Driving an RV in the Snow: The Ultimate Safety Guide

Sometimes we put so much effort and devote our time to planning a trip, and at the end of the day, the trip becomes more or less a freestyle because it didn’t go as planned. Many factors could disrupt our road trip plan. One of the most common of them is the weather. The weather forecast may predict a 90% chance of heavy rain, and we may end up having flakes of snow or ice dropping. Mother nature always has different ways of surprising us.

That being said, in a case where you didn’t foresee a snowy day but, regardless, still have to drive in your RV, how do you go about it? Driving in the snow is quite different from driving in other weather conditions. There are certain perspectives you must understand. More so, it could be very challenging and even dangerous, especially when you operate a large vehicle such as an RV. Experts advise not to drive in the snow, but in some cases, we are left with no other option.

However, if we have to drive in the snow, we must do it with utmost caution and ensure everything is in place. Do you own an RV but pack it up because winter is approaching? You can bring it back out now and never have to worry about the snow anymore. This post provides an ultimate safety guide to driving an RV in the snow.

There are many ways to prepare for driving your RV in the snow. Elements like special tires and grip aids can help minimize the risk of driving in the snow. As we mentioned earlier, knowledge of certain perspectives is crucial. Below are nine fundamental tips for driving an RV in the snow.

1. Understand That Your RV Handles Differently Than Your Car

While driving in the snow is generally dangerous irrespective of the vehicle you operate, driving your car and an RV in the snow are quite dissimilar. For starters, your car handles on a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Your RV, on the other hand, is rear-wheel drive. In other words, the back wheels of your RV move it forward, and the front wheel is used to steer.

As a result, this makes driving your RV in the snow much more difficult – the back tires will likely skid, leaving your vehicle in a fishtail. Furthermore, you must bear in mind that losing control of a vehicle big as an RV will result in consequences of greater magnitude than if it were a small car.

2. Drive Slowly and Keep Plenty of Space in Front of You

Remember, the operation of your RV is not the same as your car. You should maintain a much slower speed when driving an RV, especially when it is snowy. Your RV is a large and heavy vehicle; as such, it is prone to shears from strong wind. To this end, you must keep a comfortable pace to prevent fishtailing or, worse, finding yourself in a ditch.

Similarly, you must keep a lot of space ahead. Why? Your RV is a heavy vehicle, and even in the best road condition, it takes longer to brake. With the snow and slippery road conditions, you can expect it to take thrice longer to brake. Hence, you must maintain enough space ahead of you to avoid collisions.

In addition, as you approach an intersection, gently press on the brakes with half pressure rather than slamming them. Slamming on the brakes results in a locked-up wheel while the van keeps moving with its velocity.

3. Check Your Tires

There are various tire designs for different road conditions and loads. Some are designed to help with traction. Surely, you will find RV snow tires, but the all-terrain version is more accessible. There are not too many obvious differences between these two types of tires, but their rubber material and tread distinguish them.

Winter tires are always soft and flexible, regardless of how cold it gets. Their treads have better grip than regular tires. Furthermore, they have lower air pressure resulting in more tire surface on the road. The all-terrain tires are firm and are designed with gripping treads. Their primary purpose is to keep traction. However, they can perform efficiently in the winter.

4. Avoid Driving in Snowy Landscapes Without Sunglasses

You may be wondering why or how is a pair of sunglasses essential to drive in the snow. Research has shown us one too many times that UVA and UVB protection is crucial for our vision in winter, just as it is in the summertime. Aside from protecting the eyes from damage from sunlight, these sunglasses also protect drivers, making the road safe for all users.

Snowy landscapes provide a surface for light to hit and reflect, making it very bright for drivers and extremely dangerous. However, a pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses can help cut down the brightness and enjoy a safer trip.

Now, the problem may arise when you have to decide on the best sunglasses for driving in the snow. This is not actually a problem, as the Federation of Manufacturing Opticians recommends that the best sunglasses for snowy landscapes is one that provides a clear sight. More times than often, they come in a variety of tints and are photochromic. In addition, they must reduce glare and improve contrast while ensuring sufficient light always comes in.

5. Use Your Low Beams If Necessary

Your vehicle has low beams for a reason, and you must use them when necessary. Similar to what we have above, bright lights on the snowy landscape are not safe for drivers as they may impair vision on the road due to reflection.
Your headlight is a major light source on the road, and sometimes, it can be too bright, even for your good. If you need lights, we recommend you use your low beams. They provide sufficient lighting to see what’s ahead, and the lights are not bright enough to cause glare or reflections.

6. Winterize your RV

Like our homes, we must winterize our vehicles if the need arises. Your RV pipes are not resistant to cold temperatures; as such, they can also freeze. Hence, the importance of winterizing your vehicle. Otherwise, you risk a cost-intensive repair bill. More so, you don’t want to get caught up in the middle of your trip with a frozen pipe.

Newer models of RVs usually come with a heated water duct system. However, you can check with your local motorhome specialist to review the requirements if you are unsure of yours. You can winterize your vehicle with heat tapes for pipe protection or RV cover for the AC unit or the entire van.

7. Check Your Batteries

Generally, auto batteries tend to be less effective in winter, and your RV main or auxiliary batteries are no exception. Before you hit the road, you should always check to ensure your batteries are in good condition. If not, you should take it to a service shop.

8. Have Snow Chains, Socks, and Cables

Some states allow the use of snow chains, socks, and cables during winter and rainy seasons. Using snow chains, socks, and cables on your RV help provide additional grip. Unfortunately, they damage paved roads. Hence, their prohibition in some areas. You can check with your local authority to verify if they are permitted.

9. Make Sure Your RV Has an Emergency Roadside Kit

This is more than a necessity. It is a requirement by law. Your emergency roadside kit should contain reflectors and colorful flares. They are useful in signaling for help in case you are in distress. You can also use them as a safety barrier for other road users.

Conclusion

There are many adventures to explore with your RV this winter. While planning for these adventures, you must also plan your safety. While there is much fun to enjoy in the snow, it poses some danger. However, with this guide, you can steer clear of these dangers.