What is the best truck camper for winter? (7 models)

In today’s blog post, we will answer the following question: What is the best truck camper for winter? We will review seven truck campers and their winter features. We will also share with you a few useful ideas on how to keep a truck camper warm during winter.  

What is the best truck camper for winter?

The best truck camper for winter is going to be well-insulated, have some sort of heater onboard and a hot water system as well. In the table below we review seven of the best truck campers for winter currently on the market.

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How do I keep warm in a truck camper during winter?

The best way to keep warm in a truck camper during winter is to use one of the following heating sources:

1. Gas heating – Ideal for short-term camping, just take a few bottles to a petrol station and bring them back to your truck camper. It can heat the truck camper in a matter of minutes. This is ideal when you arrive at a campsite late at night on a cold day. After ignition, you won’t have to wait long for the cell of your truck camper to heat up.

2. Auxiliary gas heater – In a truck camper, an auxiliary heater can be used on its own if you just want to heat a space. But it usually comes in addition to the main heating either to avoid having it run constantly or to heat a space a little more, the bathroom for example.  You can also use it wherever you want, and not just in a truck camper (house, cellar, cellar, tent, etc.).

3. Integrated electric heating – Some RV campsites offer electricity. As a result, heating your truck camper ends up being free. This saves you money that you would have otherwise spent on propane. No ventilation is required. Because electric heat doesn’t deprive the air of oxygen, you don’t have to worry about ventilation. 

4. Auxiliary electric heaters – Portable electric heaters provide dry heat that reduces condensation and does not require ventilation. No installation is required. No installation is required because all you need to do to get them working is plug them in. You will just need a 12v-220v converter.

5. Diesel heating – Because this heater runs on diesel, you will have plenty of fuel available to keep it running.  Depending on the size of your tank, you can have a few tens of litres without a problem. It is more economical than gas heating. You will no longer need to think about filling your gas cylinders, you will just have to keep an eye on your gauge, be careful not to run out of fuel!

How to properly winterize a truck camper?

To properly winterize a truck camper you must take care of the following:

• You want to drain all excess water from the truck camper pipes and tanks;
• You want to prepare your water heater for below-freezing temperatures;
• And you must protect the whole water system with RV antifreeze. 
• Clean the fridge and freezer with vinegar to prevent mould. Leave the doors open.
• Close the propane tanks.
• Before removing the battery, charge it and store it in a frost-free place. A discharged battery will freeze and no longer function.
• Place your battery on a shelf in your basement or (heated) garage, never on the floor. Plug it into a smart 2A charger that will keep it charged all winter long.
• Cover the positive end of the trailer battery leads with electrical tape.
• To drive away small rodents, place mothballs (mothballs) or fabric softener sheets.
• Park your truck camper on dry ground (asphalt, concrete, paving stones, gravel). Avoid wet soil or grass.
• Raise the front cylinder, to give it a slope backwards so that the water flows well. There is no real benefit to placing your vehicle on jack stands or lifting the wheels. 
• The very last step – and not the least! – consists of washing the inside of the camper: cupboards, refrigerator and nooks. The idea is to leave your unit clean to avoid bad smells and unpleasant surprises when de-winterizing your truck camper in the spring.
•  You can also wash the exterior of your truck camper to remove all traces of dirt after the camping season is over. 

The bottom line

In this article, we reviewed seven of the best truck campers for winter. All the above models are four seasons and properly insulated.

However, even if you own a different truck camper model, with proper preparation it is still possible to use it during the cold season! There are many ways to heat and keep warm in a truck camper in the winter. 

In extreme weather conditions, you will likely need an on-board system that runs on gas, electricity or diesel. For situations where you cannot connect to the electricity grid, gas heating remains the most practical solution.

Please let us know if you have any questions or comments on the content!

FAQ on What is the best truck camper for winter?

How do I keep my truck camper warm?

The best way to keep a truck camper warm is to use one of the following heating sources:

• Gas heating
• Auxiliary gas heater
• Integrated electric heating
• Auxiliary electric heaters
• Diesel heating.

How do you winterize a truck camper?

To properly winterize a truck camper you must take care of three important aspects:

1. You want to drain all excess water from the truck camper pipes and tanks;
2. You want to prepare your water heater for below-freezing temperatures;
3. And you must protect the whole water system with RV antifreeze. 

How long do truck campers last?

Truck campers last approximately 155,000 miles (about 250,000 kilometres), which corresponds to approximately 25 years. Factors such as how often your camper is used, the quality of maintenance and cleaning all have an impact on the life of the vehicle in one way or another.

How do I prepare my camper for wintering?

Here are a few tips to prepare your camper for wintering:

1. Empty the water heater. 
2. Empty and clean the toilet tanks. 
3. Remove the gas cylinder (s). 
4. Put the windows in the ventilation position. 
5. Open the bathroom door. 
6. Do not unscrew the feet. 
7. Do not put plastic sheeting on the caravan. 
8. Put the clean trailer in the garage.

Should you cover a camper in winter?

Yes, you should cover a camper in winter with good quality, breathable and light caravan cover. A caravan with a protective cover can be safely stored inside and outside, no matter the season, but especially in winter. 

How to protect a camper in winter?

The first solution is the most economical: the protective cover. It covers a caravan that usually sleeps outside. It is never advisable to leave a motorhome outdoors for a long period, it is damaged and degrades more quickly (bodywork, gaskets, batteries, tires, etc.)

Can truck campers be used in winter?

Yes, truck campers can be used in winter, although – you are warned – they can be quite cold!  Proper insulation is the most important factor in keeping the truck camper warm. Before lighting a heater be sure to insulate your camper’s walls, floors, and windows. The more insulation there is, the less energy you need to keep warm. Spray foam and silicone caulking are your friends.

Other FAQs about Truck campers that you may be interested in.

How can I sleep comfortably in my truck?

How long do trucks last?

How to install a truck camper shell air conditioner?

References

• Who Makes the Best 4 Season Truck Camper? (5 All-Season …
• 4 Season Truck Campers for Year Round Camping! – RVBlogger
• Choosing the Best Truck for a Truck Camper