Are you dreaming of a unique camping holiday away from the crowds? Then winter camping is just right for you. In this post, you’ll find all the important information you need for your winter trip. From choosing the right campsite to the right gear and tips for safe maneuvering on ice and snow – we’ve put everything together for you.
Table of contents
Preparation for winter camping
Packing list for winter camping
Tips for camping in winter
Activities during winter camping
The 5 most beautiful winter campsites in Germany
The 5 most beautiful winter campsites abroad
Tips for maneuvering the caravan on ice
The right gear for winter camping
Preparation for winter camping
Winter camping is a special experience that requires good preparation. To fully enjoy your trip, you should check some important points before you leave:
Vehicle check: Everything under control
- Lighting system: Do all the lights inside and outside work properly? Defective bulbs should be replaced in time.
- Tires: Do the tires have the right tread and sufficient air pressure? Good grip is especially important in winter conditions.
- Heating: Check if the heating works perfectly and provides enough warmth. A look at the manual can help you get to know all the functions.
- Gas supply: The gas bottle level should be checked before departure and refilled if necessary.
- Water supply: A heated water tank is a big advantage in winter. If your caravan doesn’t have this feature, you should take measures to prevent the pipes or tank from freezing.
The right campsite: Cozy and safe
Choosing the right campsite is also crucial for a successful winter camping adventure. Be sure to pay attention to the following aspects:
- Facilities: Does the campsite provide enough sanitary facilities that are accessible in winter?
- Supplies: Are there power and water connections available and winter-proof?
- Location: Is the campsite sheltered from the wind and does it offer enough recreational opportunities?
- Snow: Check the snow conditions at your desired location in advance.
Packing list for winter camping: Everything you need for cozy hours
A well-thought-out packing list is key to a successful winter camping adventure. Here are some essential items you shouldn’t leave out of your luggage:
Gear for on the go
- Snow chains: For safe driving on snow-covered roads.
- Thermal mats: These provide additional insulation and increase sleeping comfort.
- Awning & awning floor: A sheltered area in front of the motorhome or tent that provides extra space and protection.
- Dehumidifier: Helps reduce moisture inside and prevent mold growth.
- Heater fan: For extra warmth on cold days.
- Tent hammer: Specifically designed for use on frozen ground.
- Broom and shovel: To remove snow from the motorhome or tent.
- Jumper cables: In case the battery ever gives out.
Clothing and gear against the cold
- Thick blankets: We especially recommend blankets made of loden. Here you’ll find the perfect blanket!
- Warm clothing: Functional underwear, fleece, down jacket, warm socks, and gloves are essential. Be sure to check out the high-quality loden clothing. Here you’ll find our loden collection!
- Sturdy shoes: Hiking boots or winter boots provide secure footing on snow and ice.
- Stakes: Special snow stakes ensure that your tent or awning stays secure even in strong winds.
Tips for camping in winter
Winter camping is a challenge that really tests you. Cold, snow, and wind place high demands on both people and gear. But if you prepare well and follow the right tips, you can fully enjoy the cold season. We’ll show you how to easily master the challenges of winter camping.
Proper nutrition: For warm bellies
- Hot drinks: Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate warm you from the inside and provide comfort.
- Warm meals: Stew, chili con carne, or a delicious dish from the Dutch Oven are perfect for cold days. Discover the many possibilities of the Dutch Oven here: [Link to Dutch Oven]
- Cooking outdoors: When weather conditions allow, cooking outdoors is a special experience.
Energy supply: Play it safe
- Shore power: Use the option to connect your caravan or tent to shore power. This protects the onboard battery and ensures you have enough power for heating, lighting, and other electrical devices.
- Save electricity: Turn off unnecessary devices and keep an eye on your appliances' power consumption.
Cozy atmosphere: For feel-good moments
- String lights: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere with string lights.
- Candles: Candlelight creates a romantic mood and extra warmth.
- Decor: With a few decorative elements, you can personalize your home on wheels.
Hygiene and health: For a pleasant living climate
- Regular ventilation: Even in winter, it’s important to ventilate regularly to avoid mold and condensation.
- Keep dry: Make sure no wet clothes or shoes are lying in the living area. Moisture promotes mold growth.
More tips:
- Exercise: Even in winter, you should move regularly. A walk in the fresh air does good.
- Reading: A good book can pass the time and provide relaxation.
