Winter Camping: Top Tips for Relaxing Days in the Snow!

Winter camping is gaining popularity, and it's no wonder! In winter, snowshoeing, skiing fun, and tobogganing offer campers a welcome change from the traditional summer, sun, and sea. To ensure your holiday is relaxing and special despite the snow and cold, we've put together some helpful tips for you.

Imagine cozy warmth inside your camper while outside the cold bites and snow crunches underfoot – that's what winter camping is all about.

Camping isn't just for summer anymore! In winter, you can also experience the beauty of nature and enjoy unique moments in a winter wonderland.

We'll show you how easy winter camping really is, what technical aspects you need to consider, and which motorhomes are particularly well-suited for the colder months.

So don't let cold feet stop you from camping in winter – there's so much beauty to experience.

What makes winter camping so special?

You might be wondering why anyone would voluntarily expose themselves to icy temperatures, day and night. It's simple: camping in the winter months guarantees unforgettable, beautiful, and magical moments.

Imagine opening your camper door in the morning and seeing the sunrise reflected in the snow or frost. Imagine enjoying the silent nature with untouched powder snow everywhere. This feeling is what winter camping is all about!

Plus, winter camping is ideal for active holidaymakers. Pitches or campsites are often right next to the ski slopes, so you can step straight out of your camper onto the ski lift and be the first to carve down the piste.

You can also enjoy wonderful winter hikes, sledding, or ski tours while winter camping.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head off on a winter camping adventure!

Is winter camping suitable for beginners?

With a well-equipped premium camper like our Grand California or our Knaus Tourer Van or Knaus Van Wave, the challenges of winter camping are certainly easier for beginners to manage.

The hot water and auxiliary heating functions ensure comfort and warmth, and the full kitchen and bathroom make the camping experience more convenient. Additionally, the extra storage space in the rear garage of the Knaus models is very practical for skis and snowboards.

Learn more about our winter campers now!

What do you need to consider for winter camping?

Before your trip begins, you should make a few important preparations.

1. Where will I sleep? Tent, caravan, or van?

All options have their pros and cons. With a tent, you have more flexibility and the feeling of being truly in nature. Even on a crowded campsite, you can always find a quiet spot in seclusion.

However, winter camping in a tent can be a challenging experience and may not be suitable for everyone. Tents offer less insulation and protection from the extreme temperatures that can occur in winter.

The cold can be difficult to manage, even with a high-quality sleeping bag and sleeping mat. Additionally, winter days are shorter, meaning more time is spent in the dark.

Setting up and taking down a tent in cold weather can be uncomfortable, and dealing with snow and ice can present additional challenges.

Compared to well-equipped campers, tents lack amenities and comfort that are particularly important in winter. Therefore, winter camping in a tent is often more suitable for experienced campers who are aware of the challenges and have the appropriate equipment.

When camping in a vehicle, you are better protected from wind, snow, and cold. It also offers more comfort, although this depends on the available equipment and insulation. Is it possible to heat the van or motorhome, or does every crack let in a cold draft?

With our Grand California, Knaus Tourer Van, or Knaus Van Wave, you definitely have the right vehicle for winter camping. These premium campers are equipped with hot water and auxiliary heating, and feature a full kitchen as well as a bathroom with a toilet and shower. The rear garage of the Knaus models is also particularly practical, offering enough space for skis, snowboards, and other winter equipment.

Rent a winter camper now!

2. The right clothing

If you bring a seat cushion, a sheepskin, or a blanket for your camping chairs, you can enjoy sitting in the awning without freezing.

Also recommended are: thermos flasks, hot water bottles, and hand warmers for those who like to be really well-equipped.

Of course, you should also pack sturdy footwear, plenty of warm socks, a hat, gloves, thick sweaters, and sunglasses. An umbrella or a rain jacket is also a good idea.

Basically, the secret to all successful winter campers is: layer, layer, layer!

You should always have these 3 layers with you:

• Base Layer: This means long johns and a long-sleeved shirt. The base layer sits directly on the skin. It warms, wicks sweat away from the skin, and dries quickly. Choose one made of synthetic material or wool.
• Mid-layer: This ensures that your body heat isn't lost. The mid-layer is usually thicker and warmer. This includes, for example, a down jacket or a thicker fleece sweater. If it's very cold, both can work. Fleece trousers are a good choice for your lower half.
• Outer layer: This layer should be waterproof and breathable. It consists of a jacket and trousers that protect you from snow, rain, and wind. But beware: water-repellent is not waterproof.

Definitely pack more rather than less to avoid freezing while winter camping.

3. Bring enough food and drink

In cold weather or during winter sports, your body needs more calories to maintain its temperature. So make sure you eat and drink enough.

Stews, one-pot pasta, hearty soups, and oatmeal are perfect for a winter camping menu. Your meals should be hot and simple. Also, opt for many small snacks instead of long meal breaks.

