• Enclosed, Insulated and Heated Holding Tanks and Dump Valves

One of the more interesting things about the Keystone Montana is the testing it went through to determine its extreme cold-weather capabilities. After extensive testing, engineers discovered that the inside temperature averages 70 to 72 degrees in winter. That’s even when the outside temperature drops to -4 degrees.

Summary of Travel Trailers for Winter Camping

If you’re not going to winterize your RV for storage , but will try winter RV living instead, getting a four season RV that is properly equipped makes the experience more enjoyable.

Our four favorite travel trailers for winter camping are excellent units that can be used all year round, not just in winter. As I’ve said before, do your research since specifications can change on a particular RV, stay within your budget, and buy for your intended needs.

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After hearing many campfire stories about living in a travel trailer during winter, you decide it’s time to give it a try. From what you remember, a camping friend of yours used the same model you have, and they boasted that this RV is best for winter camping.

You’re packed up and ready to go for that ultimate winter RV adventure. You have your winter clothing, skis, and other essentials. You also equipped yourself with all of the ice fishing gear the blog post and sales rep recommended (even though part of you thinks she took you “for a ride” when you think about the sales receipt).

As a test, the night before you leave, you spend the night in your travel trailer at home to see how it handles the Detroit Metro Area’s temperatures in late January. By 2 a.m., with the RV heater at full tilt, three blankets, and thermal underwear, you’re ready to go back into your warm house to suffer the “I told you so” from your partner.

You contact your friend and tell them about your experience. They inform you they have the all-season upgrades and used other DIY (do it yourself) techniques to stay comfortable in the cold conditions. 

To avoid these mistakes, we’ll show you the 12 best ways to insulate a travel trailer for winter and other tips. These easy modifications will work for any RV, whether it has an all-weather package or not.

Do I Need to Add Extra Insulation to RVs and Travel Trailers?

RV manufacturers do their best, but motorhomes and travel trailers aren’t airtight. There are many points where air leaks out. Even when the seals and weather stripping are working correctly, RV insulation doesn’t have the same R-value (how well insulation restricts heat from passing through) as permanent built structures like homes or buildings.

Which Travel Trailers Have the Best Insulation?

The average R-value for RVs for the walls is R-7. Ceilings go as high as R-20, and floors are usually R-10. Insulation values at these ratings work well for containing the camping season in North America. American desert summers or the Canadian wilderness winters are too extreme for these R-values.

True all-weather RVs like the Heartland Bighorn 3375 fifth wheel would be better suited for these types of temperatures. The walls have a value of R-11, ceilings R-40, and floors R-38. Other winterization features make this coach ideal for winter.

RELATED READING

For more info about the best insulated travel trailers check out one of our articles below! – What’s Included in an RV Arctic Package? – 11 Best Extreme Cold Weather Campers

12 DIY Insulating Techniques for Your Travel Trailer

Not everyone is ready to buy an all-season RV, convert their coach, or want to replace their dream travel trailer so they can go winter camping. There are many ways to insulate your camper for the winter. The following insulating techniques will help you keep a camper warm in the winter and keep your wallet padded enough to enjoy the trip.

1. RV Skirting

RV skirting is any type of material that covers the open space between the ground and the sides of your coach. It can be a tarp material or corrugated aluminum. The best RV skirting for winter will keep the weather and (hopefully) small animals from nesting underneath your unit. Using heavy-duty snaps, ground stakes, or other methods will secure the skirting to the RV and the ground.

There is a brand new RV skirt on the market called AirSkirts . It is an amazing skirt system that is reusable, durable, doesn’t require drilling 400 holes in your RV to install snaps, doesn’t require staking or weighing the bottom down and it provides excellent insulation for the underside of your camper! You can learn more by clicking the picture below!

2. Seal the Windows

Windows are your number one source of leaks both in winter and summer. Sealing RV windows should be a top priority for extreme weather. Repairing window caulk with silicone and rubber conditioner for the weather stripping should be on your preventive maintenance list.

Check out our article below about the best window sealants so you can find the best sealant for your particular window: – Best Sealant for RV Windows – Leakproof Your RV!

3. Multi-Pane Windows

A more expensive approach is to replace your RV windows with thermal pane windows. These windows are dual pane with argon gas in between the glass. This harmless gas is an excellent insulator that prevents heat energy from flowing through the windows. You can buy them tinted or transparent. Companies can manufacture the windows custom to your RV’s measurements.

4. Window Coverings

Thermal pane windows range from $200-$500 each. More manageable alternatives are window coverings. There are different materials you can use to cover your windows that are just as effective. To insulate a camper trailer window, you can use: 

• Radiant foil sheeting
• Rigid foam board – Polyiso or XPS
• Plastic film
• Small area rugs

If you choose to cover your windows with a rigid foam board, there are two versions we recommend. Polyisocyanurate (polyiso) has a radiant film backing that insulates heat transfer and ultraviolet radiation. Extruded Polystyrene is more moisture-resistant than Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), so it will withstand condensation better. Check out our other recommendations .

When you attach these materials to your window, double stick tape, velcro, or 3M Command Hooks won’t ruin your walls. If you are going to use permanent attachments like screw-in hooks, screws, or nails, make sure you use a stud finder, and it’s going into wood. Newer RVs use aluminum framing around the windows to support the weight. 

For a deep dive into the best window coverings to keep your RV warm (or cool in the summer) check out our article called: – RV Window Insulation Tips for Summer and Winter

5. Shanty Airlocks

Some have solved the wind/mudroom issue by creating airlock-type structures outside their RV door. They use plywood to create a tunnel passage that extends the entryway. Foam weather stripping forms a seal against the RV and the shelter. It serves as a place to take of muddy boots and blocks the wind from coming through the door.

If you attempt this, do your research. Winter winds or the weight of snow and ice can collapse these structures, so build them well. You also want to make sure that wherever you’re set up, the property owners or campground allows it.

6. Gift Wrapping Your Door

Plastic sheeting is a great way to add a layer of protection around your door. A single sheet can create that extra thickness you need that stops the draft. Using a secure but easily removable tape to secure it works well. Double-stick tape is a reliable alternative too.

If the sheeting isn’t enough, using foam stripping around the edges will be that last line of defense that stops the invading cold. It comes in rolls and has an adhesive side to it. Make sure you stick it to the inside door frame and give it an hour or two to secure before you use the door.

7. Roof Vent Lids and Covers

According to the laws of thermodynamics, heat rises. If your roof vents aren’t sufficiently secured, your heat is going to find its way out through these openings. RV roof vent leaking can be shored up both externally and internally.

