9 Essential Winterizing Supplies for Camper Owners

When temperatures plunge below freezing, any water left lingering inside a camper’s plumbing turns into an expanding ice weapon capable of splitting brass valves and shattering plastic fittings. Preparing your rig for the cold season is not just a routine chore; it is an absolute insurance policy against catastrophic spring repair bills. Equipped with the proper tools and techniques, any rig owner can confidently shield their mobile home from the harshest winter elements.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Why Winterizing Your Camper Prevents Costly Damage

Water expands by roughly nine percent when it freezes, creating immense pressure that easily ruptures rigid PEX tubing, plastic elbow joints, and delicate faucet cartridges. In a confined camper environment, a single hidden leak can slowly rot subfloors and destroy cabinetry long before it is discovered in the spring. Replacing a ruptured water heater tank or replumbing a buried water line can easily run into thousands of dollars in professional labor.

Beyond plumbing, winter brings threats from humidity buildup and external weather wear. Trapped moisture leads to toxic mold growth in tight spaces like closets and under cushions, rendering a small living space uninhabitable. Taking a systematic approach to winterization protects both the structural integrity and the air quality of your mobile shelter.

Blowout Plug – Camco Brass Quick Connect

Clearing plumbing lines with compressed air requires a secure bridge between your camper’s city water inlet and an air compressor line. A blowout plug screws directly into the threaded freshwater intake, allowing pressurized air to safely push standing water out of every faucet, toilet valve, and low-point drain. Skipping this step leaves pockets of water in low bends that can freeze and crack surrounding fittings.

The Camco Brass Quick Connect Blowout Plug is the industry standard because its solid brass construction resists cross-threading and withstands repeated high-pressure hookups. Unlike cheap plastic alternatives that easily crack under tension or strip your RV’s plastic threads, this durable brass fitting ensures an airtight seal. The integrated quick-connect plug snaps directly into standard pneumatic couplers, eliminating the need for awkward adapter setups.

Before buying, note that this tool must be paired with an adjustable air compressor to prevent blowing out your camper’s delicate interior plumbing joints. Always regulate the air pressure to a safe range of 30 to 40 PSI before opening any faucets.

• Material: Heavy-duty lead-free brass
• Inlet Connection: Standard 3/4-inch garden hose thread (GHT)
• Plug Type: 1/4-inch industrial quick-connect post

This tool is indispensable for anyone opting for the “blowout” method of winterization or those who want to minimize the amount of chemical antifreeze pumped through their freshwater system. It is not suitable for owners who lack access to an air compressor or those with custom plumbing systems that cannot tolerate pressurized air.

RV Antifreeze – Camco Premium RV & Marine Antifreeze

Even after blowing out your water lines, trace amounts of moisture remain in P-traps, toilet valves, and waste holding tanks. RV antifreeze is formulated to mix with this residual water, lowering its freezing point so it cannot expand and cause structural damage. This fluid is the final layer of defense for components that cannot be completely cleared by compressed air alone.

Camco Premium RV & Marine Antifreeze uses a non-toxic, propylene glycol-based formula that is completely safe for freshwater systems and plastic plumbing. It is rated to prevent burst pipes down to -50 degrees Fahrenheit without degrading rubber seals or faucet washers. Unlike automotive antifreeze, which is highly toxic and must never be used in drinking water systems, this formula is biodegradable and safe for eventual disposal.

Be aware that this product should never be diluted with water, as dilution drastically raises its freezing point and compromises its protective properties. Additionally, while non-toxic, it can leave a temporary sweet taste in the lines, requiring a thorough flushing with fresh water and baking soda in the spring.

• Active Ingredient: Non-toxic propylene glycol
• Temperature Rating: Guarded down to -50°F (-46°C)
• Safe for: PEX, copper, PVC, and brass plumbing lines

This product is an absolute necessity for camper owners living in deep-freeze climates where winter temperatures consistently drop below freezing. It is not designed for engine cooling systems or for use in residential boilers that require specialized industrial inhibitors.

Bypass Kit – Camco Supreme Water Heater Bypass Kit

Standard RV water heaters hold six to ten gallons of water, meaning you would need to buy and pump massive quantities of chemical antifreeze to fill the entire tank. A water heater bypass kit redirects the flow of liquid directly from the cold-water inlet to the hot-water outlet line, isolating the tank entirely. This simple plumbing modification allows you to winterize your entire rig using only a fraction of the antifreeze.