Drink enough fluids. Especially in frosty temperatures, we often don't notice when we're thirsty. Use insulated bottles with warm water or tea. Soups are also ideal for hydration.

It's best to store water bottles upside down so the water doesn't freeze.

4. Choose the right campsite

Even when selecting a campsite, you can ensure it has all the amenities you need for winter camping.

Winter campsites should have (enclosed and heated!) sanitary facilities as well as drying rooms for ski equipment.

Some campsites, in addition to snowy outdoor seating, also have cozy common rooms where you can read, use Wi-Fi, or even use a small communal kitchen.

The highlight for every winter camper, however, is certainly an additional wellness oasis with saunas – perfect for warming up.

Make your first winter camping trip as easy as possible. Look for a comfortable campsite with good facilities and book early, as popular winter campsites fill up quickly.

> These are the 10 most beautiful winter campsites!

5. Secure your gas supplies

In our Knaus models, the diesel auxiliary heater provides cozy warmth. The Grand California uses propane gas for heating and cooking. An 11-kilo bottle is enough for heating for about two to three days.

The Grand California has a Duo-Control system on board. This means two 11-kilo bottles are connected simultaneously, and the device automatically switches from the empty bottle to the other.

The gas level is displayed on the onboard electronics.

If you need a longer-lasting option, some places offer 33-kilo bottles that you can place next to your vehicle and connect with the necessary equipment.

Some winter campsites also have connections to a fixed gas pipeline network.

Proper heating and ventilation are important! Regular burst ventilation, in particular, ensures that the vehicle doesn't get too hot or humid. Also, don't hang damp clothes inside the vehicle. Use the drying rooms at the campsite.

6. Protect yourself from frozen water

It doesn't matter whether you fill up the water before departure or on the road: before you bunker water, you should make sure that the heater has been running for some time and the interior is warmed up.

At temperatures below 3 °C, the frost protection monitor can activate. This causes the water to drain through the outlet so that the water pipes do not freeze.

7. Rely on shore power

If you have the option, connect your vehicle to shore power in winter. Batteries produce less power in cold weather and discharge faster.

Dark winter evenings encourage spending more time indoors, which means you might use electronic devices like lamps, the TV, or your laptop more often. Your smartphone might also need to be charged more frequently in the winter months. This leads to higher power consumption.

To save gas for heating in the Grand California, it's generally a good idea to also run the refrigerator on external power. The onboard battery can be heavily strained. A fixed power connection is particularly valuable if you stay in one place for several days.

You'll find the right cable for shore power in the free basic camping box in our camper.

Caution: Lay the power cable so that it cannot be cut by passing snowplows.

8. Bring suitable tools

When you arrive at the campsite and the pitch isn't yet cleared of snow, you should do so to ensure optimal stability. To make sure your caravan or camper stands securely, you should use planks under the supports.

Also, bring a hammer to drive pegs into the snow or ice layers. Pliers can also be helpful.

To clear snow from the roof, you can use a telescopic pole with a hand brush. To completely clear the vehicle, winter campers usually use a sturdy ladder. You might be able to borrow one from the campsite operator.

Additionally, a shovel and snow pusher help keep the paths around the vehicle accessible.

9. Winter tires & snow chains

Our winter campers are perfectly prepared. They come standard with winter tires to ensure safe driving on snowy roads.

With this comprehensive equipment, you can confidently set off into winter landscapes and experience an unforgettable camping adventure.

Rent the Grand California now!

What else should you not forget for winter camping?

Especially for winter camping, there are certain things you shouldn't leave at home. Of course, it all depends on your itinerary, activities, and the campsites. We've put together a small list of the most important things for you.

• Thick duvets
• Enough gas for heating (available in our camper)
• Thermal mats/foils for windows & doors
• Awning and tent carpet
• Frost-proof power cable (you'll find it in our camping box)
• Wedges or planks as tire supports (you can book leveling ramps with us)
• Warm clothing
• Telescopic pole, shovel, hammer, and pliers
• Food & drink
• Snow chains

Which caravan is suitable for winter camping?

In the winter months, the outside temperature isn't the same every day. Therefore, we recommend a vehicle where you can spend the entire day.

This should have good insulation, insulated glazing, and heating. If necessary, you can also retrofit your camper with insulation mats. Simply hang them in front of the windows or lay them on the floor.

As mentioned above, heated water tanks and pipes are also very important, or you can opt for a campsite with a water supply.

Additionally, the vehicle for winter camping should be equipped with winter tires and snow chains. An awning can also be very useful. Here you can store skis and snowboards, dry damp clothes, and enjoy the winter world.

From our models, we recommend the Grand California, the Knaus Tourer Van and the Knaus Van Wave. These motorhomes, with their camping equipment, are particularly suitable for winter camping.

In summary, these campers have everything you need for winter camping: hot water shower, auxiliary heating, wet room with shower and toilet, kitchenette with two gas burners, refrigerator, and sleeping arrangements for up to 4 people.