Roof vents tend to chip and crack with age. Constant exposure to weather conditions makes the plastic brittle. These roof vent lids are easily replaceable for under $20. The hardest part of replacing the vent lid is making sure it’s the correct size, so make sure you measure correctly.

Adding a vent cover that fits over the lid will further prevent air and water leaks. These triangular shaped components are designed to let the air out, not in when the lid is open. The caulking around them creates an additional seal around the vent area.

8. Vent Insulation Pads

Vent Insulation pads (also called pillows) fit into the interior of your ceiling vent. Better versions have a radiant foil side that faces the exterior. The stuffing inside the pad creates a thick barrier that prevents cold air from seeping in from the roof. A fast-food order from your favorite delivery service will pay for the pads for both of your vents.

9. Insulation Under the Mattress

In some travel trailers, there is a storage compartment under the bed and that compartment is not heated! So you have cold air right below your mattress.

If you’ve ever camped on a cold night with an innerspring mattress, you know those metal coils can magnify low temperatures. Other beds, like memory foam, have insulating properties that retain heat. If you’re not ready to make the switch, or you need something else to make use of your travel trailer in the winter nights, here are some great tips.

Adding an insulation layer under your mattress is a quick and easy way to block cold air from your storage bays or other places seeping into your bed. You can use radiant foil , rigid foam, or any other thick material.

10. Heated Mattress Pad

You can also purchase an RV mattress heating pad that goes under your mattress. It will keep you much warmer on those cold winter nights.

11. Sealing Up Slideouts

When fully extended, your slideouts have rubber weather stripping that creates a seal against the frame of the RV. To minimize air leaks, use an RV slideout conditioner on the stripping to keep the rubber pliable, so it forms the best barrier.

Adding door snake draft stoppers around the slideout edges gives you another layer of insulation. Door snakes are typically placed at the bottom of exterior doors to prevent cold air from coming through residential homes. Using them around your slideout will do the same thing. 

12. Insulating Your Storage Bays

All-season RVs have insulated storage bay doors and route heat through the storage bay basement. It creates a thick layer of warmth under your floor that makes heating more efficient and keeps your gear from freezing.

If you don’t have this feature, there are steps you can take to compensate. You can use XPS or EPS foam board to insulate your bay doors, subfloor, and storage walls. Many travel trailers have electrical outlets inside a bay for outdoor needs. Hooking up a small space heater can keep your storage area warm enough to keep things from freezing.

Make sure you place the space heater on a fireproof platform, don’t turn it up too high, and check on it often. The last thing you need is your RV catching fire. 

We wrote an entire article about RV skirting to help you find the best skirting DIY or commercial skirting for your RV. – RV Skirting for Winter – DIY or Brand Name?

Winter Camping Tips

Many of these insulating techniques will make your winter camping adventure a great experience. There are other things you can do to make your trip a successful one. Here are some best practices to avoid any problems.

• Before the cold weather hits, make sure your caulking and weather stripping are in the best condition possible. Recaulk with silicone and replace weather stripping if necessary.
• Winterize your plumbing, freshwater, and grey holding tank with anti-freeze RV liquid to prevent any damage. Here’s why winterizing your RV is so important
• Close up your A/C ducting vents to minimize unnecessary heating space.
• Use a tarp to cover the engine section of your motorhome. Doing this will prevent snow and ice from damaging essential components similar to putting sheets over furniture to protect the item from dust.
• Dump your black tank only when it’s full. You want to minimize the chance of the contents freezing up. Frozen pipes and holding tanks can be prevented when you know what to avoid.
• Use wooden blocks to prop up your stabilizer jacks and RV tires. Due to its insulation properties, wood won’t conduct the cold temperature into the coach.
• Use five-gallon jugs for your water inside your RV.  
• Protect your connected water hose with heat tape to prevent freezing damage. Just remember that most hoses are 25 feet long so be sure to buy the correct size for the length of your hose. If your hoses have frozen up, here’s how to safely get the water flowing again.

Electric Heaters and Other Appliances

Built-in RV furnaces produce a significant amount of heat to keep you comfortable. The average BTU an RV furnace puts out is 30,000. This measurement isn’t arbitrary. RV manufacturers have determined that it takes 1,000 BTUs to heat a linear foot in an RV. 

An RV furnace will run on propane for three hours on one gallon of propane if it continuously heats your coach. Therefore a 20-gallon propane tank will give you 60 hours. The good thing is all RVs with thermostats have temperature sensors with an auto-shutoff function.

In the winter, propane is more valuable than ever. It also runs your cooktop, water heater (if you’re using it), and refrigerator. Your RV furnace, while efficient, will drain your tanks within a week.

How to Heat a Camper Without Propane

 Using electric space heaters is a great alternative to heating your RV while winter camping. Their power demands are low, so your solar system, solar generator, or other power sources can keep them running for a long time.

If you decide to use a space heater in an RV, ceramic or infrared space heaters are the best choices. They’re portable, directional, and very affordable. Make sure you keep the ceramic heater in a safe place away from loose things that are sensitive to heat and don’t leave it unattended. Learn about more heating alternatives .

Running a dehumidifier in an RV is another technique to heat your travel trailer. Removing the moisture from the air speeds up the heating process. Drier air heats up (or cools down) faster than moist air. These devices are also energy efficient and cost-friendly.

For some great ideas to heat your travel trailer and keep warm while camping in cold weather check out our article below! – 10 Creative Ways to Heat a Camper and Stay Warm While Camping in Cold Winter Weather

Insulating Your Travel Trailer Keeps You Cool in Hot Weather Too!

We’ve focused our tips on winter conditions. Many of them translate for the summer heat. If you re-read the tips above, the key points focus on preventing your interior temperature from leaking outside and vice versa. So you can reduce your heating and cooling costs all year round!

It all boils down to sealing up weak points, keeping up with your preventive maintenance, and finding energy-efficient ways to keep the interior comfortable. College students that live in the residence halls aren’t the only audience for portable fans. Those living the RV lifestyle depend on them to keep the air circulating to reduce the strain on their A/C systems.

We hope you’re enjoying your RV adventures comfortably and can’t wait to see you down the road.

2 thoughts on “12 Best Ways to Insulate a Travel Trailer for Winter”

I have been having condensation freezing under insulation between wall of slideouts and insulation.

Any suggestions?