- Games: Board games or card games provide entertainment and bring the whole family together.
Activities for winter camping: Fun and relaxation in nature
Winter camping isn’t just winter camping. Whether you prefer to enjoy the tranquility of nature, stay active, or simply relax – the possibilities are diverse. In this post, we introduce you to the most popular activities for winter campers and give you ideas for your next holiday.
Winter sports
- Skiing: Many campsites are located near ski resorts. So you can head straight to the slopes after a cozy evening in the caravan.
- Snowboarding: For all snowboard fans, winter camping offers the perfect opportunity to pursue their passion.
- Cross-country skiing: A gentle yet sporty activity that is perfect for the snowy winter landscape.
Relaxation and wellness
- Sauna: Many campsites offer a sauna where you can warm up after an active day.
- Wellness treatments: Treat yourself to a soothing massage or another wellness treatment and let your soul unwind.
- Relaxing in nature: Enjoy the peace and beauty of the winter landscape on a walk or a snowshoe hike.
Adventure in nature
- Snowshoe hiking: Discover the snowy nature on a snowshoe hike.
- Ice fishing: A special experience for anglers.
- Sledding: For everyone who wants to have fun, sledding is a great activity.
- Campfire: A campfire in the evening creates a cozy atmosphere and invites everyone to gather together.
The 5 most beautiful winter campsites in Germany
Germany holds a very special beauty in winter. Snow-covered landscapes, sparkling lakes, and cozy campsites invite you to enjoy the cold season in nature. But which campsites offer the perfect ambiance for an unforgettable winter holiday? We show you the five most beautiful winter campsites in Germany.
Camping Erlebnis Zugspitze
State: Bavaria
Opening hours: Year-round
Address: Griesener Straße 2, 82491 Grainau
Leisure activities: Winter sports, hiking, cycling
Highlights: Dog-friendly, family-friendly, located directly on the Loisach, ideal starting point for numerous activities
Website: Camping Erlebnis Zugspitze | Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Bavaria
Camping Erlebnis Zugspitze is a paradise for nature lovers and active holidaymakers. Located directly on the Loisach, the site offers a magnificent view of the Zugspitze and Alpspitze. Whether in summer or winter – everyone gets their money’s worth here. Winter sports enthusiasts appreciate the proximity to numerous ski resorts and cross-country ski trails. Dogs are also warmly welcome. The family-friendly atmosphere and diverse leisure activities make the campsite a popular destination for families with children.
Campingplatz am Galgenteich-Altenberg
State: Saxony
Opening hours: Year-round
Address: Galgenteich 3, 01773 Altenberg
Leisure activities: Winter sports, hiking, cycling
Highlights: Ideal starting point for winter sports enthusiasts, close to Christmas markets, quiet location by the lake
Website: Campingplatz Altenberg - Homepage
The campsite at Galgenteich is a true paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the Ore Mountains, it offers the perfect base for exciting days on the slopes. After an active day in the fresh air, you can relax wonderfully at the campsite. The quiet location by the lake invites you to linger. In the pre-Christmas season, the numerous Christmas markets in the area attract visitors with their special charm.
Campingplatz Braunlage
State: Lower Saxony
Opening hours: Year-round
Address: Am Campingplatz, 38700 Braunlage
Leisure activities: Cross-country skiing, hiking, mountain biking
Highlights: Ideal starting point for cross-country skiing, close to the Brocken, quiet location in the forest
Website: HOME | Camping Braunlage
The Braunlage campsite is a paradise for nature lovers and active holidaymakers. Nestled in the picturesque Harz, it offers the perfect base for extensive hikes and challenging mountain bike tours. In winter, the surroundings turn into a paradise for cross-country skiers. From here, you can easily reach the numerous trails. A special highlight is the opportunity to climb the Brocken, the highest mountain in northern Germany. After an active day, you can enjoy the peace of the forest and relax at the campsite.
Hunau Campsite
State: North Rhine-Westphalia
Opening hours: Year-round
Address: Osterwald 33, 57392 Schmallenberg
Leisure activities: Hiking, cycling, winter sports
Highlights: Dog-friendly, close to Winterberg, Bödefeld-Hunau ski area
Website: Campsite - Tent meadow - 100 pitches - Schmallenberg / Osterwald (Sauerland) | Hunau Camping
The Hunau campsite is a family-run site in its natural state, right in the heart of the Sauerland. The quiet location in the Osterwald offers the perfect setting for a relaxing holiday. The site is especially popular with nature lovers who enjoy hiking or cycling. Dogs are warmly welcome here and can stay overnight free of charge. In winter, the nearby Bödefeld-Hunau ski area attracts winter sports enthusiasts. After an active day, you can relax at the campsite and enjoy nature.
