How to Stay Warm Living in a Van in the Winter | Solo Female Nomad

As a solo female nomad and I've learned a thing or two about staying warm in a van during the winter. In this video, I'll be sharing my tips and tricks for insulating your van, maximizing heating efficiency, and keeping cozy on the road. I'll take you through my own journey of finding the right heating source and the importance of preplanning. Whether you're a seasoned van-lifer or just starting out, this guide will help you stay warm and enjoy the freedom of life on the road. So, grab a hot drink and join me as I share my experiences and help you make your van winter-ready.
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[@Offdutynurse1964]

I love my 12volt heated blanket. Timer lets me set it for 1+hours so once I’m asleep I’m all warm and cozy and it turns off automatically

[@dsa2591]

I wonder if they make 12 volt heated mattress pads. I had one of those when I lived further north and it was amazing!

[@lovematters7122]

Don't forget to turn the reflective inward during the daylight in cold weather. You don't want to block out the sunlight/heat! That's what the reflective side does!☺️

[@travelsnacks]

Good tip!

[@angieremjeske9663]

Yup, black facing outward helps heat the inside.

[@Kimbers58]

Yup

[@buffalokay]

Yes! Black absorbs, white reflects.

[@myramccraw5462]

I love how you don't sugarcoat living in a van , how you tell the truth, how you show it can be hard . I like that

[@sandradummer4726]

Same with myself telling what’s what in van life.

[@edenbreckhouse]

Vanlife can be hard - if you make poor choices.

[@juliadawnyel3648]

Do you have instructions on window covers I'm 66 and lost everything in house fire before Christmas now living in car

[@bencuraza6503]

Search KZbin. Lot of Tutorials.

[@angieremjeske9663]

When you are parked, open up cubbard doors where your pipes are to help keep them heated. If you have a way to open your garage (under bed area) to you heated cabin this will help keep those heated as well.

[@thejaebeing]

To get rid of the noise of the diesel heater, you need to get a $6 tool box and place the diesel heat pump in it and wrap it with sound proof material.

[@dianabanana6724]

How to get warm in your van: change the sheets and make the bed.

[@mycharmedunicorn8715]

I say wear a heated vest to bed

[@christined4842]

What does that mean?

[@dianabanana6724]

@@christined4842 You'll be generating plenty of your own body heat while doing it.

[@christined4842]

@@dianabanana6724 lol that’s what I thought you were saying but I wasn’t sure

[@nancygoldenritsick4746]

There us a candle 5000 btu heater available that may help in a pinch

[@travelsnacks]

Thanks for sharing this tip!

[@greygoosegranny]

Hey Allison. Fairly new subscriber here.....Check out VanlifePLUS on youtube. He lives in chilly Calgary and may have some tips or tricks that will work for you.

[@staceygiometti9680]

Darn Mattress....The Struggle Is Real-Right 😊

[@CarrieMtn]

I love the wool between your reflectix. Good idea. Wool is my favorite. It isn’t the itchy sweater of the ‘70s. I put an army wool blanket between my mattress and my sheets. It helps to regulate my temperature summer and winter. Big difference! I also knit- so wool socks, wool hat and mittens etc. wool is sustainable, naturally anti fungal, breathable, warm even when wet, wicks away moisture, and it’s almost non flammable. Plus we keep cute little sheep alive rather than petroleum plastic. When you have a choice always buy wool over synthetics.

[@dsa2591]

I found a sheepskin in the trash the other day, and I was thinking the same thing, that it would be great for insulating my van (when I ever get it).

[@rowan7658]

Love your attitude and agree that natural is always best.

[@lindab6974]

down booties for sleeping ..... amazing for warm feet!

[@dashinka719]

Heat tapes on tank and pipes like they use on mobile homes

[@glendacrouch1877]

Girlfriend, I have mentioned this in the past, but I have two of those down white blankets just like yours on my bed over my sheets. I sleep in between the down blankets! It is wonderful! Great video!

[@darlene19668]

There is new plastic piping it’s red and blue and will not burst…check it out..it’s called PEX pipe

[@sarafrederick621]

Another good way to keep warm is to change from the clothes you wore during the day. Even in cold weather we perspire some. Changing into dry clothes helps. I enjoy your channel! Safe travels.

[@travelsnacks]

Yes excellent tip!! Thank you.

[@ianfleming9475]

Take it from a former Canadian Army Soldier who’s slept in tents or less in -30°C weather you should sleep with only underwear on or naked if possible. Also invest in a cold weather rated sleeping bag with a hood. Not expensive.