Hey Dom. i am no expert. but it sounds like you have a draft somewhere that is causing the condensation. as i am sure you know warm air and cold air are mixing. your rv probably has batting insulation as well that condensation lasts longer with due to water absorbing into it. check for any cracks in sealant/rubber to ensure there are no holes. may be time to re insulate with foam board. my trailer was full of this problem due to leaks. its all fixed now

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Best 4 Season Travel Trailer And RV Campers For Cold Weather Camping

• Last Updated: February 17, 2024
• 37 minutes read

A true four-season RV appeals to people who want to go beyond the fair-weather times of summer vacationing.

This might include things like fall leaf viewing trips, using an RV as a hunting base camp or getting out on the ice during the depths of the northern winter.

You might even be interested in taking a four-seasons-hardy RV on a high-altitude camping trip.

If these RV adventures sound like the sort of thing you are interested in, then you are likely looking for things like the best insulated 4 season travel trailer, a 4 season fifth wheel camper, of a cold weather-hardy motorhome.

W hich RV’s Are Truly Four Season ? These are the best 4 Season Travel Trailer and RV Campers  ideal for for all-weather camping.

• Jayco Redhawk 25R Class C motorhome
• Tiffin Wayfarer Class C Diesel Motorhome
• Keystone RV Montana Fifth Wheels
• Forest River Arctic Wolf Explorer
• Jayco Eagle Fifth Wheels 327CKTS
• The Heartland Bighorn
• The Ice Castle All Seasons Traveler
• Ice Castle RV Extreme Fish House/Travel Trailer
• Glacier A818RD
• Ice Castle American Eagle Fish House Trailer
• Highland Ridge Open Range Roamer

In this article we will take an in depth look at the kind of features you might want to prioritize in a 4 season travel trailer, camper, or motorhome.

Along the way you want to keep in mind that some of these units are geared to specific niche interests like ice fishing or public land hunting.

Just don’t let a niche interest turn you off to consider a particular model. The cold hardiness will serve you well when the mercury dips.

11 Best 4 Season Travel Trailer And RV Campers To Live In Year Round

1: jayco redhawk  25r class c motorhome.

Jayco is a titan in the RV industry with a wide range of 4 season camper units. They have built their reputation by designing with an eye toward quality and functionality, while also absorbing other smaller manufacturers into their line and tapping into the best of their best features. 

Their Redhawk is a Class C motorhome is one of the best four season class C RV available in several different floor plans.

It is constructed with what Jayco calls its “Climate Shield” weather protection system.

This gives it the insulation properties that you want to handle the cold in winter, as well as prevent the invasion of heat and humidity in the summer.

This Class C motorhome is built on a Ford frame with a reputation for durability and proven longevity.

The V10 engine also gives you the power to handle rough roads for times when you might want to take this RV off the grid for things like taking a hunting trip on public land.

The amenities and special features can vary depending on which of the six-floor plans you choose. In the middle of their line, the 25R is very appealing for a couple with a small family.

Specifications

• Gross Combined Weight Rating 22,000
• 30,000 BTU propane furnace
• A 55-gallon fuel tank
• Fresh Water Capacity 47 gallons
• Gray Water Capacity 41 gallons
• Black Water Capacity 32 gallons
• Ford 6.8L Triton EFI V10 engine
• Oversized 30″ x 36″ shower with a 6-gallon water heater

2: Tiffin Wayfarer Class C Diesel Motorhome

This is another Class C Motorhome that was designed with four-season travel in mind.

That being said, it has some bells and whistles like heated mirrors and 12-volt pad heaters for the water tanks. Yet they try to save weight and cost by not heavily insulating the underbelly.

This ultimately means that this all seasons rv can handle cold weather, in the mid-latitudes and at altitude during the summer.

Unfortunately, it’s not robust enough to handle upper midwestern or Canadian winters without additional modifications.

You could handle an overnight stay at sub-32-degrees, but I wouldn’t recommend pushing it beyond that without at least adding some level of insulation to the water lines, or putting anti-freeze treatment in the gray and blackwater tanks.

• Gross vehicle weight 11,000 pounds
• 13,000 BTU air conditioner
• 30,000 BTU propane forced air furnace
• Fresh Water Tank Capacity32 gallons
• Gray Water Tank Capacity 33 gallons
• Black Water Tank Capacity 27 gallons

3: Keystone RV Montana Fifth Wheels

The Keystone line of RVs is manufactured under the Thor Industries umbrella.

This is another cold weather rv manufacturer in the industry that continues to expand its market reach by developing quality RVs while merging with other smaller manufacturers to infuse their line with well-designed features.

This 4 season travel trailer has a robust heating and air conditioning system to handle both ends of the seasonal weather spectrum.

The tanks are also large, which allows you to stay off the grid for longer periods of time or Boondocking when winter RV parks might not be open.

The Montana is available in 22 different floor plans, and just like the big sky state it is named for, each has spacious accommodations.

The least expensive of the line, the 3120RL, rings in around $80,000. At the high end of the line, the 3740FK and the 3741FK are prices tagged at just under $93,000.

The sleeping spaces and special features of the Montana vary throughout the line. Still, even the most basic of their line feels on par with an efficiency apartment.

The highest end of their line could easily be mistaken for a luxury SUV for “Glamping.” Though most share some baseline construction specs.

If you want a four season RV that you can use off the grid for a hunting trip or base camp for a backwoods hiking adventure, yet you want to stay clean and comfortable, the Montana deserves a good hard look!

• Gross Combined Weight Rating: 12,000 to 14,000 pounds
• 35,000 BTU propane furnace
• 15,000 BTU air conditioner with the ability to accommodate upgrades
• Fresh Water Capacity 66 gallons (Insulated)
• Gray Water Capacity 88 gallons (Insulated)
• Black Water Capacity 49 gallons (Insulated)
• Insulated in-floor water lines
• 12-Gallon gas-electric water heater
• 75 AMP Converter with Charge Wizard technology
• Welded aluminum framed walls and floors with steel I-beam frame
• Laminated sidewalls with dual-layered luan
• Seamless 5/8-inch floor decking

4: Forest River Arctic Wolf Explorer

Forest River is another one of the giants in the RV industry with units to appeal to just about every interest.

They have become a trusted name for cold weather rv manufacturer who prioritize quality and thoughtful engineering.

Their Arctic Wolf shares much in common with the very popular Cherokee.

Yet it has some extra material characteristics and special features that set it apart and help it endure as a true four-seasons fifth wheel RV.

When shopping through the Artic Wolf floor plans, keep in mind that not all models have their proprietary “Elemental Protection Package.”

