How to keep your campervan warm

27th August, 2019

Campervan life can feel very real when you’re struggling to keep warm in the middle of the night, during the cold, dark depths of winter. It can make you want to turn the ignition and head for some place warmer, like a hotel… or home.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

By performing a few ‘tricks of the trade’, you’ll be snug as a bug in a rug, sleeping soundly no matter what the mercury drops to.

The most obvious way to keep warm is to throw on some thicker clothes. Whilst this is fine during the day, not everybody is comfortable going to bed in a woolly jumper and socks. So, our tips are a little smarter than that.

Ultimately, the warmer you are, the better rested you’ll be, which can reflect on your mood, your experience and even in your driving ability. As a campervan insurance provider, we want to help you reduce your risk of being involved in an accident or road traffic collision.

Snow on road

10 ways to keep your campervan warm

Line your van with heavy-duty insulation

Some decent insulation can make all the difference to the inside temperature of your campervan. Van liner insulation is fairly inexpensive to buy and easy to fit – simply stick it between the inner and outer walls of your van and you’ll notice an immediate difference.

Remember that you may need to remove it once summer comes around to avoid overheating.
Keep feet warm with carpet

Many campervan owners opt for lino or vinyl flooring because it’s hard-wearing and easy to clean. However, it doesn’t always provide enough warmth.

Carpet or a thick rug helps trap warm air and prevents cold seeping in through the floor. For more ideas, read our guide to making your campervan more homely.
Invest in a high-quality winter sleeping bag

Winter-rated sleeping bags are designed for temperatures below freezing and don’t need to be expensive. Mummy-style sleeping bags are particularly effective at retaining heat.

Learn more in our winter preparation guide.
Go to bed on a full stomach

Slow-burning carbohydrates help your body stay warmer for longer. A hearty meal such as soup or chilli with bread can make a big difference.
Use a small oil-filled heater

Oil-filled heaters operate silently and provide consistent warmth overnight. They are inexpensive and ideal for campervan use when safely connected to mains power.
Cover your windows

Large windows are great for views but can let in the cold. Thermal window covers or well-fitted curtains help keep heat inside while maintaining privacy.
Travel to warmer climates

If you’re free to travel, heading to warmer regions during winter can remove the need for heavy insulation altogether.