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Safety Tips for Fall and Winter Camping Trips
You can always tell when the high season is over. Fall colors have turned from bright to dull. The mornings grow frosty. There is more availability at the campgrounds around the state. And yet, more RV-
ers are choosing to continue camping at this turning point of the year. That takes preparation. Before you head
out on a late fall or winter camping trip, keep these safety tips in mind.
STAY CONNECTED.
Even though this is standard operating procedure, this is particularly important in winter when time is of the essence. Charge everything that needs to be charged prior to embarking on your ex- pedition, cell phones in particular since they are used not just for communica- tion but for navigation as well. Remem- ber your phone’s power cord and bring along a portable battery in case you don’t have access to – or lose access to
– electricity. Carry a road atlas; one that is specific for RVers is best, so that you can rely on something other than your phone for navigation. The same thing should be done if you’re on the trail – carry a physical map with you if you in- tend to hike a lengthy distance or on an unfamiliar trail. As always, leave a note behind in the RV or let someone know where you’ve gone and when you intend
to return. Speaking of staying connect- ed, if you plan to use a water hookup, consider investing in a heated hose to connect your RV to your water source.
REDUCE DRIVING TIME.
When the seasons turn cold, fog, ice, and snow are common visitors. These can be hazardous if not taken seriously and if you don’t take extra care while driving. Driving against these elements can also be quite tiring. Weather can change the level of ease traveling from one destination to the next depend- ing on road conditions and visibility. Plan your driving times to take place during the day (later on in the morning is generally better to allow things to warm up), try to travel only when the weather is at its best, and don’t plan
to drive as far as you normally would during the summer months. Plan your stops closer together so that your eyes, mind, and hands all get a break.
ANTICIPATE THE
ELEMENTS.
We plan our wardrobes around summer weather. Now that it’s late in the year, it’s important to pack warm clothing and linens. Since these items tend to be bulkier, bring fewer pieces or vacuum seal them to reduce how much space
HOW DO I SELECT A
SKIRT FOR MY RV?
An RV skirt can make a big difference in the warmth, comfort, and functionality of your RV during cold-weather camping.
There are a few factors you are going to want to take into consideration when deciding which type of skirting you want installed.
1. How much money are you willing to invest? The amount you spend will not only depend on the material and its overall construction, but also the size of your rig and how many slideouts you have.
2. Are you okay with drilling small holes along the bottom third of your rig, or would you prefer zero drilling?
3. Do you want to DIY or hire a professional?
Asking yourself these three questions beforehand will provide guidance for which installation option will best fit your lifestyle. Be sure to contact your campground, park, or resort manager before you make any purchases as there may be skirting requirements.
Before you make your final decision,
do research by speaking with fellow RVers, observing other rigs during off- season camping (when skirts are needed most), and considering the questions above thoroughly.
60 • 2024 MICHIGAN RV & CAMPGROUNDS
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