This helps insulate the interior spaces to reduce heat loss or to better retain air conditioning.

It also reduces the vapor exchange allowing you to better deal with humidity issues that can be a problem in dog days of summer.

• Unloaded Vehicle Weight 7,808 to 10,790 pounds. Approximate Average = 9,200 pounds
• 15,000 BTU air conditioner
• 35,000 BTU propane forced air furnace
• Elemental Protection Package
• Freshwater tank 49 gallons
• Graywater tank 70 gallons
• Blackwater tank 35 gallons

5: Jayco Eagle Fifth Wheels 321RSTS

As you might well imagine an RV giant like Jayco was sure to include a durable four-season fifth wheel camper in their line in the form of the Eagle.

This spacious 4 season fifth-wheel trailer is available in a wide range of floor plans, each with its own optional features and benefits. 

You will need at least a three-quarter-ton or one-ton pickup truck with a gooseneck trailer to tow this heavy beast.

There are multiple trim models and its available in seven different floor plans. Some allow you to sleep up to 8 people, while others are designed with plus amenities for a couple or perhaps a small family.

Like other four-season RVs in their line the Eagle is one of the best 4 season fifth wheel comes with their Climate Shield™ zero-degree-tested weather protection.

This 4 season fifth wheel includes things like an insulated underbelly as well as superior insulation in the ceiling and floor.

The fact that the underbelly is fully enclosed and insulated means you can keep it off the grid, in freezing temperatures without having to worry about the tanks slushing up or freezing.

• Unloaded Vehicle Weight 10,870 pounds
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 12,700 pounds
• Climate Shield™ zero-degree-tested weather protection
• Fully-enclosed and heated underbelly
• Double-layer fiberglass batt insulation in ceiling and floor
• Freshwater tank capacity 75 gallons
• 2 Gray water tank capacity respectively 50 gallons & 37 gallons
• Blackwater tank capacity 50 gallons

6: The Heartland Bighorn

Heartland is a subsidiary of Thor Industries that has been allowed to maintain its own brand identity while also being able to the RV giant’s high-quality materials, engineering, and components.

This ensures that you are getting a great product with the durability to keep you in comfort. 

It has superior R-Values rated in the specifications including:

• R-Value of the walls = R-11
• R-Value for the floor = R-38
• R-value of the roof = R-40

This level of insulation helps lock in the heat in winter and the air conditioning in the summer.

The Big Horn travel trailer is designed to handle most four-season weather.

Though you might need to take a few extra precautions in extreme winter weather where the temperatures dip below zero degrees Fahrenheit for multiple days.

The optional dual air conditioner upgrade package is also a nice touch if you need to tackle blazing heat and humidity during summer vacations.

There are several trim levels within the Big Horn moniker. Their “King of the Mountain” seems to be one of the most popular with four-season RV enthusiasts.

As the name implies it has a king-size bed, yet most optional packages include sleeping space for more.

• Dry weight 12,480 to 13,400-pounds
• Average GVWR  16,250-pounds
• YETI Cold Weather Package (Optional extra)
• 30,000 BTU furnace
• Two 30-pound liquid propane tanks
• Dual 15,000 BTU air conditioners
• 5,000 BTU electric fireplace
• 50 Amp built-in electrical system
• 80 Amp converter
• Freshwater tank 65 gallons
• Graywater tank 90 gallons
• Blackwater tank 45 gallons

7: The Ice Castle All Seasons Traveler

One could argue that this fifth wheel camper belongs in the ice/fish house category.

Yet, when you take a closer look at it, you see that it lives up to the name “All Seasons Traveler” as a camper that can occasionally travel out onto the ice.

The All Seasons Traveler is more geared towards families and groups of tradesmen who need a base camp to stay at while working projects in the coldest times of the year.

When paired with a heavy-duty generator it gives you the ability to live off the grid for up to a week without resupply.

It even has 12 and 110-volt outlets for times when you need to be off the grid or have shore power available.

If you want to ice fish during the depths of winter this might be a good unit to consider.

Though the 9,740 gross means that you can only really use it on the thickest of ice for something like 4 to 6 weeks out of the year and only in the most northern climes of North America.

If you work in the trades and you need to stay in comfort during a remote project, this is a great way to keep you and other workers comfortable.

• 32-feet by 8 feet
• Dual axle hydraulic frame
• Arctic insulation package
• 30,000 BTU forced air furnace
• 13,500 air conditioning with a built-in thermostat
• Fresh Water Capacity 15 gallons
• Grey Water Capacity 30 gallons
• Black Water Capacity 30 gallons
• Water Heater Capacity 6 gallons

8: Ice Castle RV Extreme Fish House/Travel Trailer with Arctic Insulation Package

This is a niche that started out to serve ice fisherman who wanted to live on the ice for long weekends, without having to go ashore.

Over the years the industry has seen rapid growth catering to those who want a 4 season travel trailer that can handle the worst that winter can throw at them, yet still, let you live in comfort during the summer.

Most are designed to be surprisingly lightweight, as their priority purpose is to be pulled out onto relatively fragile ice sheets.

Yet this also means you can pull a travel trailer of 18-feet or more behind a half-ton pickup truck!

• 25-feet by 8 feet
• Exterior Speakers w/Lights
• A/C w/Thermostat
• 3 Burner cook-top w/oven – Glass Door
• 19’ Lighted Power Awning

9: Glacier A818RD

Glacier has a wide range of ice house travel trailers that are designed to take anything an upper midwestern or Canadian winter can throw at it. When you aren’t using it for fishing, you simply leave to floor hatches in place.

Their A818RD cold weather RV is a staggering 18-feet long, and 96-inches wide with dual EZ-lube axles, and a 22,000-pound maximum cargo capacity yet it only has a dry Weight info 5,250.

The gross vehicle weight can vary depending on the floor plan and features you prioritize. The standard model has 3 bunks and sleeps up to 4 with 9-hole hatches in the floor.

This ice house camper was designed to let you ice fish in style, without having to leave the lake for the weekend.

Still it has the suspension and other features you need to take it with you in the summer for a family camping trip.

Just keep in mind that while the windows are braced for air conditioners, they do not come with it as standard.

• 30,000 BTU force air furnace
• Dual pane windows braced for air conditioners
• Enclosed battery box
• Multi-leaf suspension with ride suspension and dampening kit
• Trussed roof with seamless rubber to bear heavy snow load and waterproof
• Exterior floodlights
• The floor is ¾-inch Marine Grade plywood with marine-grade carpet

10: Ice Castle American Eagle Fish House Trailer

Ice Castle is one of the dominant and still fastest growing brands in the ice/fish house niche.