Brunnen Campsite (Allgäu)
State: Bavaria
Opening hours: Year-round
Address: Seestr. 81, 87645 Schwangau/Brunnen
Leisure activities: Winter sports, hiking, swimming
Highlights: View of Neuschwanstein Castle, close to ski resorts, Kristall-Therme
Website: Welcome - Camping Brunnen - Your 365 Days Campsite in the Allgäu
The Brunnen campsite is a true gem in the Allgäu. Located right on the shore of Lake Forggensee, it offers a breathtaking view of the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle. The idyllic location and modern facilities make the site a popular destination for families and active holidaymakers. In winter, the campsite is the ideal starting point for skiers and snowboarders. The numerous ski resorts in the area are quickly accessible. After an active day on the slopes, you can relax and unwind at the Kristall-Therme.
The 5 most beautiful winter campsites abroad
From the snow-covered peaks of the Alps to the mild coasts of the Mediterranean – Europe offers an incredible variety of landscapes that show their most beautiful side in winter. Whether you seek the peace of nature or prefer to be active, there is a campsite to suit every taste. Discover with us five of the most beautiful winter campsites in Europe and get inspired by the diversity of the regions.
Sportcamp Woferlgut
Country: Salzburg, Austria
Opening hours: Year-round
Address: Krössenbachstraße 40, 5671 Bruck an der Großglocknerstraße, Austria
Leisure activities: Swimming, sauna, sports (tennis, football, etc.), hiking, winter sports
Highlights: Family-friendly, bathing worlds, sports center, sauna area, close to ski resorts
Website: Sportcamp Woferlgut | Woferlgut Camping & Hotel**** in Bruck - Zell am See - Austria
The Sportcamp Woferlgut is a true paradise for active holidaymakers and families. With its extensive sports and wellness offerings, including a 50-meter sports pool, saunas, and a Kneipp basin, the campsite has everything your heart desires. Its location amidst the impressive mountains of Salzburg makes Sportcamp the ideal starting point for hikes and winter ski adventures.
Camping Brunner am See
Country: Carinthia, Austria
Opening hours: Year-round
Address: Glanzerstrasse 108, A-9873 Döbriach, Millstätter See, Carinthia, Austria
Leisure activities: Ice skating, swimming, hiking, water sports
Highlights: Right on the lake, thermal baths, ice rink, family-friendly
Website: CAMPING BRUNNER right on the lake | https://www.campingbrunner.at
The Brunner am See campsite is a true gem for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Located right on the shore of the crystal-clear Millstätter See, it offers a breathtaking backdrop for a peaceful holiday. In winter, the lake transforms into a huge ice-skating rink inviting you to skate. After an active day, you can relax and unwind in one of the two nearby thermal baths.
Caravan Park Sexten
Country: South Tyrol, Italy
Opening hours: Year-round
Address: Caravan Park Sexten - St. Josefstr. 54, I-39030 Sexten / Moos - Hochpustertal - Dolomites - South Tyrol, Italy
Leisure activities: Wellness, hiking, skiing, mountain biking
Highlights: Wellness camping, Dolomite views, ski resort, family-friendly
Website: 5-star camping in South Tyrol, Dolomites | CaravanPark Sexten
Caravan Park Sexten is a true paradise for anyone wanting a luxurious camping holiday amidst the impressive Dolomites. This 5-star campsite offers a unique blend of nature experiences and wellness. After an active day in the mountains, you can relax in the on-site wellness area and let your soul unwind. In winter, Caravan Park Sexten is the ideal base for skiers and snowboarders.
Alpenresort Eienwäldli Engelberg
Region: Central Switzerland, Switzerland
Opening hours: Year-round
Address: Wasserfallstrasse 108, 6390 Engelberg, Switzerland
Leisure activities: Hiking, winter sports, wellness, golf
Highlights: Stunning mountain backdrop, wellness area, family-friendly, close to ski resorts
Website: Alpenresort Eienwäldli Engelberg: Your place to fall in love with
The Alpenresort Eienwäldli Engelberg is a true gem for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Nestled in the breathtaking mountain scenery of Engelberg, the resort offers a unique combination of comfort and natural experiences. Whether hiking and mountain biking in summer or skiing and snowboarding in winter – there’s something for everyone here. After an active day, you can unwind in the spacious wellness area and let your soul relax.
