Best Cold Weather Trailers For Winter

‍Looking for the best travel trailer to keep you warm on winter camping trips? Our guide has expert advice for selecting the perfect RV for winter adventures.

Our five favorite cold weather trailers for winter are:

• Northwood Arctic Fox North Fork
• Forest River Inc. Rockwood Signature Fifth Wheels
• Keystone Montana
• Grand Design Reflection
• Airstream Flying Cloud

As seasoned RV enthusiasts, we've spent our fair share of winters on the road and know just what it takes to stay cozy and warm in harsh, cold temperatures. In this article, we'll share our knowledge and expertise with you, so you can confidently choose one of the best cold-weather trailers.

‍Cold Weather Travel Trailer: What to Look For

When searching for the ideal cold-weather travel trailer, it's crucial to take into account a variety of factors, including insulation, heating systems, and weather-proofing.

Paying close attention to each aspect of the trailer's design takes some forethought, but it's worth it when making such a big investment.

Insulation/Extreme Weather Package

The secret to retaining heat in a cold-weather travel trailer is high-quality insulation. As you search for the perfect trailer to suit your needs, it's important to prioritize thick, effective insulation in all areas, including walls, roof, and floor.

You might not know that a trailer and its components have their own insulation ratings? It's true!

But what do those insulation ratings actually mean?

Essentially, insulation ratings refer to a material's ability to retain heat.

In trailers, insulation ratings are typically measured using a unit called R-values.

Do Different Parts of the Same Trailer Have Different Insulation Ratings?

Yes, different parts of a trailer can have different R-values depending on the insulation used in each area.

For example, the walls, roof, and floor may all have different R-values depending on the type and thickness of insulation used.

Heating Systems for Cold Temperatures

From propane furnaces to electric heaters to wood stoves, the possibilities are endless!

But what makes each system special, and how can it help you manage the cold weather on your winter camping trip?

Let's take a closer look.

1. Propane Furnaces: These classic heating systems are a popular choice for cold-weather trailers, offering reliable warmth and efficiency. Propane furnaces burn propane gas to heat the air, which is then circulated through the trailer via ductwork. Propane furnaces can be effective, but they also have some downsides - namely, they can be noisy and require regular maintenance.
2. Electric Heaters: Electric heaters are a quieter option than propane furnaces. They work by converting electrical energy into heat and can be portable or built-in. While electric heaters are often less expensive to operate than propane furnaces, they may not be as effective in extreme cold.
3. Wood Stoves: A wood stove adds a rare rustic touch to your travel trailer and can provide reliable heat if you're willing to do the work of chopping and carrying firewood. Wood stoves can be installed in trailers with proper ventilation and clearance and can be a great way to keep warm on even the coldest of winter nights.

Heated Underbelly and Holding Tanks

Picture this: you're camping in the dead of winter, bundled up in your warmest gear, sipping on hot cocoa by the fire.

But wait - what's that? Your trailer's water supply has frozen solid, leaving you without access to running water!

Fear not, my cold-weather camping friend - with a heated underbelly and heated holding tanks, you can ensure that your trailer stays warm and, more importantly, fully functional no matter how low the temperatures drop.

A heated underbelly is exactly what it sounds like - an insulated layer beneath the trailer that's heated to prevent the pipes and tanks from freezing.

Similarly, heated holding tanks keep your fresh water and wastewater from freezing up and causing problems.

These features are especially important in extremely cold weather, where freezing pipes and tanks are a catastrophic issue.

Our Favorite Cold Weather Trailers

Are you ready to take on winter camping in style and comfort?

Buckle up, get ready to hit the road, and let's dive into the world of cold weather trailers!

Northwood Arctic Fox North Fork

The Arctic Fox North Fork travel trailer is a cold-weather powerhouse designed with harsh, extreme cold weather in mind.

This trailer boasts a four-season insulation package, including insulated walls, ceiling, and floor, as well as heated tanks and an insulated underbelly.

With thermal pane windows and a 30,000 BTU ducted furnace, you can be sure that you'll stay warm even in the coldest of temperatures aboard the Arctic Fox.

Specs

• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): 2,698 lbs
• Dry Weight: 8,302 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 11,000 lbs
• Ceiling Insulation Rating: R-18
• Roof Insulation Rating: R-15
• Price: $50,000 to $80,000+
• Our Favorite Floorplan: 28F

What Makes This Trailer Special?

The Arctic Fox North Fork also features cold weather-resistant construction, with high-quality materials and sealed seams, and continuous welds to keep the cold air out and the warm air in.

It’s right there in the name, arctic fox. How could it not be one of the best cold-weather travel trailers?

And with luxurious touches like a residential-style queen bed, LED lighting, and a Bluetooth sound system, you'll feel right at home no matter where your winter adventures take you.