The American Eagle is one of their more popular cold weather travel trailer units that is just as at home on the ice as it is in an RV park at the edge of the Saguaro Desert in Arizona.

It rings in at just over 21 feet long, yet it is light enough to be supported on a single axle. The standard model can sleep up to five adults, and it has six hatch covers on the floor.

The spray foam insulation in the Arctic package offers superior insulation for deep cold. It also reduces vapor transfer during times of high humidity.

The rooftop air conditioner also speaks to the fact that Ice Castle designed the American Eagle is a true 4 season camper to handle summer trips just as well as they do the winter.

• Gross weight 5,240
• 90-inch sidewalls with fiberglass siding
• Spray foam “Arctic” insulation
• Rooftop air conditioner with thermostat

11: Highland Ridge Open Range Roamer

This is a relatively large travel trailer that Highland also offers in a fifth wheel floor plan. They designed it with their special “Four Seasons Package.

This includes superior R-Factor insulation in the walls, ceiling, and floor. The Open Range Roamer also has thoughtfully engineered ductwork connected to the forced air furnace.

Just bear in mind that this 4 seasons travel trailer is meant more for cool-season camping or winter at temperate latitudes.

If you need to camp in the desert in the spring or fall or spend a night at altitude, this is still a great option for keeping everyone nice and warm.

Just bear in mind that straight from the manufacturer it might not be insulated well enough to handle sub-zero temperatures.

It’s also worth noting that with an average gross weight over 10,000 pounds you will need to tow it with at least a three-quarter pickup truck. Preferably one with a diesel engine.

• GVWR or 10,400 pounds
• Length 32-feet
• 13,500 BTY air conditioner
• Fresh Water Tank of 50 gallons
• Gray Water Tank of 62 gallons
• Black Water Tank of 31 gallons
• ATWOOD® Next Gen 30,000 BTU High-Performance Furnace  
• Insulated baggage doors  
• Heated and enclosed dump valves on the water tanks
• Heated & Enclosed Underbelly w/4″ Duct -ZERO DEGREE TESTED  
• R-38 Reflective foil insulation in the ceiling  
• R-38 Reflective foil insulation in the floor  
• R-9 Insulation in the sidewalls

How Will You Use Your Four-Season RV?

To really dial in the type of four-season options you want to target you should take a few minutes to sit down and think the way you’ll use it most as well as the kind of weather you’ll be facing.

It helps to research the top destinations you are considering, factoring in the time of year, and the type of weather conditions your RV may have to face.

The following are some key questions you should try to answer When looking to buy a 4 season travel trailer or RV camper.

What’s the average and record high temperature?

This will help you gauge just how robust of an air conditioner you need . A large RV might need to frequently deal with high heat and humidity.

If so, then you likely need an air conditioner rated to 15,000 BTU’s or perhaps one that can accommodate a secondary air conditioner mounted in the window.

What’s the average and record low?

Winter snow and cold is typically the biggest challenge faced by four-season RV.

If you are going to frequently travel where the temperatures dip below 32-degrees Fahrenheit at night, or even stay below freezing throughout the day, you should prioritize a forced air furnace rated to produces at least 30,000 BTUs.

There are a few things that can help hedge your best in cold conditions. This includes things like:

• Underbelly insulation
• Tank heaters
• Double Pane, Thermal, or Argon glass

How Much Precipitation Will There Be?

Most RV’s are designed to handle a reasonable amount of summertime precipitation. A few can even handle a modest amount of snow.

Still, if you’re going to be traveling where extreme snowfall or heavy rains are a common problem, you might want to look for special features like reinforced hatch covers, or seamless rubber roofing.

These things help the roof do things like bear snow load or shed water quickly before it has a change to invade the interior of the RV.

Special features like this might not always come in an RV’s standard package, but a dealer might offer then as an optional extra.

If you do find a unit you love, but the roof is just basic sheet metal, you might want to ask the dealer if they have any weather proofing upgrades available. Some might be able to accommodate your needs for a nominal fee.

Will Ice Be A Problem?

Ice can cause traction issues on the road, which essentially robs your tow vehicle or the motorhome’s engine of the power it needs to move down the road.

If you are going to be traveling in a region where ice is a frequent issue, such as the mountains during the transition seasons, you might want to inquire about tire options.

While robust tires and chains won’t be necessary for a travel trailer of fifth wheel camper, they can make a world of difference for a tow vehicle or a motorhome.

Many motorhomes are rear wheel drive, which can “Break Loose” or “Spin out” on an icy road. This could be a major problem if you are driving up or down hill on icy roads.

Are There RV Parks That Are Open Year-Round?

You also might want to do some research into the kind of RV facilities that might be available during off-peak times of the year.

Even if you are thinking of traveling to past haunts you enjoyed in the summer, that same RV park might not be open during an off-peak time of year.

In a situation like this, or one where you intend to say use the RV for hunting or ice fishing, you might want to put a higher priority on a unit that has the ability to Boondocking .

This essentially means it can run off its own water and generate power for a significant period of time without the need to connect to municipal services.

Different Types Of Four Season RVs

When you hear the the term “Four Season RV” your knee-jerk reaction might be to think of a motorhome.

While there are some that are set up to handle the winter, there are fifth-wheel trailers, toy haulers , travel trailers, and even portable ice fishing shanties that deserve your consideration.

Four Season Motorhomes

Motorhomes are some of the most popular options for four season travelers and campers who want to get out despite the winter snows. They come in various classes and sizes.

Class A motorhomes are the largest of these models. Some have significant special features to keep you traveling and camping in the lap of luxury.

In some states, you need a special license endorsement to operate these behemoths of the road. So, make sure to include that in your shopping research.

Class B and C motorhomes tend to be smaller. Some can be as small as a camper van or a panel van conversion. Yet there are others that are large enough to rub shoulders with a Class A motorhome.

Four Season Fifth Wheel Campers

If you have a heavy-duty three-quarter ton or one-ton pickup truck, you might be in the market for a four season fifth wheel camper.

This large trailer is attached to a special gooseneck hitch mounted into the cargo box of the truck.

Some four-season fifth-wheel campers can feel a little stripped down and basic. Though there are a few that have enough special features to play with the word “Luxury.”

Four Season Travel Trailer

Depending on your specific interests, you might find yourself spoiled for a four season travel trailer choice in this market segment.

