There’s no better way to shake off the winter cobwebs than hitting the road for an epic adventure. Nothing compares to looking out at wintry landscapes whilst being tucked up in your very own home on wheels. 

But you may ask yourself ‘will I be too cold?’ or ‘where will I park?’ Well we’ve got you covered. This is the ultimate guide to campervanning in winter, featuring everything from what to pack and where to park.

Winter Road Trip Pros

Quieter on the Roads  

Meeting friends on the road is wonderful but sometimes all you crave is a bit of peace and quiet. There’s less traffic on the road in the colder months and you’ll most likely have first pick of pitches and park ups. 

Cheaper 

Not only are winter holidays less busy, they’re often cheaper too! Campervan hire, campsites and any attractions which remain open throughout the season tend to cost less, making it a great time for those on a budget.

Cosiness Factor 

Nothing quite says cosy like being cuddled up in a candlelit camper with blankets and a hot drink. The days may get shorter but your evenings get longer, meaning you can spend more time curled up on the sofa watching your favourite film.

Photographers Haven

With winter comes excellent photography opportunities. Snow covered mountain tops, crystal ice rivers and mystical woodlands, these dramatic climates and landscapes translate beautifully through the lens. 

Winter Road Trip Cons

Closed for Business

After a busy summer period, some attractions and restaurants close or run on reduced hours and most campsites shut for the season. This may make it harder for you to find somewhere to refill, empty and recharge. 

Restrictive Weather 

If there’s one thing that is guaranteed year round, it’s that English weather is unpredictable. But during the colder months, there’s a higher chance of the weather restricting you from doing something you really want to do like climb a mountain or ride a zip line.

What to Pack

Winter essentials 

• Blankets
• Extra towels
• Insulated coffee cup
• Hot water bottle
• Hand warmers
• Firewood 

Entertainment

• Board games
• Pack of cards
• Books
• Laptop
• Arts & crafts
• Puzzles
• Headphones

Clothing

• Jumpers
• Long sleeve t-shirts 
• Thick socks 
• Walking boots
• Wellies
• Thermal leggings
• Raincoat
• Umbrella
• Hats, gloves & scarves

All Season Campsites (£-£££) 

Border Forest, Northumberland

£££ | Pet-friendly | Shower & Loos | Chemical Disposal | Electric Hook-Up

Tired of city life? Border Forest is the perfect place to escape to. Like the name suggests it borders a large forest, where you can enjoy winter walks and woodland adventures. This dog-friendly campsite offers pitches with the option of electrical hook up all year round. 

The Quiet Campsite, Lake District 

££ | Pet-friendly | Shower & Loos | Onsite Bar 

The Quiet Campsite is situated between Little Mell Fell and Ullswater. As you warm your hands with your first morning cup of coffee, you can bask in the views of snowy top mountains and icy lakes. There’s also The Quiet Bar where you can spend your evenings listening to live music by a roaring fire.

Comrie Croft, Scotland

£ | Pet-friendly | Shower & Loos | Woodland Setting | Campfire Friendly

Have a wild camping experience with the added security of a campsite. This eco campsite offers unserviced pitches nextled in their woodland. Spend your evenings stargazing whilst you roast marshmallows around a campfire.

Cefn Coed, Snowdonia 

£££ | Pet-friendly | Shower & Loos | Campfire Friendly | Woodland Setting

This campsite is steeped in history, with origins dating as far back as the 17th century. Located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, you will be surrounded by 75 acres of picturesque farmland and forests. You can explore nearby trails by foot or even on 2 wheels before returning to your camper to warm up.

Polladras Holiday Park, Cornwall

£££ | Pet-friendly | Shower & Loos | Hardstanding

If you’re looking to explore Cornwall this winter, Polladras Holiday Park is a great spot to get some rest. For travelling families, they have all the practical facilities you will need such as hot showers, a laundrette and electric hook up. They also have everything you need to keep entertained including a play park, games room and access to walking trails.

Winter Ready Campervans

All the below campervans are ready to take you on an unforgettable adventure this winter. Each has some form of heating, a heated indoor shower and a comfortable place to rest your head.

Splinter 

Our very own log cabin on wheels, this 2 berth camper presents the ultimate romantic backdrop for any couple looking to get away. Enjoy slow mornings in your very own king size bed and blissful evenings snuggled up in front of the wood burner with a glass of your favourite wine – doesn’t that sound dreamy?

Edub Indie

Travel in sustainable style this winter in Edub Indie. With 3 berths, this pet-friendly VW even has room for a little one. With a range of 90 miles, there’s plenty of glorious spots which reach their peak level of beauty in winter, including the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District.

Bloom 

Bloom has everything you need to stay comfortable on the road this winter including a hot shower, a cosy bed and a large seating area for you to read a book or host a games night. With gas hobs, you’ll have plenty of space to cook up hearty winter meals. 

Winter Adventure FAQs

1. What are the benefits of a winter campervan trip?

• Quieter Roads: Enjoy peaceful drives with less traffic.
• Cost Savings: Off-peak season means lower prices for campervan hire, campsites, and attractions.
• Cosy Atmosphere: Experience the charm of a snug camper with blankets and hot drinks.
• Photographic Opportunities: Capture stunning winter landscapes and serene scenes.

2. What should I pack for a winter campervan trip?

• Winter Essentials: Blankets, extra towels, insulated coffee cups, hot water bottles, hand warmers, and firewood.
• Entertainment: Board games, cards, books, a laptop, arts and crafts supplies, puzzles, and headphones.
• Clothing: Jumpers, long-sleeve t-shirts, thick socks, walking boots, wellies, thermal leggings, raincoat, umbrella, and hats, gloves, and scarves.

3. Are there campsites open during winter?

Yes, some campsites remain open year-round. Here are a couple of options:

Border Forest, Northumberland

Northumberland, UK

A pet-friendly campsite bordering a large forest, offering pitches with electrical hook-up all year round. 

The Quiet Campsite, Lake District

Lake District, UK

Situated between Little Mell Fell and Ullswater, this campsite provides a peaceful retreat with an onsite bar. 

4. What are the challenges of winter campervanning?

• Limited Services: Some attractions and restaurants may be closed or have reduced hours.
• Unpredictable Weather: Cold temperatures and potential snow can affect travel plans.

5. How can I stay warm in my campervan during winter?

• Insulation: Ensure your camper is well-insulated to retain heat.
• Heating: Use a reliable heating system designed for winter use.
• Layering: Dress in layers and use thermal clothing to maintain body heat.

6. Are there any winter-specific activities to enjoy?

Absolutely! Winter offers unique experiences like:

• Winter Walks: Explore serene trails with fewer crowds.
• Festive Markets: Visit Christmas markets for local crafts and seasonal treats.
• Photography: Capture the beauty of snow-covered landscapes and frosty mornings.

Considering a winter adventure? Check out our wide selection of handcrafted Quirky Campers located across the UK.

Author

Laura Hammond

Laura is a professional copywriter and is the in-house writer at Quirky Campers, where she combines her love of campervans, travel and writing! When not writing she loves to find new adventures surfing, hiking and cycling.