Our Guide to The Best Motorhomes for Winter: Journeying Through Snow in Style & Comfort

The Shift Towards Winter Camping in the UK

Over the past few years, the UK has witnessed a remarkable surge in the popularity of winter camping and motorhoming. Traditionally seen as a summer activity, the allure of camping during snowy weather has generated significant interest. A recent survey by The Dyrt highlighted that winter camping, including motorhoming, has grown by a staggering 40.7% since 2019. This growth rate outpaces that of any other camping season, demonstrating a huge shift in British camping habits.

Several factors have contributed to this surge in winter camping. Primarily, many campers are looking to escape the crowded summer campsites, seeking a more relaxing experience. The winter months offer emptier sites, less traffic, and an undisturbed connection to nature. Additionally, economic factors play a role – low-season camping prices are a draw for those looking for a budget-friendly getaway. A 2022 survey by the Camping and Caravanning Club revealed that 65% of winter campers were motivated by reduced prices, while 50% mentioned the allure of quieter sites as their primary reason. This evolving trend mirrors the changing perception of camping in the UK, from a seasonal to a year-round activity.

When diving into the world of motorhomes designed for colder climes, the terms ‘winterised’ and ‘winterproof’ often surface. At first glance, they might seem interchangeable, but there’s a crucial distinction between the two. A ‘winterised’ motorhome, as the term suggests, is adapted for winter use. This usually involves improving the vehicle by fitting additional insulation, and ensuring the water systems are protected from freezing, which often includes sealing the underbelly of the van. These modifications make the motorhome suitable for winter conditions.
On the flip side, ‘winterproof’ motorhomes go a step further. Not only do they include the above-mentioned ‘winterisation’ features but also come equipped with advanced elements such as dual-pane windows, superior heating systems and heated tanks. In essence, while a ‘winterised’ motorhome can withstand winter conditions, a ‘winterproof’ one ensures that users experience optimal comfort and protection, even in the harshest of winter environments. This distinction is essential for those looking to invest in a motorhome for extended winter adventures or those venturing into particularly cold regions.

When braving the winter months in a motorhome, certain features are essential for safety, comfort, and the overall functionality of the vehicle. Here are some of the most important winter features for motorhomes:
1. Insulation: Good insulation is crucial. High-quality insulation not only keeps the cold out but also ensures the heat stays in, providing a comfortable environment inside the motorhome. This typically involves insulating the walls, roof, and floor.

2. Double-glazed Windows: Double-glazed windows play a significant role in preventing heat loss, reducing condensation, and offering a barrier against the cold.

3. Heating Systems: There are several heating options such as wet heating (using radiators filled with antifreeze), air heating (using fans to blow warm air), and exchange heating (utilising the warmth from the vehicle’s engine). The choice depends on personal preference and the motorhome’s design.

4. Winter Tyres: These are specifically designed for cold conditions, offering better grip and safety on icy or snowy roads.

5. Water System Protection: This includes frost protection systems for water pipes and anti-freeze protection for the boiler, ensuring continuous water supply and heating.

6. Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential, especially when using heating systems, helping to prevent condensation, ensuring a dry environment and reducing the risk of mould and mildew.
These features not only make winter motorhoming more pleasant but also ensure the safety and longevity of the vehicle and its systems during the cold months.

1. The A-Class Option: Dethleffs Globetrotter XLI 

When it comes to embarking on winter adventures, the A-Class Globetrotter XL I stands out as the quintessential motorhome, designed to offer a blend of luxury, function, and style. Here’s why it reigns supreme as the perfect winter getaway vehicle:
Winter-Friendly Features:
• Warm water heating for comfortable living just like at home – even in winter.

• Modern double-floor construction ensures a winter-proof, frost-protected water system and creates additional storage space.

• Heated double floor with frost-protected water installation and additional storage space.

• Fresh water and waste water tanks installed within a double floor (insulated area).• Robust GRP roof for hail protection.

• Double-glazed, flush-fitting windows with integrated blinds and fly screens.

• Premium broad-gauge low-frame chassis with twin axle and lowered by 145 mm for a safe and dynamic driving experience, whatever the road conditions.

• Prolonged self-sufficiency thanks to the latest lithium-ion technology with 1600 W or 3000 W power output (option)
For those who often journey through icy conditions during winter, a vehicle equipped with standard winter-proofing and a double floor, like the Globetrotter XL I, is essential.

2. The Coachbuilt Option: Hymer MC-T

The Hymer MC-T emerges as the ultimate winter motorhome choice for the 2024 season, boasting features meticulously crafted for cold weather escapades. Here’s why we love it at Lowdhams!
Winter-Friendly Features:
• A powerful Mercedes-Benz Sprinter engine, which is easy to manoeuvre, especially on narrow winter roads.

• Heat-insulating glass with band filter on windscreen.

• Electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors.

• GRP lightweight floor with XPS insulation.

• 120 L fresh water tank and 100 L waste water tank, insulated and heated to prevent freezing in colder climes.

• 6 kW diesel warm air heating with warm water boiler as well as altitude kit.

• Gas-powered warm air heating with an integrated timer.
This coachbuilt is the perfect option for those looking for comfort and optimum driving conditions whatever the weather!

3. The Campervan Option: Sunlight Adventure Edition 

For younger winter sports enthusiasts, Sunlight Adventure Edition campervans are the go-to. Weighing less than 3.5 tons, they’re agile and can be driven with a class B driving licence. Their compact nature makes them perfect for navigating snowy mountain passes and they’re a hit among skiing and snowboarding communities. Here’s some of their winter features:
Winter-Friendly Features:
• Powerful Fiat Ducato 2.2 MultiJet – 103 kW / 140 BHP Euro 6 engine.

• A lightweight 3.5 tons making it easy to drive and manoeuvre – even on the toughest winter road.

• 6-speed manual gearbox for difficult terrain.

• Electric heated mirrors.

• Double glazed hinged windows.

• Storage space to the rear for all your winter sports equipment.
If you are looking for a smaller compact vehicle which can be driven on any licence in any conditions, then the Sunlight is the perfect companion for your winter escapades.
Winter motorhoming has surpassed previous holiday trends to become a real contender amongst current travel habits. Whether you’re an experienced camper or a novice, the selection of the right motorhome, coupled with essential accessories, becomes crucial. These selections, in our opinion, represent the optimal blend of comfort and functionality. After all, there’s an unparalleled charm in nestling warmly inside, with a panoramic view of snowfall right outside your window.