The Camco Supreme Water Heater Bypass Kit features sturdy, lead-free brass valves and high-quality crimped hoses that withstand years of temperature fluctuations. It creates a permanent loop that simplifies your annual winterization routine down to a simple turn of a valve handle. The brass construction ensures the valves will not seize up or leak over time, unlike the cheap plastic bypass systems pre-installed in many budget rigs.

Installation requires basic plumbing knowledge and access to the rear of your water heater, which can be tight in compact camper layouts. Ensure you completely drain the water heater tank via its exterior drain plug before turning these bypass valves, as trapped water in an isolated tank will freeze and rupture the costly inner lining.

• Valve Material: Lead-free brass
• Hose Type: Reinforced flexible nylon
• Compatibility: Standard 6-gallon or 10-gallon RV water heaters

This kit is a must-have upgrade for owners of older campers or custom van conversions featuring tank-style water heaters without factory bypass valves. It is unnecessary for rigs equipped with tankless, on-demand water heaters, which require a different draining and winterization protocol.

12V Air Compressor – Viair 400P-RV Automatic Portable

Blowing out water lines requires a reliable, consistent stream of air rather than a quick burst of pressure. A high-quality 12V air compressor provides the sustained volume needed to push water through long plumbing runs, low-point drains, and outdoor shower lines. It also double-duties as an essential roadside tool for adjusting heavy-duty camper tire pressures on the go.

The Viair 400P-RV Automatic Portable Compressor stands out due to its impressive 33% duty cycle and its ability to deliver up to 150 PSI of working pressure. This kit is specifically packaged for RVers, featuring extended air hoses that easily reach the rear wheels of a 40-foot fifth wheel or travel trailer. Its automatic shut-off feature stops the motor when you release the tire trigger, preventing constant wear and overheating during operation.

Because this unit draws up to 30 amps of power, it must be clamped directly to your camper’s 12V house battery or tow vehicle battery rather than plugged into a flimsy cigarette lighter outlet. When using it to blow out plumbing lines, you must monitor your pressure output carefully to avoid damaging your plumbing connections.

• Max Pressure: 150 PSI
• Power Source: 12-Volt DC battery clamps
• Duty Cycle: 33% @ 100 PSI

This premium compressor is perfect for full-time travelers, off-grid adventurers, and trailer owners who demand a heavy-duty, versatile tool for both maintenance and roadside emergencies. It is not the right choice for budget-conscious camper owners who only require a simple, low-cost tool strictly for seasonal winter blowouts.

Holding Tank Heater – UltraHeat Dual Voltage Heat Pad

If you plan to camp during shoulder seasons or live in your rig during freezing snaps, your grey and black holding tanks are highly vulnerable to freezing. A frozen waste tank can split open, lead to blocked drain valves, or prevent you from dumping your waste entirely. Holding tank heater pads apply direct, regulated heat to the bottom of these tanks, keeping their contents liquid even in sub-freezing conditions.

The UltraHeat Dual Voltage Heat Pad is the gold standard for tank freeze protection, featuring a dual-power configuration that runs on 120V AC shore power or 13.5V DC battery power while in transit. Its heavy-duty adhesive backing bonds permanently to plastic and metal tanks, resisting road grime, water spray, and vibration. Built-in thermostats automatically activate the pad when temperatures drop near freezing and shut off once the tank warms up, preserving precious battery power.

To install these pads, you must have clear access to the bottom of your holding tanks, which may require cutting through underbelly insulation. Never turn these heater pads on when the holding tanks are completely empty, as the concentrated heat can melt or distort plastic tank walls.

• Voltage: Dual 120V AC and 13.5V DC
• Thermostat Range: Turns on at 44°F (7°C), turns off at 64°F (18°C)
• Material: Flexible, multi-layered insulated polymer

This heating pad is an essential upgrade for four-season RVers, winter dry-campers, and late-fall road-trippers who refuse to let freezing weather stop their journeys. It is unnecessary for owners who completely drain, winterize, and store their camper in a secure facility for the duration of the winter.

