Van Life in Winter: Tips and Challenges

Winter brings a whole new set of challenges when it comes to living the van life. While using a van during the summer months may not require much preparation, the cold weather of winter necessitates some additional considerations. In this blog, I will share my experiences and offer some tips for successfully navigating van life during the winter.

Heating Systems
The first and most important thing to note is that you need a reliable heating system in your van. I personally have two heating systems installed in my van. The original system is a Truma Combi 4 LPG heating stove, which is great but relies on LPG fuel. LPG can be difficult to find, especially when traveling abroad, and the consumption rate can be high in colder temperatures. To address this, I installed a diesel heater, specifically the Eberspächer Airtronic D2, which works well in most winter conditions. Having two heating systems provides added safety and peace of mind in case one fails.

Insulation
Insulating your van is crucial for both summer and winter, but it becomes even more vital during the colder months. Most vans come with little to no insulation, so I recommend taking the time to insulate the panels as much as possible. Pay attention to detail and insulate where you can access. Additionally, you can invest in an external cover for the windshield to provide extra insulation.

Water
Water management can be a major challenge in winter. Water has a tendency to freeze, which can cause damage to pipes and connectors. Gray water tanks located outside of the vehicle may experience difficulties with freezing valves, preventing proper drainage. It is important never to force a frozen valve but rather wait for warmer temperatures. If warmer weather is not on the horizon, using a heating gun cautiously can help resolve the issue if you have access to electricity. Insulating the gray water tank and ensuring there is a heating source inside the tank can prevent freezing. Water in pipes leading to the tank can also freeze, particularly in areas with 90° turns. This can lead to a blockage, resulting in inability to drain the sink. Waiting for the ice to melt is the only solution here, with the hope that no damage occurs to the pipes.

Water Pipes Inside the Van
Some van constructors place water pipes in less than ideal locations, resulting in freezing issues. Insulating these pipes may not be sufficient to prevent freezing, as cold water in pipes will freeze regardless. To tackle this issue, consider repositioning the pipes away from the outside metal of the van to minimize exposure to cold temperatures. Aligning the water pipes with the heated pipes of the heating system can also help. Additionally, be aware of the “frost valve” in many vans, which releases water to the outside when temperatures drop. This valve can cause water tanks to slowly drain. Consider adding a manual valve to exclude the boiler from the water circuit and removing this automatic valve to avoid unintended water loss.

Heat Distribution
Heat tends to rise, which can lead to uneven distribution inside the van. To combat this, raise the water pipes as high as possible, away from the bottom of the van. Additionally, removing panels that impede heat spreading can create a more open and evenly heated space. While this may not be the most aesthetically pleasing solution, it is effective.

Drying Shoes
Drying wet shoes can be a challenge in winter. Placing them near the heated air vents can help, or you can invest in an electrical device specifically designed for drying shoes. These devices typically have multiple pipes and can dry multiple pairs of shoes simultaneously.

Engine Heater
If you plan on spending a significant amount of time in cold climates, consider investing in an engine heater, such as the Webasto Thermotop. This type of heater ensures that your engine starts smoothly and maintains the proper water temperature. While it’s on my to-do list, I haven’t gotten around to installing one yet.

In conclusion, winter van life presents unique challenges that require careful preparation and consideration. Ensure you have a reliable heating system, properly insulate your van, and address any potential issues with water management and pipe freezing. By taking these steps, you can enjoy the van life experience even during the coldest of winters.

tags: van life, winter, van insulation, heating system, water management, pipe freezing, engine heater