Manufacturers offering new units have taken to designing features that four-season RV enthusiasts need.

Though there are also units geared toward tradesmen, miners, and construction workers who need a place to live off the grid while working on remote projects.

In northern-tier states and parts of Canada, you can also find pre-owned models, that were originally designed to serve as a summer camper trailer, that someone converted themselves to handle winter conditions.

Though for our purposes here we’ll look at relatively newer models with manufacturer’s specs.

In this segment also resides so-called “Fish House” campers. Niche manufacturers in North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Maine, and Southern Canada produce units that are designed to cater to ice fishermen with families.

The philosophy behind these units is often described as “You can use a fish house to camp, but you can’t use a camper to ice fish.”

While they do appeal to a certain segment these units are also designed to be stout and warm in even the most severe of winter, off-the-grid conditions.

The one thing to bear in mind with these campers is that they generally don’t come with any type of air conditioning. Though some can be used to handle an RV window air conditioning unit.

Common Four-Season RV Questions 

Right off the bat, there are a few common questions you might want to keep in mind while you explore your four season RV options.

Important Materials And Construction Features To Look For In A Four-Season RV

A good forced air furnace or air conditioner is just the tip of the ice berg to look for when shopping for a four-season travel trailer or RV camper.

When we’re looking to buy a 4 season RV Things like insulation, windows, wind-proofing, waterproofing, hatch covers, pipe insulation, tank insulation, window qualities and even electronic braking system can all come into play.

This includes things like:

• RV insulation in walls, ceiling, and floor
• Underbelly insulation of tanks and pipes
• Window glass characteristics and structure
• The BTUs of a roof mounted air conditioner
• The ability to safely hold a window mounted air conditioner
• The plumbing features
• The size and features of the water tanks
• The BTUs of the furnace
• An electronic trailer braking system

How Important Is RV Insulation?

The effectiveness and overall efficiency of an RV air conditioning or heating system will be greatly affected by the quality of insulation in the walls as well as the ceiling.

Different manufacturers use different insulation strategies in their RVs . At the same time, newer models are more likely to have more thermally efficient materials.

It’s helpful to take a few moments to look into what type of insulation the four season travel trailer has in the walls.

Even if the manufacturer doesn’t immediately note what materials they used, you can still get a good idea of how well insulated it is by the R-Value rating.

In general, the higher the R-Value, the more thermally efficient it will be at holding warm air from the furnace as well as cold air from the air conditioning.

In certain conditions, R-Value can also help reduce the invasion from outside humidity.

The type of seals on the panels might also be a factor. Especially if you are considering an older “Pre-owned” model.

A poor seal or compromised gasket by a propane line can cause a significant air leak which could take a significant amount of air with it.

What Are the Benefits Of RV Skirting?

If you are going to be camping in spring through early fall, you probably won’t need skirting to keep the underbelly warm.

It would certainly help keep your toes warm, but in general, the cost of skirting , hauling it with you, and installing it won’t give you a big return on your investment during the fair-weather times of year.

On the more extreme end of the spectrum an Four Season RV that needs to serve as a mobile hunting shack, or a winter ice fishing house, will certainly benefit from skirting.

Anytime the temperature dips below 40 degrees or so, even the slightest puff of wind can start to rob heat from your floor.

In high winds, the windchill effect can be so great that it can even cause uninsulated pipes to freeze and make rubber gaskets brittle.

When it comes to skirts, there might be some Four Season RV manufacturers who might offer it as part of a “Special Package” or “Bundle.”

Even if your RV doesn’t come with skirting, you can still choose to build it yourself or buy it online.

Sourcing it through an online retailer tends to cost more per square foot for the materials.

Still, you have to weigh this against the value of the time it would take you to build it yourself.

Do-it-Yourself Trailer Skirting

There are a few different options to consider based on your budget, mechanical skill, and the materials available as well as the overall aesthetic appearance of your RV.

Some of the more popular options for homemade skirting include:

Insulation sheets attached to aluminum siding

Fiber-cement sheets

Vinyl sheeting with a wooden frame

Home exterior foundation insulation panels

Do I Need An Insulated Underbelly?

An insulated underbelly is an absolute must for the times when you stay in sub-zero conditions. At least if you intend to use onboard water and drainage.

You see as water freezes it gradually starts to expand. Even though it becomes solid ice at 32-degrees a minor amount of molecular expansion starts to occur at 39 degrees.

Once water enters its “Transition Phase” it can start to turn into slush, which can clog lines or hamper water pumps.

Left unchecked it could crack water lines, damage water pumps, clog freshwater and gray water tanks, or lead to other unforeseeable catastrophes.

An insulated underbelly is your best defense against these problems. Ideally, you want to look for a four-season RV that comes with an already insulated underbelly.

If not, there are things you can do to have one installed. Some dealers will even offer it as an upgraded service or can point you in the direction of a spray foam installer who can apply one for a modest fee.

What Types Of RV Windows Improve Thermal Efficiency?

Twenty or thirty years ago RV windows were pretty barebones. Many were little more than a single pane of glass or a flimsy sheet of plexiglass. ‘

If you were lucky a few of them would crank open for a little added airflow in the summer.

Some were just single panes of glass into vinyl tracks and you had to live with whatever breeze you could get.

Today, modern RV windows can potentially rival the windows you find in a home. Though you will most often find them trending on the cheaper side.

Just like the walls, the glass of a window and the seals can greatly impact thermal efficiency. Be prepared to be underwhelmed by some of the options you find on the marketplace.

There are a few different window options that you should keep an eye out for.

Double Pane, Thermal Glass or Argon Windows

These are common terms that you might see an Four Season RV manufacturer use to describe a window with two sheets of glass separated by a special gas like argon.

The exterior glass buffers against the cold or heat outside and one that helps to maintain the internal temperature.

Reducing the physical contact between the two panes reduces the heat transfer from interior to exterior.

If you have time to tour a showroom model, take a moment to look at the seals around the sills of the windows.

Are they hard plastic or vinyl, as vinyl tends to leak as they age. Also look for weather stripping to help maximize the seal potential. In the end, the best glass has little value if the seals around it leak.

Some type of window lock is also a bonus for safety, as well as minimizing leaks around the sealing edge of the sill. 

You might want to also prioritize an RV that has thick, or a reinforced window sill capable of holding a window air conditioner.

Many manufacturers are rushing these to market for people who want to stay where the temperatures can soar.

Just keep in mind that if you go this route, you will also need some type of onboard, or secondary generator to power the AC unit for more than a few minutes at a time. 