RV Cover – ADCO Designer Series Tyvek Plus Wind Cover

Leaving a camper exposed to winter snow, ice, and UV rays can cause roof seals to dry out, crack, and leak. Moisture can pool in roof seams, freeze, and expand, creating microscopic pathways for water to enter your ceiling. A dedicated RV cover acts as a protective shield against weather, dirt, and damaging tree sap throughout the long storage months.

The ADCO Designer Series Tyvek Plus Wind Cover utilizes a highly breathable DuPont Tyvek top panel that blocks liquid water while allowing interior condensation to escape. Its durable, triple-layer polypropylene sides prevent wind wear, while integrated front and rear cinching systems ensure a snug fit. Zippered entry panels allow you to access your camper’s doors and storage compartments during storage without removing the entire cover.

Proper sizing is critical when ordering this cover, as excess fabric will flap in the wind, causing abrasive wear on your RV’s exterior paint and graphics. Installation can be physically demanding and usually requires two people, a ladder, and a calm day to safely hoist and secure the cover over the roof.

• Top Material: DuPont Tyvek (maximum UV protection and water resistance)
• Side Material: Heavy-duty 3-layer polypropylene
• Securing System: Slip-seam strapping with weighted buckle toss-under system

This cover is ideal for camper owners who store their rigs outdoors in regions subject to heavy snowfall, ice storms, and intense winter sun. It is not recommended for owners who store their vehicles in indoor facilities or covered carports where physical weather protection is already provided.

RV Dehumidifier – Eva-Dry E-333 Renewable Mini

Closed-up campers act as giant moisture traps, sealing in humidity that can condense on cold walls, windows, and metal frames. This constant dampness creates the perfect breeding ground for black mold, mildew, and musty odors that can ruin upholstery and woodwork. A reliable dehumidifying solution is essential for keeping the interior air clean and the structural materials dry during winter storage.

The Eva-Dry E-333 Renewable Mini Dehumidifier uses non-toxic silica gel crystals that silently absorb ambient moisture from the air without requiring any electricity. As the crystals saturate, they change color from blue to pink, providing a clear visual indicator of when it is time to renew the unit. To renew, simply plug the compact device into a standard wall outlet overnight in a well-ventilated space to release the trapped moisture and dry the crystals for reuse.

Because of its compact size, a single E-333 unit is rated for spaces up to 333 cubic feet, meaning owners of larger travel trailers or fifth wheels will need to purchase a multi-pack to cover their entire floor plan. It is also important to place these units on a flat, stable surface away from hanging fabrics to maximize air circulation.

• Technology: Renewable silica gel beads
• Capacity: Absorbs approximately 4 to 6 ounces of moisture per cycle
• Lifespan: Up to 10 years of repeated renewals

This renewable mini dehumidifier is the perfect choice for owners of small campervans, truck campers, or teardrop trailers who store their rigs without access to shore power. It is not suitable for large-scale, high-humidity environments that require a continuous-drain compressor dehumidifier.

RV Skirting – EZ Snap Direct RV Skirting Kit

When freezing winds sweep underneath a trailer, they quickly sap heat through the floor and freeze exposed underbelly plumbing lines. RV skirting encloses the entire open space beneath your camper, trapping pockets of warmer air and acting as a barrier against wind chill. This insulation layer dramatically reduces your propane heating costs and prevents structural undercarriage components from freezing.

The EZ Snap Direct RV Skirting Kit provides a professional-grade barrier utilizing heavy-duty, UV-protected marine vinyl that resists cracking in extreme sub-zero temperatures. The standout feature is its proprietary no-drill adhesive snaps, which allow you to secure the skirting to your RV’s exterior without drilling holes into your fiberglass or aluminum sidewalls. The kit is designed to be cut to size on-site, ensuring a perfect, tailored fit regardless of your rig’s slide-outs or step configurations.

Installing this kit requires careful preparation, as the adhesive snaps must be applied to a completely clean, warm surface to cure properly before winter sets in. Additionally, preparing the ground anchor system—whether using bricks, chains, or spiral stakes—is crucial to prevent high winds from tearing the skirting away from the bottom snaps.

• Material: 18 oz. heavy-duty marine-grade vinyl
• Fastener System: Patented EZ Snap studs (adhesive or screw-in options)
• Inclusions: Skirting material, snaps, cutting tool, and installation hardware

This skirting kit is an absolute necessity for stationary winter campers, full-time RVers living in cold climates, and long-term seasonal residents. It is not recommended for mobile travelers who change campsites every few days, as the setup and breakdown process is too time-consuming for frequent travel.

