Like our lizard friends, you might love hot weather and only hire a campervan in the summer. But deep down, don’t you have a bit of salmon in you? Wouldn’t you love travelling against the current by hiring a campervan in the middle of winter?

All you need is a bit of auxiliary heating to open up a whole world of winter possibilities! The opportunities are endless and filled with untouched spots, warm encounters and softer light on your road trips to the most beautiful ski resorts in Austria or the southern beaches in Portugal or Greece.

When it comes to living in your campervan, the good things just keep coming! The winter ambiance makes it feel like a cocoon for unforgettable evenings watching the snow falling through the windows or snuggling under a duvet to watch a good film. We promise that winter is also a great season for travelling in a van!

Why campervans are great in winter

Hiring a campervan in winter is less expensive!

Save up to 70% off summer prices with winter van hire. Put that towards some lovely warm restaurants while you’re on the road!

Winter meals, coming up! Or not!

Savour fondues or raclettes “from the source” in your campervan or at a mountain restaurant. Or, head further south to the Mediterranean for sun-inspired dishes!

Activities are also more affordable

You can often get low season prices on fun activities. Well, except for skiing. Winter is kind of a high season for that. Sorry, there’s nothing we can do about that!

Winter à la carte

With campervan hire, you are no longer at the mercy of the weather. You can decide if you want to count snowflakes or grains of sand based on the weather forecast.

A winter road trip in a campervan: guaranteed serenity

Take your time enjoying a trip all by yourselves in complete calm, far from jammed summer roads, overflowing car parks and packed nightspots.

Cosy evenings

There’s nothing like watching the snow fall outside while you’re cosy and warm. Park out in nature to enjoy it while also playing a hand of cards, reading a book or watching a film.

Fewer encounters... but deeper connections!

Everyone knows that adversity creates connection. You won’t meet as many people in the middle of winter, but those you do will be much more memorable.

The cold stops at the door of your van!

If you’re always chilly, don’t worry. We have a special line of campervans kitted out to withstand the cold. We guarantee your nights will be warm and cosy thanks to the insulation and auxiliary heating.

Where to go on your campervan trip

Where’s the best place to take a campervan in winter?

Break out of your routine with campervan hire in winter and head out on the road to breathe in the crisp air deep in nature. All of Europe is within reach, from fairytale landscapes in Scandinavia to peaceful beaches by the Mediterranean. Just create your own adventure.

Frosty destinations for winter campervan hire

As you can see, campervan rental is great for travelling all winter long. Climb tall mountains or head north (or both) and lose yourself in the fluffy universe of snow-covered landscapes. The best winter sports spots are all yours!

Fitted van travel fjords Norway

The Fjords of Norway

6° (winter average)

15 days and more

With its unrestricted (or almost unrestricted) wilderness camping and its breathtaking landscapes, Norway is a paradise for campervan travel. A trip that you will have to prepare well, as the traffic conditions can be difficult depending on the snow conditions, but that will be unforgettable!

Norway is the cradle of skiing and has superb winter sports resorts such as Trysil, Hemsedal or Hafjell (site of the Lillehammer Olympics), which will delight lovers of good snow. Although temperatures remain mild on the coast (close to 0), they can easily drop to -20° inland.... equip yourself accordingly! In order to enjoy the views of the fjords and the outdoor activities, we recommend to travel to Norway in a van for a minimum of two weeks.

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Alpine travel van

From one resort to another in the Alps

12° (winter average)

8 days and more

Why limit yourself to a stay in a given ski resort, when you can enjoy the most beautiful ski areas of France or Italy without restriction with a well-prepared road trip in a van? From the French Alps to the Dolomites, take a tour of the most beautiful winter sports resorts! And there is no shortage of resorts in the Alps, between France (Avoriaz, Tignes, Alpe d'Huez), Switzerland (Grindelwald, Saint-Moritz) and Italy (Selva, Cortina d'Ampezzo), you will be spoilt for choice.

Winter and altitude mean cold! The temperature in the Alps from November to February is very variable and regularly falls below freezing. Cover up! Depending on the length of the itinerary you plan to cover, a good week will probably be necessary, or even more for the greediest.