Who Should Choose This Trailer?

As your friendly RV experts, we highly recommend the Arctic Fox North Fork to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line winter fortress trailer.

With its full-stack combo of insulation, heating, and weather-proofing, you'll be able to enjoy winter camping to the fullest without having to worry about your rig.

So why wait?

Bundle up, hit the road, and get ready for the bold winter camping adventure of your lifetime in the Arctic Fox North Fork travel trailer!

Forest River Inc. Rockwood Signature Fifth Wheels

Listen up, fellow winter warriors!

The Forest River Rockwood Signature Fifth Wheels are choices for those who want to take on some cold weather camping conditions with style, comfort, and confidence.

These trailers have been designed with the sole purpose of keeping you cozy and toasty warm, just like home, even when the temperatures plummet and the snow starts to fall.

For the record, we've loved every Forest River RV we've been in.

Specs

• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): 2,169 lbs
• Dry Weight: 9,511 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): approx. 11,600 lbs
• Floor Insulation Rating: R-12
• Roof Insulation Rating: R-14
• Dual-pane windows
• Price: $50,000 to $90,000+
• Our Favorite Floorplan: 2883WS

What Makes This Trailer Special?

One of the things that sets Forest River trailers apart from others in the industry is their unparalleled commitment to customization and flexibility.

With a wide range of models and floor plans to choose from, as well as the ability to customize many of the features to meet your specific needs, these trailers offer a camping experience that's truly one-of-a-kind.

And let's not forget about their exceptional customer service and support.

We've had nothing but wonderful interactions with their team over the years.

Forest River is a brand that you can trust to stand behind their products and provide you with the support and assistance you need, whenever you need it.

They also offer the Forest River Arctic Wolf, which deserves an honorable mention here for its arctic package designed for freezing temperatures.

Who Should Choose This Trailer?

If you're in the market for a manufacturer that truly takes pride in its customer experience and is committed to providing peak service and support, then Forest River is the one for you.

Their exceptional quality, customization options, and commitment to customer service will have you able to enjoy the great outdoors like you never have before.

There's a reason you see Forest River products all over RV parks across the United States.

Keystone Montana

Behold, fellow frosty adventurers, the Keystone Montana luxury fifth wheel - a jam-packed RV with impressive design and engineering built to conquer all-season camping.

This trailer is an amazing choice for those who demand nothing but the best in their outdoor pursuits and the budget to make it happen, with a combination of A+ construction, meticulous attention to detail, and unmatched luxury features that are hard to find.

Specs

• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): 3,868 lbs
• Dry Weight: 12,482 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): approx. 16,000 lbs
• Tested at temperatures as low as 0 degrees
• Price: $120,000 to $150,000+
• Our Favorite Floorplan: 3123RL (New for 2023!)

What Makes This Trailer Special?

One thing that sets the Montana apart from other trailers on the market is its exceptional all-season insulation extreme weather package that comes standard along with the floor-ducted furnace.

Built to withstand extreme cold temps as low as zero degrees, the Montana is designed to keep you warm and comfortable. With that kind of testing, there’s no doubt in our minds that this is one of the best cold-weather travel trailers.

And with advanced heating systems, enclosed and heated underbelly, and cold weather-resistant construction, you can rest assured that you'll be protected from the elements all winter long.

Who Should Choose This Trailer?

If you're a true winter warrior who values exceptional quality, attention to detail, and unmatched bespoke features, with a budget to back it up, then the Montana could be one of a few fantastic cold weather RVs choices for you.

Let's not forget about the amenities that Montana has to offer for braving winter weather.

From the plush living area with its comfortable residential-style furniture to the gourmet kitchen with its high-end appliances, you may forget you're out camping for a moment.

Grand Design Reflection

Ladies and gentlemen, let us introduce you to the Grand Design Reflection travel trailer - the ultimate choice for the discerning winter camping enthusiast!

This trailer offers an uncommon blend of style, comfort, and functionality, and insulation designed to take your cold-weather camping lifestyle to the summit.

Specs

• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): approx. 2,000 lbs
• Dry Weight: 9,516 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): approx. 11,295 lbs
• Floor Insulation Rating: R-30
• Wall Insulation Rating: R-9 to R-11 depending on model
• Roof and Front Cap Insulation Rating: R-40
• Price: starting at $67,432
• Our Favorite Floorplan: 310MKTS

What Makes This Trailer Special?

The Reflection sets itself apart with its sky-high insulation ratings.

This trailer is built to withstand some serious icy cold weather, with insulation in the walls, floor, and ceiling that's guaranteed to keep you toasty warm, maxing out at R-40 for the roof and front cap of the RV.