[@andrewomar9887]

She's totally cute 😊🤗😘

[@livefreevinnie]

I’ve been living full time in my van in New England for 2 months. I winterized my plumbing and use my gym for the shower.

[@travelsnacks]

Awesome!! Great job 🥶🙌🏼

[@aprilbaxter2578]

You seen like you're still suffering weakness due to the pneumonia. It is a pain at any age to try managing bulky items in a small space. Thank you for sharing your ways to keep warm. I'm so glad you got the broken pipes fixes with minimal damage to the van.

[@karenpeck8525]

Maybe put wool inside noodle and I put spray foam over my back windows

[@rvgrandmacharlotte4604]

Making a bed in an RV or Van is your workout for the day!! Putting it between the window and the mattress will cut down chances of the sweating causing mold/mildew from growing on the mattress. In my RV I have that purple insulation board around the outside that keeps it from sweating. Jonnie's Journey had her lithium from Bluetti freeze that killed it.

[@louisguthrie7286]

Wonderful battery info Allison. I wish that I had gone with a van instead of a travel trailer. Stay Beautiful, informative, and smart.

[@estherlouisamay]

If you could get a 12 volt electric blanket that could help too. I believe that they can be found on Amazon a thoughtful tip that could help 😎

[@leahwhiteley5164]

I have a 12v lap blanket for my old truck. The heater isn't that great. It works great for a passenger who'd like to nap or if it's really cold I cover my lap and top of my legs. It really makes a difference and my feet don't get cold.

[@monarnyc]

Get a down comforter heavy weight and you will be super warm. Also there is a cap that heats up

[@helpyourcattodrive]

I just bought the comforter. I’ve been sleeping w the same sleeping bag for like ten years. It’s pretty beat. So I ordered that white comforter in the xl twin.

[@travelsnacks]

I hope you love it! Also each time you wash it, it gets softer.

[@greenishbird]

Such great ideas - thanks Allison. I’m in the process of getting my newly purchased bus ready to hit the road and these are topics I’ve been wondering about. Also have been wondering if the Weather Tec front window covers are worth the extra cost. Thank you for doing all the research for me! 😊

[@yvetteha7818]

I love the jachary myself I tried that brand my fizzled out I went to customer service and I never got a replacement

[@janetkoball44]

Hi. I'm one of your new subscribers. I'm not real used to a person talking so fast but I'll get the hang of it. You are very knowledgeable about your subject and that's good. Hope to catch your next one and go back to your older videos too. Thanks from Central Oklahoma

[@travelsnacks]

WELCOME TO THE SNACK PACK!! 🥳 Glad to have you here!

[@akroll008]

You need a dog! Great alarm, protection, companionship, helper AND heat source.

[@juliadawnyel3648]

Had dog did to hot in summer

[@TinyHomeCookingwithSherlei]

Nose warmers for cold nose on Amazon

[@3generations393]

Socks. And if your not allergic-wool 👍

[@CarrieMtn]

Hand knit socks are the best form of love. 😊

[@linda7504]

If you keep something on your head like a beanie it will help you stay warm because a lot of heat comes from your head. My husband taught me about that.

[@Bladonna25]

I laughed so hard when you were trying to maneuver your mattress! I have done it with mine so many times! It’s so much fun! At least it’s a workout! Who needs Planet Fitness?

[@rose77778888]

When I used to drive a truck, I would, if it wasn't too cold, not turn on my diesel heater until just before I got out of bed. But I like sleeping in a cold room. It sure was nice to have my socks and shoes by the heater vent.

[@travelsnacks]

Sounds nice and toasty!

[@pepperwatson7784]

That’s one of the longest KZbin commercials I’ve ever seen

[@calvinmarshall1610]

That was very interesting and helpful information I'm a new subscriber have you ever been to Michigan in your travels?

[@xterra4hire]

Flannel sheets are the bomb

[@susanjeffay3851]

I'm curious as to how you insulated your water line in freezing weather. ( I heat my bed with an $8 old fashioned hot water bottle down by my feet)

[@seabreeze3906]

Glass let’s in so much cold In winter. Whether the windows are on the sides, or the front windscreen, same principle, cover all glass, to insulate your van. The thicker the curtain, (behind your front seats) the better. Centuries ago, people used thick velvet curtains to cover internal room doorways. I’m sure that would work in vans too. Flannelette sheets are great for winter bedding. Next time you buy sheets, buy one size bigger, than your mattress. So you don’t have to worry about the fitted sheet popping off.

