Tips for keeping your caravan warm in winter

Keeping a caravan warm in winter can be tricky, but there are steps you can take to ensure a comfortable trip. Here are some tips to help you stay cosy in your caravan even as winter sets in.

How to keep your caravan warm in winter

You can make some simple additions to your caravan to keep it warm during winter, and there are options to suit all budgets.

1. Hang thermal curtains

Thermal curtains can help keep your caravan warm by trapping cold drafts between their layers of fabric. This prevents breezes from coming into the space and making it cold.

However, thermal curtains are only truly effective when they’re closed, so you might need to sacrifice some daylight during the day. Easy to hang and available in a range of sizes and colours, thermal curtains are a great insulation option for many caravan owners.

2. Use thick rugs

Thick rugs can help keep your caravan warm and cosy, even during the coldest months, by adding insulation to flooring. Rugs are available in a variety of materials, with some offering more efficient insulation than others.

Wool is a good option as it’s naturally breathable and can boost the energy efficiency of your caravan, however, it can be expensive. Other natural options include jute and bamboo, although these won’t feel as comfortable underfoot. Opt for large rugs to cover as much of the floor as possible.

Related: The best touring caravan heaters for your trips

3. Ensure radiators aren’t blocked

Making sure that your radiators are working properly and able to radiate is integral to keeping your caravan warm during winter.

Numerous issues can prevent caravan radiators from working effectively, including debris buildup, corrosion, and limescale. Bleeding or flushing the radiator usually helps with this.

You should ensure that your caravan radiators have clear space in front of them and aren’t blocked by furniture or other items. This will prevent heat from circulating around the space and keep it warm.

4. Use draught excluders

Draught excluders are a traditional insulation option that keeps cold and warm air out, ensuring that your caravan stays nice and toasty. There are a few different types of draught excluders available, including blades and brushes. Your chosen excluder can be fitted to the bottom of your caravan doors, helping to keep your caravan at a comfortable temperature.

5. Improve your caravan’s insulation

It can be a big job, but improving your caravan’s insulation keeps the space warm throughout winter. Depending on where the cold comes in, insulation can be added to the roof, floor, van doors, and walls.

Depending on the size of your caravan, you might not be able to add insulation to every surface. However, you will notice the difference even with minor insulation updates. You may also notice that insulation reduces noise levels outside your caravan—a welcome benefit when driving or pitched up on noisy campsites.

6. Choose the right heating system

There are many caravan heating systems to choose from, so you can install the option that best suits your needs. Opt for a small system that won’t take up much space but will heat your caravan effectively. Popular caravan heating systems include oil-filled radiators, electric heaters, and gas or electric blown-air heating.

7. Consider installing a log burner

You may not have considered adding a log burner to your caravan, but this can create the cosiest of spaces. It’s important to choose a log burner suitable for caravans. Also, get a professional to install it to avoid any issues and ensure it has been fitted safely.

A log burner can be cheaper to run than other caravan heating options, which is another reason to consider one for your own home on wheels.

Related: Guide to installing a log burner in your static caravan

8. Watch out for condensation

When heating your caravan during the winter, it’s important to get the levels of warmth and airflow right to avoid condensation, which can lead to dampness and damage.

For this reason, blocking all air from entering your caravan isn’t advisable, especially if you’re boiling water for cooking or taking hot showers. This can lead to excessive amounts of steam. Keep any vents open if your caravan is becoming prone to condensation.

FAQs

Should I leave the heating on in my caravan?

There are many benefits to leaving the heating on in your caravan, including helping to prevent your pipes from freezing. Many caravan heating options have a safe mode that makes them suitable for prolonged use. If you’re using fan heaters to keep your caravan cosy, avoid leaving these on overnight, as this can be a safety hazard.

What is the cheapest way to heat a static caravan?

The cheapest way to heat a static caravan is to use portable, electric heaters that can be turned on and off as needed. It can be even cheaper to stay warm in your caravan by heating yourself instead of the space. Blankets, layers, and warm food and drinks will help with this.

Consider investing in thermal curtains and thick rugs to keep the heat in so you don’t need an electric heater running constantly—this can get expensive.

Related: Campsites and touring parks open all year round

What is the cheapest way to heat a tourer?

As with a static caravan, a small electric heater is the cheapest way to heat a tourer.

How can I make my caravan bed warmer?

Extyou’renkets will help trap warm air and keep you cosy if you're getting chilly at night. You could also consider an electric blanket, which you can use to heat your bed before you get in.

The budget version of this is a reliable hot water bottle, which will make your bed toasty if you leave it under the duvet for 20 minutes or so before getting in. Opt for a duvet with a high TOG rating, as this shows it offers efficient insulation.

Specialist caravan insurance through Ripe

Now you know how to keep your caravan warm this winter, you may want to consider specialist insurance to protect it further.

Through Ripe, tourers are covered against theft, loss or damage up to the value of £75,000 and static caravans up to the value of £175,000. You can also opt for additional cover to protect your contents and awnings.

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