Antifreeze Hand Pump – Camco RV Antifreeze Hand Pump

Pumping RV antifreeze directly into your rig’s city water inlet can be difficult without utilizing your internal water pump or a pressurized system. An antifreeze hand pump allows you to manually draw antifreeze straight from the bottle and push it into the freshwater lines, bypassing internal pumps entirely. This is particularly useful for protecting your city water inlet valve and lines that run upstream of your fresh water tank.

The Camco RV Antifreeze Hand Pump is a highly effective, low-tech tool constructed from durable plastic that resists corrosion from chemical exposure. It comes complete with a flexible siphon tube that drops directly into a standard one-gallon antifreeze jug and a threaded brass garden hose fitting that attaches securely to your city water inlet. Its simple pump action makes it easy to prime and operate, providing quick fluid delivery with minimal physical effort.

When using this hand pump, make sure all internal faucets are opened one at a time to allow the pink antifreeze to flow steadily through each valve. Keep in mind that manual pumping requires some physical stamina, so ensure your lines have been mostly blown out with air first to minimize the volume of liquid you need to pump.

• Body Material: Corrosion-resistant plastic
• Connections: Threaded male garden hose fitting
• Inclusions: Siphon hose and hand pump assembly

This manual pump is an excellent tool for budget-conscious camper owners, owners of vintage rigs without built-in siphons, and those who want a reliable backup method for winterizing their city water connection. It is not ideal for owners of massive fifth-wheels with extensive plumbing runs, where a motorized 12V winterization bypass pump would save significant time and physical effort.

Step-by-Step Guide to Blowing Out Your RV Water Lines

Begin by turning off your water heater and allowing the water inside to cool down completely. Remove the exterior drain plug and open the pressure relief valve to allow the tank to empty. Once empty, locate your winterization bypass valves and turn them to isolate the water heater tank from the rest of your plumbing system.

Next, open all low-point drains under your rig, open all interior faucets (including hot and cold valves, showerheads, and outdoor showers), and flush the toilet to empty as much gravity-fed water as possible. Close all faucets and low-point drains once the water stops dripping. Screw your blowout plug into the city water inlet and hook up your regulated air compressor.

Turn on the compressor, ensuring the output regulator is set strictly between 30 and 40 PSI to prevent pipe joint damage. Go inside the camper and open one faucet valve at a time, starting with the one furthest from the water inlet, letting the air blow until no water mist emerges. Repeat this process for every faucet, the shower, the toilet valve, and the low-point drains until only dry air escapes.

Finally, disconnect the air compressor and blowout plug from the city water inlet. Pour at least two cups of RV antifreeze down every P-trap (kitchen sink, bathroom sink, and shower drain) to protect the traps from freezing. Pour another cup into the toilet bowl to keep the rubber flush seal lubricated and protected from freezing temperatures throughout the winter.

Crucial Mistakes to Avoid When Winterizing Your Rig

The most common and costly mistake is forgetting to winterize the toilet valve and the city water inlet check valve. Water often remains trapped inside these small plastic mechanisms even after blowing out the main lines, causing them to split during the first hard freeze. Taking a few seconds to depress the toilet flush pedal and gently push the city water check valve while under low air pressure will ensure these vulnerable components are cleared.

Another critical error is leaving water inside your water pump’s pre-filter strainer bowl. If water freezes inside this small plastic cup, it will crack the housing, resulting in a flooded cabinet the moment you turn on your water pump in the spring. Always unscrew this strainer bowl, empty any trapped water, and reinstall it securely before finishing your winterization process.

Lastly, never assume that simply opening your low-point drains will empty your entire system through gravity alone. Surface tension and plumbing layouts create airlocks that trap substantial amounts of water inside PEX loops and faucet bodies. Always use a combination of compressed air blowouts and RV-specific antifreeze to guarantee total freeze protection.

Taking the time to properly winterize your camper ensures that when spring finally arrives, your first trip won’t be delayed by expensive repairs and water damage. By investing in the right tools and following a systematic process, you protect your mobile home and keep your future adventures on track. Store your rig with peace of mind, knowing it is fully shielded from the coldest winter nights.