[@GwenDeeful]

Glad to see that you are proactive with protecting yourself and vehicle for the crazy winter weather.

[@travelsnacks]

Thank you!

[@txcrafter4ever]

Omg 4% off? That's not alot savings just saying smh.

[@1000shoeswoman]

Tip get some thick curtain at the back of van for warmth

[@mistyfrench101]

electronic mattress pad all u need is a twin, the electronic blankets are not what they use to be ive used new and both and the matress pad is awesome. if u cant afford the proper size a twin will work even with the proper size mattress pad over that 1 and a normal sheet

[@mistyfrench101]

it will be the best investment and u will hopefully try it. let us know how it works with the solar power thanks girl love your snacks

[@Michelle-bw1xg]

Enjoyed the tips. Not in a van - yet. But will try out car camping as a test for the van life. 58 degrees at home after work, keeping it 60-64 max as a bit of a test to find ways to keep warm. Layering with a wool sweater, down blanket, and a microwaveable neck warmer do wonders (12v heated blanket in a van would be nice if I had no heater). My nose does get cold while the rest of me is warm. Wishing you warmer travels soon!

[@nettejohnson7492]

I did that too as I wanted to do the van life but found out that I'm too old and can't tolerate the cold nor heat like I use to. So I travel with you as you vids make me feel like I'm right there w/you. lol

[@lynnkalles2055]

You've just got to see the north cascades in Washington state. Known as the American Swiss alps. It's best in summertime 😍

[@travelsnacks]

Sounds great!

[@monana1711]

Good job, Allison! I don't have the diesel heater, so I may try the USB heating pads if I can find them. Better still, since I live in central Florida, I will just stay home until June! haha Plus, I have snow skied in Colorado, lived in Rhode Island and Missouri, and driven in the snow for 30 years, I don't need to see colder climes for awhile. :)

[@jamelcampbell4984]

Maybe there is a tank heater you could apply to your Grey water tank, or add salt to help keep the liqiud from freezing? I like all the things you've done, does the pillow socks against the windows mold because of moisture? Great choice on the havelock wool.:-)

[@fauxmixedhair]

I use those sheet clips too. I used to put them on like you are doing. I tried putting them on 'before' tucking the sheet and it makes a world of difference. Where did you get that triangle furry pillow? Love it!

[@greyferguson9319]

Our 23 yo granddaughter loves to sleep in our camper....no heater at all, just multiple sleeping bags and quilts. Yes, she has a bed and bedroom in the house....she just loves the cold & feels she sleeps better in the cold.

[@travelsnacks]

Sometimes that does feel nice!

[@nettejohnson7492]

mid 60's for sleep is perfect for me

[@naturecalls174]

❤️

[@libbybertrand9320]

Wool Burrito!😂

[@travelsnacks]

😁

[@ashleycalloway9729]

I had a issue with my jackery 1000 wh . When the inside of the vehicle got really cold it was useless. They have a purpose but they are limited in reliability. For price not worth it.

[@travelsnacks]

Oh I never thought of that. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@MightyPenn]

ALLISON help! I want this life of freedom - financial, emotional, family expectations... - but I'm in KANSAS! No problem, travel a bit, right? But I need to do that little test trip, "toe-on-the-water" to see if I have what it takes. That's seriously hard in the center of the country. I see the BLM land all around, just a long way from me. .... Any van-lifers that you know of anywhere near Wichita that could give me some tips?

[@monana1711]

Oh yes, have a blessed week, see you Friday night on Live Chat?

[@robertreynolds2726]

I might suggest to use insulating tape for your pipes

[@dianematlock7922]

Dolla store pool noodles???

[@Madcapp]

Great tips thank you! I need a link to that awesome wedge pillow you've got too. Looks so comfy!

[@travelsnacks]

I got it at Kohl's a few years back so I don't have a link. Sorry!

[@katyd4183]

I've been trying to find a good mattress and yours looks comfy. What depth is it and also what brand. Thanks for great hints. I'm just starting my build. Hugs.

[@RetiredCAGrandma]

Since you travel, if you haven't already watched this weatherman, I highly recommend him. Having family and friends all across the country I recommend him to everyone. He's one of the best I've ever seen. His channels are Ryan Hall, Y'all and Ryan Hall, Y'all Xtra. He helps you be aware and prepared and staying safe out there.