No sacrifices were made at the cost of comfort, though. You'll still find all the high-end features of other Grand Design models, plus a few extra goodies that make the Reflection's interior truly something special.

Who Should Choose This Trailer?

Here's the real kicker - the Reflection isn't just among the best of the best in terms of performance; it's also a game-changer in terms of affordability.

While other high-end models like the Montana can run you well over $100k, the Reflection offers the same level of quality and luxury features at a much more reasonable price point.

So if you're looking for a travel trailer that can beat a blizzard without breaking the bank too much, then the Grand Design Reflection is the RV you've been looking for.

AirStream Flying Cloud

Airstream Flying Cloud is a true jack-of-all-trades.

This versatile trailer is engineered to withstand extreme temperatures, so you can enjoy the great outdoors no matter what the hot or cold weather throws your way.

Few names are as iconic in the RV market as Airstream.

This legendary brand has been around for nearly a century, and it's not hard to see why it's so enduringly popular.

From their signature polished aluminum exteriors to their sleek and stylish interiors, Airstream trailers are known for their distinctive design and exceptional American quality.

Specs

• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): 1,500 lbs
• Dry Weight: 6,100 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 7,600 lbs
• Insulated and heated underbelly comes standard
• Price: starting around $94,000
• Our Favorite Floorplan: 28RB
• Good for all weather conditions

What Makes This Trailer Special?

One of the things that makes the Flying Cloud so special is its incredible versatility in cold weather and beyond.

This trailer is engineered to handle a range of temperatures, from scorching summers to frigid winters, thanks to its advanced insulation and innovations in climate control systems.

Whether you're hitting the beach or the mountains, the Flying Cloud has got you covered.

And let's not forget about that signature Airstream design - the Flying Cloud is a true work of art, with its retro aluminum exterior that's sure to turn heads wherever you go.

But it's not just about looks - this trailer is also built to last, with exceptional quality and attention to detail that we've come to expect from the people at Airstream.

Who Should Choose This Trailer?

Well, our fellow RV adventurers, if you're the kind of person who wants it all - luxury, versatility, and functionality - then the Airstream Flying Cloud fits the bill to a T!

This trailer is designed to accommodate a wide range of camping styles and preferences, making it the go-to option for anyone who wants to experience the great outdoors in sophistication in every season of the year.

How Cold Is Too Cold for Travel Trailers?

When we're talking about camping in a travel trailer, the question of exactly how cold is too cold is a tricky one.

While most trailers are designed to handle reasonable cold temperatures and inclement or cold weather, there are limits to what they can handle.

As a general rule of thumb, most travel trailers without special all-season or cold weather packages are built to handle temperatures down to about 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit, or even a little lower.

Beyond that, you may start to encounter problems with frozen pipes, tanks, and other plumbing components, as well as issues with the trailer's heating systems.

On this list, Montana is specifically tested at zero degrees.

If things get even colder than that, we recommend being realistic about your trailer's limitations and planning accordingly; this could mean finding indoor storage or changing locations.

That being said, there are steps you can take to extend your trailer's cold-weather capabilities.

For example, you can add additional insulation yourself or install tank heaters to prevent freezing.

You can also invest in a high-quality heating system with higher output and make sure to keep your trailer well-maintained and properly winterized.

Can All Trailers Be Used in the Winter?

For the most part, yes. All travel trailers with some form of heater and insulation can be used in the winter to some degree.

However, never ever forget that not all trailers are created equal when it comes to cold-weather camping.

Some trailers are better equipped than others to handle the most extreme temperatures and inclement cold weather conditions that winter can throw at us.

How Do I Keep My RV Septic From Freezing?

Keeping your RV's septic system from freezing in cold weather is challenging when temps drop below freezing, but the consequences of failure are rough.

There are a few steps you can take to prevent your septic system and other tanks from freezing:

1. Keep your holding tanks as full as possible: One of the easiest ways to prevent your septic system from freezing is to keep your holding tanks as full as possible. Bigger amounts of water freeze slower. This helps to minimize the amount of free space in the tanks that can freeze and helps to self-insulate the tanks against the cold.
2. Use tank heaters: Installing tank heaters if you don't have built-in ones will help to prevent your system from freezing up. These heaters are designed to keep the tanks and plumbing components warm and the water in a liquid state.
3. Use RV antifreeze: Pouring RV antifreeze into your septic system can also help to prevent freezing. This special antifreeze is designed to be safe for your plumbing system and can help to keep the water in your tanks from freezing. Make sure the antifreeze is marked safe for potable water plumbing.
4. Keep your RV well-insulated: Insulating your RV properly can also help to prevent your septic system from freezing. This includes using high-quality insulation in the walls, floor, and ceiling, as well as sealing any gaps or cracks where cold air can get in.

If water freezes in your RV's system, it will expand and can cause serious damage.