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Alpine travel van

Austria between lakes and mountains

6° (winter average)

8 days and more

Drive in a campervan to Vienna, enjoy the beautiful Austrian capital in the cosy atmosphere of winter, then drive up the Danube valley before visiting Hallstatt, admiring its lake and finally enjoying some downhill skiing in Kitzbühel, one of the most famous winter sports resorts in the world. What more could you want?

Beyond Kitzbühel, the Mecca of skiing, there is no shortage of magnificent resorts, including Sölden, Ischgl or Lech Zür. As in the French Alps, the temperature can drop well below zero in Austria. As Vienna is located at the eastern end of the country, it is not uninteresting to plan two weeks to enjoy the Austrian splendor.

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Campervan travel Sweden

Northern Lights Hunting in Sweden

12° (winter average)

15 days and more

Less rugged and steep than its Norwegian neighbor, Sweden is still a great land of adventure with a breathtaking nature. And if you are not lucky enough to meet Santa Claus, the flatter horizon may allow you to see some northern lights.

As a good Nordic country, Sweden also has a beautiful sports culture and the infrastructures that go with it, such as the Åre domain, one of the largest on the Scandinavian peninsula. Of course, the average temperatures in Sweden are similar to those on the other side of the border, with an average range from -5 to -25°C. In order to cover the distance to Sweden and to enjoy it as much as possible on the spot, a trip in a van of a minimum duration of two weeks is recommended!

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Winter van rental : playa destinations

You are not a fan of sub-zero temperatures, of sliding on snow or ice? Southern Europe has plenty of arguments to convince you to go and stretch your legs!

Van rental Italy

La dolce vita in Italy

6° (winter average)

15 days and more

With its internationally renowned gastronomy, history, culture and dream landscapes, Italy is a safe destination for travel in a converted van. Between the fortified villages of Tuscany, the Amalfi coast, the sweetness of Puglia, the sublime Rome, Florence or Venice, there is no doubt that you will find enough to concoct an exceptional road trip in a campervan. Italy is a permanent invitation to a quiet stroll, whether in its superb cities or its countryside. But also to a journey of the senses, with an incredible gastronomy: cooked dishes and tasty products, taste everything!

Far from the extreme temperatures of northern Europe, winter in Italy remains cool, with temperatures flirting with zero in the north of the country. On the other hand, they are much milder in the south and on the west coast, averaging around 10 degrees. From a long weekend of three or four days in a van in Tuscany to a road trip in a van of two weeks or more, everything is possible!

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Corsica van rental

Corsica, from the sea to the mountains

12° (winter average)

8 days and more

Unavoidable in the summer, the island of beauty remains a splendid destination for travel in a converted van when winter comes. In the calm of the low season, you can enjoy its roads along the turquoise waters of the coastline or traveling through the heights of the island in search of incomparable views. Between the pretty villages and the wild nature, there is no lack of activities! Walk on the cliffs of Bonifacio, hike on the many paths that crisscross the island, or go out on a boat, the choice is yours!

No heat wave is expected in Corsica in winter, but mild temperatures on the coasts, with an average of 14 degrees. Don't forget to cover up if you plan to tackle a few peaks. Although the island is close by, don't forget to include ferry transportation when organizing your van trip. Ideally, plan a minimum of 3 full days on the island, or even a week and more if you want to enjoy it as much as possible.

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road trip van fitted out Portugal

The waves of Portugal

12° (winter average)

8 days and more

Portugal offers a variety of landscapes and opportunities without equivalent in Europe. With its mountain ranges (where it is even possible to ski!) just a few hours drive from the Atlantic coast, a surfer's paradise, its cities and its cliffs, the destination is a must![Thanks to its geographical variety, Portugal is an almost inexhaustible land of adventure in a campervan, since you can visit its cultural heritage in Lisbon and Porto in particular, go out on foot in the mountains, in stand-up paddle, on horseback... or go and rub shoulders with its waves on one of the innumerable surfing spots of the country!