[@travelsnacks]

Oh awesome, I’ll check it out! Thanks 😊

[@mftd9316]

Gotta give TWO 👍👍 for Ryan Hall Y'all. Best and most accurate weather youtuber. This is not an endorsement: I'm just a fan. BTW, awesome content on your channel!

[@lstj2979]

Ryan Rocks

[@ThatGuy-mu2rr]

I have been collecting Pecron portable power stations. Already have a gas generator and am planning on getting solar panels made by Pecron. This stuff will be going into the box truck I plan on converting in the future.

[@DestinationsChronicles]

Pro ski instructor in NorCal... Layer up when going to bed. If it's not as cold as you thought, peel off a layer and set it by the bed. If it gets colder, during the night, it's right next to you.

[@rainsofhealing]

Awesome video thanks!! Love your wool burritos! Have you ever tried a “nose warmer”, they really do work! I also say “fudge” quite a bit, picked it up in my childhood. Blessings!

[@travelsnacks]

Thank you! And not specifically a nose warmer but I might try to get one in the future!

[@LoveBandit1000]

When you have a bare window or windshield and you put your palm on it and it feels cold, that means is it transmitting cold THROUGH itself, not just around it and you are losing heat. If you cover that same window with a cloth type cover (the thicker the better) like you've done, you can test it with that same bare hand test. If the surface feels cold to your bare hand....it is not insulating you as effectively it could. If does not feel cold, you cover is working at least some...

[@susananderson9619]

For the 2 years I was living in my 2005 Mazda 6S,it was a whole lot easier at winter then summer. In winter, I'd have two comforters,a heavy blanket and a wool throw over me and practically over my face. But summer, I had to sleep with my windows closed ,security and bugs,ya know, It impossible to cool off even a lil ,when in a tin can I had to start engine run ac for a few minutes ,every now and then .it did wear out my engine

[@nettejohnson7492]

Wet t-shirt will cool you off. You can get cold blankets and pillow cases from Amazon or Walmart.

[@helpyourcattodrive]

🌷🌺

[@jkok456]

Would love to know where you got the blanket. People always say down beliw...but I never find anything "down below"

[@nickhayley]

Love your channel. Its no bs. Hilarious, fun and upbeat. I love how you dont take yourself seriously. Amazing person :)

[@travelsnacks]

I appreciate that! Thank you!

[@anybenfotiamine1728]

Great info! Thanks a snack bunch!

[@travelsnacks]

You are so snackin welcome! 😉

[@anybenfotiamine1728]

@@travelsnacks 😂 💜 Snack on!

[@kellyprobst3533]

How about heat tape for your water tank and pipes ?

[@duffdastuff8071]

It's all about the Cabela's mummy bag. I sleep all night without running the heat. Even in the Utah mountains at 5 below zero.

[@lakesuperiorgirl17]

In my RV I hated doing yoga to make my bed I have a queen sized mattress so I always use a king sized fitted bottom sheet and I use flannel sheets when I’m camping when it’s getting chilly

[@patrickjordan2233]

A large capacity jump/carry (most have cig outlets..) and @ least 2 travel 12v heated blankets (one for a spare, wiring inside does eventually break...). Tuck in cover bedding. Woolen intermediate (like an afghan?). Tight weave close/electric/filler/tight weave outer. It's like layering clothing. - I've endured (more comfortably than people around me with widespread outage) 6+ days in minus 25 average. Prep for coldest possible, everything can be scaled back from maximum... 👍😁 Fun note, I've had to bring my drinks in with me, better body temp drinks than no/frozen.. as well as snacks/energy snacks- -warm food is 👍 Don't be afraid to dry camp (drained) in extended cold conditions. Membership cards & truck stops (discounts)...

[@djallen16]

Really enjoy your videos

[@Lajuanitsme]

Keep your oil change and full and watch your other fluids as well and keep good tires

[@silviasundkvist3712]

Where’s your 🧼 bathroom !?

[@travelsnacks]

I have a toilet in the van and a sink for washing up!

[@maryhight6030]

The pool noodle sounds like a fabulous solution 👍❤️

[@cowboyjunky90]

Hey there! Love watching your stuff! I picked up a lot of useful things watching your vids. So what I am going to suggest is something that I just got and I'm currently living in my 4Runner. I saw your video where you tried out one of the smaller Mr. Heaters. I have the mr. Heater Portable Buddy which is the size down from the big buddy, and I use it with a 20 lb propane tank. This heater really works great! And the built-in safeties really help ensure its safety to use inside. The only thing really require to use this inside is a small bit of ventilation, such as slightly cracking one of your windows, as the Portable Buddy will automatically shut off if the oxygen becomes too low. I slightly crack one of my back windows when I use it and it works great! I also had a Big Buddy heater years ago that I used in a large camper and heated it quite nicely. I have no doubt that either the big buddy or the portable buddy heater would heat your entire van no problem.