Camping L'Eden de la Vanoise
Region: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Opening hours: Seasonal (information on the website)
Address: Camping Eden de la Vanoise 170, Route du Perrey 73210 Landry, France
Leisure activities: Hiking, winter sports, swimming, cycling
Highlights: Mountain location, close to ski resorts, grocery store nearby, family-friendly
Website: Camping Sayoen, Eden - Camping Alps France - Rhone Alpes
The campsite L'Eden de la Vanoise is a true paradise for nature lovers and active holidaymakers. Nestled in the breathtaking mountain landscape of the French Alps, it offers the perfect starting point for hikes, bike tours, and winter ski adventures. Its proximity to ski resorts and the Vanoise National Park makes the campsite a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Another advantage is the good connection to a nearby grocery store, which is especially convenient for self-caterers.
Tips for maneuvering the caravan on ice
Maneuvering a caravan is already a challenge under normal conditions. On ice and snow, it becomes even trickier. To avoid unpleasant surprises, you should keep the following tips in mind:
1. Unhitch and push:
If the surface is especially slippery, it’s often advisable to unhitch the caravan and carefully push it by hand. This gives you more control over the movement and makes it easier to react if it gets slippery.
2. Proper loading:
Even weight distribution is key when maneuvering. Avoid storing heavy items only at the front or back. Uneven loading can cause the caravan to fishtail more easily.
3. Check towing options in advance:
Before you set off, make sure you can be towed in an emergency. Check the function of the tow bar and find out about possible towing services nearby.
4. Test jump-starts and snow chains:
Jump-starts and snow chains should also be tested beforehand. Make sure they are functional and you know how to use them properly.
5. Proceed slowly and thoughtfully:
Don’t rush! When maneuvering on ice and snow, caution is essential. Drive slowly and give the caravan time to respond to your commands.
Additional tips for safe maneuvering:
- Helper: A second person can be very helpful when maneuvering. They can give you instructions and point out obstacles.
- Spikes or sand: On especially slippery surfaces, spikes or sand under the wheels can provide more grip.
- Test brakes: Before you set off, carefully test the braking effect.
- Exit points: Plan possible exit points in advance in case you need to adjust the caravan.
With these tips, you can make maneuvering your caravan on ice and snow safer. Always remember: better safe than sorry.
The right gear for winter camping
To enjoy comfort at the campsite even in winter, the right gear is crucial. Besides warm clothing and a well-insulated caravan or tent, special heating solutions and cooking devices also play an important role. Petromax offers a variety of products designed specifically for outdoor use that also look great.
Warmth and coziness with Petromax
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Rocket Stove: The Petromax Rocket Stove is a true classic among camping stoves. It heats up quickly and produces a pleasant radiant heat. Ideal for creating a cozy atmosphere on cold days in the awning or under a shelter.
Discover the Rocket Stove here!
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Tent Oven: The Petromax Tent Oven is the perfect solution for anyone who wants to stay especially warm in their tent. It’s safe and efficient and provides cozy warmth inside your tent.
Discover the Tent Oven here!
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Percolators: With a Petromax percolator, you can not only brew delicious coffee but also heat water. Perfect for cold days when you want to warm up with a hot drink.
Discover our percolators here!
Other important gear for winter camping
- Sleeping mats and sleeping bags: Make sure you have good insulation to stay warm even in subzero temperatures.
- Thermal underwear: Thermal underwear is essential to keep your body warm.
- Warm clothing: Pack plenty of warm clothes, including a thick jacket, a hat, and gloves.
- Winter tires: If you’re traveling with a caravan, you should definitely switch to winter tires.
- Snow chains: Snow chains may be necessary in extreme snowy conditions.
- Shovel and ice scraper: To clear your pitch of snow, a shovel and an ice scraper are indispensable.
Winter camping is a special experience – but there’s plenty to discover in other seasons too! Check out our other articles and find the best tips for outdoor adventures all year round
Camping by the lake: Our insider tips in Germany
Camping as natural medicine: Why outdoor life is so good for us
The best campsites in Italy for families with children
Coffee while camping - methods, gear, tips, and tricks