Does RV Roofing Matter?

The roof of an RV is just as important for a cold weather RV, if not more important than the walls. With some RV’s snow load can be a factor.

A major winter snowstorm can impact the structural integrity of an RV much the same way it can affect a house.

It might not necessarily mean that the snow will collapse the roof. Still, it could damage other things like the exterior air conditioning components, bathroom/plumbing vents, and hatch covers.

If possible, look for a travel that has things like “Heavy Duty” hatch covers, and vents.

Even if you fall in love with one that doesn’t, you might still be able to buy upgraded ones for relatively cheap.

A Tip For Dealing With Snow On An RV

Certain parts of North American like the front range of the Rocky Mountains or the Great Lakes Region, can drop enormous amounts of snow with little warning.

Keeping a roof rake of a push broom in the RV will allow you to clear snow that accumulates before you set off the next day.

Driving off with a major load of snow and ice could damage vents and hatch covers as the hard snow shears off with the wind.

What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need In A Four-Season RV?

Ideally, you want your RV’s overhead air conditioner to be able to handle the cooling duties of the main living area, without having to augment it with a motorhome’s dash AC.

Most modern-day RV air conditioners are set up to handle the basic living area without exceeding the capacity of the onboard electrical system.

.ugb-cee8c07 .ugb-blockquote__item{border-radius:0px !important}.ugb-cee8c07 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:20px !important;height:20px !important}.ugb-cee8c07 .ugb-blockquote__text{font-size:20px !important}@media screen and (min-width:768px){.ugb-cee8c07 > .ugb-inner-block > .ugb-block-content > *{padding-top:40px !important;padding-bottom:40px !important;padding-right:40px !important;padding-left:40px !important}} If the RV is under 32 feet in total length a 15,000 BTU roof mounted air conditioner should keep you comfortable on an typical hot summer day. A smaller interior space under 20 feet or so, might do just fine with a 13,500 BTU air conditioner.

When shopping for a four season RV a unit that has more than one AC system per 32 feet,or has the ability to accommodate a secondary AC system of some type is certainly attractive. Some of the better RV AC units to keep an eye out for includes:

• The Coleman Mach 15
• Coleman Mach 3
• Dometic 640315C Penguin II
• Dometic B59516.XX1J0 Brisk II

Should I Consider A Window-Mounted RV Air Conditioner?

If you’ve ever been on a trip in extremely hot humid conditions, you’ve noticed that your RV’s air conditioner will struggle from time to time.

Especially when it comes to the initial cool-down phase after traveling or being away all day.

Some RVs come with reinforced window sills that are specifically designed to hold a window AC unit.

Even if a unit you are interested in doesn’t have sills to accommodate one, there are braces and bracket accessories available that might be able to get the job done.

Four-Season RV Plumbing With Pex Piping

In the past copper tubing was the most common way to plumb an RV. As the price of copper started to soar worldwide, it was gradually replaced with more freeze-resistant PVC.

Today Pex piping is becoming even more popular due to its affordability and ease of installation. It also happens to have better freeze resistance than its predecessors.

Hot Water Heater Tank Capacity

If you are going to be staying off the grid, or there won’t be any open RV parks in the wintertime, you might want to also keep an eye on the size of the water heater tank.

The larger the tank the longer it will take for the insulated water inside to cool.

This allows you to fire up the generator in the morning to fill and warm the water in the tank, then go out for the day, trusting that you won’t come home to a lukewarm shower.

Does The Size Of The Water Tanks Matter?

If you feel reasonably confident that you can find an open RV parks in the wintertime, the size of fresh water and gray water tanks might not be a big deal.

However, if you are going to be Boondocking , off the grid, for a significant amount of time, such as using the RV for winter hunting trip, you might want to factor tank size and underbelly insulation.

As you might imagine, the larger the tank, the longer you can stay off the grid, or away from municipal services.

At the same time, smaller tanks are more likely to slush up. Even if the pipes and water lines are fully insulated the tank itself might be exposed to the cold air under the RV.

As time goes on the water can enter the “Transition Phase” where it turns to slush before freezing. This can lead to all manner of complications.

A larger tank with a relatively full volume is a greater heat sink and will take longer to enter the transition phase than a small or somewhat low tank.

If you are going to be Boondocking , you might want to prioritize a larger freshwater, gray water and black water tank.

What Size RV Furnace Do I Need?

For a four seasons RV under 32 feet, you should target something in the neighborhood of 30,000 BTUs.

This is usually sufficient for heating an internal space against temperatures that dip below freezing for a prolonged period of time.

A forced air propane furnace rated to produce 35,000 BTUs or more should be able to keep you toasty during times when even the day time temperature struggles to get over 32-degrees. Especially, if you have a high R-Value insulation and an insulated underbelly .

A all seasons RV with a smaller internal space of say 20 feet or less might be able to get by with a 20,000 BTU furnace.

Still, if you are going to go this low, you might want to keep some type of augmented heat onboard for times when an inclement stretch of severe cold strikes.

Do I Need An Electronic Braking System On A Four-Seasons RV?

In some states an electronic braking system is required for 4 seasons travel trailers over a certain weight or length.

So, make sure to check your states requirements. Most larger travel trailers and fifth-wheel campers will come with an electronic braking system built-in.

To use it, you will need a corresponding control unit installed in the tow vehicle. This is something that most RV dealerships can handle for you.

It will also require you to either connect the trailer to your tow vehicle’s onboard power or connect it to the RV’s onboard power.

The system is designed to apply special trailer brakes when you depress the tow vehicle’s brake pedal. This is incredibly helpful if you are going down grade on a hill or mountain during icy conditions.

How To Prepare Your RV for a Winter Adventure

The fresh water, gray water , and black water tanks are all vulnerable to freezing, as are the water and drain lines.

The fresh water tank and the accompanying water lines are the most vulnerable to freezing , or clogging up as the water cools into the slushy “Transition Phase.”

The gray water and black water tanks tend to have other things in them like soap and other waste products, which can potentially lower the freezing point down to around 28-degrees.

Your best, and possibly easiest option is to have closed sell foam insulation sprayed onto the tanks and pipes.

Some dealerships and even home insulation companies will offer this as a service for a small fee.

You could try to install pipe insulation sleeves and fiberglass sheeting under the RV. Just make sure it is thoroughly connected.

If some of it pulls loose while you are driving down the road it could cause a major headache.

Not to mention the highway patrol could level you with a major fine for debris road hazards!

