Winter Safety and Insurance Tips for Recreational Vehicles
If you’re the proud owner of a recreational vehicle or camper, you know that winter can be incredibly challenging. From slippery roads to extreme cold, there are many things to consider when driving an RV in the winter. Thankfully, many safety measures and insurance tips can help you stay safe and save money all season long, no matter what the roads bring your way.
Winter Preparedness
Before hitting the road, it’s essential to give your RV a thorough inspection and restock. Even if the roads aren't bad now, a winter storm can quickly overtake traffic unexpectedly. Preparing for winter travels in an RV is vastly different than preparing to hunker down in your home to weather the storm.
Mechanical Checkup
Before you pack for your trip and hit the road, take your RV to your local mechanic for a complete checkup. Finding out about a critical mechanical failure in the middle of a blizzard is hardly how you want to spend your holiday vacation. If you often travel in your RV, a tune-up every 4-6 months is a good plan to keep your home on wheels and rolling along without trouble.
Check Seals on Windows and Doors
Ensure that all windows and doors seal properly and that all mechanical systems function correctly. One of the worst times to discover and deal with a malfunction is on the side of the road in blustery, snowy weather. This is an excellent opportunity to insulate tanks and hoses to prevent pipes from breaking and hang thicker window covering to keep the warmth inside.
Restock Your Emergency Kit
Ensure you have access to emergency supplies such as a first aid kit, blankets, warm clothing, flashlights, and tools. While you should always have a winter weather emergency kit in your car, having one in your RV is essential.
If you find yourself stranded in the weather, it will take longer to get you home safe, as most tow trucks that can handle your rig will make it out to you once the weather clears significantly. Therefore, if you're traveling in winter weather or treacherous terrain, be prepared for a longer-than-usual time on the side of the road in your RV. Luckily, your RV should be kitted out for comfortable overnight stays.
Don't Overlook Your First Aid Kit
It's critical to restock your first aid kit with future travel in mind. Consider where you'll be driving, how long you'll be on the road and any injuries that might occur: stock hand warmers, foot warmers, and extra alcohol wipes for minor cuts and cold extremities.
Beyond hypothermia and frostbite, minor lacerations are expected when working in the snow, as each section of ice can have sharp glass-like edges. Gloves are a great option to prevent cutting your hands as you shovel ice and snow away from your wheels and put on traction chains. Pack a spare set of insulated gloves so that when one gets wet, the heater can dry it while you use the other.
Check Your Tires and Brakes
Check your tires for any signs of wear and ensure they’re appropriately inflated; adequate tread is essential for traction on icy roads. It’s also recommended to carry chains in case of inclement weather. Adding a few sandbags to the cargo hold on your RV is not a bad idea to help create traction under your tires if you find yourself stuck.
Charge Your Devices
Part of winter safety is checking in with friends and family before you lose reception during your travels so that they know you are heading out of range and will know where to look if you need more time to reach your destination. Remember to download your navigation if you need it to find your way, as you will likely lose connection while driving, and you’ll want to stay aware of your location.
Pack Extra Layers
No matter where you're staying this holiday season, always prepare for cold weather and extended stays with extra layers of blankets and clothing. These don't need to be pretty or match your other decor, but any lovely heavy layers can help keep your family warm while you wait for rescue or for the blizzard or ice storm to move on.
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Insurance Savings Tips
Purchasing RV insurance can provide peace of mind while on the road during the winter months. However, there are ways to save money on your monthly premiums without sacrificing coverage.
Bundle Your Insurance Policies
Look into bundling your RV insurance with other policies; this allows you to get discounts on multiple types of insurance at once with one provider. Often, this option works best for homes with various drivers.
Ask About Safety Discounts
You may also qualify for discounts if you take driver safety classes or upgrade your RV's security system or anti-theft devices. Some insurance agencies also offer discounts if you've been with them without a claim for a minimum amount of time.
Long-term Policy Vs. Month-to-Month
Purchasing a longer-term policy vs. month-to-month can result in savings over time and keep rates lower because insurers will only sometimes increase rates yearly if you remain loyal to them over several years. Additionally, even when your RV is parked for storage, you'll still want to have it covered by insurance in case of natural disasters or other drivers damaging it.
Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels
Safety Matters in Your Travels
As an RV owner, taking special precautions during winter months, both before getting on the road and while exploring nature's beauty, is essential. Taking extra steps, such as performing routine inspections on your RV and researching ways to save money on insurance premiums, can ensure everyone stays safe throughout their travels this winter season!
With extra precautionary measures, families can enjoy their trips feeling confident about their safety and wallets!