Although some areas in the north of the country and inland may experience negative temperatures in winter, the Atlantic coastline is spared from frost, with an average January temperature of 15 degrees in Lisbon! In order to take full advantage of the rich diversity of Portuguese landscapes, a two-week road trip in a van is not too much!

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van rental travel Greece

The temples of Greece

6° (winter average)

15 days and more

Another particularly attractive destination in winter with a van, Greece does not lack arguments to make, between the richness of its plurimillennial heritage and its typical landscapes. Mountains, beaches, temples, monasteries, all within reach of your wheels without the risk of being blocked by snow!

With a van trip to Greece, history buffs will be delighted. Between the Acropolis, the countless temples, the Meteora mountain range, and many other highly symbolic places, Greece is indeed nothing less than one of the cradles of our civilization. The average temperature in Greece during the winter months is between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius, which means that you will never be snowed in. However, you should bring waterproof clothes in case of rain. Between the time needed to get to the country and the time needed to visit it, you should plan a minimum of two weeks of van rental!

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Hire a campervan

Which campervan and options should you choose for a winter road trip?

The campervan you choose depends on what you want to do and what you need. Space, destination, comfort, manoeuvrability and accessories should all be considered. Let’s look at the details!

Campervan hire in winter

The difference between a converted van and a campervan is obviously the longer and taller dimensions: its larger size means you can fit more equipment in. The main advantage to hiring a converted van in winter is that it has a little bathroom with a toilet. This comes with hot water for a nice shower after a long day of snowshoeing. A converted van is halfway between a campervan (in its integrated form) and the traditional camper (in its interior layout). Another benefit to the larger size: converted vans have separate sleeping and lounge areas so you don’t have to put away and fold up the rear bench every morning like you do in a campervan. You can leave the duvets and teddies on the bed. Finally, converted vans are often better insulated (fewer windows, no pop-up roofs on most of them) and have more storage room for all kinds of winter gear.

Winter converted van hire is the ideal solution for an adventure with two to five people for long visits to northern countries or the mountains in maximum comfort. La location de fourgon aménagé en hiver est ainsi une solution idéale pour une aventure de 2 à 5 personnes, et de longs séjours vers le grand Nord ou en altitude dans un confort maximum.

Converted van hire in winter

Why winter is perfect for campervan hire

A campervan is more compact than a converted van. It’s designed to be effective, manoeuvrable and discreet. Although there’s less space, it’s optimised to be quite comfortable. The small size makes this van perfect for long trips.Even though it’s well equipped (most have a fridge, removable table, hob, sink and auxiliary heating), a campervan isn’t designed to be a living space. It’s more like a base camp where adventurers can lay their heads while spending most of their time outdoors. It fits two for those who want to stay warmer by sleeping below. Up to four can sleep in one if you’re not afraid of using the roof and losing a few degrees. (You’ll still sleep quite well there with good sleeping bags and a bit of auxiliary heating from time to time.) You’ll have to make up for the lack of a hot shower by spending a few nights at a campsite or home stay!

In short, a campervan is better suited for adventures in warmer lands such as southern Europe or along the Atlantic coast. Still, nothing’s impossible for those who are courageous!

Winter campervan hire

Winter equipment and options for campervans

To make your winter road trip easier in a campervan, it’s best to set yourself up with the right gear. Each campervan model has its own equipment and accessories. In addition to the essentials, some WeVan agencies near the mountains offer a winter comfort kit for some campervan models. Contact us for more details!

Auxiliary heating

To make your winter road trip easier in a campervan, it’s best to set yourself up with the right gear. Each campervan model has its own equipment and accessories. In addition to the essentials, some WeVan agencies near the mountains offer a winter comfort kit for some campervan models. Contact us for more details!

Snow/winter tyres and chains

Snow chains are an essential option if you’re getting ready to take on winter. Plus they’re required in some countries. The same goes for snow/winter tyres that make driving safer. They can often help you get out of tough situations all by themselves. (Subject to availability.)

