Travelling by motorhome in winter (to the snow, skiing, Christmas markets or simply crossing mountain areas) can mean running into snow and ice, and that's a challenge for a large, heavy vehicle that requires preparation. Not carrying the right equipment can leave you stuck or cause an accident, as well as a fine. Here's what you need to know about chains, tyres and driving in snow.
When the equipment is compulsory
In winter conditions, the authorities can require the use of chains or winter tyres on certain roads (signposted accordingly), and turn back anyone without them. This varies by country and road, and is common on mountain passes and near ski resorts. Check the rules for the area and season. [Note: check the current winter-equipment regulations for your route and country.]
Chains vs winter tyres (and fabric covers)
- Chains: cheap and very effective on snow and ice, but only for snow-covered stretches (you shouldn't drive on them on clear tarmac) and at low speed. Essential for reaching snowy areas.
- Winter tyres (M+S / mountain snowflake symbol): better grip in cold, snowy and icy conditions throughout the winter; convenient if you travel a lot in winter. A bigger investment.
- Fabric covers: an alternative to chains in some cases, but check they're approved wherever you use them.
Whichever option you choose, grip matters even more in a heavy camper. Make sure the chains are the right size for your wheels and practise fitting them beforehand (in the cold and at night is no time to be learning).
Driving in snow and ice
- Smoothness above all: accelerate, brake and steer very gently; sudden movements cause loss of control.
- Longer safety distances (braking takes much longer).
- Higher gears to avoid wheel spin when accelerating, and engine braking on descents (see driving in the mountains).
- If conditions are bad, don't set off: wait for them to improve. With your home on wheels, there's no rush.
The camper and the cold
Besides driving, prepare the living space for the cold: insulation, heating, a water system that won't freeze (see winterising) and a battery that can cope (lithium ones need care when charging below freezing; see heated batteries and the calculator).
In summary
Driving in snow with a camper requires carrying chains or winter tyres (sometimes compulsory), knowing how to fit them, and driving very smoothly, plus preparing the living space for the cold. The step to take today: if you're heading to snowy areas, carry chains of the right size (practise fitting them at home first), check the equipment rules for the area, and drive smoothly with plenty of following distance; wait it out if conditions are bad.