Get your rig - and your driving - ready for winter conditions
Driving or towing an RV in the snow isn’t usually something most Australians deal with on the daily - which is exactly why it catches people out.
A road that feels manageable in dry conditions can become a completely different drive once snow, ice and freezing temperatures arrive. The good news is you don’t need years of alpine driving experience to tow safely in the snow. Most of it comes down to preparation, patience and adjusting the way you drive to suit the conditions. Here are some practical tips to help make your snowy adventure safer, smoother and a lot less stressful.
Know When to Leave the Van Behind
Snow + caravans + steep alpine roads, is not a casual mix. In some parts of places, like Kosciuszko National Park, conditions can change quickly and some roads close entirely in winter. If there’s heavy snowfall, ice warnings or chain requirements you’re not comfortable with - don’t push it. There’s no shame in leaving your RV behind (parking up somewhere lower) and exploring by car or public transport instead.
Check Alpine Road Rules Before You Leave Home
In alpine areas, you are legally required to carry snow chains and, in some conditions, fit them. Even if you’ve driven in rain or dirt roads before, snow rules are different. Some key things to check before you go include: chain requirements (and whether your caravan tow vehicle is exempt or not), road closures and alpine access restrictions, and designated snow zones and signage.
Make Sure Your Tyres Can Handle the Conditions
Your towing setup is only as strong as its grip. Snow reduces traction dramatically, and worn tyres make everything worse fast. Make sure your tow vehicle and RV tyres have good tread depth (not “almost legal” tyres). Consider winter-rated or all-terrain tyres if you travel regularly in cold conditions.
Slow Down and Leave Double the Stopping Distance
Black ice is one of winter’s most treacherous driving hazards because it’s transparent rather than white, allowing the dark asphalt to show through. If you’re towing in snowy conditions, make sure to remove the urgency from your driving. That means accelerating gently with no sudden power, braking much earlier than you normally would and keeping your speed well below typical limits whenever conditions are icy or uncertain. Stopping distances can easily double or even triple on snow or black ice, so “smooth and steady” must replace any sense of efficiency or hurry.
Prep Your Van for Cold-Weather Living
Cold weather doesn’t just affect the driver; it affects the whole setup. Before heading into snow country, treat your RV like it’s preparing for winter, not just a holiday. Check seals and vents, make sure your heating setup is working properly, top up supplies and pack warmer bedding than you think you’ll need. Even simple things like keeping wet jackets and boots under control inside the van can make a huge difference to comfort once the temperature drops after sunset.
Pack a Winter Emergency Kit
If you do get delayed or stuck, you’ll want basics on hand. Make sure to pack things like:
- Warm clothing and waterproof layers
- Food and water
- Torch/headlamp
- First aid kit
- Phone power bank
Check Official Road and Snow Resources Before You Head Up
Before you head into alpine areas, it’s also worth checking official road and snow resources rather than relying on guesswork or yesterday’s Facebook comments. Victoria Police and the NSW Government both have detailed winter driving advice, road condition updates, chain rules and information about where snow chains need to be fitted.
Falls Creek also shares helpful Subaru Winter Driving Tips that cover things like black ice, driving smoothly in alpine conditions and preparing your vehicle before the climb. Even experienced RVers should check conditions before leaving, because snow, ice and chain requirements can change quickly from one day to the next.