[@vivian2217]

Love your suggestions for keeping your van warm. I like to carry extra supplies in my car in case of an emergency, stuck on hwy due to accident or weather, etc so I'm definitely going to invest in the weather tech window shades:) Thank you! And stay safe

[@tonyaquinoxx]

By covering the window, it's not the air from outside air that helps (no airflow). It's slowing down the heat transfer (conduction) from the glass. The temperature differential between the window covering and the interior ambient air is reduced by slowing the conduction. This means that by convection, the heat transfer is reduced by having a smaller temperature difference (delta).

[@ddcornell1019]

Dehumidifier to help to take the moisture out the air

[@Maritza_8223]

Great tips 🌼🌺🌼🌼🌺🌼🌺🌼🌺🌼🌼

[@travelsnacks]

Thanks! 💝

[@gigi4u5]

Looks like you could use a bed sheet tucker tool or a bed sheet fastener band. Happy Travels! 😊

[@kittiescorner222]

I don't live in a van but was thinking about traveling in one at some point. I also have a feather blanket and I spent the extra money on a really thick fuzzy duvet cover. I don't live in a really cold place but it does drop near or below freezing at night in the winter. I also usually keep my room closed so it doesn't get heated. I tell you what, that blanket is so warm I hardly use it because I end up boiling. Also I have an idea that might help. During the night or when your in bed you can use some blankets or fabric that's not to heavy and valcro it to the ceiling hanging down.Or you might be able to put is on a shower curtain rod or do a canopy. Either way if you can make it so it completely surrounds your bed and is detachable for when driving, it might be a little warmer.

[@mjmcinnesincanada]

To help to stay warm; warm fuzzy socks! ❤

[@travelsnacks]

Great tip!

[@brianoconnell6459]

The window blocks are counter intuitive. If the black side was facing outward, it'd collect heat from solar, while the reflective side would reflect heat inward.

[@joyjournal6157]

For keeping the nose warm I have an acrylic beanie that stretched out of shape. I pull it down over my nose and it works well without restricting breathing. Keeps the ears warm too.😊

[@jaybird2299]

Thumbs up!!

[@ravenraynesnest]

Where did you get that triangular looking wedge pillow? It looks so good and fluffy. I tried googling it and searching amazon and cannot find anything at all like it. Please tell me, please.

[@richardmuskett931]

Im a big fan of clothes ...... lots of 'em . I dont live in a van but i used to watch wildlife a lot and would often sleep outdoors in a bivvy bag in frosty weather , so i could see the the latenight and early morning creatures . Id wear tons of layers , on my feet and legs as well as my torso . Fleece balaclavas are wonderful , although they dont do a lot for your hairstyle ! A great sleeping bag is vital too .... one that goes right over your head . A belt traps heat in well , and id put ties around the bottom of my trousers . All that free body heat ... I'd do my best not to waste it . Even if you need extra sources of heat in a van , im sure that hanging onto your body heat for as long as possible would keep you cozy for much less money .

[@lorimac0260]

My only question is, why didn’t you just get a big portable power source and be done with batteries, inverters, etc.?

[@mariannereno8501]

💖🐧

[@marilynwade9448]

Sleeping bag

[@durango8882]

Weather Tech is great.👍🏻

[@travelsnacks]

It really is!

[@Pacmanman20]

Thank for the content but warm is a very relative term. I would like to know how warm it is inside your van. Thanks!

[@momiamok-v4y]

Better follow russian campers, they are living even in -34 c in vans

[@jacquelinelu8900]

You would feel warmer if you sleep inside the sleeping bag. It defeat its purpose the way you placed it.

[@dawnmtwild5409]

Hey I seen on one of the KZbin videos where this guy used insulation around the thing on his diesel heater that clicks And it all but silence the clicking

[@DeniseDurggan-bz4wu]

Hello I just joined you I would like to tell you you might want to drink all your water out before you go to cold places and get you a water jug one of those 2g

[@syedjavedahmad9719]

Weather is expensive, you can make your own.

[@Hynez]

Are you saying "amp-hour"? That's a new word for me.

[@CoCo-yv3hl]

Enjoy your videos a lot ❤.

[@travelsnacks]

Glad you like them!