How to Keep Your Motorhome Safe from the Snow

Snowy weather can transform your winter travels into something truly special, but it also creates risks for your motorhome if you’re not properly prepared. Freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions can cause damage to your roof, water system, bodywork, and electrics. 

With a little planning, you can protect your motorhome from snow-related issues and keep it in excellent condition all winter long. Here’s Lowdhams’ expert guide to keeping your motorhome safe when the snow arrives. 

A fresh layer of snow might look picturesque, but too much weight can put pressure on your motorhome roof. 

• Clear snow off the roof carefully using a soft brush or long-handled sweep. 

• Avoid using metal tools or scraping, as these can damage roof seals or vents. 

• Keep rooflights, skylights, and vents free from ice so they can operate safely. 

Regular checks throughout heavy snowfall will prevent unnecessary strain on the vehicle. 

Frozen water is one of the most common causes of winter damage. Frozen pipes can burst, damage pumps, and lead to leaks when temperatures rise. 

• Drain your fresh, waste, and onboard tanks completely if storing the vehicle. 

• If touring in winter, insulate exposed pipework and empty waste tanks overnight. 

• Keep your heater set to a low, safe temperature to protect internal pipes from freezing. 

Lowdhams offers professional winter drain-down services if you prefer expert preparation. 

Snow, ice, and road salt can all affect your motorhome’s exterior. 

• Give the vehicle a full wash before winter conditions set in. 

• Apply a protective wax to shield paintwork from salt and grime. 

• Check exterior seals around windows, doors, and roof panels for cracks or gaps where water could seep in. 

• Lubricate hinges, locks, and moving parts to prevent them freezing. 

A little preventative care goes a long way in avoiding frost-related deterioration. 

Cold weather reduces battery performance significantly. 

• Charge the leisure and starter batteries fully before storing. 

• If off the road, disconnect and store them in a dry, frost-free area. 

• Use a smart charger or solar maintainer to keep the battery in good condition. 

This prevents a flat battery and reduces long-term wear. 

Cold temperatures can affect tyre pressure and braking performance. 

• Check tyre pressure regularly, cold air causes pressure to drop. 

• Move the vehicle slightly every few weeks if in storage to avoid flat spots. 

• Ensure brakes are dry and free from ice before setting off. 

If you’re travelling, consider carrying snow socks or chains, particularly for rural routes. 

Snow outside often leads to condensation inside. Without proper management, this can lead to damp patches, mould, and odours. 

• Use moisture traps or dehumidifier crystals around the van. 

• Ventilate briefly each day to release moisture. 

• Keep cupboard doors open to encourage airflow. 

• Lift cushions and mattresses to prevent cold spots underneath. 

A dry motorhome is a healthy motorhome, especially in winter. 

If your motorhome is stored outdoors, a high-quality breathable cover can help protect against snow, frost, and falling debris. 

• Avoid plastic tarps, these trap moisture. 

• Choose a fitted, ventilated cover designed for motorhomes. 

• Make sure vents remain uncovered to maintain airflow. 

Covers help keep your motorhome cleaner while preventing ice from settling directly on the bodywork. 

Faulty heating in winter is more than inconvenient; it can be dangerous. 

• Have your Truma, Alde, or Whale heating system serviced before winter touring. 

• Check gas bottles for leaks and ensure they’re stored correctly. 

• Test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. 

Lowdhams’ servicing department can carry out full winter safety checks for peace of mind. 

Tick off the essentials before the cold weather arrives: 

• Clear snow from roof and rooflights 

• Drain water system or insulate pipes 

• Apply protective wax to exterior 

• Check and charge batteries 

• Inspect seals, vents, and roof fittings 

• Fit moisture traps to control condensation 

• Maintain correct tyre pressure 

• Use breathable winter cover 

• Test heating and CO alarms 

Keep this list handy for every winter season. 

With the right preparation, winter conditions don’t have to be a problem. Whether you’re storing your motorhome or planning snowy getaways, these simple steps will help keep your vehicle protected through the coldest months of the year. 

For expert servicing, winterisation, and advice, visit Lowdhams or contact our aftersales team, we’re here to help you get the most from your motorhome all year round.