In these vehicles, you can comfortably stay all day, even in bad weather.

Learn more about our winter campers!

Where can you find the most beautiful winter campsites?

There are several campsites that are open all year round. Many of them not only offer pitches for motorhomes but also have wellness facilities and additional rooms, such as drying rooms for ski equipment. This makes winter camping a lot easier.

Here's a small selection of campsites that are open in winter.

Stockhambauer Stellplatz

Awarded 4 flowers, the organic farm is located directly on the cross-country ski trail and is accessible by skis or on foot. The Kleinarler Bergbahnen offer perfect access to Austria's largest ski area "Ski amadé" as well as the "Kleinarl-Flachauwinkel-Zauchensee" area.

The organic farm offers daily free entry to the Wagrain Water World, free sauna use, a bottle of organic hay milk daily, and a bread roll service.

Winter Camping in the Heart of the Bavarian Forest

Directly at the foot of the Silberberg, on a south-facing slope, are the ultra-modern pitches. The pitches are all equipped identically. You have access to electricity, water supply/disposal, Wi-Fi, and TV connection.

The pitches are all terraced and face southeast.

Washing machines, dryers, and saunas are also available at the campsite.

Camping Seiseralm

This campsite is located at the foot of the Seiser Alm, Europe's largest high alpine pasture, amidst the unique Dolomites, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Camping Seiseralm also offers everything your heart desires.

Comfort pitches, private bathrooms for rent, hygiene areas, a saltwater pool, restaurant, mini-market, and a mobile card for skis and shuttle buses.

Thermenland Camping Bad Waltersdorf

The Thermenland Bad Waltersdorf campsite is located in the heart of the Styrian-South Burgenland thermal spa region. All pitches have water and electricity connections, and some also have wastewater connections.

The sanitary facilities are state-of-the-art, equipped with the highest comfort, and there is free hot water in all areas. Additionally, there is a lounge with TV, billiards, table football, and a children's play area.

The Heiltherme, the H2O Therme, the Therme Stegersbach, and the Hundertwasser Therme are all in the immediate vicinity.

Winter Camping in the Ötztal

Our campsite in the Ötztal is incomparably beautiful, quiet, and romantic. Located in the heart of the Ötztal, in Längenfeld, at 1180 meters above sea level. Framed by trees, mountains, crystal-clear water, and healthy air. Here, a world full of leisure opportunities unfolds, even in winter.

During this season, the campsite is the ideal starting point for active days in the mountains. Right at the entrance, you'll find access to Längenfeld's cross-country ski network. Great natural toboggan runs in Längenfeld and the surrounding area, as well as romantic snowshoe hiking trails, complete the holiday.

Furthermore, in the immediate vicinity of Camping Ötztal, you'll find the ice rink with an ice stock lane. The Sölden ski area and the Aquadome are also not far away.

The campsite offers spacious pitches, sanitary buildings, a wellness area, a kiosk, and a restaurant.

Camping Sölden

Are you looking for a cozy campsite for winter camping? Then Camping Sölden is ideal. Here you'll be on the ski slopes in just a few minutes – an Eldorado for all winter sports enthusiasts.

The campsite features a video-monitored ski cellar, drying rooms, heated sanitary facilities, a sauna area, fitness, lounge, and event rooms, Wi-Fi, underground parking, and a wellness area.

Alpencamp Kötschach-Mauthen

The Alpencamp Kärnten is located in a picturesque alpine landscape and features its own wellness area with various saunas and steam baths. You can also visit the indoor and outdoor pools of the Aquarena.

The hotel restaurant serves typical Carinthian and Austrian cuisine. A grocery store is also on site.

The Alpencamp also offers a children's playground and features a modern organic heating system that is environmentally friendly.

The Kötschach-Mauthen ski area is only 800 m away, and the Nassfeld ski area can be reached after a 30-minute drive.

Tips for activities and excursions during winter camping

Many campsites are in ultimate proximity to sports facilities, have their own wellness areas, or are located in the middle of nature. Here, there are plenty of opportunities for winter activities.

We've put together a small list of activities you can do while winter camping.

• Ice skating under twinkling lights
• A day of skiing
• Drinking Jagertee in a mountain hut
• Racing down the slopes on a sled
• Winning snowball fights
• Building a snowman
• Enjoying Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake)
• Indulging in a wellness day
• Trying a new sport
• Snowshoeing in the snowy forests
• Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride
• Ski touring up the mountain
• Playing ice hockey
• Mountain biking on snow and ice
• Sitting by a campfire, grilling marshmallows, and sipping mulled wine

Conclusion: Winter Camping

When you think of winter camping, images of hardy campers braving icy winds and frosty temperatures to enjoy the solitude that only nature can offer might come to mind. But it doesn't have to be that way! With a little knowledge about how to pack for your trip and what safety measures are necessary, you too can experience a luxury camping holiday with wellness, activities like skiing, or restaurant visits. That's why we recommend you try winter camping for yourself.