Roof racks/cargo carriers

Some van models can be equipped with roof racks for transporting skis, snowboards, canoes or mothers-in-law. Add on a cargo carrier and you get a large additional storage space where you can stuff your winter coats, ski suits or Moon Boots (very practical so you don’t have to smell them while sleeping).

Show shovels and scrapers

After a long night of snowfall, a little shovel is always a nice option for getting a bit of morning exercise and digging your van out of its snowy cocoon. If you plan to head to higher altitudes or latitudes, ask for one before you leave and your agency will be glad to provide it at no charge. A windscreen scraper is already waiting for you in the van.

Long live the winter campervan

in the footsteps of Antonin Charbouillot

Antonin Charbouillot (aka @charbs_explorer) is a young professional photographer with a passion for the great outdoors and the last wild frontiers, which he continues to explore on snowshoes, skis, pulka... or campervan. His deep connection with winter and the North has led him to work frequently in the mountains of Scandinavia, Canada and Alaska. He talks to us about his passions and offers advice on living in a campervan in the depths of winter.

"I've always been drawn to winter.
As the temperatures drop and the snowflakes begin to flutter around me, I feel that adventure is just around the corner.
I find in the Nordic countries and in winter all the elements that inspire me most in photography and writing: the cold, the solitude, the silence.
I wrote my first book in these conditions, and it's certain that I would have had a much harder time constructing it in other seasons. Winter is a time for contemplation, soft light and long hours by the fire. It encourages us to take our time, to take stock. Life slows down like a bear's during hibernation."

Campervan adventures Antonin Charbouillot

A winter adventure in a campervan

Travelling with a campervan in winter is a gateway to freedom. You forget about the hordes of tourists in the summer, and the road is yours to explore. During our last 2 winter trips, we stopped the van in some of the most popular tourist destinations in Denmark and Slovenia, and we were absolutely alone at that time of year! A real pleasure...

The essence of travel is meeting people. Winter has the advantage of bringing locals and visitors closer together. Very often, I've witnessed an incredible welcome during my winter campervan road trips, as the locals, curious to see tourists at this time of year, readily come out to chat and get to know each other.

Campervan berth
Campervan landscaped with snow
Campervan landscaped with snow

It's also an opportunity to try out new sensations and activities, such as dog sledding or skating on icy lakes. The converted vans are large enough to accommodate pairs of skis or snowshoes, giving you the freedom to explore more remote areas by the day. For the more courageous, surfing is possible even in winter (with a thick wetsuit).

During the winter of 2019 in Norway, we even took our camper van trip beyond the Arctic Circle. The northern lights appeared with the night and constellated above the campervan. A unique memory, just like this timeless journey. I love the idea of breaking away from the everyday to create memories I'll remember for the rest of my life, and this kind of trip is one of them.

Campervan winter adventure
night in a campervan

My tips for a successful winter trip in a campervan

  • In the Nordic countries (Norway, Sweden, Finland), service stations are rare, so it's a good idea to make sure you don't run out of petrol in the middle of nowhere
  • Clear snow from roof before setting off again (to avoid an accident)
  • Newsprint! It's a grandma's technique when shoes are wet or damp: roll the paper into a ball and put it in the shoes. By morning, the newspaper will have absorbed all the moisture
  • Be careful not to obstruct the campervan’s stationary heating vents (we melted a shoe in Norway...)
  • Take your best books! The ones you don't have time to read when you're caught up in your hectic daily routine. Here, you've got the time. A few board games too, if you're so inclined!
  • If you're planning a road trip in a van in a Nordic country, bring a good comforter (at least -5° comfort) and blankets. Nights can drop to polar temperatures, and if the heating system has a problem (anything can happen, so plan ahead) you'll have enough to keep you comfortable in any situation
  • Don't forget chains + a small shovel
  • Have a good pair of boots or shoes that stay dry in all circumstances so that you can move around the van comfortably
  • Night falls quickly in winter, and you need to anticipate it. Always have enough time to get back to the campervan if you're out exploring for the day. Flashlights in your bag are also highly recommended
Campervan sunset
Campervan winter couple