Cover The Windows With Plastic

Just like you do with your home in winter, covering the windows with sheets of clear plastic will also improve their insulation value. It’s especially handy if your RV has single pane windows or the sills are leaky.

Use Protective Skirting

There are sheets of skirting you can buy online or in stores that are specifically meant for RV’s. You deploy it essentially create a temporary, insulated wall sealing the air gap under the RV.

If you are a do-it-yourselfer, you could build your own skirting from insulated panels and other construction materials.

Install A Wood Pellet Or Corn Burning Stove

These units are popular in Northwoods cabins. They run off a small amount of power that drives an internal auger, which delivers the corn or wood pellets to a small internal fire pot. A small fan then blows the heat out to the rest of the interior space.

Just bear in mind that RV wood stoves need a secondary chimney and other fireproofing safety requirements.

You might also want to double check your RV insurance policy. Some will void coverage if a non-propane furnace is installed.

Upgrade Hatch And Vent Covers

RVs that are designed for summertime travel tend to have hatch covers and vent covers that are made from thin plastic.

The weather stripping in these areas also tends to be rather poor. Upgrading to more sturdy covers, insulating existing covers, or upgrading the weather stripping will help hold hot air inside the RV.

In Conclusion

There is a certain misconception shared by many that RV’s simply aren’t meant to handle the full brunt of all four seasons.

For many models, geared for the average family this is indeed true. Yet there are those out there who are intrepid enough to want to travel and adventure the wide world no matter what mother nature throws at them.

This niche of RV adventurer can take solace in knowing that today there are RV manufacturers who produce high-quality motorhomes, fifth-wheel trailers and travel trailer campers that can pull double duty as an ice house.

Every year this space in the market continues to grow along with demand and new material innovations.

When shopping for a true four-seasons RV, take the time to consider things like:

The number of people you need to sleep

The average and extremes of weather you might encounter

The need and availability of a tow vehicle

Your heating and air conditioning needs

The amenities you want to prioritize

With a little forethought, and time spent putting in your due diligence, chances are you can find a true four-seasons RV that is perfectly tailored to fit your needs.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

How Much Does It Cost To Install A 5th Wheel Hitch?

Rv antenna: 6 best tv antenna for rvs, camper & travel trailers in 2024.

Thank you for the information and education. Our realism is that we go four season or live in senior living. We prefer the adventurous nature of travel and now we know where to look. Thank you again

Ronald L Lassiter

Why is not Outdoors RV TT or other versions on your list? Are they poorly built or unreliable?

I would like to know about ORV trailers, also. They advertise as 4 seasons and off-road capable.

Is the Arctic Fox trailer an option? We would like an insulated Trailer that doesn’t weep on the walls in November! Thanks

Aaron Richardson

Yes Arctic Fox is great choice for extremely cold weather conditions, however if you need few more choices, here I wrote a detailed guide https://www.rvingknowhow.com/extreme-cold-weather-rvs/ on how to choose a perfect cold-weather RV

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NEW RANGE ROVER SPORT PRESS KIT DESIGN CHAPTER

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ALL RANGE ROVER. ALL ELECTRIC. TESTED FOR LEADERSHIP.

23 april 2024.

The first Range Rover Electric prototype vehicles begin testing on the frozen lakes of Sweden.

• The first Range Rover Electric prototype vehicles are now being subjected to global testing, as they complete cold temperature calibration assessment in the Arctic Circle
• First images released of the initial all-black prototypes: its modernist design language stays true to the Range Rover bloodline while an uncamouflaged exterior underlines the build quality of the initial prototypes
• Release of first Range Rover Electric vehicles on-road follows year-long component and virtual development process which will is on track to deliver the quietest and most refined Range Rover ever created

Range Rover Electric will lead the way for electric propulsion capability, refinement and luxury travel, with the first vehicle prototypes now deployed at some of the world’s most challenging test locations. The all-electric drivetrain is now being put through its paces at extremes of temperatures, from -40°C in the Arctic Circle, to +50°C in the searing deserts of the Middle East.

RANGE ROVER ELECTRIC PROTOTYPE TESTING

The first tests have focused on the capability of the battery and Electric Drive Unit (EDU) - effectively the vehicle’s core components including the transmission, electric motor and power electronics - in extreme sub-zero temperatures as low as –40°C. Both the battery and EDU are assembled in house by JLR in a first for the brand.

Testing on the frozen lakes of Sweden has demonstrated Range Rover’s new-in house all-electric propulsion system, which will allow Range Rover to exceed its already renowned performance on low-grip surfaces, ensuring the all-terrain, all-weather and all-surface capability of the Range Rover remains unparallelled.  

In a first for Range Rover, a new traction control system delivers exceptional levels of performance on icy or low-grip surfaces. Rather than a traditional traction control setup based solely in the ABS unit, Range Rover Electric distributes the wheel slip management task directly to each individual electric drive control unit, reducing the torque reaction time at each wheel from around 100 milliseconds, to as little as 1 millisecond.

Innovative software, developed in house by JLR, enables precise EDU speed control for accurate management of wheel slip, reducing the need for ABS intervention. Traction is maximised on all surfaces with exceptional response and composed refinement, significantly enhancing the Range Rover drive experience. This system works in harmony with the stability control and chassis systems to provide an even more overall refined drive.

Range Rover with electric power – means customary Range Rover luxury, refinement and capability plus near-silent fully electric propulsion; with effortlessly smooth and relaxed journeys. To ensure we leave no stone uncovered, we are well underway with our physical testing and development programme, all designed at pushing Range Rover Electric to the extremes to ensure its capability remains unparalleled when it reaches you.

Thomas Mueller

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About Range Rover

Every Range Rover leads by example with modernist design, connected, refined interiors and electrified performance driving unrivalled luxury. Inspired by exemplary design since 1970.

The brand encompasses Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Velar and Range Rover Evoque and is underpinned by Land Rover – a mark of trust built on 75 years of expertise in technology, vehicle architecture and world-leading off-road capability. 

Range Rover is one of the world’s leading British luxury brands, sold in 121 countries. It belongs to the JLR house of brands together with Defender, Discovery and Jaguar.

Important notice JLR is constantly seeking ways to improve the specification, design and production of its vehicles, parts and accessories and alterations take place continually. Whilst every effort is made to produce up-to-date literature, this document should not be regarded as an infallible guide to current specifications or availability, nor does it constitute an offer for the sale of any particular vehicle, part or accessory. All figures are manufacturer’s estimates.

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