5 Tips for Winter Camping
Winterkamperen is een bijzondere manier om eropuit te gaan. Frisse ochtenden, prachtige winterlandschappen en gezellige avonden in je eigen camper of caravan: de winter heeft genoeg te bieden.
Wil je deze winter met je camper of caravan op pad? Dan is een goede voorbereiding belangrijk. Want wat neem je mee als het koud wordt? Waar kun je winterkamperen? En waar moet je op letten als je naar een wintercamping gaat? Met deze 5 tips haal je meer uit je winterkampeertrip en ga je goed voorbereid op pad.
1. Choose a campground that’s open in the winter
Not every campground is open during the winter, so it’s important to check in advance which campgrounds are suitable for a winter stay. With EuroParcs, you can visit various campgrounds in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Austria even in the winter.
In the Netherlands, you can go winter camping at 4 campsites spread throughout the country. Prefer to cross the border? In Belgium, you can stay at EuroParcs Hoge Kempen, right in the heart of Hoge Kempen National Park. In Germany, you’ll find EuroParcs Biggesee, located on Waldenburger Bucht.
For those who love to spend the winter in the mountains, the Austrian destinations are a great choice. At EuroParcs Hermagor-Nassfeld, you can camp in the Austrian Alps. EuroParcs Wörthersee is also a great winter destination for your RV or trailer.
From a few days away in your own country to a winter vacation in the mountains: you choose the destination that best suits your camping plans.
2. Bring extra winter gear
One of the most important questions when it comes to winter camping is: what should you bring? Winter requires slightly different preparations than a summer camping trip. With the right gear, you’ll stay warm, comfortable, and well-prepared for cold days.
A handy winter camping checklist might include, for example:
- Warm clothing that you can wear in layers
- Waterproof and warm shoes or boots
- A sturdy winter coat, hat, and gloves
- Extra blankets for cold nights
- Lighting for dark evenings
- A thermos for on the go
- A winter awning or extra shelter from the wind and cold
- A snow shovel and brush if snow is expected at your destination
The most important thing? Don’t just bring items to stay warm, bring things that make your stay enjoyable, too. A good book, a game, your favorite coffee, or hot chocolate makes a long winter evening in your RV or trailer extra cozy.
3. Get your RV or trailer ready for winter
A trip during the cold season requires a little extra preparation. Before you leave, check that the heating is working properly and that your RV or trailer can withstand cold conditions. Also, make sure you have enough gas, power supplies, and other essentials with you. Don’t forget to fill up your water tank, bring antifreeze, and pack suitable connection cables so you don’t run into any surprises along the way.
Also, keep an eye on the weather forecast for your route and your destination. Are you traveling to an area where snow, frost, or icy conditions are expected? If so, check the current conditions along your route in advance and make sure you’re well-prepared before hitting the road.
Once you arrive at the campground, it’s important to keep the heat inside. Ventilate regularly to prevent condensation and keep the interior comfortable. That way, you can enjoy a cozy place to warm up while experiencing winter at its best outdoors.
4. Make the most of the short winter days
In winter, the days are shorter, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all day. In fact, a brisk winter walk can be one of the best parts of your vacation. Check in advance which walking and biking trails are in the area around the campground. Head out in the morning, explore a nearby village or nature reserve, or plan an activity for the afternoon. After a day outdoors, it’s wonderful to return to your own campsite. Light a cozy candle, pour yourself something warm, and enjoy a relaxing evening.
EuroParcs also offers various amenities and activities to make your stay even more comfortable. Depending on the park, you can, for example, enjoy a restaurant, bike rentals, a wellness center, or a heated indoor pool.
5. Combine winter camping with winter sports
Want to combine winter camping with an active vacation? Then choose a campground near a ski resort. At EuroParcs Hermagor-Nassfeld, you’ll camp right in the heart of the Austrian Alps, close to the Nassfeld ski resort. With over 110 kilometers of slopes, there are plenty of opportunities to ski or snowboard. After an active day in the snow, you can relax in your own RV or camper. This way, you get the best of both worlds: the freedom of winter camping and the fun of a winter sports vacation.
Whether you choose a few days away in your own country or a trip to the Austrian Alps, with the right preparation, winter camping is a unique experience. Pack your gear, get your RV or trailer ready for winter, and discover just how special camping can be during the cold season. Book your winter camping vacation with EuroParcs now and discover your new favorite camping season!
Frequently asked questions about winter camping
Where can you go winter camping?
At EuroParcs, you can go winter camping at various campgrounds in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Austria, from a stay close to home to a vacation in the mountains.
Can you go winter camping in a RV?
Yes, you can definitely go winter camping in a RV, as long as you're well prepared before you set out. Check that the heater is working properly, bring plenty of warm clothes, and make sure your RV is suitable for the expected temperatures.
Can you go winter camping with a trailer?
Absolutely! You can enjoy a winter camping vacation even with a trailer. Check in advance to make sure your trailer is suitable for cold weather, and bring the right winter gear so you can stay comfortable even on cold nights.
What should you bring for winter camping?
For a winter camping trip, warm clothing, waterproof shoes, extra blankets, and good lighting are essential. Also, be sure to bring a thermos and other items to make those dark winter evenings comfortable and cozy.
Is winter camping cold?
During a winter camping vacation, you’ll have to deal with low temperatures, but with a well-prepared RV or trailer, a working heater, and warm clothing, you’ll stay comfortable. That way, you can fully enjoy the winter outdoors during the day and then return to a warm, cozy campsite.
Where can you go winter camping in Austria?
At EuroParcs, you can enjoy winter camping at EuroParcs Hermagor-Nassfeld and EuroParcs Wörthersee, among other locations. At EuroParcs Hermagor-Nassfeld, you’ll stay in the heart of the Austrian Alps, close to the popular Nassfeld ski resort. EuroParcs Wörthersee is located on the lake of the same name and serves as an ideal base for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Carinthia.